The Duke of Edinburgh’s Bronze Award

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Bronze Award (DofE) is a life-changing experience that offers students in year 9 and above the chance to have fun with friends, discover new interests and talents, and develop essential skills for life and work. Open to all students in year 9 and above, the DofE is a globally recognised programme with three progressive levels—Bronze, Silver and Gold—though at Tottington High School we currently offer the Bronze Award to Year 9 students. To achieve the Bronze Award, students complete four sections:

  • Volunteering: Give back to your community or school by helping at a local charity, coaching younger students, or participating in environmental projects
  • Physical: Boost your fitness by joining a school team, trying a new sport or improving your performance in one you currently do.
  • Skills: Learn something completely new, This could be a musical instrument, photography, a language or craft, the choice is yours.
  • Expedition: Embark on both a practice and final expedition.  This is an exciting overnight journey with your peers, navigating your route and setting up camp in the outdoors.

The Award is not a competition, but a personal challenge that helps young people build resilience, independence, problem-solving ability, teamwork, and confidence. Completing the Bronze Award enhances CVs, university and job applications, and is highly valued by employers who recognise the work-ready skills it develops.

At its heart, the DofE is about inspiring young people to push boundaries, grow as individuals, and gain experiences that will benefit them for the rest of their lives.