Duke of Edinburgh's Award
At St Mary's Catholic High School & Sixth Form College, we are proud to offer the Duke of Edinburgh's Award - a globally recognised programme that enriches our students' lives and broadens their horizons.
The Award challenges and empowers young people, helping them to develop:
- self-reliance and resilience
- commitment and perseverance
- teamwork and leadership skills
Through a combination of volunteering, physical activity, skill development and an adventurous journey, students take part in experiences that promote personal growth and active citizenship. Our experienced staff guide and support students at every stage, ensuring the programme is safe, inclusive and rewarding.
Taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award does more than enhance students' time at school; it also strengthens future applications for college, university and employment. The DofE is widely respected by educators and employers as evidence of a young person's initiative, reliability and willingness to take on challenges.
We warmly encourage families to explore this opportunity and support their child in becoming a confident, well-rounded young adult, ready to face the challenges of the future.
Bronze Award - Year 9
At St Mary's Catholic High School, the Bronze Award is open to students in Year 9 and provides an excellent introduction to the Duke of Edinburgh's programme.
As part of the Bronze Award, students will:
- take regular part in physical activity
- develop a new skill or build on an existing one
- volunteer in their community
- complete a supervised, adventurous expedition
These experiences encourage students to step outside their comfort zone, manage their time effectively and work as part of a team. The commitment involved helps them build resilience, independence and a strong sense of responsibility.
We encourage all Year 9 students to consider the Bronze Award as a valuable opportunity to enrich their school life, make new friends and develop skills that will benefit them well beyond their time at St Mary's Catholic High School and Sixth Form College.
Silver Award - Year 12
At St Mary's Catholic Sixth Form College, the Silver Award is offered to students in Year 12 as the next step in their DofE journey. It builds on the foundations of Bronze (or an equivalent level) and offers a greater level of challenge and responsibility.
The Silver Award enables students to:
- deepen their commitment to volunteering
- further develop personal skills and interests
- maintain or improve physical fitness
- plan for and complete a more demanding expedition
Participation in the Silver Award supports students' personal development and prepares them for future life. It enhances UCAS and job applications by demonstrating reliability, leadership, teamwork and perseverance.
Parental support plays a key role in helping students manage their time and stay committed to the programme. We invite you to discuss the benefits of the Silver Award with your son/daughter as they take this exciting next step in Year 12.