The Duke of Edinburgh's Award

LIKE A PHOENIX FROM THE FLAMES

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 GMT

LIKE A PHOENIX FROM THE FLAMES eDofE TRIUMPHS IN THE FACE OF ADVERSITY

Jodie Birkinshaw was one of the first young people to achieve her Bronze Award through eDofE, however her story was even more poignant as a fire had destroyed her school and without eDofE completing her DofE programme would have been very difficult.

In an interview with Jodie’s DofE Leader, Phil Hulbert from the Doncaster Campsmount unit explains how the school pulled together in the aftermath of the devastating fire.

How much did the fire destroy?
Nearly the entire school was destroyed only the Sports Hall and Expressive Arts block remained - 5% of the school.

Would Jodie have been able to achieve her Bronze Award if she had not used eDofE?
Yes but she would not have had any records of what she did as all the books were lost.

What has eDofE meant to the young people who may have lost DofE evidence in the fire?
A huge amount as they still have all there details and records on the system

Has the fire had a big impact on the provision of DofE programmes?

Yes, in particular using eDofE, as we have no internet provision in the building we are using so we have not been able to help young people start using eDofE. Life goes on, but it has been tough.

The damage that has been done by the fire, is this being fixed?

The gutted building has been knocked down and removed from site all that is left is a muddy footprint. There has been a new Portakabin ‘City’ School built on the site and this is due to reopen 22nd March.

Have you had to find alternative premises to hold your DofE meetings?

Yes the community has worked together and buildings have been made available for use. Being part of Youth Service we have relocated to the Youth Centre which has been turned into a School!

GEARING UP FOR A SPECTACULAR CHANGE OF SCENE

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 GMT

THE ADVENTURE STARTS HERE…

HIGHLANDS & ISLANDS CAR TOUR

Scotland

20th – 25th September 2010

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is planning an exhilarating six day scenic driving tour taking in the best of Scotland’s dramatic landscape. You can take part in this journey of discovery whilst raising funds for the UK’s leading youth achievement award for young people.

Lochs, glens, high peaks; the adventure truly starts with this unique car tour taking in some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery combined with the finest accommodation and entertainment. You will drive past misty Lochs, landscapes rich in history and heritage. Travelling through the Scottish countryside, you'll encounter a plethora of picture-perfect landscapes, mirror-like lakes and brooding mountains.

Journeying through the Highlands, you're always guaranteed to find beautiful backdrops and inspirational scenery. The peaceful, tranquil scenery as well as the easy pace of life offers a welcome break from the stressful hustle and bustle of the big city. The six day journey will be one of the prettiest itineraries you'll encounter.

Setting off from the five star Gleneagles resort, the tour will take you to Inverness, Capital of the Highlands, and up to Wick on the east coast of northern Scotland. The route will then take you to the stunning Isle of Skye and Loch Lomond before arriving at the final destination, Edinburgh, for a glamorous and fitting end to what will undoubtedly be an unforgettable journey.

Highlights include stunning scenery, sampling the local hospitality, fine dining in top restaurants and impressive locations, exclusive historic hotels, a driving experience at Knockhill Car Circuit, a black-tie gala dinner in Edinburgh Castle and much, much more.

All proceeds from this fundraising event will go towards helping even more young people throughout the UK to benefit from doing a DofE programme. Our charity aims to create a world where young people can reach their full potential, whatever their circumstances, and your support will help us to reach our goals.

Sir Tom Farmer, founder of Kwik-Fit and Chairman of Trustees of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award said: “This really is a spectacular event in

many ways; not only are you driving through this country’s best and most breathtaking countryside, but you will be contributing towards our vision of helping more young people to achieve their potential and investing in our current generation.”

Gordon Phillips, Chairman of the Glen Care Group and supporter of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award took part in the charity’s 2006 & 2008 car tours said:“Both events have been brilliant. Breathtaking scenery and challenging driving, added to a wonderful sense of camaraderie amongst the participants and some splendid entertainment, provided a great formula to support a worthwhile cause.”

For further information and a full itinerary please visit the car tour website at www.cartour.org or contact Ann Little on 020 7227 9813 or email Ann.Little@DofE.org

JUMP ON BOARD WITH THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARD

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 GMT

Hoist the mainsail, raise the anchor and join us for the Sailing Regatta for the Shipwrights’ Trophy 2010 in support of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and The Marine Society & Sea Cadets.

Do you harbour a nautical ambition to reach for a challenge on the high seas and at the same time give young people the quay to unlocking their potential? Then why not challenge yourself by taking part in this exhilarating two day sailing event. The Regatta offers an excellent opportunity for team building in a competitive environment, whilst raising funds for two youth charities.

Tuesday 11th May 2010 Regatta teams will have an optional half day practice with informal races on Sunsail Sunfast 37s from Gunwharf Quay, Portsmouth. After an afternoon at sea, there will be a champagne reception and black-tie dinner in Boathouse No 7 located in Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard. The dinner will be attended by TRH The Earl & Countess of Wessex.

Wednesday 12th May 2010 Race day begins with breakfast and a briefing in Bar Ha Ha, Gunwharf Quays, before setting sail aboard your allocated yacht for an exciting day of racing on the Solent run by the Royal Thames Yacht Club. A picnic lunch will be provided on board the yachts. The Regatta will end with a prize giving buffet with trophies being presented by TRH The Earl & Countess of Wessex.

Knot to exclude anyone, the Regatta is suitable for both experienced competitors and gives complete novices the opportunity to learn the ropes, although all yachts must have at least two qualified/experienced crew members on board. We are happy to help you find qualified sailors if required.

If you would like to take part in the event but play a more on-shore role, the spectator hospitality package includes: the black-tie dinner, full hospitality and catering on board TS Royalist at the heart of the action followed by the prize giving buffet. The full package is available for £300 per person.

Regatta entry fee includes Sunsail Sunfast 37 yacht, for one and a half days of sailing for up to eight people, black-tie regatta dinner on Tuesday 11th May for the crew as well as a breakfast, lunch and a prize-giving buffet - £5,500 per yacht. Additional guests for the regatta black-tie dinner - £125 per person. Hospitality package for spectators - £300 per head.

The proceeds from this fundraising event will go towards helping even more young people throughout the UK to benefit from doing a DofE programme and enable The Marine Society & Sea Cadets to provide personal development opportunities and support in a maritime context for young people and professional seafarers from all the sea services.

Ann Little, the DofE’s Head of Events said: “This is a great opportunity for corporate entertaining! All you sailors out there, why not join us for a fantastic regatta including food, wine, networking and fun!”

Debra Searle, Trustee of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award said: “As a keen sailor, this event to me is such a marvellous way to support young people today through the charity The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, whilst experiencing a fun and exhilarating event topped with a black tie dinner!”

For further information please contact Sandra Gonzalez 0207 222 4111or email Sandra.Gonzalez@DofE.org

DofE PARTICIPANTS LEAD THE WAY

Wed, 3 Mar 2010 GMT

The next generation of DofE participants are using a revolutionary new online system to complete the leading achievement award for young people in the UK.

eDofE, the DofE’s new online system has transformed accessibility and created an online experience for all DofE participants. The specially designed dynamic database and web content management system is a tool that reflects modern expectations. eDofE is an online electronic version of a record book, the biggest change in the DofE for over 50 years and its given participants the opportunity to record the evidence of what they’ve done and achieved in a more exciting, extensive and varied way.

The system gives Leaders the ability to view and approve evidence online after participants have captured their achievements using photos, video, blogs and more, using technology to its best advantage. Their Leader still has final approval on sectional and their achievement of a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

For DofE Leaders and Managers it allows them to manage their Groups more effectively and provide easy access to resources, help and reporting.

For hard to reach DofE groups the new system can be used to support rehab programmes and create improved engagement as the system is more interactive when not in a group environment.

Jodie Birkinshaw from Doncaster and Philip Henderson from Scotland are celebrating being the first participants to achieve their Bronze Award using eDofE.

Jodie Birkinshaw, 15 said: “The advantage of completing my DofE through eDofE was that it was quick and easy to use. I enjoyed using eDofE because it was easy to keep track of my evidence and progress and it was also good because you can personalise the home page. Uploading evidence was very easy - once my Leader showed my how to do it. I would recommend eDofE to other young people, because it is quick and easy to keep track of your evidence and progress because you can see how far you are away from finishing your DofE programme.

“When I found out that I was the first DofE participant to achieve their Award using eDofE I was shocked and it took me days to actually realise that I was the first! I was so grateful to the Leaders of my DofE group and family members who had pushed me to complete this. I am definitely going on to do my Silver DofE.”

Philip aged 15 said: “eDofE was a lot more convenient and saved a lot of time. The layout was simple to follow. It saved time and avoided having to get the Supervisor’s signatures etc which would have been quite a hassle for me. Also, I could communicate with my Leader through this and this was very helpful. The system was very easy to use and to follow.”

DofE Chief Executive Peter Westgarth said: “Congratulations to everyone involved in this innovative project. DofE participants and Leaders who have used the new system have really benefitted from this technology. We have spent considerable investment in establishing the future way forward for the Charity and programme; eDofE is central to this. Young people have a greater expectation of what is available to them from a technological perspective and the DofE has developed eDofE to meet this and to ensure it continues to be relevant to today’s young people.”

PREMIER PERFORMANCE FOR THE DofE AT BURNLEY FC

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 GMT

Young people doing their DofE through the Community Sports Trust at Burnley Football Club make their debut as stars of the small screen.

The Burnley DofE group will be featured on Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday this weekend and then on Match of the Day on Sunday March 7th and in The Mirror newspaper. The BBC camera crew spent the day filming the DofE participants giving Match of the Day viewers a snapshot of what is involved in achieving a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

The young people who achieve their DofE at Burnley were filmed taking part in all four sections of their Bronze DofE programme. The Volunteering section was illustrated with the opportunity called Challenge Nepal Charity Effort. The young people collect sports clothing which gets sent on to under-priviledged youngsters in Nepal and at the same time learn about global citizenship. They demonstrated the Expedition section with tent pitching, map reading and using a stove. They were filmed practising their first aid techniques for their Skills section and the Physical section involved the young people playing badminton with the Burnley players.

Burnley's players Clarke Carlisle and Jack Cork have given their backing to teenagers doing their DofE at Turf Moor, organised as part of the club's 'Places for Players' partnership with the Barclays Premier League.

Defender Carlisle and on-loan midfielder Cork gave advice and encouragement to 15 of the young people who are doing their DofE, joining them to take part in the sections that make up a DofE programme, including physical activities in the sports hall, followed by an orienteering expedition at Towneley Hall, where Manager Brian Laws met them at the finish.

A DofE programme is a personal challenge and not a competition against others. Every participant’s programme is tailor-made to reflect their individual starting point, abilities and interests. A Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is achievable by any young person who chooses to take up its challenge, regardless of ability, gender, background or location. The young people each spend at least six months completing the four sections of their Bronze DofE programme – Volunteering, Physical and Skills and a two-day, overnight expedition that they organise and complete themselves unaccompanied.

The DofE at Burnley Football Club has had 106 young people successfully achieving their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award over the past 12 months and is on course to achieve over 150 in the coming year. Since the DofE started in 2006, over 140 young people have achieved a combination of Bronze and Silver Awards.

Jonathan Heys, the DofE Co-ordinator at Burnley FC, said: “Through the medium of football and the status we have gained through the promotion to the Premier League, we can target more young people and encouraging them on board and getting them involved in a DofE programme. We are tackling stereotypes and showing that a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is achievable by all.”

