More young people in Somerset take on Duke of Edinburgh Award than ever before
Nearly 3,000 young people signed up to take on the challenge in the last year.
Last updated 21st Apr 2024
More young people in Somerset are taking on the challenge of the Duke of Edinburgh awards than ever before.
According to the Somerset DofE team, 2908 local young people signed up to an award in the 12 months up to March 2024, an increase of 300 from the same period last year.
The DofE award is on offer in all secondary schools, colleges and most Special Educational Needs providers in Somerset.
Young people can start an award between the ages of 14-25 and those who are home educated can access the award directly through Somerset DofE.
Cllr Heather Shearer, Lead Member for Children, Families and Education at Somerset Council, said:
"Completing a DofE award takes a lot of hard work and motivation, as well as team-building, leadership and communication skills – all of which can be used later in life. It is great to see so many young people choosing to sign up to take part in the award. Congratulations to all the pupils and staff involved.”
Carol Authers, DofE Operations Manager at Somerset Council, said:
"I am absolutely blown away by the success this year, we have added new DofE centres and seen growth to silver awards in centres that historically only offered bronze. I need to thank the DofE leaders, staff, and volunteers for their incredible commitment, as well as my team for their hard work and support. We look forward to the forthcoming year and more activities and growth, with the aim to achieve 3000 new starters.”