Duke of Edinburgh Award

The Duke of Edinburgh Award gives students the chance to develop confidence, leadership and resilience through volunteering, skills, physical challenges and expedition experiences. At Chingford Foundation School, we offer Bronze, Silver and Gold levels with full support from trained staff.

Sign up now
DofE Online Registration Form
Meet our Duke of Edinburgh Coordinator
Mr W Sheaff
Trust Duke of Edinburgh's
Award Coordinator
The Duke of Edinburgh Award at Chingford Foundation School is led by Mr Sheaff, our DofE Coordinator. He oversees all training sessions, expedition planning and participant support across the Bronze, Silver and Gold levels.
Mr Sheaff works closely with staff and external assessors to make sure every student is fully prepared, safe and supported throughout the programme. Students can speak to him at any time if they have questions about training, expedition requirements or signing up. Parents who would like more information are also welcome to get in touch through the school office.
His aim is to ensure that every student who takes part feels confident, included and ready for each stage of their Duke of Edinburgh journey.
Bronze Award( Year 9)
Overview
The Bronze Award is the first step in the programme and is open to all Year 9 students. It builds confidence, teamwork and independence through guided training and local expeditions.
Training
Training will take place once a week at lunchtime from January onwards.
Expeditions
- A full-day training hike planned for Epping Forest in June.
- Two day and one night training and practice expedition in Epping Forest in June
- Two day and one night assessed expedition in Broxbourne, Hertfordshire in July.
Leaflets and Information
Silver Award ( Year 10)
Overview
The Silver Award builds on the skills developed during Bronze. It includes longer expeditions and deeper independence, supported by our trained staff.
Training
Training will take place once a fortnight after school from January onwards.
Expeditions
- Three days and two nights practice expedition in the Peak District in April or May
- Three days and two nights assessed expedition in the Peak District in May or June
Leaflets and Information
Gold Award (Year 12)
Overview
The Gold Award is the highest level of the Duke of Edinburgh programme. It is offered to Year 12 students at Chingford Sixth Form and includes an extended expedition and a short residential experience.
Training
Training will take place once a week during a study period or after school from January onwards.
Expeditions
- Four day and three night training and practice expedition in the Brecon Beacons during the Easter holiday
- Five day and four night final assessed expedition in the Brecon Beacons during the July summer holiday
Residential section
Gold students must complete a short residential experience. Ideas are available at the Duke of Edinburgh low cost residentials page, or students can speak to Mr Sheaff for suggestions and advice.
Leaflets and Information
Expedition Dates
| Date | Award Level | Event |
| 26 April | Silver | Training hike |
| 2nd to 4th May | Silver | Practice expedition |
| 28th to 30th May | Silver | Assessed expedition |
| 7th June | Bronze | Training hike |
| 13th to 14th June | Bronze | Practice Expedition |
| 4th to 5th July | Bronze | Assessed expedition |
| 23rd to 26th May | Gold |
Practice expedition |
| 18th to 22nd July | Gold |
Practice expedition |
Resources and Documents
DofE Detailed Guide to your online accountDofE Quick Guide to your online accountDofE Food and Menu Planning ListDofE First Aid Requirements DofE Kit List (PDF)
Register to take part
Students who would like to join the Duke of Edinburgh Award at Chingford Foundation School should complete the online registration form.



