The EVC Magazine Spring 2025 - Flipbook - Page 40
The Duke of Edinburgh's Award/Jonny Sanders
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
Taylor from Sherbourne Fields School on a walk with the
group during their Bronze Expedition in July 2024
READY FOR ANYTHING
How can remotely supervised expeditions help young people, schools and parents to
understand and manage risk?
Every year, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
(DofE) inspires hundreds of thousands
of young people aged 14 to 24 to follow
their passions, make a difference to their
communities and find their hidden talents.
The DofE Award can be life-changing for
young people, offering them access to the
outdoors and the chance to learn new skills,
build resilience and make some friends
along the way.
Participants choose activities in four
sections: improving a Physical and Skills
activity, Volunteering for a cause of their
choice and completing a demanding
Expedition section. The Award is highly
adaptable, meaning that expeditions can be
done by wheelchair, bike, or even canoe!
Adventurous activities are a vital part
of DofE, helping to develop confidence
and independence. Participants undergo
complete and robust training to prepare for
their expedition, which covers important
areas such as first aid, navigation, food
and cooking skills and adhering to the
Countryside Code.
40
TOP TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL EXPEDITIONS
For remotely supervised expeditions in
challenging environments, planning ahead is the
key to success
Plot the route over weeks or months with
the participants, encourage them to take an
active role and make sure they complete the
necessary training.
Make sure all expedition teams are trained to
identify an emergency and respond correctly.
Conduct supervised training walks and trial
expeditions to put the participants’ skills into
practice.
Understand the guidance and parameters of
the expedition so that everyone is clear where
they are permitted to go and when.
Establish clear lines of communication
between the participants and their supervisor.
For DofE expeditions, ensure all Leaders are
familiar with the guidance and expectations
in the DofE Expedition Guide.
