The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a nationally recognised programme that helps Explorers build confidence, skills and resilience – with full support from our Scout leaders.
What is DofE?
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) is a nationally recognised programme that helps young people build confidence, resilience and life skills. Through our Explorer Scout Unit, we offer full support for completing Bronze,SilverandGold, alongside the rest of the Explorer programme.
DofE is voluntary, non-competitive and open to all Explorers. Whether you’re keen to challenge yourself, build skills for the future, or work towards top Scout awards, DofE offers a flexible and rewarding way to do it.
DofE Levels We Run
Bronze
Who: Explorers aged 14+
Time: Minimum 6 months
Sections:
- Volunteering – 3 months
- Physical – 3 months
- Skills – 3 months
- Expedition (2 days / 1 night)
You also must add 3 months on one of the above (Volunteering, Physical, or Skills).
Silver
Who: Explorers aged 15+
Time: Minimum 12 months
Sections:
- Volunteering – 6 months
- Physical – 3 months
- Skills – 3 months
- Expedition (3 days / 2 nights)
You also must add 3 months on either Physical, or Skills.
Gold
Who: Explorers aged 16+
Time: Minimum 18 months if starting from scratch (12 if you have completed Silver)
Sections:
- Volunteering – 12 months
- Physical – 6 months
- Skills – 6 months
- Expedition (4 days / 3 nights)
- Residential (5 days away)
You also must add 6 months on either Physical, or Skills.
Why Do DofE With Explorers?
- We runBronze,SilverandGold
- Scout activities can count towards sections
- Trained leaders support planning and sign-off
- Expeditions are organised with people you already know
- DofE links directly to:
- Explorer Platinum Award
- Explorer Diamond Award
- King’s Scout Award
FAQs
Can I use activities I already do?
Yes. Many Explorers use activities they already take part in such as sports clubs, music, hobbies or volunteering for their DofE sections. We also offer opportunities within the Explorer Unit that can count towards DofE, including volunteering as a young leader for another section in district,
How much time does DofE take each week?
Each of the Skills, Physical and Volunteering sections requires around one hour per week, but don’t worry! You don’t have to do all sections at the same time, and many Explorers spread them out to fit around school, exams and other commitments.
Is DofE compulsory in Explorers?
No, DofE is completely optional.
We run a parallel Explorer programme alongside DofE, so Explorers who choose not to do DofE can still fully take part in Unit activities, events and camps.
How long do I have to complete the scheme?
You have until your 25th birthday for all the levels in the scheme – so there’s no rush!