Preparations are under way locally to mark the 60th anniversary of an organisation that helps young people to acquire vital life skills.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) teaches participants about teamwork, resilience and responsibility – all qualities valued by universities and employers.
The award began in 1956 and was extended to the Island in 1959.
At any one time, more than 800 young people from the Island aged 14 to 25 are working towards the bronze, silver and gold award.
The Department of Education and Children is an operating authority for DofE and offers it through all five of its secondary schools, the Isle of Man College of Further and Higher Education, two outdoor centres, one special needs organisation and five voluntary youth organisations.
There are sections on volunteering, skills, physical recreation and expeditions and, at gold level, a residential section.
Alison Gawne, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Co-ordinator, said the award is more relevant than ever as the Island grows its economy.
‘The award teaches self-reliance and a sense of responsibility to others and provides a vehicle for spiritual, personal and social development,’ she said.
Events in 2016 will include:
| January | Exhibition at Manx National Heritage (until March) |
| April | Seven Hilltop Adventure Challenge starts |
| May/June | Joint venture with Girlguiding Isle of Man to coincide with the 100th birthday of the Senior Section/Rangers |
| July | Gold badge presentation at Government House |
| Big DofE camp-out for young people at Ardwhallan | |
| Leaders' evening barbecue at Ardwhallan | |
| September | Island bronze and silver awards presentation evening. |
Award-holders who have memorabilia they are willing to loan to the exhibition should contact Alison on +44 1624 686051 or email a.gawne@doe.sch.im
For more information about the award, visit www.dofe.org/
