Duke of Edinburgh Programme (Ages: 14-18)
Empowering Students Through the DoE Award
At HeadStart, the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award challenges students to step outside their comfort zones, build genuine resilience, and serve their local community. Guided by experienced leaders, teenagers aged 14 to 18 master new skills, navigate outdoor expeditions, and earn a prestigious accolade that strengthens global university applications.

Confidence and Collaboration
Students develop essential life skills by committing to physical challenges, learning new abilities, and giving back to the community. They learn to navigate adversity, collaborate with peers, and lead with confidence during demanding outdoor expeditions.

A Competitive University Edge
Universities and global employers actively seek the dedication, independence, and self-discipline demonstrated by award holders. Completing the Bronze, Silver, or Gold levels provides a prestigious, globally recognised accolade that makes university applications stand out.

Part of the Core Journey
We build this character-defining experience directly into the Secondary journey. All Year 10 students complete the Bronze Award as part of the core curriculum, providing a strong foundation before they choose to pursue the advanced Silver and Gold levels in Sixth Form.

Supervision & Safety
We believe that outdoor education should be challenging, but never unsafe. Our expeditions are backed by detailed risk assessments and managed by experienced professionals. With strict supervision checkpoints and robust emergency protocols in place, parents can feel completely confident as their children explore, learn, and grow.

Real-World Problem Solving
Students tackle unpredictable, real-time challenges during outdoor expeditions. By navigating changing conditions and group dynamics without immediate adult intervention, they build critical problem-solving skills and learn to trust their own judgment.

Volunteering
Students dedicate their time to support local charities, environmental projects, or community initiatives. By engaging in consistent community service, they drive positive change and build genuine empathy for the world around them.

Physical
Participants set measurable targets to improve their health and fitness. Whether they choose team sports, dance routines, or personal conditioning, students learn the value of physical wellbeing and long-term athletic commitment.

Skills
Young adults broaden their horizons by mastering a new practical, social, or creative skill. From coding and photography to cooking and public speaking, this section requires sustained focus and a willingness to learn.

Expedition
Teams plan, train for, and execute a multi-day adventurous journey in Thailand or abroad. They navigate unfamiliar terrain, manage camp logistics, and rely entirely on teamwork to succeed in the wild.

















