At Land & Wave, we live and breathe adventure — and when our team gets recognised for empowering young people to thrive through outdoor experiences, we jump at the chance to celebrate it. Recently, Rosie and Sophie, were invited to Buckingham Palace to celebrate the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (Gold DofE). What a moment!
Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at their royal day, what it means for the future of adventure in the UK, and why we’re so proud to be part of the Gold DofE journey.
🌟 1. A Royal Recognition for Outdoor Achievement
The Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is the pinnacle of youth achievement in the UK. It’s not just about ticking boxes — it’s a symbol of grit, growth, and going the extra mile. For Rosie and Sophie, receiving an invitation to Buckingham Palace to celebrate the incredible young people who completed their Gold DofE Awards was a huge honour.
It’s a powerful reminder of how the work we do at Land & Wave — guiding young people through their DofE expeditions and adventures — is part of something much bigger.
👑 2. A Day at Buckingham Palace: Behind the Scenes
The atmosphere was electric. From the moment Rosie and Sophie stepped through the Palace gates, they were immersed in celebration on a different . There were inspirational speeches, smiling faces, and the unmistakable buzz of achievement.
Watch the latest reel on our Instagram to see the highlights of their day, including some stunning views of the gardens, a glimpse of royalty, and the unmistakable pride of being part of a national moment.
Buckingham Palace hosted hundreds of young people, volunteers, and supporters — all united by the transformative power of the Gold DofE.
🧭 3. Why Gold DofE Matters (and Always Will)
The Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award isn’t just a badge — it’s a life-changing experience. It pushes young people beyond their comfort zones and teaches real-world skills: leadership, teamwork, resilience, and independence.
At Land & Wave, we’ve seen first-hand how powerful the DofE journey can be. Whether it’s navigating the New Forest, Purbeck or Dartmoor, cooking meals in the wild, or supporting each other through challenging hikes, every expedition builds confidence and character.
We’re proud to support the Gold DofE programme through:
- Expert expedition training
- Fully supported practice and qualifying expeditions
- Team-building and adventure experiences tailored to all ability levels
🌲 4. Land & Wave’s Commitment to the DofE
Being invited to Buckingham Palace is not only a special treat for Rosie and Sophie — it’s a celebration of our whole team’s commitment to youth development. We’ve worked with thousands of young people through DofE, including Bronze, Silver, and Gold level expeditions.
Our dedicated Gold DofE programmes are designed to make the experience accessible, enjoyable, and unforgettable. We handle the logistics, provide expert instructors, and create an environment where every participant can succeed.
Want to learn more? Explore our Gold DofE Residential Packages here
💬 5. What Rosie & Sophie Said About the Experience
We asked Rosie and Sophie to share a few words about the day:
Rosie said:
“It was an unbelievable honour to be surrounded by so many young people who’ve achieved something extraordinary. You could feel the pride and positivity in every conversation.”
Sophie added:
“Being at Buckingham Palace reminded me why we do what we do — helping young people push their limits and believe in themselves.”
Their reflections are a testament to the passion and purpose we bring to every DofE adventure.
💡 Final Thoughts: Adventure Changes Lives
The celebration at Buckingham Palace wasn’t just about gold badges — it was about the journey, the memories, and the potential unlocked in every young person.
At Land & Wave, we’ll keep doing what we do best — giving young people the tools, the team, and the wild spaces to thrive. Whether it’s their first Bronze expedition or their final Gold DofE challenge, we’re with them every step of the way.
Ready to Start Your Gold DofE Journey?
If you’re planning your Gold DofE expedition, now’s the time to get started. Join Land & Wave for expert support, wild adventures, and unforgettable memories.
📞 Contact us today to find out more or book your Gold DofE adventure now!
Call 01929 423 031
