By Ioannis Sistovaris, Year 11
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a voluntary, non-competitive and flexible programme of cultural and adventurous activities for all young people aged between 14 and 25 years old, whatever their background or ability. At the Bronze and Silver levels, there are four parts to finish, and at the Gold level, there are five. They entail assisting the community/environment, getting stronger, learning new skills, organizing, practising for, and achieving an excursion, and collaborating with a team on a residential activity for Gold only.
Any young individual, despite ability, gender, class, or region, can complete their DofE. Obtaining an Award is not a competition or a race to the finish line. It all comes down to establishing personal goals and pushing personal limits. A DofE course allows young people to have fun, meet friends, enhance their self-esteem, and gain confidence. They acquire important skills and traits for work and life, such as resilience, problem-solving, teamwork, communication, and drive, which they can use to improve their CVs, and university or employment applications.
This year, as a year 11 (silver award) participant, my winter expedition was based in a place called Les Avants in which we stayed in a hut. Throughout our stay, we had to do intensive hiking with the help of our maps, group activities, emergency training and make our food. However, due to multiple factors affecting the weather, snow conditions were poor and we did not have the chance to use snowshoes. I found it to be a very intense but fun experience which is why I have decided to interview some of my classmates who participated in the excursion to share their experiences.
How did you find the winter expedition?
“I was out of my comfort zone but it made me push myself physically and mentally. However, I still found a way to make it fun.” Chuyin Jin, Year 11
“I think it was a very good experience as it was mentally and physically challenging but I was able to make the most out of it due to the fact I was surrounded by my friends. The overall expedition was a success for me and I am happy that I was a part of it.” Pablo Briens Montero, Year 11
“Snow is definitely an obstacle for me as it makes the hiking more intense. Thankfully, throughout my second expedition, the weather was warmer which made the intensive hiking more enjoyable as it permitted me to tan.” Iris Su Mumcular, Year 11
Would you recommend future silver participants to continue the award?
“Yes I would, it’s good mental and physical training. It isn’t as bad as you think and the feeling you get when finishing it is priceless.” Chuyin Jin, Year 11
“Definitely, I do feel like when you obtain the bronze award the silver level is easier.” Pablo Briens Montero, Year 11
“Yes, not only because the silver award pushes your limits but also of your comfort zone. Think of it as a level of a video game, Silver is a level up Bronze which will just make you prouder of yourself after achieving it.”
What were some pros of your experience?
“For pros, walking around the forest was very pleasing because I had the opportunity to watch and be in new surroundings.” Chuyin Jin, Year 11
“The sky full of stars on my second night was an amazing experience because it made me realise the importance of nature.” Pablo Briens Montero, Year 11
“Definitely connecting with my friends on a deeper level. Going through hard obstacles and feeling weak continuously brought us together as we helped each other navigate through this intense experience.” Iris Su Mumcular, Year 11
