Introduction to the DofE
Learn more about award levels, volunteering, physical activity, skills and expeditions in this guidance. If you're planning on doing the Gold Award, you can also go on a residential. If you're a leader, read this introduction to the awards and sections and find some notes at the bottom of each page with advice for what this means for you!
Quick links
The Awards and Requirements
Bronze
For ages 14+*
It will usually take you at least 6 months to complete your Bronze programme.
- Volunteering section: 3 months
- Physical section: 3 months
- Skills section: 3 months
- Expedition section: 2 days/1 night
You also have to spend an extra three months on one of the Volunteering, Physical or Skills sections. It’s your choice which one and, though you can change your mind later, you should decide which section you want to do for longer at the beginning. Knowing how long you’re going to do it for will help you to choose your activity and set your goals for each section.
Your achievements link directly to the Chief Scout’s Platinum Award (Explorers)
* If you aren't 14 yet, but in the school year in which your peer group turns 14, you may still be able to start. All activities must be completed by your 25th birthday.
Silver
For ages 15+ *
It will take you at least 6 months for Silver if you’ve already achieved your Bronze, or 12 months if you’ve jumped straight into Silver.
- Volunteering section: 6 months
- Physical and Skills sections: One section for 6 months and the other section for 3 months
- Expedition section: 3 days/2 nights
If you didn’t do Bronze, you must undertake a further 6 months in either the Volunteering or the longer of the Physical or Skills sections.
Your achievements link directly to the Chief Scout’s Diamond Award (Explorers and Network)
* If you aren't 15 yet, but in the school year in which your peer group turns 15, you may still be able to start. All activities must be completed by your 25th birthday.
Gold
For ages 16+*
For Gold, you’ll need to do your programme for at least 12 months if you’ve achieved your Silver Award, or 18 months if you’ve started at Gold level without doing your Silver – even if you’ve done Bronze. The big difference at Gold is you’ll also do a Residential section – staying away from home for five days and four nights doing a shared activity with people you don’t know.
- Volunteering section: 12 months
- Physical and Skills sections: One section for 12 months and the other section for 6 months
- Expedition section: 4 days/3 nights
- Residential section: Undertake a shared activity in a residential setting away from home for 5 days and 4 nights.
If you didn’t do Silver, you must undertake a further 6 months in either the Volunteering or the longer of the Physical or Skills sections.
Your achievements link directly to the King’s Scout Award (Explorers aged 16+ and Network)
* The age range for this award is strictly set: any work done on the award under 16, unfortunately, won't count. All activities must be completed by your 25th birthday.