issue 35: spring 2020 the magazine for dofe leaders€¦ · issue 35: spring 2020 the magazine for...

Guiding lightOutlining the changes in the new edition of the DofE’s Expedition Guide.

ISSUE 35: SPRING 2020

Training matters

We give an overview

of the various training

courses to help adults

who deliver DofE

programmes.

Incident reporting

A reminder of the

updated guidance for

Licensed Organisations

when it comes to

reporting incidents.

The magazine for DofE Leaders

2 DofE Magazine

Issue 35: Spring 2020 3

Our Mission To inspire, guide and support young people in their self-development and recognise their achievements.

Published by The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Gulliver House, Madeira Walk, WINDSOR, Berkshire SL4 1EU. T: 01753 727400 E: [email protected]

Editorial Office Gulliver House, Madeira Walk, WINDSOR, Berkshire SL4 1EU [email protected] Distribution [email protected] Editor/Designer Dave Wood

Advertising sales Mark Brown, Fellows Media Ltd, The Gallery, Manor Farm, Southam, Nr Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL52 3PB T: 01242 259249 E: [email protected]

Submitting articles The Editor welcomes contributions on subjects related to the DofE, especially good quality colour photographs, articles, letters, news stories etc. for possible publication. Please note that we cannot guarantee publication of any submitted items. For any image submitted to the DofE Magazine it is the entrant’s responsibility to ensure that all the relevant and necessary permissions for the use of the images they submit are obtained from people featured in a photograph. Therefore any person featured in a picture must give their permission, and written consent must be obtained from the parents/carers/guardians of any child under the age of 16. The DofE would also reserve the right to publicly display and publish any image submitted to this magazine in promotional, PR and operational materials, printed, digital and online. Our photography and privacy policies are available on DofE.org/privacy. Whilst every care will be taken, the DofE Magazine cannot and will not be held responsible for any material which is lost, mislaid or damaged.

Participants should check with their Licensed Organisation to ensure that an opportunity they wish to pursue, advertised in these pages, will count for their DofE programme.

Email newsletter Read the latest news and information from the DofE Head Office through our email newsletter, sent to Leaders registered on eDofE. View the latest edition at DofEnews.org.

The DofE Magazine The DofE Magazine is aimed at DofE Leaders at all levels and Licensed Organisations. Items (not photographs) in the magazine may be reproduced free of charge, with acknowledgement to its source. Whereas every reasonable precaution is taken prior to accepting advertisements in this magazine, in respect of the suitability of the advertisers and their abilities to provide the goods and services they advertise, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award cannot and will not accept responsibility for the failure of advertisers to fulfil their obligations to their customers as a result of an advertisement appearing in this magazine.

We have a limit on the amount of adverts we carry in this magazine. We hope you can support our advertisers as this income enables us to print and distribute the magazine to you free of charge.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS?The magazine mailing list is taken directly from your profile on eDofE. If you change your address, please amend your own details within eDofE.

If you receive more than one magazine, please pass it on to someone who may like to read it. If you are no longer involved in the DofE, please arrange for your account to be archived.

you make it

ISSUE 35: SPRING 2020

UK DofE OfficesDofE HEAD OFFICE: Gulliver House, Madeira Walk WINDSOR, Berkshire SL4 1EU T: 01753 727400 E: [email protected] DofE.org

SCOTLAND: Rosebery House, 9 Haymarket Terrace, EDINBURGH EH12 5EZ T: 0131 343 0920 E: [email protected] DofE.org/scotland

WALES: First Floor, Plas Y Ffynnon, Cambrian Way, BRECON, Powys LD3 7HP T: 01874 623086 E: [email protected] DofE.org/wales

NORTHERN IRELAND: Unit 4 Lower Ground Floor, Forestgrove Business Park, Newtownbreda Road, BELFAST BT8 6AW T: 0289 069 9100 E: [email protected] DofE.org/northern-ireland

ENGLAND:

Central England: First Floor Offices, Arthur House, 21 Mere Green Road, Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield B75 5BS T: 0121 308 9470 E: [email protected] DofE.org/central

London: The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, London Regional Office, 11 Belgrave Road, LONDON SW1V 1RB T: 0207 630 9092 E: [email protected] DofE.org/london

North of England: Knotty Ash Centre, 251 East Prescot Road, LIVERPOOL L14 5NA T: 0151 228 2533 E: [email protected] DofE.org/north-of-england

South East: Gulliver House, Madeira Walk, WINDSOR, Berkshire SL4 1EU T: 01753 727450 E: [email protected] DofE.org/south-east

South West: Unit 12A, Church Farm Business Park, CORSTON, Somerset BA2 9AP, T: 01225 874 354 E: [email protected] DofE.org/south-west

The Award Scheme Ltd (ASL): Unit 18-19, Stewartfield, Newhaven Road, EDINBURGH, EH6 5RQ., T: T: 0131 553 5280 E: [email protected]

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award: Award House, 7-11 St Matthew Street, LONDON SW1P 2JT T: 020 7222 4242 E: [email protected] intaward.org


The magazine for DofE Leaders

Proud to be

In the UK

4 DofE Magazine


Majority

Contents Refreshed resources Introducing the new editions of the

Handbook for DofE Leaders and the Expedition Guide.

Training matters An overview of the range of DofE Leader training courses available.

Living the brand Our new Brand Guidelines, designed to help you produce materials that promote the DofE.

A whirlwind first month The DofE's new CEO, Ruth Marvel, looks forward to an exciting future.

DofE update The latest news from the DofE.

The DofE in action News of DofE activities and achievements from around the UK.

Incident reporting A reminder of the responsibilities of Licensed Organisations to report incidents.

Everyone’s a winner We report on the highly successful DofE Adventure last September.

DofE Q&A Our latest collection of answers to frequently asked questions.

eDofE update The DofE app for participants and other eDofE developments.

Out there Resources, opportunities and more to help you in your DofE work.

Opportunities spotlight Highlighting some great opportunities for your participants.

RSM Charity Challenge How one company’s employees rose to the DofE Challenge to raise funds for our charity.

At the heart of the community We look at two businesses which value the DofE highly, not least because of the volunteering element.

Your new resources centre We’ve created a brand-new Resources Centre for all adults involved in the DofE.

Healthy service How DofE participants can do their volunteering in an NHS hospital.

Unlocking potential See how the DofE is changing lives at Feltham Young Offenders Institute.

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The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a Registered Charity No. 1072490, and in Scotland No: SC038254, and a Royal Charter Corporation No. RC000806.