DofE News - read the latest issue here

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 GMT

Read the latest edition of DofE news here.

Howay the DofE

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 GMT

Magpies Launch Duke of Edinburgh’s Award for Local Youngsters.

Midfielder Danny Guthrie met up with the group of lucky youngsters at St James’ Park to mark the start of the programme run by Club charity Newcastle United Foundation.

21 Foundation youngsters aged between 14 and 16 will embark on a six month programme towards a Bronze Award. The programme is an adventure from beginning to end and involves volunteering, skill, physical and expedition elements. Participants need no prior qualifications or skills – just a willingness to work as a team and try out new experiences.

This is the Foundation’s first intake of young people for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. Football will feature large throughout the programme with the young people volunteering on the Foundation’s coaching programmes, learning new football skills plus keeping fit by attending weekly coaching centres. It also includes a two day camping and orienteering expedition in Northumberland led by qualified expedition leaders.

The programme has launched at Newcastle United thanks to a partnership between The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and The Football League Trust. 23 Football Clubs are delivering DofE programmes and over 400 young people are registered on programmes.

Kate Bradley, Foundation Manager, said “Funding from the Football League Trust has enabled us to launch this new DofE programme. It means we can help a group of young people develop valuable skills and knowledge that will be a useful addition to their CV. The programme is held in high regard by both colleges and employers, particularly important in this climate of high unemployment among young people.”

Danny Guthrie said:"It is a pleasure for me to come along this evening and launch the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. Programmes like this give youngsters a terrific grounding in life, build character and provide many 'life skills' that will prove invaluable in years to come. They all deserve great credit and I wish them every success in their ventures."

Photo: Danny Guthrie with a group of Foundation youngsters embarking on the Duke of Edinburgh’s Bronze Award

Christmas Party has the X Factor

Wed, 9 Dec 2009 GMT

X Factor finalist and Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s Award participant Lloyd Daniels had our DofE supporters dancing in the aisles at the annual fundraising Christmas Lunch just four days after leaving the competition. The 16-year-old singer was joined on the bill by the National Youth Ballet, which also included some DofE Award participants, and by comedian Jim Bowen.

Lloyd wowed guests with some of the songs that kept him in the competition so long and charmed his way into the audience’s hearts. After being introduced to the Countess of Wessex he mingled with the guests and was a true gent, signing autographs and having his photo taken.

Lloyd first came to the public’s attention when Cheryl Cole championed him at the Cardiff audition and she said “The girls are going to absolutely love you … You are the first person I’m going to say you’ve got The X Factor to!"

Before going on to the X Factor, Lloyd had only ever performed in school plays but is now an accomplished performer, as he showed on the day. The singer said “I just want to get out there gigging now. I can’t wait until the X Factor tour next year”.

Let’s hope with such a bright future, he still has time to complete his Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s Award!

Bridging the business gap

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 GMT

Fourteen proud Lloyds Banking Group employees received their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award yesterday at St. James’s Palace from TV star Fern Britton

They spent 18 months developing their business skills, volunteering in their local community, getting fit and preparing for an expedition designed to test them to the limit.

It was a special day for all of the staff who collected their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards in the presence of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh at the Gold Award Presentation (GAP) ceremony in London. TV star and DofE supporter Fern Britton presented the participants with their certificates.

Leading UK employer and DofE supporter Lloyds Banking Group launched a Gold DofE Business programme in 2006, offering young employees who haven’t yet done their Gold DofE the opportunity to benefit from the life changing programme.

The DofE Business model is designed to develop the personal and business skills of staff whilst enabling them to give something back to the local communities in which Lloyds operates.

The young people are aged between 20 and 24 years. To achieve their Gold Award they had to take part in two residentials. It works brilliantly to develop confidence and leadership skills in young employees.

During their residential the young people improved their team work, presentation and communication skills. They identified their own personal strengths and weaknesses.

They also undertook individual volunteering challenges with the aim of standing out from their colleagues. Some examples of their volunteering included coaching and a hospital research project.

For their Skills section they worked from a variety of business modules that included Leadership, Presentation Skills, IT, Communication and Project Management – this culminated into a one month project in the office environment that aimed to improve process or wastage efficiency.

All of the young people took part in a full expedition practice programme preparing them for a gruelling five day expedition across remote wild country.

From the pilot group doing their DofE 58% gained promotion.

Doing their DofE was part of a wider goal to get Lloyds staff to mix across departments and encourage confidence when dealing with colleagues.

Peter Westgarth, Chief Executive of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award said: “We are delighted to celebrate the achievement of young people who have completed their Gold Award in the workplace. Their success really shows that the DofE is a natural partner for business which, like Lloyds Banking Group, recognises the importance of investing in the development of their younger employees."

Paul Baker, Group Property Director at Lloyds Banking Group said: “Lloyds Banking Group is very proud to partner with the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award Scheme. The 18 month programme allows our participants to apply the development and learning back into the work place straight away. I am very pleased with the great commitment and drive our 14 Gold award holders have demonstrated throughout the programme."

Paul Bubloz, DofE Business participant at Lloyds Banking Group said: “The Programme has given me fantastic opportunities to develop and allowed me to learn a new set of skills that I can apply to day to day life. I strongly recommend the programme to anyone who has the chance to take part.”

Grassroot success as young people are on the ball

Tue, 3 Nov 2009 GMT

The first group of young people have achieved their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award through Peterborough’s DofE partnership. They were presented a club certificate of achievement on pitch at half time in Peterborough’s game against Barnsley on Saturday (31st October) and had the opportunity for a team photo with Posh goalkeeper Joe Lewis.

Youth charity The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and The Football League Trust launched the ground breaking national partnership last year. The project has been inspiring, enthusing and motivating young people to achieve a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award through football across England and Wales.

This collaboration has been building on young people’s passion for football and the expertise of one of the UK’s most highly regarded youth charities to help young people aged 14-24 to achieve the world’s leading achievement award for young people.

The sixteen young people are part of a group of twenty who will receive their bronze certificates at a presentation evening on Wednesday 4^th November at Peterborough FC.

The International Award Association 21st birthday

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 GMT

HRH THE EARL OF WESSEX AND FELLOW GOLD AWARD HOLDERS IN YOUTUBE FILM FOR IAA’S 21ST ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS

To celebrate its 21st Anniversary, The International Award Association has released a YouTube film featuring HRH The Earl of Wessex and two fellow Gold Award holders. Jassin Rezai, an Afghan refugee who completed the Award in Finland, Julia Wong, a Gold Award holder from Canada, and Prince Edward discuss the transformative work of the International Award in the film which is now available on YouTube via this link http://tiny.cc/IAA21anniversaryYouTube or www.youtube.com/theroyalchannel and also via the Award’s YouTube Channel: Award1956 www.youtube.com/Award1956.

Shot at Buckingham Palace, the film shows Prince Edward in relaxed conversation with Jassin and Julia, discussing the ways in which the International Award, known locally in [insert country name] as [insert Award name], has spread around the world and how it addresses the key issues facing young people today. The short film briefly covers how the Programme develops all young people, including youth at risk – be they young offenders or those affected by conflict – and reiterates that the International Award is now one of the leading youth programmes internationally with a presence in 129 countries.

The film also provides a simple introduction for those unfamiliar with the International Award and was organised as one of a number of activities celebrating the 21st anniversary of The International Award Association (IAA) which was formed in 1988, following the successful worldwide expansion of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award UK programme (under the worldwide name of the International Award), to ensure that the Award is delivered consistently and to the highest quality across the globe.

The release of the film, at the time of the IAA’s 21st anniversary, is intended to summarise how far the IAA has come in its first 21 years. The culmination of the 21st anniversary events is the International Award Forum which is being held in Sydney on 28th October – 1st November and will be attended by HRH The Earl of Wessex, who is a trustee of the IAA. Young people are heavily involved in the Forum with 21 youth delegates taking on key strategic roles during the event such as the facilitating of seminars and writing an event blog

Speaking at the Forum, the theme of which is ‘Fit for the Future’, will be Sameer Vasta, a storyteller and communications strategist who specialises in online community engagement and emerging web technologies; Ingrid Beutler, an international lawyer and deputy head of the United Nations Office on Sport for Development and Peace; and the well known lawyer, activist and former minister for young people in the UK, Paul Boateng.

RUNAWAY SUCCESS

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 GMT

RUNAWAY SUCCESS AS HOTEL STAFF RAISE OVER TWO THOUSAND POUND

Staff at local hotel run Windsor half marathon and raise funds for The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

A team of runners from the Sir Christopher Wren’s House Hotel and Spa in Windsor took part in the Windsor Half Marathon on Sunday 27th September to raise funds for the DofE, a leading UK youth development charity.

The hotel’s General Manager and his team took on the testing 13.2 mile course for the second time this year. The weather on the day was exceptional for the time of year, topping 26 degrees, which made the day pleasant for spectators but even more challenging for the team of runners. Not only did all the runners complete in less than three hours, but they also collectively raised £2,455 in sponsorship from friends, family and suppliers to help young people achieve their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

Mathew Griffin, General Manager of the Sir Christopher Wren’s House Hotel said: “It was great to again support The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award with a team from the hotel running the Windsor Half Marathon. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is the hotel’s dedicated charity partner, and although the race was tough for our five runners in the late summer heat, it was worth it to support the great work they do as a leading youth charity. Also despite the difficult financial climate many of our friends, suppliers and corporate partners have been very generous and I would like to thank them all for their support, as we actually exceeded the total in 2008 by raising £2455.”

The hotel gave the DofE the opportunity to share their hospitality tent on the day of the race to raise the charity’s profile in the local community.

The hotel has been supporting the DofE for three years and the half marathon is just one of their fundraising initiatives. The hotel also adds a discretionary £1 to each bill in Strok’s Restaurant, donates prizes for our events and has donated rooms in their newly built conference facility.

To sponsor the team please visit www.justgiving.com/wrens-hotel

The runners and their times were:

Clare Fraser 01:46

Mathew Griffin 02:03

Dan Gilmore 02:01

James Griffin 02:01

Richard Hutchings 2:48

PARTNERSHIP PROVES TO HAVE THE GOLDEN TOUCH

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 GMT

Over 120 young British Gas apprentices received their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award certificate at St. James’s Palace yesterday.

They have all spent 18 months working towards their NVQ level 3 in engineering while participating in a rewarding and challenging programme of personal development leading to the achievement of a Gold DofE Award.

The DofE inspires young people, of all backgrounds and abilities, to develop the skills they need for work and life. Leading employer and DofE supporter British Gas has recognised this and introduced a Gold DofE programme for its apprentices; by investing now in their young workforce, they are gaining core competencies that will benefit the business immediately and develop their leaders of tomorrow.

The DofE works with companies of all sizes to achieve our mission and we have a wealth of experience in working with businesses to help them achieve their goals. Companies like British Gas are taking part in DofE Business, a programme which leads to a Gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award and which helps young employees to develop confidence, leadership and team working skills while at work. It is achieving extraordinary results.

Alan Johnson, of British Gas said: “British Gas is today delighted to bring over 120 of its newly qualified Engineers to St. James’s Palace to recognise and celebrate their completion of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award.

We know the effort and commitment all our Engineers have delivered in completing both their Apprenticeship and the Gold Award, which makes today so special and gives us the chance to show our appreciation and congratulate our Engineers.

