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The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award (DofE), founded by HRH Prince Philip, is a transformative programme aimed at empowering young people aged 14-24. The award enables participants to develop essential skills, resilience, and self-belief through three progressive levels: Bronze, Silver, and Gold. Each level includes activities in Volunteering, Physical, Skills, and an Expedition, with Gold requiring an additional Residential component.
A key aspect of the DofE is its adaptability, allowing participants to choose their own activities and challenges. From fostering independence to building teamwork and leadership, the DofE equips young people with the skills and attributes needed for life and work. As HRH Prince Philip once said, "There is more in you than you might think."
Launched in the UK nearly seventy years ago, the DofE has grown into an internationally recognised programme operating in over 130 countries and territories. Its enduring appeal lies in its inclusivity and ability to inspire generations to achieve their potential. In 2024, the DofE reached its goal of engaging one million young people, underscoring its role as a global leader in youth development.
At BIS Abu Dhabi, the DofE aligns seamlessly with our vision of "Empowering & Enriching Lives for Future Success". By participating, students not only gain recognition for their achievements but also develop resilience, confidence, and empathy – qualities that resonate with our core values of Kindness, Honesty, and Respect. The programme supports our mission to nurture well-rounded individuals equipped to navigate the complexities of adult life.
New research highlights the DofE’s transformative impact. The 2024 DofE Impact Report, based on data from 40,880 participants, reveals significant improvements in life satisfaction, happiness, and a sense of purpose. These benefits are particularly pronounced among girls, young people from minority ethnic backgrounds, and those with lower health indicators at the outset. As one participant noted, "DofE has changed my life. It made me the person I am today. It gave me the experience and confidence to talk to new people. It made me realise how resilient and strong I am."
This academic year, we welcomed a record number of students into the DofE programme: 111 Bronze participants and 99 Silver participants. Our inaugural Gold cohort will complete their final Adventurous Journey at the end of the academic year, marking a momentous occasion for our school. These numbers reflect the growing enthusiasm for the DofE and the dedication of our students and staff.
In November, our students showcased their resilience, teamwork, and adventurous spirit during their practice expeditions. From 24th to 26th November, 99 Year 10 and 11 students participated in the Silver Practice Adventurous Journey across Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah. Navigating varied terrains, they demonstrated exceptional skills and determination, setting the stage for their qualifying journey in January.
Later that week, 111 Year 9 students embarked on their first Bronze Practice Journey, navigating mountainous courses and refining their campcraft and teamwork skills. These expeditions provided invaluable experiences, fostering personal growth and building essential life skills
Beyond the expeditions, students have been actively engaging in their Volunteering, Physical, and Skills activities. Over periods of 13, 26, or 52 weeks, they contribute to community projects, enhance their fitness, and develop new talents. From mentoring younger peers to participating in environmental initiatives, their efforts exemplify the DofE’s ethos of making a positive impact.
Our teachers play a crucial role in the success of the DofE programme, volunteering their time and expertise to guide students through their journeys. Their dedication ensures that students receive the support they need to thrive, both during expeditions and in their weekly activities. This unwavering commitment reinforces our school’s reputation as an industry leader in education, contributing meaningfully to global and national education initiatives.
As the year progresses, our students will continue logging their progress in the DofE app and build on their achievements. We’re proud to share that the qualifying expeditions for Bronze and Silver levels have now taken place, marking an important milestone in their DofE journey. The Gold cohort will complete their Gold Qualifying Adventurous Journey and Residential Project in the jungles of Sabah, Borneo, collaborating with peers from diverse backgrounds. These experiences will culminate in the prestigious Gold Award ceremony, celebrating their achievements and the culmination of their hard work.
The DofE International Award Programme embodies our commitment to creating a supportive and challenging environment that empowers students to excel. Through the programme, they develop the skills and independence needed for future success, embodying our values and mission. At the end of this academic year, we will celebrate our first Gold Award achievers, marking a significant milestone in our school’s DofE journey.
We look forward to seeing more students embrace the DofE, enriching their lives and the community. Together, we continue to empower the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers.
As a proud member of the Nord Anglia family, The British International School (BIS) Abu Dhabi is at the forefront of cutting-edge research. As one of the select pilot schools, we are benefitting from innovative studies like the recent Forbes-featured Metacognition project, which aims to enhance student learning and critical thinking.
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