The Scout Association is recognised as a National Operating Authority for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE). The DofE is a voluntary, non-competitive programme of activities for anyone ages 14-24, giving the opportunity to experience new activities and develop existing skills.

There are three progressive levels of award, Bronze, Silver and Gold, volunteering with 4th Heswall enables candidates fulfil the following criteria.

Bronze: usually in year 9 or 10 – 3 months volunteering

Silver: usually in year 10 or 11 – 6 months volunteering

Gold: usually during Sixth Form – 12 months volunteering

At 4th Heswall we welcome anyone who wishes to fulfil the above criteria required to count toward the completion their DofE Bronze, Silver or Gold Award.

Volunteering: Helping out at our meetings with our Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs, or Sea Scouts. Taking part, assisting and organising activities, games, complete meetings or events are key skills and excellent opportunities. You could even volunteer from home by fundraising for us in a variety of ways in order to complete your award. This could include training for an event that we do at 4th Heswall or a commercially organised one, this could also qualify for your physical or skills challenge too.

Physical: Assisting our adult volunteer leaders on our adventurous activities, candidates can take part in hiking, cycling, kayaking, sailing, canoeing and paddle boarding on a regular basis as part of their physical requirement.

Skill: Teaching, coaching and mentoring are all vital skills, whether it’s teaching a six year old Beaver to tie their shoe lace, or a 12 year old scout to handle a sailboat, Scouting is all about skills for life. We can coach you in a new skill such as sailing or paddling, or develop your personal skills, whether practical, teamwork, or leadership, Volunteering at 4th Heswall covers it all.

Expedition and Residential: With careful planning and relevant experience, DofE candidates can plan, organise and lead expeditions with our Young Leader Unit under the guidance of our lead volunteers. For the Gold residential requirement, candidates can join us at summer camp during the last week in July at our waterside greenfield site in the Lake District.

If you have enrolled as a candidate, or you’re a leader for DofE, get in touch and we can facilitate your section objectives.

If you want to take part in DofE, get in touch and we can help guide you through the process.

Top Tips for your DofE Expedition

Start your Duke Of Edinburgh’s award now and Join us today.