All our Trainees complete the DofE Gold Award as part of their Apprentiship as we see the two schemes perfectly fitting together to give our future Engineers the character, social awareness and Technical skills they need to be excellent engineers, serving our Customers.Today is a very proud day for our Engineers and for British Gas.”

Sam Molloy, British Gas apprentice said: “When I started the Residential we where just 10 ordinary young people. I have seen the group grow into excellent engineers. I am very proud to wear the uniform and be part of British Gas”.

Peter Westgarth, Chief Executive at The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award said: “This is a wonderful occasion to celebrate the success of our partnership with British Gas. The DofE has proven to be an ideal partner for companies that want to invest in their young employees and help them develop essential skills that will benefit both their business and the young person.”

THE GENERATION GAP

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 GMT

Hundreds of inspirational young people from across the United Kingdom have a date at St. James’s Palace tomorrow.

North West DofE participant Matt Li Kam Wa will be collecting his Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award tomorrow at St James’s Palace along with 700 other young people. Also at the Palace will be DofE supporter Edwina Currie – she achieved her Bronze Award 50 years ago in Liverpool.

Two DofE journeys, a generation apart from the same part of the UK, both have the common story of a truly memorable and rewarding experience. Leading youth charity the DofE reaches so many people in so many different ways, giving all young people the chance to fulfil their potential.

Former MP and DofE supporter Edwina Currie will be presenting certificates at the GAP tomorrow (20th October 2009). Edwina Currie did her DofE Bronze when she was 14 and also took part in the Ant & Dec DofE Overnight Challenge, she said: “The DofE was suggested at our youth club, Harold House in Liverpool.

“I remember completing my first aid certificates with the British Red Cross, and volunteered for several years to be in the first aid tent at the Liverpool Show. It showed me the wide range of activities open to young people, and how strangers from different backgrounds can be friends, and how willing older people can be helpful and not just in a classroom setting.

Speaking about why she supports the DofE, she said: “It is a marvellous system of encouraging young people to step outside their comfort zone. It’s challenging, and fun, and safe – always under skilled supervision; most of all, it helps with that horrible process of growing up, of becoming mature adults and wise citizens.

Edwina thinks the DofE is a brilliant programme: “The DofE channels young people’s energies into outdoor activity, into developing new skills and into helping their community. For the young people it can be a magical process of transformation, and for their sponsors, guides and volunteer helpers, it’s an infinitely satisfying and fulfilling engagement.”

DofE participant Matt, 21 is studying medicine at Imperial College London and is being presented with his Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award by HRH The Duke of Edinburgh. He said: “Doing Volunteering was something that I probably wouldn’t have gone out and done myself without being within the framework of the DofE. After being berated for not knowing how to use a compass, cooking bland pasta over a stove and spending weekends away in the cold I found myself enjoying it immensely, particularly the expeditions.

“Progressing to Silver and Gold seemed the natural thing to do and, although I had to complete all the other requirements of a DofE programme, they were no longer just something that I had to do. Although the challenge of completing the expeditions was always the most exciting thing for me, completing the Volunteering, Physical and the Skills sections was not as difficult as I first thought it would be when I started my Bronze DofE. Back when I was 14, having the opportunity to get to the outdoors and do so with your friends was probably what appealed to me the most.

Matt says his biggest achievement has been overcoming his weaknesses which included physical fitness and organisational skills and completing his DofE helped him to do this: “I took away good lessons as well as fantastic memories from completing the journey from Bronze to Gold. What I am sure about is that I’m happy with where I am now four years on at medical school, and part of getting to this point was achieving my DofE along the way.

“I am really looking forward to my Gold Award Presentation ceremony and having my photograph taken with my certificate at St James’s Palace.”

1,000th Duke of Edinburgh’s Bronze Award

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 GMT

Pupils and staff at Belfast Royal Academy in the north of the city are today celebrating a significant milestone with the achievement of the school’s 1,000^th Duke of Edinburgh’s Bronze Award.

Almost 2,000 students attending the school since 1984 have now gained a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, including nearly 400 who have achieved the challenging Gold Award and close to 600 who have earned a Silver Award.

Belfast Royal Academy is the largest school-based Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Centre in Northern Ireland, with 351 students aged between 14 and 18 currently participating in the programme at all three levels.

Teacher John Reilly, who is Master-in-Charge of the school’s Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Centre, said: “The school has a strong tradition of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and winning our 1,000^th Bronze Award underlines the school’s commitment to a programme that benefits and inspires young people.

“The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a rewarding and challenging experience for students, providing them with the opportunity to develop new skills, boosting their confidence and offering them a view on life outside the traditional classroom environment.

“We have seen how it makes a real and lasting difference to their personal development, whether that has been through the range of voluntary activities they have carried out within their local communities, or the new friends they have made along the way.

“The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is voluntary and each year our students, alongside our fully trained volunteer leaders, exert a tremendous amount of hard work, perseverance and commitment to reach their goals. It’s that sort of dedication which has allowed everyone involved at the school to achieve this remarkable milestone.”

The student who achieved the 1,000th Bronze Award was Niall Darrah, who completed a range of voluntary activities in four key areas: Volunteering, Expedition, Skills and Physical. This included playing hockey, coaching children at a local hockey club, team expeditions in the Mourne Mountains, and learning how to paddle a canoe.

Niall said: ”Completing The Duke of Edinburgh’s Bronze Award has been a really interesting and challenging experience – one that I think will stand me in good stead in the future. I have already started my Silver Award and plan to achieve that as soon as possible before moving on to my Gold Award.”

Commending Belfast Royal Academy on their achievement Kate Thompson, Northern Ireland Director of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, said: “Belfast Royal Academy is one of the most active schools currently participating in The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in Northern Ireland and I am delighted for everyone involved that they have achieved their 1,000^th Bronze Award.

“To reach this significant milestone is a real testament to the dedication and success of the school in making a lasting difference to the lives of young people by recognising their goals and achievements through The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.”

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award was founded in 1956 by HRH The Duke of Edinburgh who remains the Patron. Over 275,000 young people take part in DofE programmes in the UK each year of which 16,000 are in Northern Ireland.

Across the world, in total over 635,000 participants are doing DofE programmes at any one time.

FIRST FOOTBALL CLUB STRIKES BRONZE

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 GMT

Celebrations as the first young people to achieve their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award within The Football League partnership look forward to their presentation ceremony. The young people all belong to the Northampton Town Multi disabled Football Club; they have both physical and learning difficulties.

Youth charity The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and The Football League Trust launched the ground breaking national partnership last year. Currently 23 League Clubs are delivering DofE programmes and over 400 young people are registered on programmes from the first year.

The project has been inspiring, enthusing and motivating young people to achieve a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award through football across England and Wales.

This collaboration has been building on young people’s passion for football and the expertise of one of the UK’s most highly regarded youth charities to help young people aged 14-24 to achieve the world’s leading achievement award for young people.

The 15 young people from Northampton include two girls and 13 boys aged 14 to 20 years, they will receive their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award at Northampton Town Football club in the executive lounge on Wednesday 14^th of October 2009. Northampton Town players will be presenting the young people with their certificates and badges.

To achieve their Bronze Award the young people have all worked together to complete all of the sections that form their Bronze DofE programme. For their Skills section as a group they have produced individual booklets either on football players or a football team. For the Physical section, they all played football on a Friday evening for the Northampton Town Multi disabled Football Club.

Their Volunteering section involved helping out at an early birds football club which runs on a Saturday morning for local school children. The club have a deaf team and to help the coach, one DofE participant signed for him. Another DofE participant is a ball girl on match days and another helped in a deaf school, helping with the running of games for the younger children.

For their expedition, they completed their two day journey in Northamptonshire walking along the waterways.

Northampton DofE Co-ordinator Margaret Hillyer said: “It’s been the most amazing journey for us all. I have learnt as much from these young people as they have learnt from me, everyday life can be challenging, but these youngsters put everything into perspective, they enjoy life, get on with life despite any disability they may have.

“They learnt so many new things they never dreamed they would have the opportunity to do. They could build on friendships they already had and make these friendships stronger. They were in their comfort zone so to try new challenges together made it easier for them to tackle as they had each other to help them. Also the football was already an activity they were doing, as is the early birds, so by putting together already existing activity they could use towards their Award and building up the other areas it has helped make an Award achievable by all.

“One DofE participant who has severe learning difficulties, and didn’t talk to me for nearly two months, when on the practice walk the group were struggling to find out where to go next. She looked around and then directed the group onto the right footpath. (I alter the maps to suit the group, most are unable to read the maps so I simplify them and they find their route by following photographs, it seams to work so far).

“In completing their two day overnight expedition, you should have seen them; they smiled the whole way even when the going got tough. They have come so far it quite undeliverable as some of the participants have very challenging physical disabilities and find walking very challenging.

“They say so much now its hard to think, but one thing that sticks out is one young man said ‘I want to do this again’ after emerging from his tent on day two. This young man had never walked alone with a group of friends or camped before.”

Samantha Bennie National Operations Manager The DofE said: “Fifteen young people from Northampton Town FC were the first of our Football League Trust centres to complete all four sections and achieve their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. The teams overcame huge personal challenges and their efforts and the efforts of the club’s staff are exemplary. I am sure that all involved will benefit from having pushed their personal boundaries and they all deserve the congratulations that they will receive on their presentation evening at Northampton Town FC.”

A first for Huntercombe HMYOI

Wed, 7 Oct 2009 GMT

Young offenders at an Oxfordshire young offenders' institution have received their Duke of Edinburgh's Awards from HRH The Earl of Wessex.

The Prince visited HMYOI Huntercombe in Henley-on-Thames and presented the bronze awards to the five teenagers.

The 17 and 18-year-olds were the first people at Huntercombe to get Duke of Edinburgh awards. It took them six months to complete the programme.

The institution is a Secure College and focuses on education provision.
Its stated aim is to improve the literacy and numeracy skills of those held there.

DofE East Regional Director Anne Newcombe accompanied Prince Edward around a range of stands from different areas of the prison that are involved in providing opportunities for DofE Participants.

Each stand was hosted by a member of Prison Staff and a prisoner who explained to HRH what is involved and how it feeds into their DofE Skills - Painting and decorating, bricklaying, motor mechanics industrial cleaning, graphics Volunteering - Recycling Physical - Gym course and the DofE Expedition.

At the Fire Cadets stand a youth advocate who has been through the DofE programme returned to Huntercombe to talk about how the DofE programme had an influence on his life and how he is currently working as a volunteer on his release.

REACHING THE FUNDRAISING SUMMIT OF £20,000

Wed, 7 Oct 2009 GMT

The five teams spent four days biking, hiking and 4x4 driving across the High Atlas Mountains to raise funds for the DofE.

The challenge offered a tough, yet incredibly rewarding journey combining unforgettable mountain scenery with the splendour and colour of Morocco. The country full of mysticism and mythology, a diverse and spectacular land. In the midst of it all lies the High Atlas mountain range.

The teams from Baker Tilly, Deloitte, DofE and Amey (who entered two teams) spent four days and three nights camping out in the Saharan wilderness. The teams drove 4x4 vehicles for the adventure which began in Ourzazate on Wednesday 30^th September and finished in Marrakesh on Saturday 3^rd October.

Each day involved cycling against the clock for up to 40km in 30 degree temperatures. There were quizzes about the local area, market and bushcraft challenges. The teams haggled in local markets and cooked on open fires, while seeing some of Morocco’s most stunning locations including the Dades Gorge, the 2900m Tizi Ounano Pass the lakeside at Imilchil and the capital Marrakesh.

