Sixth Form Courses
We are pleased to be able to offer the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s award at Ecclesbourne School as part of the extended learning curriculum. This is an internationally recognised qualification that is well regarded by universities and employers alike and encompasses many skills and qualities that prepare students for the outside world.
This qualification is open to all students in year 12 regardless of whether they have undertaken bronze or silver previously. There are 5 sections of the award to complete which are skill, volunteering, physical, residential and the expeditions. The residential section is a 5-day activity which students will organise for themselves and the expedition section will be organised by the school. The skill, volunteering and physical sections need to be undertaken for 18, 12 and 6 months if students have not completed the silver award.
All participants are supported to achieve the Award in timetabled sessions, which give opportunities for sharing ideas, as well as forming teams and preparing for the expeditions. The award is held in high esteem by universities and employers and is entirely voluntary, fun and non-competitive, but does require commitment.
Students will be trained in school in all aspects of the expedition including navigation, compass work, first aid, campcraft, route planning, teambuilding and safety on the hills. They will also plan their routes for expeditions in the Peak District and the Yorkshire Dales and will undertake a project whilst on the expedition. Students will be supported in school and given advice on what to do for each section to ensure they are able to complete each of the sections successfully and then go on to receive the award at Buckingham Palace.
Students must appreciate the time commitment needed to complete this award and the challenges that they will face. The expeditions are both physically and mentally demanding and the award requires commitment and good organisational skills to ensure all the elements are fully completed.
Time Commitment
Duke of Edinburgh involves 1 taught and 1 volunteering hour a week