The DofE award was a staple at our all girls high school. All of us were encouraged to partake in the awards scheme, explore new hobbies, learn new skills and experience volunteer work - a first for many of us. The DofE award was my first camping experience (a cold wet night that somehow inspired me to camp many times since) and my first experience of volunteering - something that I have continued to do for the 20 years since gaining my Bronze award. A sense of shared and individual achievement was at the heart of my DofE experience, as well as a sense of pride in trying something new, finding that you rather liked it and achieving recognition. The Duke of Edinburgh and the DofE Awards have truly inspired and encouraged so many young people. Long may he continue to do so.