The overall winners of the adventure were ‘Territorial Amey’, a four person team comprising of Duncan and James Codd, Chris People, and Andrew Gowans, from service provider Amey. They showed great teamwork, outstanding fitness and specialist knowledge which contributed to their fantastic victory.

Teams from Deloitte and Amey (4 Do Morocco) snapped up second and third places. All participants in the challenge really entered into the DofE spirit, demonstrating strong communication and solid team work.

The 20 participants were all given the challenge of raising £2,500 to support the DofE Charity’s work with young people. Some very creative fundraising methods, including weekly soup kitchens, sponsored cycles, beach parties and supermarket bag packing, have resulted in over £20,000 being raised for the Charity to further its work to give young people opportunities that they otherwise wouldn’t have.

Andrew Gowans, from team Territorial Amey, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled with our victory, but it is all the challenges and people that we’ve met that has made it such a memorable experience’’

Chris People, from team Territorial Amey, said:

“Out of all the amazing things that have happened through the challenge, my favourite memory is of how everybody came together during the event, despite being competitors and left as friends. A once in a lifetime opportunity, which pushed us all to our limits, we’ve all had a great time and I’m sure learnt a lot about ourselves”

Phil Brown, ex-Olympian and DofE Director, DofE team, said:

“The DofE really inspires the best in people, whether it’s the young actually doing the DofE, the volunteers who help them, or supporters like these.”

The DofE Plinther

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 GMT

Hampshire DofE Leader Mary Eyre took part in artist Antony Gormley's One & Other art project on Thursday 24th September by volunteering to spend an hour on a plinth in Trafalgar Square.

The project is an extension of the exploration of the connection between individuals.

Mary said: "Each person has one hour to use as they please, the idea is that the living installation will be there for 100 days , 24hrs a day. It will cover a cross section of British people and what they do. On the website it shows the enormous variety. It is a project run in conjunction with Sky Arts and they are making bits of film I believe.

"I put my name in the draw just because it is an unusual opportunity to do something different , and a bit of a challenge! No-one was more suprised than me to be drawn from all the tens of thousands that applied! I hoped it would be a unique experience, and it was. Everyone , including my family have been very encouraging and supportive."

To put my opportunity to good use and have a purpose I decided to promote DofE . It is a programme that I stongly support . I feel every young person should get the opportunity to participate in, but not everyone does as we need more leaders. I have been involved for about 20yrs and I have been a DofE Leader for most of those."

Click here to go to Mary's webpage

Top marks for DofE in Scotland

Tue, 1 Sep 2009 GMT

HMIE RATES DofE IMPACT ON YOUNG PEOPLE AS ‘EXCELLENT’

Reports on the HMIe Review of the DofE in Scotland in June 2009 published on 1 September 2009.

Barry Fisher, the DofE Director for Scotland said: “This report is a tremendous endorsement of the hard work of 5,000 volunteers, leaders and staff across the delivery network in Scotland.

I am delighted that the inspectors have recognised the significant impact of the DofE on young people but also the positive impacts that it can have on communities. I am particularly delighted that the inspectors have been able to confirm the importance of the programme in developing life and work skills.” In the report the inspectors identify that the DofE’s impact on young people is ‘Excellent’.

The inspectors report that all the young people that they met had increased confidence and self-esteem and importantly were developing independence, self-reliance and resilience.

The report notes the DofE’s increased work with more marginalised and disaffected young people and the positive impact of DofE programmes on the participants.

The review team visited groups including, Friarton Unit at Perth Prison, Adolescent Mental Health Unit at the Royal Edinburgh Hospital, Army Cadet Force Detachment at Alva, Mclaren High School in Callander, Perth High School, an additional support needs group in Perth, the Scottish Gas Academy, Glasgow and George Watson’s College.

The review notes the high numbers (est. 5,000) of volunteers in delivering DofE programmes and the impact of the regular training and support that they receive and concluded that the impact on voluntary and paid staff and the community was ‘Very Good’.

Following the visits to groups the inspectors have concluded that the DofE provides a significant personal development programme that complements the core activities of a diverse range of providers.

They also note that the programme impacts were aligned to the values, purposes and capacities of a Curriculum for Excellence. In particular the report concludes that the impact on young people with additional support needs is impressive.

The inspectors note important areas for the DofE to improve including developing its capacity to demonstrate the impacts and the outcomes of its work and to work with local authorities to embed the contribution of the DofE within local Single Outcome Agreements.

Chairman of the Scottish Advisory Committee, Bruce Robertson OBE, said: “This report is important for the DofE in Scotland as we aim to further increase the opportunities for many other young people to take part in this life changing programme. I am particularly delighted that the HMIe were able to see how DofE programmes have made a difference to a full range of young people in a variety of settings. The DofE will use this report to further increase the profile of the programme to colleagues in Education, Youth Work, Youth Justice and the voluntary sector. The DofE has an important role to play as we all move towards the new Curriculum experiences in August 2010.”

Click here to read the full report.

Donkey Powered Bronze Expedition

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 GMT

On Monday the 3rd of August Jasper, Enoch and Polo the Donkeys made the journey to Carmarthenshire in readiness to begin a Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award Expedition the following day. Unfortunately the rain was heavy and they happily snuggled into the generously straw filled barn kindly provided by the farm/campsite we were based near Lampeter.

The donkeys and young people had already completed practice walks, and the young people had learnt to tack up the pack saddles, map read, put up tents, cook a meal on a camp stove and gained knowledge and experience of the countryside code, first aid and how to tend to their animals along the journey.

Tuesday 4th August the heavens opened and none of our three donkeys wanted to leave the comforts of the barn. So with sun predicted the following day the young people left the donkeys safe in the barn and carried their own rucksacks on the six mile circular walk.

By the evening the rain had eased and donkeys and young people relaxed in the field.

Wed 5th August brought lovely sunshine and the donkeys were raring to go. Packed up in their new pack saddles Jasper and Polo easily carried rucksacks, while Enoch had throw over panniers containing lunches and first aid equipment. What Enoch lacks in stature and strength he gains in personality and encouragement.

Young people and donkeys made their way through some stunning forest tracks of Abergorlech. Lunch was taken by a lovely river and all three donkeys used their time off not to graze but to try and mug everyone's packed lunch!Nine miles later the end was in sight.

A spokesperson for the Amelia Trust Farm said: "Some people may wonder why include donkeys in this expedition? As far as I am aware we are the first UK DofE group to trek with donkeys. Our donkeys work with young people as part of an animal assisted therapy programme.

For a young person with difficulties in their lives, walking 15 miles may not seem a very motivating thing to do, but add into this the chance to take their new long eared friend along too and it becomes more appealing.

The focus of the journey now requires them to care for their companions before themselves. Each young person spent six months prior to the expedition learning how to care for the donkeys and making very special friendships.

The donkeys thoroughly enjoyed themselves too. Well done to the young people completing their Bronze Award, and its just the first of many we hope for our very special DofE Donkeys."

DofE NORTH EAST ENGAGES ITS FIRST SPORTING PARTNER

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 GMT

A unique partnership is about to kick off between Rugby League North East and The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

Rugby League North East will be delivering DofE programmes to young people who attend their local rugby clubs across the region.

The partnership will be launched this Saturday (15th August) at Gateshead Stadium during half-time. Representatives from the DofE in the North East will be going on to the pitch to present the licence to the Rugby League.

Initially the clubs that will be involved include Jarrow Vikings, Cramlington Rockets, Durham Demons, Peterlee Pumas and the Whitley Bay Barbarians. The partnership is aiming to engage 500 young people from across the North East region.

The initiative came about because Rugby League volunteers became aware of the DofE and thought it would be the perfect accreditation programme for the young people involved with their local rugby clubs.

Rugby League North East believe the DofE is a valuable asset to young people which offers them vast rewards and believe that Rugby and the DofE can work well together, encouraging and providing personal development opportunities for young people from a wide variety of back grounds.

The young people involved will be aged 14 to 24, with those outside of that age range acting as DofE Leaders and Volunteers.

A spokesperson for The Rugby Football League North East said: "I believe Rugby League becoming an Operating Authority can help the DofE reach participants in the hard to reach areas, and provide exciting times for both Rugby League and the DofE"

North East DofE Director Nicola Meredith said: “We’re delighted that RFL NE has chosen the DofE, the world’s leading achievement award for their accreditation for young people who engage with their local rugby clubs. The RFL NE joins a strong network of DofE delivery throughout the North East. We’re thrilled that they will bring exciting opportunities for young people adding a new dimension to DofE programmes. I’ve been impressed by the enthusiasm and drive at RFL NE and I’m looking forward to many successful years of partnership working.”

DofE PARTICIPANTS ON A CREST OF A WAVE

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 GMT

Unemployed young people jump on board with the DofE.

A team of seven inspirational young people have been given the chance to take part in an adventure of a lifetime, as they are chosen to take part in the world famous Clipper Round the World Yacht Race 09-10.

The team is made up of young people from across Edinburgh and from a variety of backgrounds. They were chosen by the City of Edinburgh Council’s Access to Employment team in partnership with the Joined up for Jobs network.

These remarkable young people have been actively looking for work and will each take part in a leg of the race, working towards their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and a special challenge to showcase Edinburgh’s rich literary connections to the destinations they visit. Scotland’s First Minister, Alex Salmond, officially welcomed Edinburgh’s entry on Saturday (8th August).

Edinburgh Inspiring Capital will showcase the Scottish capital to a global audience of more than 200 million people when she embarks on the 35,000-mile race next month. The First Minister, Alex Salmond, said, “This is going to be an exceptional adventure for all of the crew. The Government and the City are proud to be supporting this great venture in our Homecoming year."

The participation of the Capital Crew has been made possible through the generosity of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and its Chairman of Trustees, Sir Tom Farmer, who was also at Saturday’s event.

Sir Tom said, “Here we have seven young people who have the energy, the enthusiasm and the right attitude – the get up and go to make things happen. And, you know, things happen when you do something for yourself. What you’ve done is proof that you all are people with the right attitude.

“It’s important that young people throughout Scotland all have good role models. What we need is young people to speak to other young people and put it quite simply that this is a wonderful life when you reach out and grasp every opportunity that comes your way.

“I want you to come back and say quite simply, ‘Tom, we want to be ambassadors, not just for Scotland, not just for Edinburgh, but we want to be ambassadors for The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and go out and tell other young people that they can do what we have managed to do."

Barry Fisher, the DofE Director for Scotland said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for the young people involved and we are delighted that they will be completing their DofE as part of their experience.”

Drinkaware competition

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 GMT

Drinkaware has launched an exciting competition exclusively for 16 and 17 year olds - to win an Ultimate Day!

Maybe you fancy spending the day jamming in the recording studio with your band? Or shimmying down the red carpet at a dazzling film premier Or perhaps you’ve always dreamt of taking your mates on at footy at Wembley Stadium? To enter, click here and tell Drinkaware what you would do on your ultimate day out. Five winners will get their Ultimate Day turned into reality!!

Plus there are got some fantastic weekly prizes up for grabs for anyone who votes on the site.

To find out more click here

DofE participant to appear on BBC One Show

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 GMT

Tune in and watch inspiring DofE Gold participant Seb Green on The One Show this Wednesday, 22 July.

Seb caused a £20,000 rescue and repaid his debt with a sponsored walk around Britain for charity.

The One Show is a topical magazine programme broadcast weekdays at 7pm on BBC One. Seb will be interviewed in a feature focusing on young people that have repaid a debt to society.

