Duke of Edinburgh's Award

Torus Foundation is delighted to be able to support young people through the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award – let's get started!


What is the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award?

A life-changing experience. A fun time with friends. An opportunity to discover new interests and talents. A tool to develop essential skills for life and work. A recognised mark of achievement; respected by employers.

The Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) is many things to many people, supporting generations to successfully navigate adult life.

14-24 year-olds can apply to do a DofE programme at one of three progressive levels, which, when successfully completed, leads to a Bronze, Silver or Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

There are four sections to complete at Bronze and Silver level and five at Gold. They involve helping the community/environment, becoming fitter, developing new skills, planning, training for and completing an expedition and, for Gold only, working with a team on a residential activity.

Through a DofE programme young people have fun, make friends, improve their self-esteem and build confidence. They gain essential skills and attributes for work and life such as resilience, problem-solving, team-working, communication and drive, enhancing CVs and university and job applications. Top employers recognise the work-ready skills Award holders bring to their business.


How old do I need to be?

  • Bronze – for those aged 14+ years
  • Silver – for those aged 15+ years
  • Gold – for those aged 16+ years

If you aren’t 14 yet but are in year 9, you may be able to start a Bronze DofE programme.

Similarly, if you aren’t 15 yet, but are in school year 10, you may be able to start a Silver DofE programme.


What do I need to do if I’m interested?

To get us started, FireFit and the wider Torus Foundation will be delivering the Bronze Award.

If you’re a FireFit Hub Youth Member or parent of a member interested in working towards the Bronze Award, please speak to a Youth Worker next time you visit the centre.

If you’ve not signed up to be a FireFit Hub Member yet, please email dofe@torusfoundation.org.uk