This week marked the exciting launch of both the Bronze and Gold Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) programmes at Cowes Enterprise College, with students showing great enthusiasm for the opportunities ahead. We are proud to offer all three levels of the award, with the Silver programme also in the planning stages.
The Duke of Edinburgh Award aims to inspire young people to develop initiative, resilience, and teamwork through a combination of skills, physical activity, volunteering, and an adventurous expedition. Our Gold participants have already embraced the challenge, planning their first 20K training walk for mid-March.
Students have chosen a diverse range of activities for their skill, physical, and volunteering sections. From learning German, sign language, and first aid to mountain biking, ballroom dancing, and sailing, participants are pushing themselves to develop new talents. Many are also giving back to the community by volunteering in charity shops, local businesses, and even supporting lessons within the academy.
A highlight of this year’s programme is the Young Leader initiative, with four experienced participants—Sonia, Maeve, Evie, and Skyler—taking on leadership roles to mentor and coach younger students. They have already made a fantastic impact, leading a successful Bronze recruitment assembly and helping to sign up participants for both Bronze and Silver at the enrichment fayre.
With expeditions set to take place in Exmoor, Dartmoor, and the West Wight later this year, students will soon begin planning routes, menus, and activities in preparation for their journeys.
We’ll be sharing updates on their progress and achievements, but it’s already shaping up to be a fantastic year for DofE at Cowes Enterprise College!