I am an only child and I believe that the DofE Scheme taught me a great deal about myself, my abilities, my shortcomings, my relationships, my fears and my goals and to appreciate those very same traits in others around me.

The Scheme taught me about perseverance, character building and staying power; about disappointment, pain, physical discomfort and how to combat them; about believing in oneself and trusting others. It not only propelled me into looking into 'myself' to make choices which would eventually enable me to discover what skills, hobbies, and volunteering opportunities I could take on and excel at, but to learn about the practicalities of organising, dealing with the outdoors, carrying heavy loads in all weathers, dealing with blistered feet, using sub-standard washing facilities, negotiating the banter and the fun, the rows, learning to share, the improvising and the ‘getting on with it’.
Thinking long and hard, I opted to learn the piano, take up Karate and give up my time volunteering. With the Bronze Award, I started with small steps. All the skills and hobbies were new to me, I struggled and often cried. Ready to give up, the thought of not achieving kept me going. Once I achieved my goals, I was inspired to continue to aspire to the next levels. I went onto achieve Silver and complete the NCS programme. I have yet to complete my Gold (Expedition).
Enduring often hard times, visualising targets, helped to fuel a sense of 'fight' for my goals, 'stand up when down attitude', which I applied during my recent A Level studies and in other aspects of my life especially during lockdown. It revealed the importance of helping others and accepting help.
To anyone who asks, 'go for it'. It is as much a reward as a challenge; a journey of self-discovery and an eye-opener to the world around us. I doubt many opportunities as these exist in a safe, fun, team building environment. A Scheme I am so grateful for.