I received my Gold award back in the late 80's. Although I enjoyed participating and some of the interests have stayed with me for life - the true benefits are only realised later in life. When I started interviewing for management level jobs I had no actual experience in business but the leadership skills, ability to manage conflict and negotiating, problem solving skills etc were all developed and I had tonnes of examples thanks to my D of E experiences.

Some people lead sports teams as their leadership examples but I was not strong in this area but the D of E is open to everyone so you don't hav eto be the fastest or fittest or strongest to demonstrate your leadership capabilities.

I went on to become a senior manager within a large pharmaceutical company (GSK) and from there my career has blossomed. My teenage children are now both doing their awards. They are both enjoying participating but I hope they too reap these rewards and so do many young people in teh years to come.