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6 DofE Magazine

We are excited to have released updated versions of both the Handbook for DofE Leaders and the Expedition Guide. There have been a number of programme developments over the past couple of years and these are now reflected in both resources, ensuring that all adults involved in delivering the DofE have the most up to date information.

The Handbook for DofE LeadersThe Handbook for DofE Leaders provides Leaders with all the information they need to run DofE programmes with a group. So, what’s changed in this new version?

- It has a new appearance, in line with our refreshed look and feel.

- There are some new images to reflect a broader range of participants and activities.

- The age requirements have been updated to reflect the change that participants may be able to start their Bronze programme in the school year in which their peer group turns 14, and their Silver in the school year in which their peer group turns 15.

- The new Welcome Pack delivery process and DofE app is referenced.

- More information about the Joint Agreement The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in Northern Ireland has with Gaisce – The President’s Award.

- Although the DofE’s Environmental Impact Policy remains in the book, the charity’s safeguarding, equal opportunity and behaviour policies have been removed to avoid confusion with Leaders following the

policies of their own organisation when delivering DofE programmes.

- The updated 20 conditions (released in spring 2019) are detailed in the chapter on the Expedition section, alongside the corresponding flexibilities for sailing expeditions

- The changes to the Bronze level expedition section in autumn 2018 (no longer having the requirement for a practice expedition or presentation, and the options of having a combined Expedition Assessor/Supervisor, a Leader-set aim and using indoor accommodation) are now reflected in the explanation of the Expedition section and programme rules.

Refreshed resources


The Expedition GuideThe Expedition Guide provides advice and guidance for DofE Leaders, Supervisors, Assessors and other adults running DofE expeditions. It sets out the requirements and processes of the Expedition section, as well as its aspirations and desired outcomes.

As with the Handbook, the biggest change to the Expedition Guide is updated wording to reflect the changes that were made to the Bronze level Expedition section in 2018. However, in order to provide more detail on these changes and the new 20 conditions, a number of other changes have been made in this updated version:

- Detail on what indoor accommodation would be acceptable on expeditions can be found in Chapter 5.1: Planning DofE expeditions.

- Wording around the importance of behaviour and environmental impact has been amended to reflect the fact that these are now part of the 20 conditions.

- Wording on Bronze level training stresses the importance of robust outdoor training that fulfils the training framework and ensures the teams are adequately trained to safely undertake a remotely supervised expedition in the environment in which they will be operating.

- Like the Handbook, the Expedition Guide also has a fresh new appearance, including new photos and images, in line with our refreshed look and feel.

Please note that there are no programme changes in either resource that you should not already be aware of. They have been updated to reflect the guidance which have been developed over the past few years. You can always find out more about the programme rules, and changes made, on DofE.org/run.

If you already own a copy of the Handbook or Expedition Guide, please note that there is no requirement to replace them. However, if you would like a new copy of The Handbook for DofE Leaders of the Expedition Guide, you can purchase them through DofE Essentials on your eDofE account.

Refreshed resources


8 DofE Magazine

During the course we cover:

- The mission and guiding principles of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

- Understanding DofE levels, sections, timescales and the development of DofE programmes.

- The DofE structure and how it supports you.

- The key roles of DofE Leaders.

- How to ensure that a programme is based around the needs of the young person.

- Information on the range of resources available to help you.

- Good practice in the delivery of DofE programmes.

Some DofE Offices/Licensed Organisations may also run an IttDofE short course, which covers the first half of the full IttDofE training course (part one). This is suitable for those who want a concise (three hour) overview of the DofE’s ethos, rules and requirements. It may lead to further Modular Training framework (MTF) training (e.g. the Award Verifier course).

Award VerifierThe short IttDofE course can be run in conjunction with the Award Verifier (AV) course to make a day of training.

This course equips Award Verifiers with the necessary DofE programme and practical knowledge to meet the purpose of the role confidently, execute key tasks and ultimately deliver high quality Award verification in eDofE.

The Award Verifier training course covers:

- The purpose of the Award Verifier role, the key relationships they need to maintain and the resources available to support their role.

- eDofE, including how participants use it to complete their programme.

- Programme requirements of the DofE and know how to use eDofE to check they have been met.

- What evidence is required to approve an Award and what makes a good Assessor’s Report.

- How to use eDofE to deliver key Award Verifier tasks.

- How to apply course learning to their own role and create an action plan for future development.

It is compulsory for new and existing Award Verifiers to attend this course. It might also be of interest to DofE Managers, who are responsible for identifying suitable Award Verifiers and require an understanding of the role.

The academic year is well underway and, hopefully, the new cohorts of participants are logged in and are confirming their programme choices. There’s now time to think about the training that is on offer to the adults who help deliver DofE programmes in your organisation, as Ian Newbery reports.

Training matters

8 DofE Magazine

TRA

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A good start point is our online e-introduction training course which takes around 30-40 minutes. This is for any adult who is involved in running or supporting DofE programmes. This free e-learning module is an essential introduction to the DofE, the programme principles and how the DofE is run.

We also ask that adults complete this before going on to undertake any of our other training.

Introduction to the DofEThe Introduction to the DofE (IttDofE) training course provides the information needed to be a DofE Leader and run DofE programmes within a centre.

It puts learnings from the e-induction into context in a practical way. It’s suitable for new DofE Leaders as well as existing Leaders who want to improve their DofE knowledge.


Introduction to the DofE Manager RoleWe will shortly be launching a three-hour course for DofE Managers – the Introduction to the DofE Manager Role (IttDofEMR). This course, which can also be run alongside the IttDofE (Part 1) course aims to provide managers with the basic skills and knowledge to undertake the role.

This will help the Manager to:

- Understand the role of the DofE Manager.

- Develop tools to deal with challenges of managing a DofE programme.

- Plan management of the programme for the year.

- Know how to use key features of eDofE: account access, programme creation and support, running reports.

Expedition coursesWe have a suite of courses to support those who will be or are involved in running expeditions.

The online Introduction to the Expedition section e-learning is a prerequisite to the other face-to-face training we offer for this area of a DofE programme.

The module takes about 40 minutes to complete and will help you to:

- Understand the ethos, aims, principles and benefits of the section.

- Understand the programme requirements of the section.

- List the five stages of the expedition process.

- Explain how Licensed Organisations contribute to the delivery of expeditions.

- Explain the different adult roles involved in running expeditions.

- Use expedition resources to support your role.

Our DofE Expedition Skills (DES) course is a basic expedition skills course delivered over 30 hours,

normally as a residential. It has a substantial practical element and involves significant outdoor learning and physical activity.

It gives expedition leaders and expedition support staff the theoretical and practical skills needed to support DofE expeditions on foot, typically for the Bronze level.

