Duke of Edinburgh Program
Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award (Duke of Ed or DofE) is a globally recognised program that supports the personal growth of young people through service, skill-building, physical activity, and adventure. At Saint Mark’s, the Award is offered as a co-curricular opportunity that empowers students to challenge themselves, explore their interests, and develop essential life skills.
Whether students are navigating the Bronze, Silver or Gold Award, each stage of the program promotes leadership, resilience, confidence, and community spirit. Guided by a dedicated Duke of Ed Coordinator, students are encouraged to take ownership of their journey and celebrate their success.
What Is the Duke of Ed?
The name “180” symbolises a complete shift in mindset, turning around, choosing a better path, and stepping forward with purpose. The program supports boys in developing key life skills while discovering who they are and the kind of men they want to become.
- The Duke of Ed is a non-competitive, flexible framework that allows students to set personal goals and achieve them through four core sections:
| Section | Focus |
|---|---|
|
Voluntary Service |
Giving back to the community through service with charities or not-for-profits |
|
Physical Recreation |
Improving fitness through regular sport or physical activity |
|
Skills |
Developing a new hobby, talent or personal interest
|
|
Adventurous Journey |
Participating in an outdoor team expedition, such as hiking or kayaking |
Students completing the Gold Award also take part in a fifth section:
| Section | Focus |
|---|---|
|
Gold Residential Project |
A five-day residential experience working with new people on a shared goal
|
Each section requires students to commit regular time to their chosen activities over a set number of weeks, usually a minimum of 1 hour per week.
Levels of the Award
- The Duke of Ed has three levels that progress with age and experience:
| Level | Typical Age | Description |
|---|---|---|
|
Bronze |
14+ |
The introductory level; focuses on setting strong foundations
|
|
Silver |
15+ |
Builds on Bronze with greater independence and challenge |
|
Gold |
16+ |
The highest level; includes a residential project and significant personal growth
|
Students can begin at any level, depending on their age and readiness. The College supports students through each stage with a structured program, individual guidance, and access to external providers as needed.
Many Saint Mark’s students have achieved success through the program, including 2024 College Captain Mary Elizabeth Hanna, a Bronze and Silver Award recipient.
Why Join the Duke of Ed?
- The Award helps young people develop skills that last a lifetime and offers formal recognition for their efforts.
| Personal Growth | Builds resilience, self-confidence, and a strong sense of identity |
|---|---|
|
Leadership & Teamwork |
Strengthens decision-making, communication, and collaboration skills
|
|
Service & Contribution
|
Promotes community engagement and awareness through meaningful volunteering |
|
University & Career Pathways |
Students who complete the Gold Award are eligible for early entry schemes and receive a nationally recognised digital credential |
Many Saint Mark’s students have achieved success through the program, including 2024 College Captain Mary Elizabeth Hanna, a Bronze and Silver Award recipient.
Tailored for Every Student
- At Saint Mark’s, the Duke of Ed program is:
- Open to all students, regardless of background or experience
- Mixed-gender and inclusive, promoting collaboration and unity
- Student-led, with each participant choosing their own pathway and goals
- Flexible, allowing students to complete activities that align with their interests, faith, and schedule
Students are supported every step of the way by the College’s Duke of Ed Coordinator, who helps them stay on track, reflect on their progress, and celebrate their achievements.
The Award in Action
- From hiking through the bush to volunteering in aged care homes, Saint Mark’s students experience the Duke of Ed as a journey of discovery, connection, and personal transformation. Each part of the program offers meaningful opportunities to grow in character and capability, both individually and as a team.
Get Involved
Students interested in joining the Duke of Ed program can speak to the College’s Duke of Ed Coordinator for guidance on how to get started.
For more information, please contact:
Duke of Edinburgh Program Coordinator