Seb Green was rescued by the Coastguard in 2005 having ‘borrowed’ a boat from Weymouth Marina. Through work with the Youth Offending Team, Seb became involved in The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and began a long journey that was completed when he finished his walk around the coast of Britain.

Sporting DofE particpants gear up for games

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 GMT

Scunthorpe United Trust DofE group were invited to be part of the Disability Games in Sheffield on Tuesday 16th June. Many schools and community groups took part in the event along with many DofE volunteers. The volunteers were involved with helping and guiding participants through many different sporting activities as well peer mentoring. The event was very successful and this was made possible by the organisers, participants, volunteers and everyone else involved.

YOUNG PEOPLE HAVE THE ABILITY TO GO FOR GOLD

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 GMT

The Yorkshire & Humber Region of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award has staged the third Disability Games at The English Institute of Sport, Sheffield on Tuesday 16th June 2009.

Following the success of last years event the day of sports was run by the DofE’s Yorkshire & Humber Regional Office in conjunction with Sheffield City Council’s Major Sports Events Unit, Sheffield City Council, Sheffield International Venues and Sheffield DofE Centre.

More than 250 students, aged between 14 and 19, with varying disabilities competed in teams of eight at the event. Since it began the DofE has been dedicated to the personal development of young people from all backgrounds.

A Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is achievable by any young person who chooses to take up its challenge, regardless of ability, gender, background or location. Young people will take part in a range of different sports including athletics, archery, football, basketball, goal ball and boccia.

The games were opened at 11am by the Lord Mayor of Sheffield, Councillor Graham Oxley. The event was also being supported over 100 young volunteers and helpers from Sheffield, Scarborough and Scunthorpe who were on hand to help out the athletes.

The closing ceremony took place at 3.15 pm with a march past of the teams and the presentation of their certificates by a number of Paralympians.

Neil Forrest, Director for the Yorkshire and Humber Region of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, said: “We are hugely grateful to Sheffield City Council, Yorkshire & Clydesdale Bank Foundation and Hallam FM Cash for Kids for their generous support, which has enabled us to stage this event and build on the success of the 2008 Games. Those who took part last time round gained a great sense of achievement and we are hoping the competitors will once again use this event as a spring board into sport.

“Most of the young people taking part are DofE participants and the Games will offer them chance to develop their Physical sections activities and gain experience of other DofE elements such as volunteering, team work and new skills, whilst for others this will be a taster for their future DofE involvement.”

ROYAL AUDIENCE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE DOING THEIR DofE

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 GMT

HRH The Earl of Wessex will be in Hartlepool on Monday 22 June when he will visit Catcote School, have lunch at Hartlepool’s Maritime Experience and visit St Hild’s School.

The Earl is heavily involved in the DofE as a Trustee of the UK and of the International Award Association and also as a Gold Award holder.

His Royal Highness will visit Catcote School in Catcote Road where DofE Leaders will describe strategies used to overcome severe disabilities and how these students are included. They will introduce students putting up tents, cooking, first aid activities and students working on team building exercises.

DofE participants will be showcasing the Volunteering, Skills, Physical and Expedition sections demonstrating their link with TFM Radio producing podcasts for their own radio station, learning sign language and showing photos and sharing experiences of expeditions, home and overseas.

At Hartlepool’s Maritime Experience, The Earl will meet local youngsters who have created displays showing their DofE achievements. There will also be a display of how DofE programmes are delivered in the Secure Estate at HMYOI Castington.

The Earl will then meet many DofE supporters at a special lunch. At the same venue The Earl will also visit the paddle steamer Wingfield Castle, from which he will watch up to 50 young people who are doing their DofE programme participating in a water sports event in the neighbouring Jackson Dock.

The young people will be demonstrating their skills, whilst being involved in a fun competitive activity. The Earl will then present a trophy and medals to the winning team. Moving onto St Hild’s School in King Oswy Drive, The Earl will meet young people who will talk about a collage that they have made following a recent expedition and DofE participants from Hartlepool United Football Club who will demonstrate a football activity they undertake for their Physical section.

Nicola Meredith, Director for The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in the North East said: “The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in the North East of England is thriving. I’m delighted that HRH The Earl of Wessex recognises this with his visit to Hartlepool where he will get to see the vast range of activities that are undertaken to complete a DofE Award.”

Langdon students ride towards DofE Bronze

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 GMT

Students from Langdon College are learning horse riding skills as part of their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Physical Section, through the Jewish Lads’ & girls’ Brigade (JLGB).

The challenge of horse riding gives the students the opportunity to develop self confidence, balance and an all round improvement in individual physical well-being.

The students will be riding for 3 months and are also preparing for their Expedition in June in Kepplewray, Broughton in Furness, after which they will receive the full Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

They have already completed their Skills Section, a project about the History and Heritage of Manchester and are completing their Volunteering raising funds for Manchester Children’s Hospital, part of which was a Cake Sale in King

David High School. Rodney Ross, from the JLGB who is helping Langdon College with the Award, said: “For Langdon students to do so well in the Award is incredible and I am proud to help them achieve their success.” The Jewish Lads’ and Girls’ Brigade is the only exclusive Jewish Operating Authority in the UK for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

TEAMS FROM BRITISH GAS SURVIVE DofE PEAK DISTRICT

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 GMT

British Gas employees braved the elements to raise £19,000 for the DofE Charity. On Saturday 6th June 34 teams from British Gas competed against each other in a 24hour DofE style expedition challenge event.

While the severe cold and rainy weather presented a force to be reckoned with, the teams’ positive attitudes prevailed to make the event a great success.

The event started in the morning at Hope, where teams of between five and six people departed for a 6 hour hiking challenge within the Peak District National Park. Teams were required to navigate to various checkpoints, completing logistical and mental challenges en route.

The challenges were themed in line with One British Gas values – ‘We wear the customer’s shoes’ saw teams crossing a swamp using only 4 ‘shoes’ and ‘We are stronger together’ saw teams working together in a fun photo competition. Puzzles tested ‘We keep our promises’ and all teams certainly lived the value ‘We take pride in what we do’.

Teams camped out overnight and cooked their own camp meal which was also part of the competition. Teams rose to the ‘Come Dine with Me’ style cookery challenge, producing spectacular three course meals – including lobster risotto, champagne and caviar and locally themed Bakewell tarts.

The team who managed to outperform all the others was Nick Searle’s team including Laurence Allan, Jennie Boyle, Lee Hoadley and Keith Wood a team of field based staff from the Anglia area. Ian Wright’s team of Ian Moss, Tim Riley, David Stobbs and Kevin Doman came in a competitive second and Sarah Dent’s team of Kirsty Stevenson, Alison Jones and John Huyton were third. However, the real win from this weekend was the fantastic donation from British Gas staff to The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, totalling £19,000.

Alan Johnson, Director of the Energy Academy, British Gas had this to say about the challenge; ‘The British Gas Peak District Challenge has been an absolutely fantastic event and an overwhelming success. 185 people from across British Gas – from engineers to sales and customer services - everyone committed 110% to the challenge and showed great team spirit despite the extreme conditions. I am delighted that we were able to raise £19,000 for the DofE and would like to congratulate everyone involved’.

Jacqui Larcombe, Head of Partnerships, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award had this to say about the event; ‘British Gas – you triumphed in adversity, showed great team work and demonstrated a fantastic sense of humour. The funds that you have raised will help to change even more young people’s lives for the better – thank you so much’.

DofE VOLUNTEERING BRIDGES THE GENERATION GAP

Fri, 5 Jun 2009 GMT

To celebrate Volunteers’ Week the DofE is focusing on the inspirational young people who make a real difference to the elderly in their community.

The Volunteering section of the DofE is all about making a difference to other people's lives. From conservation to youth work to fundraising for a favourite charity or caring for animals, there's an endless list of the types of projects young people can get involved in. But it’s not just the individual that benefits. DofE participants’ voluntary work is worth over £13.5m to local communities across the UK each year. What’s more, 61% of Gold Award holders continue with volunteering work after they have completed their programmes.

Volunteers' Week is a national celebration of volunteers and volunteering which takes place from 1 – 7 June this year. This year, Volunteers' Week is celebrating its 25th anniversary.

Gold DofE participant, Laura Arblaster chose to volunteer in a residential home because she was deciding to study medicine at the time and thought it would help her make a decision, she said: “I would say one the main things I gained from volunteering was there was such a wealth of new knowledge, as the residents really had done and seen so many things that I was unaware of and it helped to open my eyes to the world outside of sixth form and gain a more realistic perspective on life.”

She added: “The staff were incredible, but always run off their feet, so it was so nice to have been able to devote just an extra hour or two to individuals each visit, they often are so lonely and a chat would brighten up their day. Building up such a good relationship with residents over my year there was rewarding and thoroughly enjoyable, I really did get very involved with some residents and still pop in when I am home from University to see how they are getting on.”

DofE participant, Eoin Dore volunteered at a residential home for a year, he said: “I realised how much of a difference a few hours of my time could make to people. I mean all I really did was going there every Sunday and have a chat to the residents. Nothing too difficult, but being the only person someone really interacts with in the day, learning someone else has travelled the world 50 years before you or finding out the quiet elderly man in the corner doing crosswords represented England for cricket is a fulfilling experience; and more importantly when I look back on it is something I'm proud of.

He added: “Other positive experiences I gained when I volunteered included one day when I came in with a massive black eye from playing rugby the day before and talking to one of the residents and finding out it was a much dirtier game when he was playing. It was fun working out which biscuits people liked, which may seem trivial, but took me two months and debating issues in the newspaper with the older people.”

DofE Gold participant, Tom Blackmore, said: "Working at the residential home was a really rewarding experience. I found it both interesting and humbling to learn more about the lives of the residents. I'd recommend working with the elderly to anyone struggling for ideas for their DofE volunteering. It's not just a helpful role for the residents but a fun and rewarding way to complete your volunteering section."

THE DofE IS IN A LEAGUE OF ITS OWN

Fri, 5 Jun 2009 GMT

Congratulations to Burnley and Birmingham City! Both clubs have just been promoted from the Championship, taking their work with the DofE into the Premiership.

Owen Coyle,the Manager of Burnley FC, has agreed to be the official DofE Ambassador at Turf Moor. Burnley's promotion makes Owen the first Premier League Manager to be a DofE Ambassador.

He is thrilled to be part of our DofE Burnley partnership and is very enthusiastic about developing young people. “This is very much a community club” he said, “and we embrace the DofE programmes as a valuable addition to the daily lives of young people in the borough. I am proud to be a DoE Ambassador and look forward to being a Premier League Manager working hard to make this top flight programme a continued success.”

Burnley FC, part of our pioneering national partnership with the Football League Trust, has been a Member of the DofE Charter for three years and is running DofE programmes for young people at the club.

Celebrating the promotion, Burnley Chairman Barry Kilby said: “We are what we are: a proper football club. This club is part of the old system. It represents the town. The directors are local people. Our link with the DofE enables us to help local youngsters achieve their best – it’s a winning formula”.

Burnley FC Community Sports Trust has appointed a full time DofE Co-ordinator and they have already ensured that 50 young people have already achieved their Bronze DofE. Some of these Awards were presented during a visit by Prince Edward to Turf Moor.

There are now 100 young people taking part in the programme. Activities they are involved in include sign-language courses and volunteering placements in the local community. Burnley believes in rewarding success, young people are rewarded with match tickets when they complete three sections of their DofE programme. Community Sports Trust staff and volunteers mentor young people through the DofE, which makes a real difference to completing the Bronze Silver and Gold levels.

