By taking part, young people build on a huge range of practical and character skills – like resilience, problem-solving, team-working and drive – and come out the other side with a stronger sense of self. It's something really brilliant to put on their CV, or to talk about in their university and job applications.
Young people build their own custom DofE programme: choosing from a range of skills-based challenges, physical activities, volunteering opportunities and expeditions to suit their interests and goals. As part of their Gold Award, they also take part in a residential activity.
Scouts can complete their DofE while they're in Explorers or Network, linking their achievements to the Chief Scout’s Platinum, Diamond and King’s Scout Awards, as well as the Young Leaders' Scheme.
At Scouts, DofE is a part of our Explorer and Network programme, so members must be 13.5 years old to start working on their awards.
Subject to this minimum age, you can start the Bronze and Silver award in the school year you turn 14 and 15 respectively.
Gold has a minimum age of 16. All activities must be completed by a young person's 25th birthday.