I completed all three levels of the DofE award whilst at school, and it has helped shape me into the person I am today. Through the award I learnt about commitment, teamwork, resilience and hard work; and it helped further a love for the outdoors which continues to this day. As my service for the gold award I assisted the DofE coordinator - helping sort kit, teach classes and in prepping for expeditions. When I had left school I returned to my school DofE scheme to volunteer - assisting new groups of students through their expeditions. Having been through the expeditions myself, I felt I was able to relate to the students and fully empathise with them - especially when it was pouring with rain!

I loved every minute of my DofE experience. In particular my assessed expedition for the gold award was one of the best things I have ever done - we all cried on the train home as we didn’t want it all to be over!
The DofE scheme changed my life in so many ways. It taught me so much about myself - my strengths, my weaknesses, my limits, and how to be the best I can be. Through volunteering for the scheme once I had left school I met my partner - we have been together nearly 10 years! I have so much to be grateful for which can all be traced back to the DofE award. Thank you for creating such a special and wonderful thing. Long may it continue.