The Duke of Edinburgh Award
Beyond the Classroom
Leadership and Service
Learning extends well beyond the classroom, and the international Duke of Edinburgh Award program offers students the opportunity to challenge themselves, serve their community, and develop the independence, resilience and leadership that universities and employers value.
Initiative, commitment & character
This globally recognised youth development program encourages students to set personal goals across four key areas: service, physical recreation, skills development and adventurous journeys. What makes the Award unique is that each student chooses activities that matter to them and works steadily towards meaningful personal milestones. The result is not just an award certificate, but a record of initiative, commitment and character.
What is it?
The Duke of Edinburgh Award is a structured framework that supports young people to:
- Contribute to their community through voluntary service
- Improve their health and teamwork through physical activity
- Develop new skills and interests outside the classroom
- Undertake expeditions that build independence, problem-solving and resilience
It is internationally recognised and highly regarded in future education and employment pathways because it demonstrates sustained commitment and personal growth.
Who is it for?
The Award is ideal for students who:
- Want to stand out in university and job applications
- Are motivated to learn leadership, teamwork and problem-solving
- Enjoy challenge and new experiences
- Want to give back to their community in meaningful ways
Any young person aged 14–25 can participate, and there are three levels (Bronze, Silver and Gold), each with different time commitments and expectations, making the program accessible to a wide range of students.
Students can begin the Award at any time of the year and progress at their own pace.
Integrated with their schedule
Bringing this award to life
One of the strengths of completing the Duke of Edinburgh Award at Korowa is how naturally it integrates with the opportunities already available through the school. Students often use:
- Trek and other Outdoor Education experiences for their "Adventurous Journey" component
- GSV sport, or various sporting clubs, as their Physical Recreation
- Music, Performing Arts and Languages as their Skills Development
- School and community service initiatives to meet their Service Goals
As such, rather than adding something extra to an already full schedule, the Award helps students recognise how their existing passions and commitments contribute to a larger personal achievement.
It provides structure, encouragement and purpose to activities students are already engaged in, helping them reflect on their growth and set meaningful goals.
Long-term benefits
More than an award
The Duke of Ed Award at Korowa is not simply an additional co-curricular activity. It is a way for students to see themselves as capable and independent; build confidence through real challenges; learn to plan, persist and reflect; and develop a strong sense of responsibility to others and the community. These are qualities that stay with students long after the Duke of Edinburgh Award program is complete.
Frequently asked questions
Who can participate in the Duke of Edinburgh Award at Korowa?
Students aged 14 and over can begin the Award. At Korowa, this typically means students start in Year 8 or higher, when they are already involved in sport, music, languages, service or outdoor education that can contribute towards the Award requirements.
Will my daughter need to take on extra activities to complete the Award?
Not necessarily. One of the strengths of completing the Duke of Edinburgh Award at Korowa is that many students are already involved in activities that can count towards it. GSV sport, rowing, netball and basketball often contribute to the Physical Recreation section. Music, Performing Arts and Languages are commonly used for the Skills component. Trek and Outdoor Education can support the Adventurous Journey requirement, and school or community service activities contribute to the Service section. The Award helps students give structure and purpose to things they are already doing.
How is the Adventurous Journey completed?
Korowa’s Trek program (Year 9) provides an ideal foundation for the Adventurous Journey component. Students develop navigation, teamwork and resilience skills through experiences that align naturally with Duke of Edinburgh requirements, supported by staff who are familiar with both programs.
When can students start, and how long does it take?
Students can begin the Award at any time of the year. There are three levels: Bronze, Silver and Gold, each with different time commitments. Students progress at their own pace, setting goals that fit alongside their school life and extra-curricular commitments.
See how Korowa helps girls turn opportunities like the Duke of Edinburgh Award into real confidence, capability and character. Book a tour and experience it for yourself.
