This category recognises DofE Leaders, Volunteers, and Managers who have gone above and beyond to help young people access their DofE journeys. We want to celebrate those who have been creative in their approach, inclusive in their outlook, and who stand out as a role model to others. 

Congratulations to Faye, the Inspirational Adult: Life Changer of the Year winner!

faye

Meet Faye, a youth worker at Leeds Children’s Hospital. She works with young people aged 13-25, specialising in diabetes care, and heads up the running of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. She is a champion of both the DofE and marginalised young people. 

When her colleague was seconded to another department in the hospital, Faye was faced with a dilemma: carry on running the DofE solo or stop offering the DofE altogether. Faye decided to "crack on", rally the troops and run the DofE – all against the backdrop of the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Alongside her colleagues, Faye managed to successfully steer a group with complex medical needs through their Bronze and Silver Awards. 

"From diabetes to gastro problems and arthritis, we adjust our programme according to young people’s additional medical needs, allowing for a DofE journey that flexes as required."

Faye worked tirelessly to secure funding for resources, manage the health conditions of the group, and complete risk assessments. Her colleagues hailed her as an unstoppable force for the DofE. She was determined that young people with complex needs could access something life changing. Faye is an ambassador for young people, ensuring their voices are heard at all levels within the hospital and that they have access to the best support possible.

As a youth worker, Faye supports young people to manage and improve the psychosocial aspects of their lives. Through the DofE, she has seen her group’s confidence, self-esteem, independence and resilience blossom. "The DofE groups are improving their cooking skills, interpersonal skills and some are even learning how to use public transport in order to access sessions."

Faye has really seen the value of running DofE through a hospital: many young people have said there is no way they could’ve accessed the DofE through their school. "We provide an accessible and inclusive environment that is fully aware of specific medical needs, allowing for a totally personalised and supportive DofE experience."

Daniel

Daniel Tranter, DofE Leader, Manager and Assessor at St Andrew’s Academy in Derby, says the DofE gives his students the chance to challenge themselves in ways they never thought possible. Catering for students with a wide range of additional needs and disabilities, Dan has worked hard to ensure that the Expedition section in particular can be adapted to ensure every young person is able to take part.

"Our students get so much from the DofE, it can be life-changing for them."

Dan also ensures there are no financial barriers preventing a young person from participating in the DofE. In March 2022, with his dad Kevin, he cycled 300 miles in two days, raising over £5,000 towards DofE costs. Sadly, Kevin passed away just days after the event, but Dan says he would have been proud of the money raised as St Andrew’s. The school now has an annual Kevin Tranter DofE Outstanding Achievement Award and, Dan says, he feels he is also sharing his This is Youth recognition with his dad.

Matt

DofE Manager Matt Rush has been an integral part of delivering the DofE at Chiltern Way Academy Trust, a SEND (special educational needs and disability) provision for young people who have a range of additional needs across the behaviour and autism spectrum. With many students experiencing marginalisation and exposure to social problems, such as crime and gang violence, the DofE can truly change their lives and the pathway they decide to take.

"It gives them the chance to succeed away from the classroom."

Being dyslexic and struggling with school himself, Matt is passionate about the DofE because "it’s a valued qualification that gives you life experience". Matt’s colleagues credit his ability to "push people beyond their comfort zone". He ensures that the DofE is an opportunity for the young people he works with to fulfil their potential and change their pathways in life.