The theory part includes knowledge of the DofE’s Expedition section, expedition planning skills, knowledge of Licensed Organisation procedures, experience and qualifications as well as exploring other modes of travel.

The practical skills covered are navigation, Countryside Code and conservation, cooking and campcraft, personal and group kit and weather.

For those who are looking to become an Expedition Assessor there is the online Expedition Assessor Accreditation Scheme pre-course elearning. This is required before the face-to-face learning course is undertaken and its objectives are to inform you of:

- The aims of the section.

- The role and responsibilities of the Assessor.

- The key stages of the expedition and assessment processes.

- The principle stages and levels of accreditation.

- How the Assessor can positively influence the experience of young people on their expedition.

At present we also have two face-to-face courses – one for Expedition Assessors (EAAS) and the other for Supervisors (ESTC). As we go to press, we are piloting a replacement course for these based on the changes to the Bronze Expedition section and the updated 20 conditions

We will be publicising the full details of this course as soon as it is available.

For more information on all of these courses, visit

DofE.org/training.

An Introduction to DofE course in Gloucestershire.

10 DofE Magazine


We’ve produced a set of Brand Guidelines designed to help LOs create materials that promote the DofE. The document is designed for two main situations:

- Sometimes the DofE will be the primary brand, such as when a school is using the materials to promote just its DofE offer/activities to its own audience and does not need to feature its own brand.

- There will be instances when the LO’s brand is the primary focus and DofE is the secondary brand. For example on websites, in a school prospectus or company annual report. The organisation will use its own look and feel and then feature the DofE logo/its DofE bespoke logo as an ‘endorsement’ in a secondary position.

The document also contains guidance on how to refer to the DofE, our terminology, use of capitals etc.

We ask that our LOs follow the guidelines in the Brand Guidelines to help them incorporate the DofE’s look and feel into their materials. This will help to project the DofE as a valuable addition to the LO’s own activities, with a degree of consistency.

DofE as the primary brandWhen the DofE is the primary brand, such as when a school is using the materials to promote its DofE offer/activities, the DofE’s Brand Centre would ideally be used to source materials (DofE.org/brandcentre).

For example:

- a DofE group in a school wishing to have DofE banner stands for school events;

- a company promoting in-house DofE activities;

- a council’s DofE Award presentation evening.

The Brand Guidelines contain examples of how to set up materials and websites when DofE is the primary brand.

Licensed Organisations (LOs) are encouraged to use the DofE logo and imagery to help promote their DofE activities.

Living the brand

DofE as the secondary brandWhen a Licensed Organisation is using its own brand as the primary one, the DofE logo and imagery would become secondary. The Brand Guidelines give advice on how to achieve this without the end result looking like a clash of two brands.

The basic rule is that, where DofE is the secondary brand, materials should adhere to the LO’s visual identity, not the DofE’s. To ensure consistency of the DofE brand, elements of its visual identity should not be incorporated into the LO’s materials. Do not attempt to replicate the DofE brand, using colours, fonts or duotone photography treatment.

Again, the Brand Guidelines contain examples of how to incorporate DofE branding when DofE is the secondary brand.

DofE branded/customised materials and assets can be obtained from the

Brand Centre (DofE.org/brandcentre), where you can also download the

DofE logo and order a bespoke one. If you can’t find what you need on

the Brand Centre, then please email [email protected].

Download the Brand Guidelines for LOs at DofE.org/BGLO.

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award (the DofE) is a Registered Charity No: 1072490, in Scotland SC038254 and a Royal Charter Corporation No: RC000806.

Achieve something really special in the world’s leading achievement award for young people.

For anyone aged 14-24.

DofE.org

Anton DofE Gold Award holder

“Lifelong memories”

12 DofE Magazine

A whirlwind f irst month

DEVELOPMENT

theDofE @DofEUK@DofE #DofE

12 DofE Magazine


I’ve had a whirlwind first month, including Gold Award Presentations on days two and three; a visit to Lutterworth College (pictured below) to meet their DofE Manager, headteacher and two of our fantastic young Ambassadors; meetings with two of our major funders; a UK Executive Committee meeting; a thank you dinner for supporters with HRH The Earl of Wessex and a visit to the Central Region DofE office.

First, I wanted to say thank you to everyone I’ve met through the DofE for making me so welcome. I’ve been impressed with the dedication and professionalism of everyone and the passion you all have for changing young people’s lives.

Feeling inspiredIt’s clear that the DofE does change lives. I’ve been fortunate to speak to many young people who have achieved their Awards and hear their stories of pain, perseverance, elation and pride.

- Like Harry, a young father, who experienced a real sense of freedom on expeditions and through his DofE developed his leadership and teamwork skills, skills which ultimately helped him get a job with the police;

- Grace, who is profoundly deaf but through doing her DofE with the Fire Cadets realised that she could achieve anything she set her mind to and gained the confidence to go on to study at university;

- Tianna, a young carer for her mother who, through doing her

DofE at school, was able to take a break from her responsibilities, push herself out of her comfort zone, and fulfil her dream of becoming a chartered accountant.

These stories inspire me, and I’m unbelievably proud to lead an organisation that helps so many young people invest in themselves, believe in themselves and do extraordinary things with their peers and their wider community.

But it’s clear that our young people couldn’t do these things without the DofE family, be they staff, DofE Managers, Leaders, volunteers or supporters, who believe in their potential and invest their time, energy and money – over the long term – to help them succeed.

Plans for the futureSo, while I’ve learned a lot in the last few weeks, and I have much more to learn, I am already beginning to think

A whirlwind f irst monthabout how we can build on these strong foundations.

What impact do we want to have as an organisation and how can we evidence this impact? How can we ensure young people shape the future of the DofE, so it remains relevant to young people’s changing lives? How do we strike the right balance between extending the DofE opportunity to even more young people and ensuring we can reach those young people who can benefit most from doing their DofE? I look forward to exploring these questions with you all during 2020

Thank youIn the meantime, thank you for the warm welcome and for all you do to make the DofE the phenomenal organisation it is. I feel privileged to be part of the DofE and I’m excited about everything to come and I look forward to achieving great things with you in 2020.

Ruth MarvelChief Executive, DofE


I’ve been CEO of the DofE since the end of November 2019 and I thought I’d share a bit about what I have been doing in my first few weeks, and what I’ve learned so far.

14 DofE Magazine

Schools and youth groups often buy hoodies and t-shirts for activities, trips and events. We’ve spoken to some DofE Leaders to hear why they kitted their groups out in Official DofE Clothing and whether they felt it motivated and rewarded their participants and volunteers.

