Why do dofe

The activities range from DJ-ing or music analysis, to taxidermy or dog training not to be merged! Popular options for the skill section are learning to play a musical instrument or writing.

Creating a portfolio of film and book reviews was one year 9's solution to not having enough money to join an organised activity. I had never had any singing lessons before but I know that I will continue to sing all my life. This is the section that I find gives the biggest rewards and sparks the most conversation, but seems to be the hardest to organise, especially at Bronze level. The most popular volunteering placement, by far, is working in a charity shop.

This is a great option as it gives you the skills needed to be able to successfully apply for a paid Saturday job at a later date.

Other options for volunteering are helping old people, perhaps by reading to them, helping with a local Scout group, or coastal or countryside conservation. I have seen many great examples of voluntary work. Perhaps the most successful was two friends who together joined a community project which was to create and maintain a community garden, complete with sensory section for those with no sight.

After the 6 month time frame was up they decided to continue helping with the project. Every DofE Award needs an expedition section too. This is a two-day trip at Bronze, three at Silver and four at Gold. The journey that is embarked on is designed to be challenging for all and has many variations to help get the balance right between too hard and too easy. This section allows you and your team to see new parts of the countryside and experience being self-sufficient.

It was brilliant to be on top of a mountain but also be so close to the sea. If you are doing your Gold DofE you also have to complete a residential.

This is a trip away from home that will cover 5 days and 4 nights. All the information you need, including how to get in touch with your local group, is on the DofE website.

Doing your DofE will open up new possibilities, allow you to explore and push your boundaries, and create memories that will last a lifetime. What are you waiting for? DofE requires dedication and commitment. People depend on you in all areas, from turning up on your volunteering shift, to the importance of team work on your expedition.

If you take DofE, you are gaining valuable life skills. Working together in the wilderness on your expedition forms new bonds and great memories. Through volunteering, you meet many different people in a working environment, which prepares you for the working world. Finding employment is difficult. There is so much competition for one job. Employers highly respect the Award. It demonstrates a rounded, confident individual who can work independently and as part of a team. The award will give you an extra step ahead for the chance of success.

On an expedition, you have to carry your rucksack, navigate to a certain point, and take responsibility for your cooking, water and most importantly: yourself.

Independence is a great life skill to achieve. Working as a team is an important part of DofE. Navigating, pitching a tent and looking after each other all involve working together as a team. On my Bronze Expedition teamwork was vital when a member of the group was poorly. Working together ensured everyone was safe and a satisfactory outcome for all involved. My favourite section of the award is the expedition section. On my silver DofE, we wild camped.

I loved it; waking up next to a beautiful lake was fantastic and very memorable. That feeling when you finally take off your walking boots and realise you have completed your challenge is immense. Inspired to take part in DofE, but not sure what to pack? Time limit is exhausted.