An Exceptional Year for the DofE at Charters

2025 has been a truly outstanding year for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award at Charters School. With five weekends of adventure and six challenging expeditions, an incredible 218 students stepped up to the challenge—showing resilience, teamwork, and determination every step of the way.

From the rolling hills of the Chilterns to the rugged beauty of the Peak District, the dramatic landscapes of the Brecon Beacons, and the woodlands of the New Forest, our students walked a staggering 17,000 kilometres combined. Whether under blazing sunshine or, in the case of our recent Gold expedition to Wales, driving rain, they persevered with enthusiasm and strength.

Their collective efforts resulted in:

• 236 Bronze camping nights
• 216 Silver nights
• 276 Gold nights

This marks our largest DofE cohort to date, and is a fantastic achievement that speaks volumes about the dedication and spirit of our students.

We’re incredibly proud of each and every participant for embracing the challenges of the DofE programme and pushing themselves to new heights. A huge congratulations to all involved!

As always, we encourage our students to continue with their volunteering, skill, and physical sections throughout the year and we’ll be in touch with more details about our DofE Presentation Evening, which will take place in early November.

Finally, to those currently in Year 8 who are interested in starting their own DofE journey in Year 9, keep an eye out for our Information Evening this September - we’d love to welcome you aboard.