The Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme was set up in 1956. Its mission is to provide for young people an enjoyable, challenging and rewarding programme of personal development, which is of the highest quality and the widest reach. The Award is split into three levels (Bronze, Silver and Gold), each one designed to develop the young people further.

D of E at the Westgate School

A dedicated group of staff volunteers deliver a combination of weekend and after school sessions to enable pupils to achieve the Bronze Award. At present, only 24 pupils each year can participate, so competition for places is tight. The only requirement we have is that pupils are dedicated to the Award and can commit to completing it successfully. Selection is done on the basis of need and personal development. We are really keen for pupils to benefit from the Award, so anyone is welcome to apply!

For more information about the Award, visit www.theaward.org.uk

Aims of the Award at The Westgate School

• Non-competitive – the Bronze Award is not about finishing first, it is about working as a team. The goals involved are personal and not about competing with others.
• Available to all – any person committed to completing the Award is encouraged to apply.
• Achievement focused – pupils are encouraged to set their own goals and targets that are challenging, yet achievable. Marathon, not a sprint – a short burst of enthusiasm in the first few weeks is not enough! The Bronze Award takes a year to complete, so requires dedication.
• Personal development – pupils should complete the Award feeling that they have grown as a person and have improved their social skills, confidence and well being.
• Attendance – All pupils are expected to come to every meeting as this is a requirement of the Award.
• Enjoyable – the Award is customisable by the pupils, so they can choose activities they want to do. The most important thing about the Award is it should be fun!