History Of The Award
History
In the autumn of 1954, HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, was inspired by his former headmaster, Dr. Kurt Hahn, to conceptualize a national initiative aimed at nurturing the development of young people. The Duke of Edinburgh sought to empower young men during their free time, encouraging them to explore their interests, build self-confidence, and develop a sense of purpose that would shape them into well-rounded citizens.
In 1955, after engaging in discussions with the Minister of Education, Prince Philip approached several national voluntary youth organizations predominantly consisting of male members. A collaborative effort with Sir John Hunt led to the launch of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award pilot program in February 1956.
The program, under the guidance of its first Director, Sir John Hunt, was structured into four distinct sections: Rescue and Public Service, Expeditions, Pursuits and Projects, and Fitness. These components were meticulously designed to provide comprehensive support, guidance, and skill development to young men, aligning with the Duke’s original vision of holistic youth empowerment.
Over the subsequent decades, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) underwent significant evolution. In 1980, a pivotal change occurred when the age limit was extended, allowing participation from young people aged 14 to 24. Concurrently, the DofE programs adopted the contemporary four-section format comprising Volunteering, Physical Activities, Skills, and Expedition, with an added Residential section at the Gold level. This revised structure aimed to provide a well-rounded developmental experience for participants.
The DofE’s popularity continued to soar, gaining widespread recognition and acceptance. Today, it is a global phenomenon, with more than 130 countries and territories incorporating The Award Programme as part of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation. This expansive reach signifies the enduring impact of Prince Philip’s vision, touching the lives of countless young individuals worldwide, fostering their personal growth, and shaping them into responsible and capable citizens.
