The Duke of Edinburgh's Award
The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is an international voluntary activity programme for young people aged 14 to 24. At Mayfield, girls can undertake DofE Awards at Bronze (Year 9), Silver (Year 10), and Gold (Years 12) levels. It is one of the most popular extra-curricular clubs at Mayfield, particularly in Year 9 where frequently over the half the year group takes part.
Girls create their own personal DofE programme by choosing and carrying out volunteering, physical and skills activities, for a pre-defined timescale. Activities may be ones they are already doing, such as learning a musical instrument, drama, kickboxing or netball, but can equally be something new, such as fencing, scuba, coding or debating. Girls also plan and go on two expeditions, give a presentation and - for Gold only - take part in a residential activity.
The benefits of DofE are far-reaching, complementing academic work and helping participants stand out in university applications and job interviews. DofE can be described as the ultimate personal development programme and the benefits of doing DofE remain unaltered by the global pandemic. The DofE has introduced DofE with a Difference to ensure young people can continue to experience new activities or improve existing skills, and develop body, mind and spirit in a non-competitive environment.
On DofE, girls grow in self-confidence; they develop personal responsibility, an awareness of their potential, and an understanding of their individual strengths and weaknesses. They acquire vital transferable skills such as planning, team working, communication, problem solving, leadership, and negotiation. They learn to show commitment and develop resilience. But most of all they have fun.