"Burnley's promotion to the Premiership is great news for a proud football club and also for the town's youngsters who are sharing in its success," said Jonathan Heys, the Trust's DofE Co-ordinator. "The DofE's flourishing partnership with Burnley F.C. is another success story for club and town, as together we are helping scores of young people to reap the benefits of outdoor learning and adventure."

Birmingham City and Sheffield United are also part of our Football League Partnership, which aims to develop young people through social and physical education and benefit society as a whole by engaging young people positively with local neighbourhoods. The Blues have recruited fifteen young people to do their DofE this year and all hope to have achieved Bronze by December. Craig Gill, the Club’s Community Manager, said their group were very excited about taking part.

The DofE welcomes newest Charter Founder Members

Tue, 5 May 2009 GMT

The DofE welcomes newest Charter Founder Members

Last week long-standing DofE supporters Amey were welcomed as our newest Charter Founder Members in with a reception and presentation at Oxfordshire County Hall. Peter Westgarth presented Amey’s Charter Founder certificate to their CEO Mel Ewell, at a short ceremony that included contributions from young people who are benefiting from taking part in the DofE in Oxfordshire.

Accepting the certificate, Mel Ewell said “We believe the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is an incredibly important programme, offering young people the opportunity to experience fresh challenges and acquire new skills, whilst at the same time contribute to their local community.

We are very proud to have been named a Founder Member at last night’s event and look forward to continuing our work with the Partnership in order to ensure even more young people in Oxfordshire have the chance to participate in the future."

In addition to their support of the national charity, Amey have been instrumental in the success and growth of the Award in the county over the past five years. Over that time the number of young people involved in the DofE has grown by over 60% to over 2000, and the numbers completing Awards has nearly doubled in that time. Other key results of the Amey - DofE partnership include a major increase in the number of volunteering hours young people have contributed to benefit their communities.

There has also been a significant movement of the DofE programme into ‘non-traditional’ areas working with hard to reach young people including those not in education employment or training. Ben Pound – 19, and homeless when he started his Bronze 10 weeks ago – told his story at the presentation.

“I started with the DofE 10 weeks ago, when I was at an arts workshop. I didn’t realise what it was or I’d probably not have bothered. I sat in when Martin from Project Future Steps was talking about kayaking and mountain climbing. It sounded like fun."

Project Future Steps is run by Oxford’s Riverside Youth Centre, using the DofE Bronze as the framework to engage disadvantaged young people in positive activities and give them a formal qualification for their efforts.

“It’s really important that they have something employers recognise” explains Centre Manager Rob Yates – “In order to gain the qualification they also have to put in extra time and commitment. Project Future Steps ends after 10 weeks, and it takes a few weeks longer to finish a DofE Bronze.”

CITY VICE CHAIRMAN APPOINTED TO YOUTH CHARITY

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 GMT

Ruth Anderson, Vice Chairman at KPMG has been appointed a Trustee to The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (the DofE), a youth charity which supports young people from all over the UK.

DofE works with young people aged 14-24 from all walks of life. There are 275,000 young people doing a DofE programme at any one time, of which 30,000 come from disadvantaged backgrounds. One outcome of the programme is that the young people develop core employability skills which are required both in the work place and in day to day life.

Ruth has been a leading member of the DofE’s Women in Business Group since its inception. The Women in Business is a small group of women business leaders, chaired by HRH The Countess of Wessex who get together to help the charity. Ruth has supported events, introduced contacts, and helped to shape the direction of the group and the charity.

Ruth Anderson, Vice Chairman at KPMG comments:

“Over a quarter of a million young people in the UK are working towards a Bronze, Silver or Gold Award andwhen I talk to any of them I hear aboutthe tremendous sense of achievement and increased self-confidence they get from completing their DofE Award. More than 30,000 are excluded and vulnerable young people, including young offenders,long-term unemployed, young carers and those who live in areas of high deprivation. At KPMG we are actively engaged in supporting young people from disadvantaged backgrounds so my work with the DofE is consistent with KPMG's own aims and values.”

The charity supports young people as they work through a personal development programme in three stages. Research conducted by DofE shows young people achieving a Gold Award gain key employability skills. For example, the majority of young people who achieve a Gold Award will develop their confidence (85%) and team-working skills (83%). Almost four in five of young people improve on their leadership skills and 78% on their decision making skills.

ANT & DEC DO THEIR DofE

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 GMT

Starring role for the DofE on prime time Saturday Night TV.

This week's Ant v Dec challenge for Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway will be The DofE Overnight Challenge.

The Geordie duo will be swapping their suits for rucksacks and will head off in opposite directions trekking across the countryside followed by their celeb team mates.

Team Ant and Team Dec will take part in various challenges and navigate their way to a finishing point.

The DofE Overnight Challenged is based on a Bronze Expedition; however an element of competition has been introduced because of the entertainment factor.

The challenge was announced to Ant & Dec and the teams on Saturday 21st February and the winner will be announced during the show on 28th February, Kirsty Gallacher presents for this part of the show.

Tune in on Saturday at 7.45pm on ITV1 to see how the team’s got on.

DofE UNLOCKS POTENTIAL IN YOUNG OFFENDERS

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 GMT

Young offenders who do their Duke of Edinburgh's Award are being given a second chance, improving their chances for a brighter future and increasing their resistance towards re-offending.

This is just one of the results of a ground breaking research project launched today (12^th of Feb) by the DofE. The independent research has been carried out by GlyndÅµr and Cardiff Universities and was commissioned by the DofE.

The research is part of the DofE's work with young offenders and looks into the impact of the DofE on young people in the secure estate.

The research focussed on direct experiences of young people and staff participating in DofE programmes. The research has revealed that after doing DofE activities young people demonstrated a greater understanding towards their victims, learnt that crime doesn't pay, believe they're less likely to re-offend and feel their future's brighter.

By doing their DofE young people were able to develop skills, gain confidence and build self-esteem - vital characteristics to help prevent those most at risk of engaging in criminal activity from offending.

One DofE participant said: "The reason why I am doing my DofE is I want to finish it and then it might give me a chance when I'm released."

HRH The Earl of Wessex at the event.

A DofE leader and prison staff member said: "Doing their DofE the young people are learning people skills and teambuilding skills. These are skills they've never used before because they've just always thought of themselves in the past."

David Hanson MP, Youth Justice Minister, said: "The Duke of Edinburgh's Award research shows that this sort of positive activity can make a huge difference to the lives of young people. The DofE embodies much of what the Government is aiming to achieve through our Youth Crime Action Plan to support young people, get the best out of them, and help them lead crime-free lives. The success of the DofE means fewer victims, a reduction in crime, and changed lives."

Frances Done, Chair of the Youth Justice Board, said: "The Youth Justice Board applauds the work of charities, such as the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, who have over the years helped hundreds of young people who have offended gain the confidence and skills to succeed in life. For youth justice to be effective, many agencies within and beyond the Criminal Justice System have to work together, with sufficient resources, for the benefit of children, young people and local communities."

Peter Westgarth, DofE Chief Executive, said: "This research has shown that doing their DofE has been life changing for the young people in the secure estate. The DofE has given some of the most vulnerable young people in society a chance to thrive through the positive structure of a DofE programme. In the future we hope that more young offenders will get the chance to do their DofE and gain a sense of personal achievement."

Rt Hon David Hanson MP at DofE's Young Offender Research launch

BUSINESS LEADERS TOUCHED BY SARAH’S STORY

Mon, 1 Dec 2008 GMT

Guests at The National Business Awards Final Raise £12,000 for The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

The prestigious National Business Awards Final described by PM Gordon Brown as ‘The Business Oscars’ was held at the Grosvenor House Hotel on Tuesday 18th November.

The Awards Ceremony and Dinner, presented by BBC Journalist Andrew Marr was attended by a number of the UK’s leading business figures alongside HRH The Earl of Wessex, Royal Trustee of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and Peter Mandelson, Secretary of State for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform.

The 17 Awards recognise businesses for technological innovation, leadership and their commitment to the environment. Rolls Royce, Diageo and Hallin Marine were among the winners on the night. DofE supporters including Mel Ewell, CEO of Amey and Claire Owen, Founder of the SG Group were among the finalists for Orange Business Leader of the Year and The Credit Suisse Outstanding Woman in Business respectively.

HRH The Earl of Wessex, Trustee of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award spoke passionately about the work of the DofE and encouraged business leaders to support the Charity in the longer term.

Sarah Jones a young person who has turned her life around by doing her DofE spoke on behalf of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and inspired guests to donate generously to the raffle on the night.

Sarah told the audience, ‘Before I started doing my DofE programme I had no aspirations, no hope of finishing school or getting any qualifications. Since starting my Dof I have achieved 8 GCSE’s, received the Princess Diana’s Memorial Award and represented my country at Dragon Boat Racing. I never thought that the DofE could have a life changing effect on me. I’m glad to say it has’.

2008 is the third year that The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award has been selected as charity partners with The National Business Awards. The total raised through the partnership to date is in excess of £130,000.

Mike Faulkner Group Director of The National Business Awards spoke with great enthusiasm about this important alliance: “The National Business Awards' support for The Duke of Edinburgh's Award has been established through the synergy that exists in recognising leadership. The work that the DofE does with young people, preparing them for the challenges of working life, is something that The National Business Awards is proud to support.”

Golden DofE Shines Through The Centuries

Thu, 27 Nov 2008 GMT

A winning formula is the secret to the longevity of the world’s leading achievement award for young people.

As the DofE celebrates 50 years since the first Gold Award was presented by HRH The Duke of Edinburgh at Buckingham Palace, the popularity of the DofE continues to grow and evolve.

London Gold Award Presentations (GAPs) now take place at St James’s Palace. Attending a GAP is a day young people and their families never forget. It is the culmination of their hard work, skills, determination and mentality to really succeed. Everyone gets dressed up and feels privileged and honoured to be invited to a royal palace; it is a fitting end to an exciting and rewarding journey.

The DofE holds GAPs in London, Scotland and Northern Ireland throughout the year. Young people receive their Gold Award in the presence of the HRH The Duke of Edinburgh or HRH The Earl of Wessex.

Tony Mullins (pictured) attended one of the first presentations at Buckingham Palace on 18th November 1958 to receive his Gold Award aged 18. He has remained involved with the DofE and was Chairman of the Midlands Regional Advisory Committee and a member of the National Advisory Committee. He was awarded the MBE in 1994 in the New Years Honours for 37 years voluntary service to the DofE.

Tony said: “The DofE was introduced to bridge the gap between leaving school and the National Service. I achieved my Gold Award with St John Ambulance. At the presentation I went to there were 49 boys, plus parents and leaders. There were eight of us from the St John Ambulance Brigade.

“We walked up the gravel frontage of Buckingham Palace and through the doors to the Bow Room, called such because of the Bow shaped windows that open onto the lawns. I was dressed in my St John Ambulance uniform and my parents sat with me as we waited for HRH The Duke of Edinburgh. Then the doors opened and in walked the Duke with Sir John Hunt. The Duke jested, ‘I hope someone knows what we are doing because I don’t’ and that set the tone for the day. Everyone was in their best bib and tucker and we all went up individually and shook the Duke’s hand, it was a fantastic culmination of all the hard work. The presentation was the highlight of most people’s lives; our parents especially were over the moon to go to the palace!