Great for groups

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

The top reasons why DofE groups buy DofE Clothing:

- As an incentive for new Leaders and volunteers in your school or centre.

- To wear when talking to prospective participants and parents when signing up for the DofE.

- To promote the DofE in school and within the community.

- To reward participants’ achievement and effort as part of their presentation evenings.

- To have good quality team wear when doing expedition training and at DofE meetings.

- To identify and bond the DofE group together. Group kit but with added personalisation to make it unique to each individual.

New supplierWe re-launched DofE Clothing with a new supplier, Serious Sport, in October 2019 and now offer improved bulk discounts and support for co-ordinating your group order.

How to order DofE Clothing for your group

- Bulk discounts apply for orders of 10+, 26+, 76+, 151+ and 251+ items*. Download the Group Price List from shop.DofE.org/group-orders.

- Easy to use Group Order Form to help you manage the costs and personalisation quickly and easily. Download the Group Order Form from shop.DofE.org/group-orders.

- Add your school or group logo to the DofE Everyday Range (additional fee applies). Not available for Achievers or Expedition ranges.

- Account set up and management by Serious Sports Group Orders team.

- Delivery within ten working days.

- If the order contains Achievers Range items, each order will need approval and delivery is from the date of approval, not receipt of the order.

We ordered personalised t-shirts for each participant

as part of their enrolment package, to help create a sense

of team identity and spirit.”Tom, Ralph Allen School, Somerset

“

*Same item – can be different colours, size, gender ie 100 standard hoodies.

Contact Tom, DofE Account Manager at Serious Sport, on 01256 398 633 or email

[email protected] to discuss your requirements.

shop.DofE.org/group-orders

The DofE hoodie and t-shirt are smart enough for parent

presentations and casual enough for expeditions and

training sessions.”Natalie, DofE Manager,

Lavington School, Wiltshire

“


Welcome PacksWelcome Packs are sent directly to new participants’ homes when they register their address on their eDofE profile.

For operational reasons, Leaders will continue to hand out Welcome Packs to participants who live in Northern Ireland, or who are doing their DofE in the secure estate. For participants who have an overseas home address, packs will be sent to their DofE centre, addressed to the participant.

If you still have current versions of the Welcome Pack, please feel free to continue to hand them out to new participants until you run out.

See DofE.org/welcome-pack-faqs for more information.

ASL accounts reminder for Licensed OrganisationsSome Licensed Organisations (LOs) continue to make payments into the ASL accounts without quoting their invoice number.

This makes it very difficult to match the payments with invoice and recognise the income in our accounts.

If your account remains on hold even though you have paid your bill, please contact ASL ([email protected]/0131 553 5280 ) with the date you made the payment and the bank account from which it was sent.

Free YHA planning visitsExpedition staff considering using youth hostels can take advantage of free familiarisation events at YHA hostels across the UK.

These events will let Leaders (and their families) experience some of the locations and facilities on offer; give an overnight experience with YHA; provide a chance to try out activities... and more. Email [email protected] or visit yha.org.uk/school-trips/free-planning-visits.

update

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NEWS OF DofE ACTIVITIES AROUND THE UK

The DofE in action

Success in triplicateThree brothers from Derby Grammar School are celebrating their achievements after they each achieved their Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards in the same year. Max Agsakal (14) has achieved Bronze, brother Toby (16) Silver and the eldest sibling William (18) Gold.

Max completed a two-day expedition in the Peak District, played the saxophone and volunteered at a charity shop; Toby played golf and refereed at football matches, whilst William volunteered at a care home and went to the gym regularly for 12 months.

Paws to helpStaff members from the DofE’s London Regional Office wanted to do a bit of volunteering last October and came up with a novel idea. Following a YouTube video’s guidance, they created lots of dog toys using old DofE t-shirts.

They then visited Battersea Dogs and Cats Home to meet the volunteering team and present the toys to some of the happy hounds. Maybe your participants can do the same for a local dogs’ home? See the instructions at youtube.com/user/battersea.

Path to successFoundation Studies Bronze and Gold DofE participants from Truro and Penrith College have been helping to build a path in Coosebean that, once completed, will offer a beautiful woodland path for locals.

Lab resultDofE groups at Norwich School have an extra pair of eyes watching them – Dougal, Co-ordinator Tony Gregor Macgregor’s labrador. He accompanies Tony on expeditions and loves to find and meet the groups.

He carries his own water, treats and tennis balls in his rucksack – and sometimes a packet of jelly babies too. He has just returned from walking the Gold routes in the Kinder Scout area of the Peak District, walking over 30 km each day with Tony.

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No barriersPatients from Southampton Children’s Hospital enjoyed their DofE expedition in the New Forest last September. In a first for the NHS, nine kidney patients aged between 15 and 18 did their expedition as part of an initiative to help them develop their life skills and prepare them for the transition to adult services.

The expedition was designed to meet the complex health needs of the young patients involved such as Willow, who is on dialysis treatment for kidney failure. Willow swapped her usual overnight therapy for a routine which saw her have four treatments on each day of the expedition.

Wye paddleYsgol Heol Goffa Special School in Carmarthenshire caters for pupils with severe and profound educational needs. The DofE group there includes pupils with hearing impairments, communication difficulties, physical difficulties and additional learning needs. They recently enjoyed a challenging canoe expedition down the River Wye for their Gold programmes.

Participant Josh said “It made me feel happy because I enjoyed going down the rapids. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done and I’m proud of myself”.

Thomas said “It was exciting, I was very nervous at the start but I improved and got better. It was the most challenging thing I have ever done”.

Meet the chair manDofE Direct participant Shoumo Dana learnt a challenging new skill for his Gold programme – furniture revitalisation. Shoumo acquired a number of tables, chairs and cupboards and spent months carefully restoring and upcycling them. DofE Direct is for young people who want to do Gold independently. DofE.org/DofE-Direct.

Pictured here is DofE Operations Officer Jo Huck presenting the DofE licence plaque to Mr Smith of Solihull’s Child Asylum Seekers and 16+ Care Team. This is one of our new Directly Licensed Centres, showing that DofE is accessible to all, regardless of background.

Flight of fancyParticipants from Sedbergh School in the Yorkshire Dales enjoyed a Gold residential on board a yacht in the autumn. Sedbergh Sailing provided the boat and the training, the participants provided the skill and the fun, especially when negotiating the Loch Muriton flight of locks.

Participants doing their DofE in Cambridgeshire are pictured above on a recent residential, doing conservation work on Foxton locks.

