Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award – Residential Opportunity
Are you looking for an opportunity to push your limits, develop new skills, and have an unforgettable adventure? If so, the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Residential program may be just what you need.
Is the DofE Residential for You?
The DofE Gold Residential is designed for young people aged 16-25 who have completed the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award or who are working towards it. It’s a chance to get away from your usual routine, challenge yourself physically and mentally, and make lasting memories with new friends.
The program runs from Monday to Friday and is fully catered, so you don’t have to worry about cooking or bringing your own food. You can choose to get a free transfer from Wareham Train Station in Dorset, or drive yourself, or get dropped off.
By the Sea in Dorset
Dorset provides a stunning backdrop for your Duke of Edinburgh residential experience. We are on the UK’s South Coast, in the seaside town of Swanage. This beautiful location provides the ultimate adventurous backdrop; golden sandy beaches, sheltered bays, ancient woodlands, incredible limestone cliffs and caves as well as a plethora of countryside hikes to enjoy.
The campsite is nestled on a working farm among rolling green hills. It boasts ‘Instagramable’ views of the iconic Corfe Castle ruins – a real stunner at sunset. All the adventure activities are no more than 10 minutes away by minibus.
The DofE Gold Residential Itinerary
Once you arrive in Dorset, you’ll dive right into a full itinerary of adventure activities, with something different planned for each day. On the first day, you’ll start with team building activities in the Great Outdoors to get to know your fellow Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award participants and build your communication and collaboration skills.
The second day is dedicated to first aid training, where you’ll learn how to respond to common medical emergencies and gain valuable skills that could make a difference in a real-life situation. You will receive a certificate in Emergency First Aid at Work for this day, which is mega for the CV.
On the third day, you’ll take to the water with British Canoeing Training. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience, you’ll have a chance to develop your paddling skills and explore the beautiful surrounding landscape. You will receive another CV-boosting qualification; the British Canoeing Paddle Safer award.
Day four is all about coasteering and hiking. You’ll put your bravery to the test as you scramble along rocky cliffs, jump into the sea, and hike through stunning coastal scenery.
The Camping Accommodation
For the Summer Gold Duke of Edinburgh Residential, you will camp in beautiful spacious bell tents. Theses are big enough to stand up in and are light and airy. You will share with up to four other people and we provide camping mats. You will need to bring your own warm sleeping bag and pillow.
We have hot showers onsite, plus a huge dining marquee where you’ll be served a hot breakfast and hot evening meal daily. Packed lunch is provided daily (except Day 1), so you don’t need to worry about bringing any additional money for food.
Finally, on the last day, you’ll get the chance to try paddle boarding or jumbo paddle boarding. It’s a fun and relaxing way to end the program and reflect on all that you’ve learned and experienced over the past week. Your challenge is to perfect a pyramid with your new pals and enjoy your last day together!
In addition to the daytime activities, there are also plenty of evening activities to enjoy, such as team sports, campfires, and group games. These provide a chance to wind down after a full day of activities and bond with your new friends.
Overall, the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Residential program offers a unique and rewarding experience for young people who want to challenge themselves and have fun in the great outdoors. It’s a chance to develop your skills, build relationships with your peers, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
