Go for Gold!

So you think you have what it takes to go for gold? The Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award is undoubtedly a tough challenge, but just by looking into this programme you have proven that you have what it takes! You will be guided along the way by tutors who have a wealth of experience in this charitable programme, who will help you find activities which you will find both worthwhile and fun.

You don’t need to have done your Bronze or Silver award to join the College’s Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award programme. If you enrol onto a two year programme (all A Levels and most Vocational courses) you will be able to complete the full award during your time at College.

The Five Sections

Volunteering

Volunteering gives you the chance to make a difference to people’s lives and use your skills and experience to help your local community. It gives you the opportunity to become involved in a project or with an organisation that you really care about.

Skill

Developing a skill helps you get better at something you are really interested in and gives you the confidence and ability to use this skill both now and later in life.

Physical

Doing physical activity is fun and it improves your health and physical fitness. The Physical section can include any sport or fitness activity you can think of.

Expedition

You will be given full training in College and camping equipment will be provided. After a practice expedition and other training walks you have to complete a four day walk, camping for three nights in a mountainous area. Going on an expedition gives you the chance to have an adventure, work as a team, and act on your own initiative.

Residential

Going on a residential gives you the chance to learn how to work with people from different backgrounds and build confidence living in new environments. The residential activity should normally take place over at least five consecutive days with a minimum of four nights spent away.

Former NCC students (from l-r) Holly Matthewman, Rachel Paiton, Elspeth Adams and Kate Whitaker collect their Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Awards at a reception at St James’ Palace in London.

Holly said: “I found the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award a really good experience and I have made lifelong friends through it. Employers really value the Duke of Edinburgh Award as well because the skills you learn on it are so well rounded.”

Kate said: “I had a brilliant time doing the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award. The expedition in the Peak District was so physically and mentally demanding but it was so good and I’m a stronger person for doing it.”

For more information, please contact Student Services on 01282 440 209.