What Goes On

Ross-on-Wye		The Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme

ñ DoE website

What is it?

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme is a voluntary, non-competitive programme of practical, cultural and adventurous activities for young people aged 14-25.

The Award programme consists of three levels, Bronze, Silver and Gold. Each have differing criteria for entry and the level of achievement necessary to complete each award.

Air Cadets who meet the age criteria can join the award scheme.

The Award is widely recognised by employers as it helps demonstrate that award holders are keen to take on new challenges, have a higher level of self confidence than their counterparts, have leadership qualities with the added experience of teamwork.

How does it work?

Participants must complete four areas at each level (five for gold) to receive their award:

Service	Helping others in the local community.
Expeditions	Training for, and planning of a journey.
Skills	Demonstrate ability in almost any hobby, skill or interest
Physical Recreation	Sport, dance and fitness
Residential Project (Gold Award only)	A purposeful enterprise with young people not previously known to the participant

How long will it take?

Level	Direct entrants	Previous Award holders
Bronze Silver Gold	6 months 12 months 18 months	6 months 12 months

ñ In January 2004 eight cadets achieved their Bronze awards - a record!

ñ Flight sergeant Natalie Hawker receives her Gold award.

Commanding Officer Carol Marsh said that Natalie is a positive example to all cadets. She has shown a keen interest in promoting the scheme within the squadron and this will help to increase the success already seen by cadets at the bronze and silver levels.

ñ Helping out at the Ross YMCA charity shop

ñ Bronze expedition 2003