Send your stories and pictures to [email protected]


Mange tout!Participants from across the UK travelled to the French Alps for a fascinating Gold residential recently. The course was put on by DofE Approved Activity Provider Chalets de Charme on its Season It courses.

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The DofE licence agreement to which all Licensed Organisations (LOs) and Approved Activity Providers (AAPs) commit contains a clause which requires that certain incidents and issues must be reported to the charity.

Incident reportingW

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Guidance on the types of incident which must be reported was released in summer 2019, and can be found on our website at DofE.org/incidents.

At the time of writing (November 2019), 127 incident reports have been received this year. Every organisation working with participants must have its own policies and processes for keeping young people safe. The DofE charity tries to help LOs and AAPs with their responsibilities by identifying any incident trends, highlighting them and (where appropriate), seeking to address them either in our adult training offer or through DofE programme guidance.

Although the majority of incidents in 2019 were minor accidents such as cuts or falls, there are certainly some lessons to be learnt from the incidents we have seen so far.

Conflicts with landowners and the publicOnce again, there were unfortunately a number of incidents to do with teams littering, damaging walls or fences, graffitiing and leaving gates open. Some groups reported confrontations they had with landowners or members of the public. For many, this was the tipping point of a gradual build-up of groups travelling through their communities and not respecting the environment.

Please ensure groups understand and adhere to their agreed behaviour policy and code of conduct, and remember that respecting the public and environment is part of the 20 conditions.

Where possible, plan expeditions in areas which may not have such a large DofE footfall. Consider where you locate drop-off and pick-up points to ensure large numbers of parents aren’t filling up car parks or creating traffic congestion when collecting their children.

TicksThis year there have been a handful of incidents involving tick bites and suspected Lyme Disease. Please ensure teams know how to protect themselves from ticks, how to safely remove one if bitten and the symptoms of Lyme disease.

Resources for training teams about ticks can be found on our website DofE.org/run/expeditionresources.

Road safety and routes Please ensure all groups are adequately trained in the Highway Code and know how to safely cross or walk along any roads which may be unavoidable on their route.

A number of near misses were reported where teams were filling the road, walking on the wrong side or misbehaving, only narrowly avoiding serious injury.

Expedition Supervisors must have a route specific risk assessment for every team.

Good practice would dictate that physical checks of routes are completed to ensure the risk assessment is accurate, and any unexpected hazards have been identified and addressed.


First aid As with most years, the majority of incidents reported are minor accidents and illnesses which happen either whilst the group is travelling or at the camp site. These range from fainting and heat exhaustion, to minor scalds and lacerations.

On remotely supervised expeditions, it is vital that groups complete the appropriate training framework, understand emergency procedures, and are carrying (and know how to use) the right first aid equipment on their expedition.

It was fantastic to also hear some good news stories of participants using their first aid knowledge to help others.

In one instance last summer, a group of Bronze participants from Catmose College in Rutland saw a situation where a rider was thrown from her horse. The group administered first aid to the rider, contacted an ambulance and attracted members of the public to help them. Well done to those participants for acting so swiftly and using their skills to help others!

Reporting Please remember to continue to submit incident reports so we can continue to understand the issues that occur on expeditions. Guidance on incident reporting, and the incident report form, can be found at DofE.org/incidents.

Incident reporting


20 DofE Magazine

Issue 35: Spring 2020 21APPROVEDACTIVITY

PROVIDER

22 DofE Magazine

DofE Leaders, Award holders and their parents were among the 900 Adventurers who challenged themselves to complete either a 30km (one day) or 50km (two day) hike in the South Downs.

Adventurers could either follow a signposted route or put their map reading skills to the test by navigating their own route.

Everyone’s a winner

Colleagues from many of the DofE’s corporate partner companies saw the weekend as a teambuilding opportunity. Staff taking part included those from companies such as Title Sponsors St. James’s Place Wealth Management (SJP), Amey, Heathrow, RSM, UK Power Networks and Vinci.

Everyone camped overnight at Base Camp enjoying live music, a bar, hot

showers and the provided tents. A live band in the main marquee encouraged those with enough energy to celebrate their achievements on a packed dance floor.

DofE Magazine

The 2019 DofE Adventure, which took part on 21-22 September, was a resounding success. Now in its third year, the event has raised over £400,000 to support more young people in achieving their potential through the DofE.

LEA

DER

SHIP

I wanted to raise funds for my children who are in secondary school and

eligible to take part. As a mental health professional,

I am interested in the benefits of outdoor

activities, exercise and socialising to everyone’s wellbeing. I found being

involved extremely enjoyable and I met new people and

the atmosphere was friendly, supportive and optimistic.”

Barbara Arroyo

“


AMBASSADORS

Everyone’s a winnerThere was also a teepee, which offered participants a chill out area in the evening.

Best-everAlex Sturge, Head of Engagement and Development at UK Power Networks, said: “This is the third year our staff have taken part in the DofE Adventure and it was our highest turnout of participants yet.

“For our employees, the experience is unparalleled in the way it brings teams together and builds a culture of support. It’s also a great opportunity to raise funds for a fantastic cause. The DofE transforms the lives of young people and we are delighted to support them in this way.”

Alex Davies, Head of Corporate Responsibility at St. James’s Place

Wealth Management, said: “As Title Sponsors for the third year running, we know how special DofE Adventure is.

“This year’s event was a great opportunity for our teams to come together, push themselves, get to know each other and give their time to support a charity that is very close to our hearts.

“The DofE enables hundreds of thousands of young people – including many from disadvantaged backgrounds – to transform their lives and reach their potential every year. Our own SJP apprentices are Gold DofE participants and are a true testament to the benefits of the DofE.”

To register your interest for the DofE Adventure 2020 go to DofE.org/adventure/register-interest.


of participants would recommend the event to a friend.

of people found the weekend helps improve their health and wellbeing.

of people thought the weekend was a good team bonding experience.

of people agreed that DofE Adventure has improved team communication.

of people believe that they will see the benefits of the DofE Adventure in their workplace.

97%

93%

98%

85%

72%

24 DofE Magazine


DofE participants are always thinking up new ways to do their programmes, creating challenging questions for DofE Leaders to answer. Here are some of our recent enquiries.

Q&AIf a participant is a young carer, can this count for their Volunteering section?

Young carers can use their time spent caring for their Volunteering section. Goals and aims may include ensuring the family home runs as smoothly as possible and being the main carer for their parent/sibling (including doing the shopping, personal care, waking night care, running the family budget etc.).

The Assessor should be a professional who is supporting the participant with their caring role, ideally from a young carers project or social work/youth work departments. Young carers should also be encouraged to contact their nearest young carers project: youngcarer.com/young-carers-services.

