Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
Intent
At ABT, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) is an integral part of our wider curriculum, designed to foster resilience, independence, and leadership in our students. Through participation in DofE, students develop essential life skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and perseverance, equipping them for future academic and professional success. The programme also encourages students to engage with their local communities, promoting social responsibility and personal growth.
Our aim is to ensure that all students, regardless of background or ability, have access to the DofE Award, empowering them to challenge themselves, step outside their comfort zones, and build confidence through a structured and rewarding experience.
Implementation
We currently offer:
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Bronze Award in Year 9
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Silver Award in Year 10
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Silver Award in Year 12 (for those who did not complete it in Year 10)
From September 2026, we aim to introduce the Gold Award for Sixth Form students who have already completed Silver.
Each level of the award consists of four key sections (plus an additional residential section at Gold level):
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Volunteering – Students give back to their community through activities such as mentoring, environmental projects, or charity work.
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Physical – Students take part in a physical activity of their choice to improve fitness and wellbeing.
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Skills – Students develop a new skill, from learning a language to mastering photography or cooking.
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Expedition – A challenging outdoor adventure where students plan, train, and navigate an independent journey in a remote environment.
Our dedicated team of DofE leaders support students throughout their journey, helping them choose activities that align with their interests and aspirations. Expeditions are carefully planned, with training and practice journeys to ensure students are well-prepared.
Impact
The DofE Award is highly valued by universities and employers, as it demonstrates key qualities such as commitment, teamwork, and resilience. Each year, a significant number of our students successfully complete their awards, developing confidence and independence along the way.
Many of our Sixth Form students use their DofE experience to strengthen their university and apprenticeship applications, showcasing their ability to balance academic studies with extracurricular challenges.
By expanding our DofE provision to include the Gold Award in the future, we aim to further support our students in achieving their full potential, equipping them with the skills and experiences to thrive beyond school.