Duke of Edinburgh
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award – Bronze
The Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) Award is a nationally recognised programme that helps young people develop confidence, resilience and independence. At Holy Family, all Year 9 students are given the opportunity to take part in the Bronze Award, which is highly valued by colleges, universities and employers.
Through the award, students challenge themselves in new ways, build important life skills and contribute positively to their communities. The Bronze Award consists of four sections:
Skill – learning or improving a skill
Physical – taking part in regular physical activity
Volunteering – helping others in the community
Expedition – planning, training for and completing a two-day expedition
Students take responsibility for their own progress by attending sessions, logging evidence regularly on the DofE portal and working with their assessors to complete each section.
For more information about the award, visit:
The programme encourages teamwork, organisation, commitment and personal growth, and is often a highlight of students’ time at school.
Year 9 Bronze DofE – Current Cohort (2026)
We are delighted that so many Year 9 students have signed up to complete their Bronze Award this year. The programme is being coordinated by Mrs Spivey, who is available in school to support students throughout their DofE journey.
Award Structure
Students must complete:
Two sections for 3 months (12 weeks)
One section for 6 months (24 weeks)
Sections:
Skill
Physical
Volunteering
(One of these must be completed for 6 months.)
Skill Section (3 months) – Options in School
Students may choose one of the following or complete a skill outside of school.
Wellbeing Skills for Life
Tuesdays, 3:00–4:00pm
Upper mezzanine
Led by Miss Oddy (Wellbeing Officer)
Dates:
27 Jan, 3 Feb, 10 Feb, 24 Feb
3 Mar, 10 Mar, 17 Mar, 24 Mar
31 Mar, 21 Apr, 28 Apr, 5 May
Personal Finance Skills
Tuesdays, 3:00–4:00pm
Maths department computer area
Led by Mrs Chantrey (Maths Teacher)
Dates:
10 Feb, 24 Feb, 3 Mar, 10 Mar
17 Mar, 24 Mar, 31 Mar, 21 Apr
28 Apr, 5 May, 12 May, 19 May
Reading Club
Fridays, 3:00–4:00pm
School Library
Led by Miss Barlow (Librarian)
Dates:
30 Jan, 6 Feb, 13 Feb, 27 Feb
6 Mar, 13 Mar, 20 Mar, 27 Mar
24 Apr, 1 May, 8 May, 15 May
Weekly attendance is required and students must upload evidence to their DofE account.
Physical Section (3 months)
After school, 3:00–4:00pm (one day per week)
Led by Mr Lloyd
Details provided to interested students
Students may also choose an approved physical activity outside school.
Volunteering Section (6 months)
Students must arrange a suitable volunteering placement outside school.
Examples include:
Helping with younger sports or uniformed groups
Assisting in community or charity settings
Walking a neighbour’s or family friend’s dog weekly
This section cannot be assessed by a family member.
Expedition Section
Delivered by Rochdale Youth Service with support from school staff.
Practice Walk: Saturday 28 February 2026
Qualifying Expedition:
Saturday 6 June – Sunday 7 June 2026
(Two-day expedition with overnight camp)
Further details, including locations and kit lists, will be shared closer to the dates.
Cost
The total cost of the Bronze Award is £120, which covers the expedition provider and equipment such as tents, rucksacks and stoves.
Payments are made via ParentPay and can be paid:
In full, or
In three instalments
Students will need:
Walking boots or sturdy footwear
Suitable layered outdoor clothing
A sleeping bag
Student Support and Contact
Mrs Spivey is available during breakfast club, break and lunchtime for any questions.
Regular sessions will also be held to help students log their evidence and stay on track.
DofE Co-ordinator: Mrs Spivey
Email: kspivey@hfch.co.uk
Telephone: 01706 360607 (ext. 2033)
