Some Common Questions

What is the Entrance Pack?

The Entrance Pack contains your Record Book and log sheets where you can record the time you spend on your activities.

What is the Record Book?

This is where you record the activities you have undertaken, it contains you personal goals and is signed by the assessor when you have completed an activity.

What Activities can I do?

If it exists, you can pobably do it. But, remember some activities may have age restrictions, and you will need an instructor (someone who is responsible for what you do as part of an activity). So make sure there is someone or a club locally who can do this role.

What is the Programmes File?

The Programmes File is produced by the Duke of Edinbugh's Award and is a list of the range of activities which are possible as part of an Award. Importantly, it also provides notes on what you should be able to achieve for each activity. This is useful for you and you instructor when setting your personal goals at the begining of an activity. You can view the same information on the Award's website (www.theaward.org).

What happens when I start an Activity?

When you start an activity you should discuss with the person running the activity (usually the instructor) what your goals should be. These are personal to you, and will be based on your previous ability or knowledge and what your instructor thinks you could achieve over the time of the activity. Your goals should be completley different from anyone else's. This is not a competition. It is about you setting a challenge for yourself. One that will push you, but at the same time be one that you can achieve in 3 or 6 months, or how long the activity lasts. Remember, when setting goals think about what you want to get out of the activity.

How much time do I spend on an activity each week?

The Award advises that you should spend on average 1 hour each week on your chosen activity over the time period the activity should last. Your Entrance Pack contains log sheets so that you can keep a record of the time you spend on your activities.

Who is the Assessor?

At the end of the time period of your activity it is essential that your record book has been signed by someone (the assessor) to show that you have achieved your goals. At Bronze your assessor may be the same person as the instructor. At Silver your assessor should be someone different to your assessor. At Gold the assessor must be someone else.

What do I do when I have completed all my activities?

When you have completed all your activities and your record book has been signed by all the assessors, hand your Record Book to the Officer in your Company who has overseen your D of E activity. They will forward it to the Battalion Convenor, where there is one, for countersigning and then to BB HQ for approval. You will then be presented with your Award.