DofE has enabled me to meet new people and make new friends both inside and outside of school.

For volunteering I helped out at the local Brownies unit as a young leader which helped me to develop my confidence and communication skills. I built on my self esteem whilst being able to give something back to the community.

For the skills section I took up cross stitch for silver and knitting for gold and was able to produce two pieces of work which I was proud of and still have today. I learnt how to do new skills and stitches and these new skills were a way of relaxation. I still do them today.

The physical and expedition sections were the most challenging for me particularly for my gold award where none of my existing friends were taking part. I was able to make new friends who I still talk to today. Every expedition the weather was horrendous but it taught me about perseverance. I played netball and cycled improving on my fitness level which has carried on as an activity to do during lockdowns. Both expeditions are some of the most memorable moments in my life to date where I had to be both independent and work as part of a team whilst exploring somewhere new.

Taking part in the DofE programme has been one of my best experiences so far and I have gained valuable life skills. It has required commitment and dedication as people have depended on me throughout ie turning up for volunteering sessions and working as part of a team during expeditions. Completing DofE is a great achievement that sets you apart from other candidates whether this be on university or job applications and an experience that I will never forget.

Doing DofE is something I’m extremely proud of as it allowed me to really challenge my boundaries and push me out of my comfort zone. Not many people I know have taken part in this programme but it’s truly beneficial and a way to meet new people and friends for life as only you can share your experiences with one another.