Embarking on a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) expedition is a thrilling adventure that requires meticulous preparation. Active Outdoor Pursuits, with over 20 years of experience as a DofE activity expeditions and Gold Residential provider, is your trusted companion in achieving The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in Scotland.
This guide aims to delve deeper into the specific activities involved in bronze, silver, and gold expeditions, highlighting the unique offerings by Active Outdoor Pursuits. Additionally, we’ll explore the invaluable benefits of choosing a qualified and trusted DofE Approved Activity Provider (AAP) for your DofE journey.
What is The Duke of Edinburgh's Award?
Before delving into the details of Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) practice expeditions with Active Outdoor Pursuits, let’s take a moment to understand the significance of the Duke of Edinburgh Award.
The Duke of Edinburgh Award, commonly known as DofE, is a prestigious and internationally recognised youth achievement programme founded by Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, in 1956. The award aims to challenge and empower young people aged 14 to 24, encouraging them to push their boundaries, develop new skills, and engage with their communities. The programme is a testament to Prince Philip’s vision of fostering self-reliance, resilience, and a spirit of adventure among the youth.
The DofE Award is divided into three progressive levels: Bronze, Silver, and Gold. Each level has four sections — Volunteering, Physical, Skills, and Expedition — and Gold includes an additional Residential section. Participants set personal goals and engage in activities within each section, accumulating experiences that contribute to their personal development.
Bronze Expeditions: The Gateway to Adventure
Active Outdoor Pursuits’ Bronze DofE Qualifying Expeditions in Scotland are designed to be an immersive experience. The training covers fundamental skills such as map reading, navigation, and camp craft. This knowledge becomes essential as participants delve into a two-day and two-night qualifying expedition, where they put their newfound skills to the test. The activities include orienteering, team building, and campcraft, fostering self-sufficiency and teamwork. Active Outdoor Pursuits can provide skills training as well as advice on expedition skills, routes, campsites, and access information.
Silver DofE Expeditions
Silver Duke of Edinburgh expeditions with Active Outdoor Pursuits cater to diverse interests. As part of the programme, participants must choose which mode of travel they will use during their expedition. Canoeing, kayaking, walking, mountain biking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Active Outdoor Pursuits offer individual and private group expeditions for groups of four or more.
The full qualifying package consists of a training day, followed by your practice expedition, and finally the Qualifying expedition. Training consists of one day of training, followed by a two-day/two-night practice expedition and culminating in a three-days /two0-nights qualifying expedition in the chosen mode of travel. The single training day is packed with hands-on instruction and support, highlighting what participants will need to know for the expedition. The subsequent two-day and two-night practice expeditions challenge participants with route planning, navigation, and safe camping and cooking practice.
On your qualifying expedition, your group will left to their own devices to safely carry out an un supported journey utilising your newly developed skills. The wild camping experience enhances resilience, it provides opportunities for participants to develop friendships and trust and appreciate nature.
Gold Expeditions: Elevating the Challenge
Active Outdoor Pursuits’ Gold training, practice and qualifying expeditions in Scotland offer a variety of options for individuals and groups. The open expeditions by canoe and kayak are particularly enticing for water enthusiasts. For those who would prefer to use a different method of travel during their DofE expedition, walking, mountain biking, and stand-up paddleboarding expeditions are available for individuals and groups of four or more.
The four-day and three-night practice expedition package begins with a day of intensive skills training and preparation, ensuring participants are skilled and well-equipped for the challenges ahead. The following three days involve a practice expedition, where participants navigate through diverse landscapes, facing scenarios that require problem-solving and adaptability. Wild camping under the guidance of qualified supervisors, and assessors, fosters a sense of accomplishment.
You can now book your qualifying expedition onto the back of your practice journey. You will have a day to rest and prepare for your 4 day and 3 night qualifying expedition On this expedition you and your group will be self-sufficient. You will combine your skills and knowledge to undertake a challenging journey in remote and challenging countryside or waterways like the Great Glen Canoe Trail or a coastal kayaking expedition on Scotland’s west coast.
Why Book You DofE Expeditions With a Trusted Provider?
When considering a Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) expedition, the choice of provider can significantly impact the quality and safety of your experience. Active Outdoor Pursuits stands out as a trusted partner, offering a host of benefits that elevate your journey to new heights.
Expert Guidance
Embarking on a DofE practice expedition can be both exhilarating and challenging. With Active Outdoor Pursuits, you are not alone on this journey. Our team comprises experienced and qualified instructors dedicated to providing expert guidance. From the initial training day to the culmination of the expedition, our instructors are there every step of the way. Their wealth of experience ensures participants feel confident, supported, and ready to tackle the adventure that lies ahead.
Tailored Programmes
At Active Outdoor Pursuits, we understand that every participant is unique, with varying skill levels and interests. That’s why we offer tailored programmes designed to cater to diverse preferences. Whether you are passionate about canoeing, kayaking, walking, mountain biking, or stand-up paddleboarding, our practice expedition packages allow you to engage in activities that resonate with your interests while meeting the rigorous requirements of the DofE Award. Your adventure with us is crafted to be uniquely yours.
Safety First
Approved activity providers (AAP) place safety at the forefront of every expedition. Active Outdoor Pursuits adhere to the highest safety standards, implementing comprehensive measures to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for all participants. Active are Licensed with the HSE Adventure Activities Licensing Authority (AALA) ensuring clients that approved operating procedures are in place.
We ensure you arrive safely as we provide transport to your expedition starting point from our outdoor centre, as well as return transport back to the centre upon completion of the expedition. Our commitment to safety is unwavering, providing you with the peace of mind to focus on the transformative aspects of your DofE journey.
Book Your DofE Expedition Today
Participating in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme is not just a badge of honour; it’s a testament to a young person’s commitment to personal development and a willingness to embrace challenges. Active Outdoor Pursuits, as a trusted DofE, Approved Activity Provider and Gold Residential Provider, plays a crucial role in guiding and supporting individuals through the expedition component, offering a platform for transformative experiences in the heart of Scotland’s stunning landscapes.
With expert guidance, a diverse array of activities, a paramount commitment to safety, and an authentic embrace of wild camping, your journey with us is crafted for success. Unleash the full potential of your DofE expedition by choosing Active Outdoor Pursuits as your trusted partner. Contact us today to find out and book your training, practice expedition and qualifying expedition’
