October 25 2012.

Wave Leisure Trust has announced that Shakespeare Hall in Newhaven has become an accredited local learning organisation for the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme.

Since the scheme began in 1956, it has been inspiring, guiding and supporting young people in their self-development and recognising their achievements.

Doing their DofE can be a life-changing adventure for any child. On the way, they will do their own exciting and challenging programme of activities to help them reach their full potential. They'll learn new skills, help others, have fun, make new friends and gain a great sense of achievement. Employers, colleges and universities really value Duke of Edinburgh's Awards and know what it says about someone who's an Award holder.

For young people, a DofE programme is a real adventure from beginning to end. It doesn't matter who they are or where they're from. They just need to be aged between 14 and 24 and realise there's more to life than sitting on a sofa watching life pass them by.

Young people can do programmes at three levels, Bronze, Silver or Gold, which lead to a Duke of Edinburgh's Award.

Young people achieve an Award by completing a personal programme of activities in four sections (five if they're going for Gold). They'll find themselves helping people or the community, getting fitter, developing skills, going on an expedition and taking part in a residential activity (Gold only).

In 2007, supported by Pears Foundation, the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme commissioned The University of Northampton to carry out a groundbreaking study into the value of the DofE. The Impact Research showed that the DofE continues to offer successful personal development programmes for young people. It showed that young people do their DofE to have fun, and that support from Leaders and friends keeps them engaged.

Key findings:
• 90% of young people said doing their DofE has given them opportunities to help others.

• 82% noted their DofE has made them want to continue with volunteering/voluntary activities.

• 62% feel that doing their DofE has helped them make a positive difference to their local community.

• 74% of young people said they developed self-esteem.

• 64% feel that as a result of DofE they are better at sport or physical activity.

• 74% of young people said it allowed them to try activities they would never have tried before.

• 71% of young people identified improved self-belief.

• Three quarters of young people think their DofE Leaders are inspirational.


For more information on the programme, or to register your interest in joining the award scheme contact Jon Hart at Shakespeare Hall on jonathan.hart@waveleisure.co.uk or call 01273 510784.

The next scheme will commence as soon as participants are recruited.