What you need to know about the Duke of Ed Award

The Duke of Ed Award is an internationally-recognised development program for young people aged 14 to 25. Duke of Ed introduces you to a range of opportunities so that you can gain new skills, have new experiences and make a difference to your community and your world.

Duke of Ed is about challenge, adventure and achievement — it's a great way to:

• try new things
• hang out with friends
• get active and improve your fitness
• help out the community
• gain confidence
• build on your life skills
• make a difference
• challenge yourself
• be recognised.

Over 7 million young people from more than 120 countries have taken up The Duke of Ed challenge.

Now it's over to you — get some friends together or join by yourself — apply now! (PDF, 383 KB) (RTF, 275 KB)

10 quick reasons why you should do The Award

1. You only compete against yourself
   It is a personal challenge — not a competition with others. Your program is tailor-made to your own starting point, abilities and interests.
2. No entry criteria
   You only need to be the right age and be keen to take up the challenge.
3. It is voluntary
   Applying is voluntary and you decide how much of your own time you commit and when you want to do the required activities.
4. It is flexible
   You can design your own program, choose what you want to do, and what fits best with your own personal circumstances and resources. Enter at the level which best suits you (only age limits apply) and take as long as you need to complete your Award (as long as your Award is completed by the time you turn 25).
5. The program is diverse
   There are four different sections to complete (five for the Gold Award) so you get a balanced and diverse program.
6. It is progressive
   Each level builds on the previous one: at each level, the Award requires more time and an increasing level of commitment and responsibility from you.
7. The program is achievement focused
   Before starting an activity, you are encouraged to set your own goals. If you aim for those goals and show improvement, you will achieve your Award.
8. It is a marathon, not a sprint
   The Award demands persistence and commitment and cannot be completed with a short burst of enthusiasm. You can continue with activities beyond the minimum time requirements set out for each level of the Award.
9. It is all about personal development
   The Award is a program of personal and social development. What you get out of it depends on your commitment, the learning process and the quality of your experiences.
10. Last but not least — it is fun!
    You and those who assist you with your Award will find it enjoyable and satisfying.