“The main difference I have noticed with the DofE over the years is the choice has radically changed in each section. I always had the belief that if it is not fun, you’re not doing it properly. I always thought young people should be getting fun out of it. The basic philosophy is the same but in my day we were allowed to do anything for a skill as long as it was stamp collecting; now the choice is endless!

“The DofE works because the formula works and it’s always been ahead of the game and never stood still. The other reason the DofE is so successful is it doesn’t set to test the young people and there is nothing negative about it, it is always positive. It appeals to young people as there are so many wonderful opportunities and it gives them a chance to achieve.”

Gold Award holder and DofE Ambassador, Paul Stockwell received his Gold Award in February 2006 aged 18, he said: "Receiving my Gold Award from HRH The Duke of Edinburgh was a fitting culmination to an exciting and rewarding journey through all levels of DofE programmes. It was a great privilege to be invited to the Palace and meet both the Duke and one of my adventurer heroes, Ben Fogle. It reminds you just how special achieving a Gold Award is. You, the participants, are the highlight of the day. It is your achievement! Just for one day, the world of celebrities and royalty come to you, to shake your hand and say a big well done! Amazing!"

Gold Award holder and DofE Ambassador, Lauren Williams said: “To me, my GAP meant that I could meet the man that started off the DofE. Thanks to HRH, I have some amazing memories! I felt privileged and a real sense of achievement to be at such a prestigious event. It was also lovely to actually dress up and wear make-up to a DofE related event, as opposed to wearing my walking boots!”

NEW SIGNING FOR THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARD

Fri, 17 Oct 2008 GMT

Football League Trust and DofE partnership kicks off

Youth charity The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and The Football League Trust have launched a ground breaking national partnership which will inspire, enthuse and motivate young people to achieve a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award through football across England and Wales.

Gerry Sutcliffe MP - Minister for Sport in the Department for Culture, Media and Sport and Clive Betts MP - Member of the Parliamentary Football Team launched the partnership on Friday 17th October at Sheffield United Football Club.

Through this exciting alliance, league clubs will work closely with the DofE to benefit young people who will take part in a series of physical and social activities to get them fit, grow in confidence, develop their passions and bring communities closer together. Successfully completing their DofE programme will mean they achieve a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

This collaboration builds on young people’s passion for their football club and the beautiful game and the expertise of one of the UK’s most highly regarded youth charities to help young people aged 14-24 to achieve the world’s leading achievement award for young people.

It is hoped that with the success of these first clubs that further funds will be made available to support the expansion of the partnership in 2009 to allow more young people, clubs and communities to benefit.

The launch event was attended by all participating Football League clubs including chairmen and community heads, Trustees of The Football League Trust and senior figures from The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, including Chief Executive Peter Westgarth.

Gerry Sutcliffe MP said: “There is nothing more inspiring in sport than having the opportunity to train alongside your heroes, at your team's ground and with professional coaches. This is exactly what the DofE and The Football League Trust are doing for young people across the country.This is a fantastic example of two organisations coming together to share their expertise in order to get young people motivated and inspired to take up sport. It’s great that 17 clubs have signed up and I hope more follow suit. I look forward to attending the launch and am sure the project will be a great success.”

Dave Edmundson, General Manager, The Football League Trust said: "This is the Trust's first partnership agreement and really underpins our focus to 'Make Every Goal Count'. Both organisations will become an influential team that will inspire young people to be the best that they can be,and hopefully go for Gold. This is the power of football in action for the greater good and Football League Club community programmes will be fundamental to the delivery of the DofE programme"

Peter Westgarth, Chief Executive, DofE said: “The DofE is delighted to be working in partnership with The Football League Trust. Our alliance will enable us to challenge social and cultural barriers to help individuals and build stronger communities. The combination of young people’s passion for football and our youth development expertise, our combined national networks and the valued Duke of Edinburgh’s Award will create a winning team that will benefit thousands of young people in the years to come.”

First Youth Achievers Ball in Northern Ireland

Fri, 3 Oct 2008 GMT

Nine St John Ambulance Cadets were recognised for their volunteering efforts at the first Youth Achievers Ball.

The event was hosted by MLA Basil McCrea, supported by the Daily Mirror and was organised to recognise the achievements of Northern Ireland’s Young people. The Cadets enjoyed a drinks reception, canapés and entertainment from Cool FM.

The Cadets were among hundreds of deserving young people who attended the first annual Youth Achievers Ball on the 27th September.

Each youth organisation attending the ball nominated a champion achiever, and two lucky winners were then awarded with a fantastic luxury twin-cabin cruise.

With entertainment from the fabulous Micky Modelle and Swedish star Jessy, it proved to be a great night for everyone involved.

The night was also extra special as it was the first time in history that Stormont buildings had a fireworks display.

Pictured from (Left) St. John Ambulance District Youth Officer Yvonne Macartney and District Staff Officer (Youth Training) Colin Woods (Right) accompanied a group of nine St. John Ambulance Cadets (L-r) Nadia Workman, Darryl Dickson, Carla Hunter, Orlaigh McDaid, Adam Beattie, Ruth Stone, Conal McGettigan, Anne Irvine and Robert Taggart.

THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARD AMBASSADORS

Fri, 3 Oct 2008 GMT

A golden opportunity to represent the DofE has been scooped by 16 outstanding DofE participants.

Sixteen DofE Award holders are set to inspire young people round the country to get involved in The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award as part of a new DofE Ambassadors programme.

The Ambassadors are charged with acting as a critical friend to the Charity and ensuring that DofE programmes are relevant and attractive to young people. Twelve of them will also represent the UK at an international conference in Mauritius next week.

This new initiative is a first for The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and the Ambassadors have made a three year commitment and are about to embark on the adventure of a lifetime.

The young people have been hand picked from across the UK and were chosen because they stood out with their inspirational experiences of doing their DofE. The DofE Ambassadors have been busy already.

They kick started their involvement with a recent training residential in Derbyshire and have spoken at both the Liberal Democrat and Labour party conferences about the realities of community involvement for young people.

Twelve of the Ambassadors will represent the UK at the International Gold Event in October in the idyllic location of Mauritius. They will meet other Gold Award Holders from around the world. The conference will look at three main themes Networking, Making a Difference and Telling a Story.

They will bring everything they learn back to the UK to support activities here. The DofE Ambassadors range in age from 18 to 28 and are all Gold Award holders and will receive support from DofE staff and have already made a difference by increasing the numbers of young people responding to an evaluation of the DofE questionnaire by utilising social networking sites.

Sahir Hamid, DofE Ambassador in Scotland said: “I’m really happy to be appointed as a DofE Ambassador. Doing my DofE had an amazing impact on my own life and I am looking forward to giving something back.”

Sarah Lindsell, Director of UK Services said: “The DofE has always had young people central to the charity. Having DofE Young Ambassadors ensures that we continue this. They are an amazing group of young people - as all Award holders are - and we look forward to working with them to inspire, guide and support other young people in their self-development and in recognising their achievements”

Windsor Partnership raises funds for the DofE

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 GMT

A team of runners from top Windsor hotel, the Sir Christopher Wren’s House Hotel and Spa in Windsor took part in the Windsor Half Marathon on Sunday 21 September to raise funds for youth charity, the DofE.

The Hotel’s General Manager, Marketing Manager, Head Chef and Gym Manager took on the testing 13.2 mile course. Not only did all the runners complete in less than 2.5 hours, but they also collectively raised £2,233 in sponsorship from friends, family and suppliers to help young people.

Mathew Griffin, General Manager of the Hotel said, “A lot of my team have a keen interest in sport and fitness so we decided to put it to good use by running the Windsor Half Marathon. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is the Hotel’s dedicated charity partner, and we work closely with them throughout the year so it was an obvious choice to try and raise money for them. It has amazed me how generous many of our suppliers and corporate partners have been and I would like to thank them all for their support.”

The Hotel kindly gave the DofE opportunity to share their hospitality tent on the day of the race. Here the Hotel’s spa team were offering runners sports massages in exchange for making a donation to the DofE.

The partnership between the Hotel and the DofE is now in its second year and the Half Marathon is just one of their joint initiatives. The Hotel also adds a discretionary £1 to each bill in Strok’s Restaurant which has resulted in over £1000 being donated to the charity in the last year alone. Last July the Hotel kindly hosted Afternoon Tea for DofE Supporters and a number of celebrities following a Gold Award Presentation at Windsor Castle. The Hotel also offers discounted rates on rooms for the charity’s supporters and provides raffle prizes for fundraising events.

Elkie Thorndyke, from the DofE’s Partnership Team, who also ran the half marathon with the Hotel’s team said “We are delighted with the number of initiatives and fundraising schemes that we are working on with the Sir Christopher Wren Hotel. This is a fantastic example of a true partnership. I would personally like to thank all the staff who have been involved.”

To sponsor the team please visit http://www.justgiving.com/wrens

The National Business Awards Scotland Final

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 GMT

SCOTLAND’S LEADING ENTREPRENUERS SUPPORT THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARD

The National Business Awards Scotland Final on Thursday 11th September raised £6,000 for the Duke of Edinburgh's Award - the UK's leading young people's charity.

The black tie award ceremony held at the Glasgow Hilton was attended by over 600 representatives from the regions most successful businesses, including First Scotrail, Lloyds TSB Scotland and Kwik-Fit Insurance Services.

2008 is the third year that The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award has been selected as charity partners with The National Business Awards. The total raised through the partnership to date is in excess of £106,000.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award increases employability and is the most looked for addition to a CV after academic qualifications by employers.

A recent survey into the impact of the DofE on young people has again proved its benefit for skills for business. From the 300 respondents 79% stated they had learned how to work as a team leader and 83% stated that doing their DofE taught them how to work with different types of people.

Chris Gorman, businessman and entrepreneur, Founder of Reality Group spoke on behalf of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award: “As an entrepreneur with my own share of successes and failures over the yearsI can appreciate how important the DofE is to give young people experiences that will give them valuable skills for both work and life. I personally know how successful the formula is as my own 14 year old son started his DofE programme only yesterday and is positively brimming with excitement at what the next two years will bring for him.”

Chris’s speech encouraged guests to donate generously to the raffle on the night and sparked interest in longer term support for the charity.

Mike Faulkner, Group Director of the National Business Awards, spoke with great enthusiasm about this important alliance:

“The National Business Awards' support for The Duke of Edinburgh's Award has been established through the synergy that exists in recognising leadership. The work that the DofE does with young people, preparing them for the challenges of working life, is something that the National Business Awards is proud to support.”

Football Legend tees off in aid of the DofE

Mon, 8 Sep 2008 GMT

Sir Bobby Charlton CBE, one of the true legends of football and a great sporting icon, is also a talented golfer.

Sir Bobby proved this when playing recently at Royal Birkdale, this year’s Open Championship venue, with DofE supporters, Neil and Alan Stevenson, and David Smith, who is a prominent member of the DofE’s Golfing Society.

Neil successfully bid for the privilege of playing with Sir Bobby at a DofE golfing event held at Royal Birkdale on 30 April, helping to raise over £16k on the day for the charity.

When the fourball played, the weather at Birkdale remained fine and the players enjoyed a round of golf on arguably the best links course in Great Britain. Sir Bobby is a great believer in the DofE programmes and his willingness to give his time so generously is a true mark of this champion.

Neil’s comment after the round was that he could not think of “a finer person on this planet to play golf with”.

Many thanks are extended to Royal Birkdale for hosting the event and to Alan Birch for taking the photographs.

