Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
The D of E award program is an international youth award program that recognizes attributes of learning, community service and outdoor activity. For more information, visit the International D of E site.
The squadron helps cadets track their progress through the D of E program and, at times, organizes activities that can count towards the D of E awards. D of E Cadet Equivalencies – Air
Benefits of The Award
There are many benefits to doing The Award. Here are just a few of the key points about doing The Award!
The Award is Available to EVERYONE!
Any young person aged 14-24 can do The Award, no matter their gender, cultural background, religious or political affiliation or physical ability. An Award is gained through individual improvement and achievement, which means that disadvantaged young people and those with special needs are able to participate fully!
Explore New Passions
The Award challenges youth to try new things and work at activities they are passionate about. It’s great to be recognized for working at something they love to do.
It’s a Process, not a Prize
The Award is a process of personal and social development; the activities are a means to this end. Youth learn from the new experiences they have and discover hidden capabilities and talents.
A Marathon, not a sprint
The Duke of Ed Award cannot be completed quickly. It’s all about sustaining an ongoing commitment in activities of choice, perseverance, and developing good habits. It takes commitment to see it through and earn something over the long term. Efforts are recognized over time and the achievement is a young person’s own improvement.
Non-academic & Non-competitive
The Award is a personal challenge which recognizes that there are a lot of aspects to a well-rounded person, including achievements outside the classroom. Anyone who puts in the effort will receive the Award, so youth can collaborate with peers instead of competing with them. The Award is based on personal choice and reflects the abilities and interests of individual participants. No two Awards are alike!
Flexible
The Award offers a framework for youth to focus their interests, improve their abilities and do something they’ve always wanted to do. Youth enter The Award at the level that best suits them and choose activities that fit in with their life. Young people may take as long as they wish to complete an Award, as long as it is completed by their 25th Birthday.
It Teaches Responsibility
It’s up to each individual to ensure they stay on track and that all the Award requirements are met. It’s more than just completing the activities.
Great for Applications
The Award looks great on post-secondary applications, scholarships, CV’s and resumes. Whether applying for post-secondary or about to enter the work force, The Award shows commitment and achievement, as well as dedication to a variety of activities. It also gives young people an opportunity to talk about themselves and their passions outside of their formal education.
Experience, Connecting and Developing
Young people get out of The Award what they put in. The Award is an opportunity for youth to grow personally and connect with others through connecting with others. By meeting people, volunteering and being active, young people become invested in their community and develop long lasting friendships and connections as well as discovering their potential.
Progressive
As youth grow, The Award grows with them. At Bronze they may need a lot of help. At Silver, they are more independent. By Gold they build their own experience.
FUN
The Award is fun. The activities that a young person selects reflect their own interests and passions. Also doing The Award great way to spend time with friends and making memories that will last forever. So enjoy the challenge!
For More Information:
Contact Second Lieutenant Heather Richards at info@395.ca