Duke of Edinburgh Award

When starting my Duke of Edinburgh I didn’t realise what I would gain and the memories I would make. You can spend forever deciding whether to do it or not, but you’ve just got to go for it and get ready for what is about to come. It’s not just about getting an award, it’s about the process that is an adventure within itself and the 4 different parts (volunteering, physical, skill and expedition).

Volunteering

I volunteered at Brownies and it was the best thing I did, being able to plan crafts and entertainment for all the girls. I also helped to put on a show for the parents; all the girls had scripts, learnt their lines and dressed up to perform. We raised money that night too. You won’t ever look at Hobbycraft again once becoming a leader, forever asking yourself “I wonder if they have enough of these for each of my girls”. Being a Brownie leader and achieving my adult leadership qualification was such an amazing achievement (of course we had a party).

Physical

I’m not really a physical person, but I found things that I enjoyed doing: trampolining and swimming. It was good to do something different to what I would have normally done. Making new friends along the way helped too.

Skill

Ever wanted to learn something new? This is the time to complete it, sewing, improving your drawing or even learning to drive, this is the opportunity. Make it worth your time, make it suit you.

Expedition

Time to push yourself, learn how to pack a bag, learn how to read a map, learn to love fields and get ready to see them cows. Sleeping in a tent and cooking super noodles while discussing the day’s adventures is the best feeling ever. But whatever you do, do not over pack (I learnt that the hard way). Take a lot of photos everywhere you go, it’s great to look back over them all.

I met amazing people, have seen amazing places, and became who I am. I was overwhelmed with everything I achieved.

When collecting my awards I found it scary but I worked so hard to achieve it, you just got to enjoy your moment. Wait for them to call your name, walk up there proud and remember that  all your work has been worth it. Make sure you smile as guarantee your family/friends will be nearby taking pictures.

Tips

• Car sponges are a must

• Gaiters are needed

• Pack your bag properly

• Do not over pack

• Take jelly to munch on throughout the day