At St George’s we actively encourage girls to participate in the Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) Award scheme. DofE encourages young people to take part in a wide range of activities they may not have previously experienced.
There are four sections (five at Gold) that make up each level of the Award programme. The girls complete a physical, skills and volunteering section and take part in an assessed expedition, with pre-expedition practice and training.
There are three levels of DofE: Bronze, Silver and Gold. Girls who successfully complete their Gold Award are rewarded with a visit to Buckingham Palace to receive their certificates. Participants receive recognition on completion of each level. All DofE awards are highly regarded by both employers and universities as they demonstrate the ability to work independently and successfully as part of a team, as well as demonstrating good use of initiative during DofE exercises. Girls who complete a DofE award usually include the achievement as part of their UCAS personal statement when applying to university.
Girls undertake their training for the Bronze Award during School club time in the Spring Term of Year 9. A Practice and Qualifying Expedition are overseen by School staff in the locality. Silver and Gold Awards are started in Year 10 and the Lower Sixth respectively and involve outside staff, as necessary, with expeditions taking place in the Brecon Beacons for Gold qualification.
The girls enjoy being outside, exploring the countryside and taking part in outdoor pursuits as a break from their school work. The experience embraces diverse social engagement with volunteering activities often involving outreach and environmental projects, which is an important aspect of the experience.
