DofE has been a massive part of my life and career as a teacher. I have seen 100s of students complete their awards from bronze up to gold and I feel proud of each and every one of them as they overcome their own problems and grow as a person from their experiences.
Being outdoors takes us all back to the same basic level, there is no hierarchy and people can work together and solve problems. In this world the reward is instant, the outdoors remains the only place where the punishment is also instant...you forgot your waterproofs, you get wet.... you didnt listen when you were taught about cooking.....you dont eat. These lessons in resiliance and team work are incredibly important to learn.
Teenagers are amazing and suprise you constantly and this award that HRH set up is a tangiable way to show that and allow participants to achieve something, even when maybe they don't do well in school or in other areas. The confidence, self belief and motivation that this brings is immense.