The Duke of Edinburgh Program at Victoria International School

The prestigious Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) program provides an extraordinary opportunity for personal growth and skill development for students at our international school. By partnering with Rachel's Learning Centre, we have the opportunity to offer this unique program that encourages young people to push their limits, show persistence and engage in personal development.

The DofE program is renowned for its flexibility and ability to accommodate students' school, college or work commitments, allowing them to carry out activities in their own personal time. This feature makes it perfectly compatible with our students' dynamic lives, offering them the opportunity to include in the program activities they already enjoy, such as sports, volunteering, the arts, and more, setting SMART goals for each.

Program Structure

The DofE is divided into three levels-Bronze, Silver and Gold-each consisting of four main sections designed to provide a balanced program of personal development and challenge. To earn the Award at each level, participants must complete all four sections, which include:

Physical Activity: encouraging the development of personal fitness.
Skills: develop new skills or improve existing ones.
Service: engaging in voluntary community service.
Exploration: participate in an exploratory adventure.

I have to admit that the adventure journey was very challenging but no matter the difficulties we had it allowed everyone to create deeper bonds which helped shape the class the way it is today. Looking back at it now we had so much fun and we created unforgettable experiences - Vittoria C.

At the Gold level, they are also required to complete a residential project, offering participants the opportunity to learn and grow in a new and challenging environment away from their usual surroundings.

Benefits for Students

Participating in the Duke of Edinburgh program offers numerous benefits, including the development of leadership, resilience and the ability to work effectively in teams. Students learn to manage challenges, set and achieve personal goals, and make a difference in their community. The inclusive and adaptive nature of the program allows each participant to find their own path to growth, making it a truly unique and personal experience.

Already numerous students have tried their hand at the challenges of the Duke of Edinburgh program, experiencing firsthand the personal and professional development that comes with it. It is an unmissable opportunity to enrich one's education and better prepare for the future.

Why should families enroll their children in it?

Encouraging their children to participate in the DofE program offers numerous benefits. In addition to personal development and the acquisition of life skills, the program is highly regarded by universities and employers, often seen as a sign of a well-rounded and capable individual. It provides opportunities for young people to step out of their comfort zone, explore new horizons and contribute meaningfully to their community.

In addition, the DofE program emphasizes the importance of a balance between study and leisure, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle. It is a life-changing experience, offering precious memories and friendships that last a lifetime.

The adventure journey was very difficult, however extremely worthwhile: i learnt skill i wouldn’t have ever learnt before, and worked in a team! - Bianca P.

The adventure journey helped me in trying new things. For instance, I managed to sleep for some nights in a tent, which was something I was not used to. Moreover, the most challenging part was not having cell phones for many days without chatting with friends and family. - Sofia N.

The adventure joirney was an eventful adventure which taught me lots of things and most importantly I lasted more than i ever thought without a phone. communicated more with my peers and it was at the end of the day a lot of fun: after all the trauma we went through. - Margherita G.

The Duke of Edinburgh was an unforgettable experience. I am extremely grateful for having the opportunity of taking part. Not only I had an amazing time with my classmates, but it taught me the real value of communicating and group work. - Anya S.

The adventure journey was a great show of the importance of teamwork and perseverance. - Oscar H.

For me this adventure journey helped a lot "surviving" by ourselves and also I personally had a lot of fun sleeping with all my friends. - Soichi Y.

The adventure journey was a fine experience because it taught me to be more patient and try to be more open minded. I found it challenging but overall helped me to get closer to my classmates. - Amelie O.

The adventure journey was an amazing adventure, it taught me how to communicate in a better way with my classmates. - Carlotta T.

The adventure journey was a wonderful experience and I had a lot of fun. I’ve learned how to work as a group and help each other. The hardest part was not having my phone for a week but I believe it was worth it. - Martina C.