Can participants use dog walking for a neighbour as their volunteering activity?

Volunteering should be about participants making a difference within their communities or to an individual’s life, and building new relationships.

They should give their time to do something useful and, importantly, not something that someone is normally paid to do. Therefore, dog walking best meets these requirements if it is done

Do you have any resources to help with delivering expedition training?

Leaders and Supervisors should ensure they are using the appropriate Training Framework when training groups for their expedition. Resources for each of the elements of the training framework, such as menu planners, first aid lesson plans, map reading flashcards etc, can be found on our website DofE.org/run/expeditionresources.

Expedition

General


for a member of their community who is unable to walk their dog themselves, perhaps due to illness or old age.

Participants should check with their Leader that their activity meets the requirements of the Volunteering section. They can also visit our website to find more opportunities DofE.org/finder.

Is helping at a school or community/public library a volunteering or skill activity?

If a participant can provide support at a library, whether that’s supporting reading groups, other community groups or helping staff with any jobs that are required, then that can count towards the Volunteering section.

A participant needs to design a programme that meets the outcomes of the Skills section. This could include learning to catalogue and archive books, arranging books and methods of loaning. This sort of activity can count towards their Skills section.

Participants must always check their activities with their DofE Leader before starting, to ensure they will meet the appropriate section requirements.

Volunteering

26 DofE Magazine

eDofE’s tenth anniversary has been marked with some exciting developments in the form of our iOS and Android apps being released. The apps are available free of charge for participants and we hope will be a great tool in helping participants achieve their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

The new app runs in conjunction with the main desktop site and participants are able to use either or both to complete their programmes.

The app has been geared towards participants, allowing them to sign in to their account for the first time which, when they submit their home address, will trigger the dispatch of their Welcome Pack.

They can complete programme planners; add evidence and Assessor’s reports; submit sections for approval and send/receive messages from Leaders (which are sent via our content moderation software).

Gold participants are also able to complete their Gold Award Presentation application through the app. Please get in touch with your DofE Operations Officer if you would like a test participant login so that you can have a look at the app yourself.

For the adultsAdults with an eDofE account can sign in to the app now as well. However, at this stage, functionality is limited to accessing your DofE Card (including the ability to add this to your digital wallet) as well as a finding your local Go Outdoors, Blacks, Millets and Tiso stores.

The fact that we have opened the app up to allow adults to sign in will make it considerably easier and quicker for us to introduce functionality for adults in the future.

The plan at this stage will be to focus on the key sign-off processes in a participant’s DofE journey initially and to release functionality gradually rather than in one big bang. More news on the ‘what’ and the all-important ‘when’ will follow in due course.

Training developmentsAt the time of writing we have been testing the new training functionality that aims to bring the Assessor accreditation process online. This piece of work introduces new roles into eDofE and offers new functionality to some existing account holders:

- DofE Managers and Administrators (if they have been given permission) will be able to view Assessor accreditation details of all accredited Expedition Assessors that are registered to their Licensed Organisation (LO). They will have access to register accredited Expedition Assessors as well as aspirant, trainee Assessors to

eDofE update

26

eDof

E


their Licensed Organisations which will replace the current EAAS12 form. These account holders will also be able to end registrations and also put Assessors forward for (re)accreditation.

- Accredited Expedition Assessors will be able to view all of their Assessor accreditation information through eDofE. They will be able to request re-accreditation up to six months before their current accreditation is due to expire. Assessors will also be able to view their registration as well as terminate their LO registrations using the new functionality.

- Expedition AAP (Approved Activity Provider) teams will be able to view and manage the affiliation of accredited Assessors in the same way as DofE Managers can. AAP Managers can also update their contact details, access eDofE Mapping and set up new accounts for other staff within their AAP.

Training/Assessor functionality user guides are available via the purple support button in eDofE. You can find information about the app via the purple button too.

eDofE update


28 DofE Magazine


1

5

6

2

3

Resources • Gadgets Competitions • Reviews Books • OpportunitiesOut there

4

See a wide range of offers anddiscounts at DofE.org/shopping.

Little brother

Write away

Bright idea

In Kind Direct

It’s a stick-up

Teambuilding

Out on the hills and worried your phone/camera will run out of battery? The ADDTOP Solar Charger 25000mAh solar power bank costs under £40 and can charge a phone up to ten times. It folds to the size of a smartphone, has an LED torch and is waterproof and shock proof.

amazon.co.uk

Are you looking for a way to show that a room, office or building is the centre of your DofE action? You can get one-off stickers made fairly cheaply. Versions measuring 60cm x 60cm cost under £27, can be sticky on either side for indoor or outdoor mounting, and can really help make your centre stand out.

vistaprint.co.uk/signs-posters/window-decals

Have you ever needed to keep an eye on your equipment stores or office when it is unstaffed? The Guardzilla GZ621W is a simple wi-fi enabled security camera that may be just the job. For under £50 you can live stream images to your smartphone, day or night.

iwoot.com

It’s not easy writing notes on a rainy hillside. Try this weatherproof 32 page spiral notepad. The paper won’t turn to mush when wet and will repel water and mud. Use a standard pencil or an all weather pen and your notes will stay intact. Unlike synthetic waterproof paper, this paper is completely recyclable. Around £20 for three notepads.

amazon.co.uk

In Kind Direct distributes consumer goods, donated by companies, to UK charities working in the UK and overseas. They work with not-for-profit organisations, youth groups and companies to help ensure that everyone has access to life’s essentials and that no usable product goes to waste. You can buy end of line office essentials, cleaning materials, sports products and so much more at extremely low prices. Product selection changes weekly.

InKindDirect.org

Stuck for an activity to help your participants or fellow Leaders develop their teamworking skills? Here’s a collection of interesting and fun activities that you could use with various audiences.

workamajig.com/blog/ team-building-activities

Issue 35: Spring 2020 29The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award does not endorse items on this page provided by third parties unless specified. Items and resources are for your information.

30 DofE Magazine


children and working with a group of people who love being able to make a difference to children’s lives.

They keep the cost to volunteers and children low so that as many people as possible can participate.

Some subsidised places are available.

W: kirkleessummerplaycamp.com E: [email protected]

participants to achieve a life skill to potentially become an exporter of the future.

This is an amazing opportunity for young people to learn about other cultures and currencies, develop an understanding of transporting products, design marketing material and use entrepreneurial skills to boost future career aspirations.

W: icceducate.co.ukE: [email protected]

Approved Activity Providers (AAPs) are organisations, both commercial and charitable, whose sectional opportunities have been approved by the DofE as meeting our conditions and can count towards the achievement of a DofE Award. AAPs are able to provide Assessors to sign off the section.

