Award that transformed lives of 2.5m
THE Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme has been credited with transforming the lives of millions of youngsters worldwide.
Starting in the UK in 1956, the awards – which are designed to help develop valuable life and work skills – are now offered in 144 countries.
Developed by Prince Philip alongside Kurt Hahn, a German educationalist, and Lord Hunt, leader of the first successful expedition to the summit of Everest, the awards – at bronze, silver and gold levels – were initially designed for boys aged 15-18.
The scheme for girls was launched in September 1958.
It is so demanding, the likes of double-Olympic champion Dame Kelly Holmes, adventurer Ben Fogle and singer Katherine Jenkins only managed silver awards. Sports presenter Jim Rosenthal and comedian Miles Jupp are some of the few well-known figures with a gold. Prince Edward also managed gold. Based on the philosophy of Hahn, founder and headmaster of Gordonstoun in Moray where Philip was a pupil, the scheme was designed around four sections: rescue and public service training, the expedition, pursuits and projects, and fitness.
The award continued to evolve over subsequent decades, until 1980 where the upper age limit was extended to 24, and the scheme took on its current four section format of: service, adventurous journey, skills and physical recreation.
Since 1956, 2,584,345 young people in the UK have achieved a Duke of Edinburgh award.
The programmes take between one and four years to complete at the three bronze, silver and gold progressive levels.
Participants must set objectives in areas including undertaking service to individuals or the community, improving in sport, dance or fitness, developing practical and social skills and taking part in an expedition. At gold level, an additional fifth residential section involves staying and working away from home for five days.
To achieve an award, participants must work on each section for a minimum period of time, and must be monitored and assessed by someone with knowledge of the chosen activities.
Each progressive level demands more time and commitment with gold taking between 12 and 18 months.