Silver DofE Training and a Gold Award...

We have now begun the DofE training programmes for this year, students doing the Bronze Award have started their weekly sessions and the Year 11 pupils have already completed their Practice Expedition on the Quantock Hills. A step up from their recently completed Bronze Award, the teams tackled increased distances as part of their Silver Award training. Nonetheless, our Year 11 adventurers finished the weekend in high spirits and optimism for the year ahead.

At Kingswood, we offer the opportunity for pupils to begin their Bronze Award in Year 10 and progress to the Silver Award in Year 11. Those who wish to continue to Gold in Sixth Form are given the chance to complete the full programme. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a fantastic opportunity to do or try something completely new, help your community, test your limits, enhance your skills and grow in confidence.

Former student Emily was recently awarded the Gold Award at Buckingham Palace and was fortunate enough to meet Prince Edward and Mark Foster. 

DofE was a highlight of my school experience. Working my way through the three stages of DofE, having the Lake District as my final stage was an amazing opportunity provided to me by Kingswood School. Completing my volunteering as a sports coach at the school and playing my saxophone in the school bands for my skill, allowed me to increase my interaction with the community. I created stronger friendships through the expeditions alongside learning key navigation skills, which have become handy over the last few years.

Completing the gold award was topped off with a visit to Buckingham Palace. I met my teammates at the palace gardens, where we were fortunate to meet and have a conversation with Prince Edward who was highly interested in our experience of DofE. Mark Foster also joined our group where he shared his swimming success story and was fascinated by our gold award expedition. It was a very memorable day and lovely to witness the royal family among many others recognise and congratulate those who complete gold DofE.

I would encourage everyone to have a go at DofE. It is so much more than just walking. You can give back to the community, learn new skills and undertake thriving.