Here’s a selection of some great opportunities currently on offer at DofE.org/aap.

Opportunities spotlight

APPROVEDACTIVITYPROVIDER

ICC Solutions Ltd

Kirklees Summer Playscheme Camp

British Heart Foundation

ICC Solutions has created the Awesome Exporting course – designed with budding entrepreneurs in mind.

During a 12-week course, participants will learn about the five main areas of export (foreign currency, cost and margin, markets and marketing, logistics and transport, culture and ethical issues).

With a mixture of online resources and helpful hints from their export champions, the course guides

Kirklees Summer Playscheme Camp is a charity providing camping holidays for children aged 9-12.

They work with 450+ children each summer, many from disadvantaged backgrounds, are carers or who have special needs.

For many years they have welcomed Gold DofE volunteers for their residentials – playing games, providing pastoral support to the

The British Heart Foundation is a volunteering Approved Activity Provider. They have developed a fundraising option that DofE participants can plan and complete in their own time.For Bronze, there is a suggested 12-week fundraising plan with ideas for a range of activities that the students could do week by week. As a suggested programme students can amend the tasks to suit their situation or add in extra activities that they think

of. This activity can be completed with their friends at an after school or lunch time club to qualify as volunteering (not during curriculum time).

This fundraiser option can be completed at any level of Award as long as it meets the criteria of the hours needed for each level and there is someone who can act as an Assessor.

W: bhf.org.uk E: [email protected]

NOTE: Please remember that it is the Licensed Organisation that has the final say on the suitability of a programme in terms of health and safety requirements and the DofE can give no assurances as to the financial stability of an AAP. When booking on to an open expedition the participant/parent/guardian is responsible for evaluating the health and safety of the expedition as it is a private contract with the AAP.

32 DofE Magazine


Nearly 400 RSM employees took part in their very own DofE Challenge on the final day of their Charity Challenge week.

Set on the river banks, close to Henley-on-Thames, they were tasked with cycling either 40 or 100 miles across the Chiltern Hills or walking the distance of a half marathon. In the wonderful September sunshine, the day was an all-round success. It tested the determination, enthusiasm and strength of all of those who took part, and raised a significant sum for charity.

Nervous energyIn true DofE style, many of the eager participants camped in Henley-on-Thames the night before taking on their epic challenge.

Staff from the DofE joined them at the break of dawn as they woke sleepily, ready to raise spirits and cheer them on as they set off.

Martin Rodgers, Senior Partner and CSR Sponsor, joined us in supporting participants as they set off in the early hours. “There was a lot of nervous energy at the start line but also a lot of determined faces”, he said. “Many of our fundraisers hadn’t covered this kind of distance before – either walking or cycling – so it was no small achievement and something for which they should all be very proud.”

The triumphant day raised over £20,000 for the organisation’s three chosen charities – one of which is the DofE.

The day truly captured the essence of the DofE Challenge – to push yourself to new limits and achieve your own personal impossible.

We thank RSM for their efforts, for raising a fantastic amount through their Charity Challenge and their continued support through sponsoring the DofE Challenge.

This summer, to mark the 50th anniversary of the moon landings, the DofE launched its ‘Reach the moon’ campaign for the DofE Challenge, in partnership with RSM.

RSM Charity Challenge

Go to DofE.org/challenge to find out more and sign

up for your own DofE Challenge.

2020

34 DofE Magazine DofE Magazine

At the heart of the community

34

It’s January – a time to look ahead and think about what you want to achieve in the new year. One of your plans for 2020 may be to increase the amount of energy you will be devoting to volunteering in your community.

As a volunteer you have an enormous impact on those around you. Even if you are paid to do your DofE work, it is highly likely that you also volunteer part of your own time. This may be out of a passion to ensure that young people have the best possible experience through doing their DofE programmes.

The charity is grateful for all that you do to help meet our Vison, which is to reach more young people from diverse backgrounds and equip them to succeed in life.

As well as supporting young people to develop new skills, confidence and a greater appreciation of the environment and community around them, a DofE Leader builds their own skill set. They can gain valuable leadership and management experience that can help professional development and career progression.

Hundreds of companies across the UK have, as part of their ethos, the desire to encourage volunteering among their employees. Great places to work are made by the people that work within them, and companies realise that those who dedicate their time and effort to volunteer in the community and beyond can become better employees.

Reaching outA growing number of businesses are offering DofE programmes to their employees as a way of reaching out to their local communities.

Royal Mail Group (RMG) has been delivering Gold DofE programmes alongside its in-house engineer apprenticeship programme since 2012.

Tracy Fairhurst, RMG’s Head of Apprenticeships, says: “There are many

Left: L&G employees in the UK and overseas can nominate and vote for the unsung heroes that contribute to society at ‘The Chairman’s Awards’. Staff members are nominated by their peers and celebrated within the company. Many of those of those pictured are involved with the DofE and are volunteers, having given up their time to raise funds, awareness and help others.

Issue 35: Spring 2020 35 Issue 33: Summer 2019

At the heart of the community

well-known benefits of volunteering. The Gold DofE offers our young people the chance to connect with their community, make new friends, nurture their own mental and physical well-being and learn new skills. These include self-confidence, resilience, leadership communications and teamwork – enhancing the overall company culture and boosting morale.

“Volunteering gives our apprentices the opportunity to develop their social skills, helping them to build an invaluable and well-rounded skillset to be successful in life and work, whilst providing them with a real sense of purpose.”

No barriersSome people choose to avoid volunteering simply because they feel it’ll get in the way with their work or social life. It can all work side-by-side, of course, as so many discover

when they take the plunge. It can even enhance their employment.

Legal & General Chairman Sir John Kingman says: “I’m blown away each year at the fantastic work that our staff do outside the company. We understand how volunteering gives employees the chance to build connections with their local communities and give back to society while working on issues they feel passionate about. DofE Award holders demonstrate that they live our values of playing an active role in wider society.”

So, to all volunteers everywhere, we thank you for what you are doing to help enchance young people’s lives, and of those living and working in your communities. Here’s to a great year, full of exciting opportunities, challenges and rewards for all.


To learn which companies back the DofE, visit DofE.org/lifezone.

Volunteeringthrough the DofE

Almost half of young volunteers say volunteering brings them more enjoyment than buying new clothes

88% of young volunteers believe volunteering helps them feel more satisfied in life

84% of young volunteers agree volunteering makes them feel more responsible

97% of young volunteersfeel happier after having done volunteering activities

96% of young volunteers say volunteering gives them a real sense of achievement

The DofE survey sourced the views of over 9000 young people volunteering as part of their Bronze, Silver or Gold DofE programme.

