Congratulations to all of you that made 2020 a success in the DofE world at ICS. Those of you that have been involved will know that it is very different to other styles of learning happening around you. The focus is for students to lead, take responsibility and rely on their own passions to complete the award. There is no exam at the end, but getting to the finish line depends on a few key things including self-leadership and resilience.
As we look forward to a new year and to the checkered flag, we share five tips for you.
1. NO LOGS NO FIRE – Many students fulfil DofE requirements and even exceed them, however, do not receive the certificate because they forget to log them. Logging your hours has never been easier; you can use the app or the web version. So before we begin, log-on and check that you are up to date for everything you did in 2020.
2. FOR IT IS IN GIVING THAT WE RECEIVE – the New Year is a time that we look ahead and make new plans and resolutions. Now is a good time to reflect on some of the needs of our communities and to make those resolutions fit with your service goal. Doing what you feel strongly about will aid you in completing this section of the award and there are helpful resources from DofE to support you in these decisions.
3. John Muir famously said, “OF ALL THE PATHS YOU TAKE IN LIFE, MAKE SURE A FEW OF THEM ARE DIRT.” When we go outside we think differently, our cognitive abilities change and we get time to reflect. When you are out over the coming months ahead don’t forget to wear in your high ankle hiking boots. This will prevent you from getting blisters when you carry your heavy DofE bag in the mountains and you will thank your future self. Any walk of any size is a chance to wear them in.
4. PASSION IS ENERGY. When you choose your activities, let the driving force be passion. The award structure is flexible and even more so in covid times. If you pick wisely and choose activities that you love doing, you will finish in no time and without having to force yourself much.
5. Albert Einstein believed, “THE IMPORTANT THING IS NOT TO STOP QUESTIONING”. Come to a check in session afterschool on Thursdays outside the crystal palace, text on your DofE Teams Channel, write an email or come and find me on campus anytime. Keep asking those all important questions and you get to the finish line eventually.
Don’t forget to look out for ICS news on the up and coming Adventurous Journey’s and good luck to each and every one of you.
As we step into the new school year, Mr. O'Neill shared a powerful message with the students: starting school is like beginning a new chapter in the book of our lives.
