Duke of Edinburgh Award (DofE)

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) is a fantastic opportunity to challenge yourself, learn new skills, help your community, and take part in an expedition.

If you’re part of Phoenix Explorer Scout Unit and ready to get started, follow the steps below.

Step 1: Register for the Award

Before you can begin your DofE journey, you must enrol.

Download the enrolment form here:
https://durhamscouts.org.uk/programme-support/duke-of-edinburgh-award/

  • Complete the form fully
  • Send it to the email address listed on the form
  • Pay the enrolment fee via BACS (details included on the form — this is not the usual PESU account)

Step 2: Set Up Your eDofE Account

Once you receive your invite:

  • Log in to eDofE
  • Complete your:
    • Personal details
    • Address
    • Password setup

Once complete, your DofE Welcome Pack will be sent out to you.

Step 3: Start Your Programme

You can now begin your DofE programme by choosing activities for each section:

  • Volunteering
  • Physical
  • Skills
  • Expedition

Watch this quick guide:

What Can I Do for My Sections?

Here are some ideas to help you get started:

Volunteering

  • Helping at Beavers, Cubs or Scouts
  • Supporting a charity or community group
  • Environmental or community projects

Physical

  • Sports teams
  • Gym or fitness training
  • Running, swimming, cycling

Skills

  • Learning an instrument
  • Cooking or baking
  • Coding or digital skills
  • Photography or creative arts

The Expedition Section

The expedition is a key part of the DofE award.

You will:

  • Train as part of a team
  • Plan your route
  • Learn navigation and camping skills
  • Complete a practice and qualifying expedition

Don’t worry — full support and training will be provided by leaders.

Important: Get Approval First

Before starting any section, you must:

  • Submit your section plan on eDofE
  • Wait for it to be approved

This ensures your activity meets DofE requirements.

Choosing an Assessor

Each section needs an assessor.

They must:

  • Be relevant to your activity
  • NOT be a family member or close friend

You’ll need to provide:

  • Name
  • Role
  • Email address or phone number

How the Sections Work

  • Volunteering, Physical & Skills
    → Completed independently in your own time
  • Expedition
    → Organised and supported by leaders

Age Requirements

To register, you must be:

  • 14+ for Bronze
  • 15+ for Silver
  • 16+ for Gold

Most Explorer Scouts will start with Bronze.

If you are considering starting at Silver or Gold, please speak to us first.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Starting a section before it is approved
  • Choosing a family member as your assessor
  • Not logging progress regularly

Information for Parents/Carers

  • The DofE programme is self-led but supported by leaders
  • Participants are responsible for logging their own progress
  • Expedition training and supervision is provided
  • Costs for activities will always be communicated in advance

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to do all sections at the same time?
No — you can complete them at your own pace.

How long does it take?
This depends on your level and activities, but typically several months.

Can I change my activity?
Yes — but you must get approval first.

What if my assessor doesn’t respond?
Speak to a leader and we’ll help you.

Useful Links

Need Help?

If you have any questions or want to get started:

📧 [email protected]