RMG employees on a Gold expedition.

36 DofE Magazine

38 DofE Magazine


Popular expedition downloads include the 20 conditions of the Expedition section flyer, Countryside Code guides and posters, the Expedition Kit List, plus route cards and session plans. You can also find posters about eating on expedition and stove safety, expedition aims lists and expedition forms.

As part of the recent DofE.org relaunch, we’ve created a brand-new Resources Centre for Leaders and other adults involved in the DofE. Katy Strang reveals its contents...

Your new Resources Centre

This is just a snapshot of the wide range of information, tools and the huge variety of downloads you can find in the Resources Centre. Be sure to visit DofE.org/resourcescentre to find and filter all assets you’ll need to help you deliver DofE programmes in your Licensed Organisation.

Everything you need to run DofE programmes in your Licensed Organisation is now in one easy-to-find space.

Here, you can search for, filter and download a huge range of helpful materials, guides, flyers and forms. You’ll find it at:

DofE.org/resourcescentre

The Resources Centre is designed to be simple and intuitive to use. You can easily filter by topics, like ‘expedition’, ‘sections’ or ‘participant materials’, or use the search box to find something specific.

On the site you’ll find a variety of downloads, booklets, templates and forms. There are participant materials like activity logs, programme planners and section ideas lists, alongside additional needs assets, training downloads and the Volunteer Management Toolkit.

Tools galoreYou’ll also find a selection of recruitment tools to engage new participants, such as promotional posters and leaflets, plus recruitment presentations for every Award level. Also, you’ll find our engaging welcome films for young people and their parents.

40 DofE Magazine DofE Magazine 40


Young people choosing to volunteer at their local NHS hospital will be helping people, getting valuable insight into future careers and supporting the future of the NHS.

There are lots of ways DofE participants can volunteer for an NHS trust, where they can really make an impact and support their local community. From directing people to the right department to playing a board game with someone who is lonely, there are so many options.

By volunteering in an NHS hospital young people will be gaining valuable skills for work and life, supporting people in the local community and gaining experience of a hospital setting. For anyone considering a medical-related career, practical work experience of any kind in an associated field is invaluable.

The DofE now has five NHS trust-based Approved Activity Providers who are looking for volunteers.

If participants don’t live near one of these trusts they can volunteer for another hospital. Just make sure that the activity fits the requirements of the Volunteering section before participants start volunteering with them. Some hospitals have age restrictions on the age of volunteers, so please contact your local hospital for more information.

There are also other volunteering AAPs that have opportunities within healthcare settings. For more information please go to the Opportunity Finder DofE.org/finder.

To find local NHS volunteering opportunities in your area please go to england.nhs.uk/ourwork/volunteers-

week/get-involved.

Feeling really usefulOlivia volunteered at King’s College Hospital from November 2017 to January 2019. Olivia spent three hours each Saturday morning reading and chatting to patients, bringing them newspapers and books, running errands, making them cups of tea and helping to serve their meals. Talking about her volunteering role Olivia said “It’s so nice to spend a few hours each week helping other people and not thinking about yourself. Patients have said that our conversations have made a real difference to their hospital experience – that will always stay with me. You get to meet so many interesting people, with so many life experiences, who may be completely different to you and have so many amazing stories to tell. Being

Did you know participants can do their Volunteering section in an NHS hospital? Jade Herriott opens the doors to find out more.

Healthy serviceable to improve someone’s day, even just by making a cup of tea for them or having a normal conversation, is so rewarding. “For anyone considering volunteering I would definitely recommend it. As a teenager, it’s really easy to feel like you’re not particularly useful when you’re doing work experience or something similar. When volunteering at the hospital you feel like part of the team and you can see the real difference you are making to people. I’ve found it’s a good taste of adult life and now there’s the added bonus of being able to use the hours towards my DofE programme.”

“I am now aware of the challenge the NHS faces, so when I am waiting too long for medical attention I understand why. This has also fuelled me to pursue a career in the healthcare sector.” Amy, DofE volunteer.

“I see the smile I bring to patients whenever I spend time with them, and that is why I volunteer. It is about changing someone’s day.” – Emeline, DofE volunteer.

Our volunteers make a huge difference to our hospitals and we work hard to make

sure their time with us is safe, rewarding and accessible.”

Chris Neal Imperial Charity’s Volunteering Manager

“

42 DofE Magazine


The DofE in Feltham YOI is delivered by the Resettlement Unit, headed by Keith Potter and Michele Glassup. All convicted prisoners are given the opportunity to enrol on DofE programmes during induction.

Bronze and Silver levels are offered to the prisoners and a Gold level is being introduced for prison officers. The Gold programme will hopefully help to recruit new DofE Leaders and their support of the prisoners doing DofE will be recognised for their Volunteering section.

Last year, over 500 young people enrolled on DofE programmes at Feltham, in Middlesex. All participants complete at least their Physical and Skills sections and are presented with sectional certificates. For prisoners who have few academic qualifications, recorded outcomes may have a significant impact on their CV.

Where and whenMost activities take place within the prison. They may do a fitness programme for their Physical section or become a Listener to support new prisoners in a mentoring role for their Volunteering section. Prisoners who can secure Release on Temporary Licence (ROTL) can do their expedition in Dorset.

Almost 50 prisoners were able to achieve an Award last year, although this is limited by the capacity to deliver expeditions. This year, the YOI is piloting a virtual expedition that takes place within the prison. Journeying is undertaken using gym equipment and the prisoners camp on the prison grounds. Whilst the environment is restricted, every aspect of this activity is carried out under expedition conditions

We’re committed to ensuring that the benefits of DofE programmes are available to all young people who wish to take part, regardless of their personal circumstances. There are few better examples of this than in our work at the largest Young Offender Institute (YOI) in the UK – HMYOI Feltham.

Releasing potential

to ensure the principles of the section are met – they must carry their equipment, plan and prepare their meals and train as if this was a standard venture.

Preparing for the futureYoung people serving custodial sentences are at a critical moment in their lives.

In preparing these young people for life and work post-release, we are offering them a second chance. With improved prospects for employment or education, it is hoped that a DofE Award will divert them from a future cycle of offending.

For young people within the secure estate, who are likely to have experienced acute disadvantage and have limited academic qualifications, opportunities or aspirations – these benefits may be life changing.


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issue 35: spring 2020 the magazine for dofe leaders€¦ · issue 35: spring 2020 the magazine for...

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