Corporate teams survive DofE Dartmoor adventure

Mon, 1 Sep 2008 GMT

Fifteen teams of employees braved the elements to hike and bike across Dartmoor National Park to raise £10,000 for the DofE Charity

The teams were entirely self-sufficient for the adventure, carrying their own supplies for the weekend and relying on their navigation skills to reach the wild camp.

The weekend not only tested the teams to their physical limits, there were also mental challenges en route that teams had to complete including quizzes, logistical and survival challenges.

The overall winners of the weekend were ‘Territorial Amey’, a six person team comprising of Duncan and James Codd, Chris People, Georgina Hammond, Lucy Radford and Andrew Gowans, from service provider Amey.

The 79 participants were all given the challenge of raising £300 to support the DofE Charity’s work with young people. Some very creative fundraising methods, including quiz nights, cake baking and moustache growing, have resulted in over £10,000 being raised for the Charity to further its work with young people.

Alexander Cootes, from team Stream Media, said: “I didn’t realise how rewarding it would be and I’m disappointed that I didn’t do my DofE in my youth. I am rejuvenated, inspired and have a very positive outlook on life after this weekend.”

Sarah Lederer, from team Allocean, said: “Everything ran very smoothly. The organisation was faultless and most of all we all feel like we have really achieved something, both through the physical challenges and through raising money for the DofE.”

Georgina Hammond, from team Territorial Amey, said: “I didn’t think I would finish, let alone win! Having not done anything like this before I didn’t realise how mentally and physically demanding the challenge would be. Overall it was a great experience and we’re very proud that we raised lots of money for a good cause at the same time.”

Teams from CSC snapped up second and third places. Representatives from Allocean, Mears, British Gas, The SG Group, Bluecube Technology Solutions, DHL, Stream Media, Amey and Point Source all participated in the adventure and worked hard to raise funds for the Charity.

DofE partners The Dorset Army Cadet Force provided the radio network for the weekend ensuring that every competitor remained safe. Many of the Cadets volunteering were doing so for the Volunteering section of their DofE programme and this enabled the teams to hear first-hand from young people doing their DofE.

The DofE is about to launch the 2009 Dartmoor Adventure and the 2009 Morocco Challenge. For further information about DofE challenge events, please contact:
Elkie Thorndyke
Partnerships
Direct T: 020 7222 9810
T: 020 7227 4111
E: elkie.thorndyke@DofE.org

Climate Change Champs come to Windsor

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 GMT

The Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) launched a national competition across England to find nine outstanding young people, aged 11-18, to become the next Climate Change Champions for 2007/08. The winning Champions have attended a European climate change expedition in the Netherlands and have met senior Government and international representatives to talk about the issue.

Three of the champs who are currently doing their DofE spent the morning at the Windsor offices yesterday (23rd July). The crusading Champs worked on an exciting Climate Change Program to inspire leaders and participants to follow in their footsteps and reduce global warming. In the afternoon the young ambassadors and their chaperones enjoyed a VIP eco-tour of Windsor Castle, with a discussion on the carbon footprint of the Royal Household.

Phyllis Gordon Spencer leaves empowering legacy

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 GMT

Phyllis Gordon-Spencer, who devised the girls programme for The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in January 1957, has sadly died aged 96. Her death is made even more poignant as the DofE is shortly to celebrate her legacy in this the 50th anniversary year of girls taking part in the Award.

Phyllis, originally the Director of the Girls Training Corps youth movement contacted Sir John Hunt, the first Director of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, about the creation of a girls’ branch of the Award. He spoke to the Duke, and she was appointed to run it.

John Hunt said at the time of the founding: “It has the makings of an enlightened and appropriate scheme” and Prince Philip commented that it was “a bit complicated, but I’m quite happy that it should be tried as it is.”

Speaking at the time, she said: “We were absolutely clear about whom we had in mind for the Award – the teenage girl of 15-18. We asked ourselves what was going to be interesting and worthwhile for her to do in her spare time.”

When Phyllis set up the programme for girls, she thought of the girl in the inner city who never thought of getting themselves out into the countryside, not the type to join the Guides or even the local youth club. She said at the time “We were interested in girls who never thought of joining anything. With this programme they didn’t have to wear a uniform, they didn’t have to commit themselves to anything. We had to attract them into learning more about things that might interest them.”

The first syllabus Phyllis created on May 2nd 1958 was submitted to the editor of Vanity Fair and featured subjects under the heading of ‘Grooming and Poise’. About 15,000 girls took part in the first three-year pilot project. One of the most popular sections was called Design for Living, which included skills such as the art of make-up and hair care, what to wear, how to run a home, flower arranging, cookery and entertaining friends.

Sarah Lindsell, UK Services Director, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award said: “We will always be indebted to the value of the legacy left by Phyllis. She laid the foundations that today reflect the evolving nature of the DofE. We have gone from a programme that was absolutely right for the 1950s, then the social changes of the 1960s, right up to date where DofE programmes take place in a variety of settings, including the girl’s juvenile centre, the Mary Carpenter Unit in HMP Eastwood Park.”

Renowned sailor, canoeist, trans-Atlantic Rower and Trustee of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Debra Searle said: “I owe a lot to inspirational figures such as Phyllis Gordon-Spencer. My love of adventure was given an outlet as a teenager through doing my DofE, in which I achieved the Gold Award. Phyllis opened the doors and minds of young women in the UK by encouraging them try their hand at traditionally male pursuits alongside more traditional interests.”

She continued: “There is something very empowering about completing a new goal, especially when the goal seems impossible beforehand. When I was young, I felt I had so many limits to what I was able to achieve but I was wrong. The only limits to what we can do are the limits that we set for ourselves and I had been setting mine too low for too long.”

Valerie Pitman OBE, Honorary DofE Advisor and Probation Board DofE Manager for the Northern Ireland region of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award said: “Phyllis was the Founding Director of The Duke of Edinburgh's Award for girls, which was created 50 years ago this year. It was as a young member of the National Advisory Committee in the 1970s that I was privileged to get to know Phyllis when she became a Trustee of the DofE upon her retirement. S he took time to ensure that I understood how the DofE had evolved and what underpinned its ethos, which I have never forgotten. She gave generously of her time to support the DofE at all levels and her advice and guidance was always based on the best interests of young people; she took every opportunity to meet with them and enjoy their company. I remember Phyllis at the time when the DofE Head Office was based in Prince of Wales Terrace, a building which was particularly structurally challenged. She was happy to roll up her sleeves and provide well-positioned buckets to collect the rainwater.”

Eric Rainey MBE DL, DofE Director for Northern Ireland said: “Phyllis was one of the first people I met when I joined in 1980. She had been at the very heart of the DofE and was always ready and willing to advise and share her passion for it. She knew that under enthusiastic leadership it totally transformed the lives of young women.”

Peter Westgarth, Chief Executive of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award said: “I can not emphasise too much the importance of the impact Phyllis Gordon-Spencer had on The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. It is hard to imagine that such an important initiative as The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award would not have included young women from the outset but that was how things were back in the 1950’s. It took Phyllis’ vision and determination to ensure that young women would benefit from the life-changing opportunities doing the DofE provides, just the same as young men. Thanks to Phyllis, 135,000 young women of all backgrounds and abilities take part in DofE activities each year – a wonderful legacy of an inspiring lady.”

A brand new look for the DofE

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 GMT

The adventure starts here as the world’s leading achievement award for young people unveils a modern brand makeover.

Coinciding with the celebration of the 50^thanniversary of girls doing their DofE and the 50^th anniversary of the first Gold Awards being achieved, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award has updated its look and feel and is bursting onto the scene with a modern image reflecting the young people it represents.

Following research with young people, adult Leaders and supporters, the DofE Charity appointed design agency ArthurSteenHorneAdamson (ASHA) who created the new brand elements including a new logo, tone of voice and photography styles to suit a contemporary, leading youth Charity.

The DofE’s Charity’s mission has been updated to reflect the work it does in line with the new brand and focus on helping all young people to achieve their full potential:
Our mission is to inspire, guide and support young people in their self-development and recognise their achievements.

The new logo reflects the Charity’s research – that The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is known simply as the DofE to most people. It incorporates the Patron HRH The Duke of Edinburgh (Prince Philip)’s personal cipher (the crossed ‘P’s’ and crown above the DofE). This cipher is used as the royal recognition of achievement of an Award.

New, aspirational imagery has been created incorporating photographs of DofE participants from across the UK taken by photographers Marksteen Adamson and Fergus Burnett. The stunning images celebrate and reflect the diversity of young people taking part and the activities they can do.

Designs and concepts for new on and offline resources were developed by ASHA and make use of gold, silver and bronze stripes to reflect the levels of Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards and 5 coloured stripes representing the different types of activities young people do for their DofE.

New printed resources, website (http://www.DofE.org, designed by ASHA, built by S8080) and magazine for DofE Leaders accompany the refreshing modernisation of the new brand ‘DofE’. The new brand will be rolled out across all material over the coming year.

Louise Taylor, Head of Marketing, commented: “These are very exciting developments for the DofE. Our new brand has been developed to help us make everyone know just how relevant, modern, valuable and exciting doing and achieving a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award can be.”

Peter Westgarth, Chief Executive, said: “Demand from young people wanting to take part in DofE programmes continues to grow year on year. By updating our brand we hope to gain more immediate recognition and to appeal to even more young people, as well as increasing the number of adult volunteers who help young people to achieve their full potential.”

Get yourself behind the wheel

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 GMT

London to Florence Rally, 18^th – 26^th September 2008

This unique rally will take drivers through some of the most spectacular scenery that Europe has to offer, giving the chance to explore new places whilst raising money for a good cause.

En route, the rally will pass through some of Europe’s most magnificent towns and cities, with participants enjoying the finest accommodation and entertainment, as well as exciting driving experiences.

A limited number of places are still available for the London to Florence Rally, which begins with a Royal send off at Windsor Castle and culminates in a gala dinner in The Grand Hotel in Florence.

The London to Florence Rally 2008 is supporting The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, the UK’s leading young people’s development charity. The DofE is open to everyone aged 14 to 24, irrespective of background and ability, and has over 275,000 young people taking part at any one time.

The rally passes through France, Spa in Belgium, Wurzburg in Germany, Salzburg in Austria, Rijeka & Split in Croatia before crossing the Adriatic Sea to Pescara and arriving at the final destination, the beautiful city of Florence.

Highlights include: A pre-rally car inspection at Windsor Castle, hosted by HRH The Earl of Wessex. Experience some of the best Formula 1 circuits in Europe, including Spa Circuit in Belgium, famed for its longest lap length. Sample the hospitality of each region - wine tasting, medieval banquet, beer festival, classical evening. End of rally Florentine Ball at the luxurious Grand Hotel, Florence.

John Kyle, Managing Director, Cardowan Creameries, took part in the 2006 rally, He said: “A truly wonderful event and one which we will remember for the rest of our lives.”

Gregory S Belton, President & Managing Partner, HKMB International Insurance Brokers speaking about the 2006 rally said: “It was a wonderful and memorable event which my guest and I enjoyed immensely. The driving, the scenery, historical points of interest en route and the people participating were all first class.”

For more information please visit the Rally website or contact Ann Little on 020 7227 9813

Bentley Motors are the proud sponsors of this historic event, however participation isn’t limited to Bentley owners, in fact modern or historic cars of any make or model are welcome to take part.

this is a new event

Sun, 30 Mar 2008 GMT

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