As a prestigious and well-known award, the Duke of Edinburgh's Hillary Award recognises hard work, dedication, leadership, and perseverance, and is highly regarded by employers.

Taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh's Hillary Award offers you the chance to challenge yourself, learn new skills, and make a real difference while having an unforgettable adventure. Whether you want to explore the outdoors, give back to your community, or step up and take on new challenges, Duke of Ed offers a variety of opportunities.

The award is a voluntary, non-competitive programme of personal, cultural, and adventurous activities that are nationally and internationally recognised. Three levels of activities are offered to support the personal and social development of young people aged 14-25 - Bronze, Silver, and Gold. 

The Duke of Edinburgh's Hillary Award has always been very popular at Baradene College and aligns well with the school's values. Students in Year 10 are invited to join the Award Scheme, and currently, over 200 students are completing their Award.

The Award comprises:

Service - giving help in the local community

Skills - covering almost any non-physical hobby, skill or interest

Adventurous Journey - training for, practicing, planning and completing a journey. 

Physical Recreation – e.g. sport, dance, martial art, gym programme etc

Residential Project - for the Gold level only - spending 5 or more days on a purposeful project with new companions

An Unforgettable Experience!

Here are just some of what our students have had to say about their Duke of Edinburgh experience: 

"Our Silver Journey was an unforgettable experience filled with personal growth, many challenges, and moments of triumph. Over the course of our journey, we discovered a lot about ourselves and how we function as a team in demanding situations.”

"Completing my Gold Award was a transformative experience. The demanding challenges and responsibilities instilled in me a sense of resilience and perseverance. I learned the importance of setting goals, working diligently to achieve them, and developing leadership skills through guiding and supporting my peers. I also learnt the value of self-discipline and adaptability. Overall, the experience shaped my character and equipped me with skills that will continue to benefit me in all areas of my life"

"Finishing my Gold has been an unforgettable yet rewarding experience. My adventures have taught me a lot about our country, myself and others, and the interpersonal and communication skills I’ve gained from years of volunteering have taught me a lot about our wider community. The Award is an internationally recognised programme, and it means a lot to me to have completed my Gold Award and to be acknowledged at this level"

The ability to make friends, improve abilities, have fun, achieve new goals, build confidence, work as a team, make decisions, manage time, and develop relationships locally, nationally, and internationally are just a few of the many benefits of participating in Duke of Edinburgh activities.  

Contact

For more information on being involved please contact the Award Leader:

Mrs Jill Lynch
[email protected]

Further information on the Award can also be found on the Duke of Edinburgh official website by CLICKING HERE