One great thing is how the DofE brings people together. I’ve met some fantastic people at the North of England team, learned a lot from them and had some laughs along the way. There’s a real sense of teamwork from other leaders and its great to see young people making new friends, gain confidence and achieving things they never thought they would regardless of their background. The DofE is for everyone. I’ve lots of great memories, one that stands out is a Bronze expedition with Stockport Police Cadets. On the practice the rain poured throughout. I honestly thought none of the Cadets would come back for the qualifier as this was the first experience of camping. However, they proved me wrong. Despite it raining again every one of them came back for the qualifier with smiles on their faces. They worked brilliantly as a team and used their individual strengths to help each other along. They were enthusiastic, resilient and displayed great navigation skills, camp craft and respect for the countryside. Around the campfire the Cadets were talking about what qualities they had used which was summed up nicely by one Cadet as ‘The Stockport Way’. All Cadets passed with flying colours and are coming back to do their Silver. One Cadet wrote her memory-The DofE award was arduous and demanding, yet it motivated me to reach new levels of problem-solving and physical endurance. It has been one of the most fulfilling endeavours that I have had the opportunity to take part in. Through extensive team-work and communication, I can confidently say that I am able to effectively work in a group setting. I remember my team being incredibly supportive as well, this created a comradery that I aspire to achieve in the workplace in the future. I have cultivated a sense of self-discipline and initiative which will reward me greatly as they are skills that employers respect. My overall observation of the award is that it being fun and a chance to explore nature.