Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

Building Confidence, Resilience and Independence

The Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) Award is a valued part of our Personal Development curriculum at River Tyne Academy. It provides pupils with the opportunity to challenge themselves, develop new skills, and gain experiences that build confidence, resilience, and independence.

We are proud to offer the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and encourage all Year 10 pupils to participate.

The DofE Award supports pupils to step outside their comfort zones, celebrate personal achievement, and develop the skills needed for future education, employment, and adult life. Through participation, pupils learn that success comes from commitment, perseverance, and determination.

What Pupils Experience

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme encourages pupils to:

Develop new skills and interests.

Improve their physical health and wellbeing.

Contribute positively to their community through volunteering.

Build teamwork, communication, and leadership skills.

Develop resilience, confidence, and self-belief.

Experience challenge and adventure in a safe and supportive environment.

Gain nationally recognised accreditation that enhances future education and employment opportunities.

As part of the award, pupils complete activities across four sections:

Volunteering

Making a positive contribution to the school or wider community.

Physical

Improving fitness, health, and wellbeing through regular physical activity.

Skills

Developing new talents, interests, and practical life skills.

Expedition

Planning, training for, and completing an adventurous journey with their peers.

The Impact of DofE

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award helps pupils recognise their strengths, develop a sense of achievement, and build aspirations for the future. It promotes independence, responsibility, and perseverance while creating opportunities for young people to experience success beyond the classroom.

For many pupils at River Tyne Academy, DofE provides memorable experiences that help them grow in confidence, strengthen relationships, and realise their potential. The skills and qualities developed through the award support pupils not only during their time at the Academy but throughout their future education, careers, and adult lives.