The Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is the pinnacle of the world's leading youth achievement award, and completing the expedition is a remarkable feat that requires dedication, perseverance, and teamwork. Sounds pretty impressive? 

Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a newbie to the outdoors, embarking on this journey is an experience that will test and push you to your limits, but the rewards and personal growth are worth it. In future years you will undoubtedly look back on your DofE journey with many memories, lessons learnt and friends made. In many cases, it can even be the inspiration for a career in the outdoors.  

Preparing for the Challenge 

Before you set foot on the route, it's not only crucial and hugely beneficial to you, it is in fact a requirement to undergo considerable preparation to ensure a safe and successful expedition. It helps you nail the key skills and knowledge base required to make the most of the DofE experience and set you up for future adventures. Practice makes perfect!

We appreciate it can feel a little overwhelming which is why we have created a go-to guide to take you through your training. Make use of this as you prepare for your Gold DofE expedition and feel confident you are coming in giving yourself the best chance of success.

Physical Fitness 

The Gold expedition demands a high level of physical fitness, as you'll be journeying for up to eight hours each day, carrying everything you need in a rucksack for the duration, and navigating challenging terrain. Regular exercise, including cardio and strength training, is essential to build endurance, stamina, and overall fitness. Being fit for the task at hand eases one challenging aspect of the expedition and enables you to dedicate more energy and better focus on the other skills required of you. REMEMBER: You wouldn't get off the sofa and run a marathon without going through a period of training first. 

Navigation Skills 

Navigating in the wilderness requires mastering the art of map reading and the use of a compass. You will be taught these skills during a training practice expedition, but practice techniques regularly, both indoors and outdoors. Developing these skills are necessary to finding your way in unfamiliar environments. There are many resources available, both online and offline, to help you with this and teach you the bits you’re unsure of. The more time spent pouring over the map and finding confidence in navigating from A to B is only going to strengthen your skills on expedition. 

Camping and Outdoor Skills 

Camping is an integral part of the Gold expedition, and you'll need to be proficient in setting up and taking down tents, cooking meals over a camp stove, and managing your personal hygiene. Potentially, you will be doing this in all sorts of weather! Practice camping skills in your garden or nearby campsite to gain hands on experience and learn to get quicker and more efficient at it. Getting your tent up and kit out in good time will soon become second nature. 

Teamwork and Communication 

The DofE Award is built around developing teamwork. Naturally therefore the Gold expedition is a team effort, and effective communication with your team members is crucial for success. Practice working together, resolving conflicts, and making decisions as a group. Develop clear communication protocols to ensure everyone is on the same 'page’ throughout the expedition. For obvious reasons, prior preparation is not possible on an DofE Open Award programme. However, aim to be aware of your own contributions on this expedition and get to know your team-mates quickly. Utilise everyone's strengths, support where you can and get stuck in from the very beginning! 

Mental Preparation 

The DofE Award is not designed to be an unpleasant slog but it can present challenges that may test you. The DofE Gold expedition is not just about physical endurance; it's also a mental challenge. Be prepared to develop resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving skills to handle unexpected situations and maintain motivation throughout the journey. Think about times that you have overcome situations that you thought were insurmountable. What did you do? How did you behave? What advice did you take and act on? 

Practice Expeditions 

As well as being an essential and integral part of the programme, DofE practice expeditions are invaluable for testing your skills and readiness for the Gold qualifying expedition. Embark on practice expeditions fully prepared for a learning experience, and with an open mind to help identify areas for improvement and gain confidence in your abilities. See it as a useful insight for what is to come and enjoy the experience!

Gear and Equipment 

Invest in high-quality, lightweight gear that is appropriate for the terrain and weather conditions you'll encounter. There is a fine balance of ticking off the kit list and keeping your pack as light as possible! If you will struggle to buy all the equipment needed, it is a good idea to borrow from others. Perhaps you have family members who have a decent waterproof that spends most of its time in an understairs cupboard. Ask around, people are surprisingly generous towards the DofE Award! Pack essential items such as a tent, sleeping bag, stove, cooking utensils, first aid kit, and appropriate clothing and footwear. Pay attention to the supplied DofE kit list and, if possible, liaise with your other team members on shared kit provision. Remember, The Adventure Element provides some essential group kit too. Just leave space in your rucksack to pack it! 

Risk Assessment and Safety 

Safety is paramount throughout the expedition. You and your team should be fully focused on ensuring you all stay safe and that sensible choices are made throughout. Be aware of potential hazards and implement safety protocols to minimise risks. This is nothing ‘formal’ for you – just apply your common sense and simply pay attention to your surroundings. Familiarise yourself with emergency procedures and have a plan in place for handling unforeseen situations. Discuss this with your instructor or supervisor prior to the expedition.

Enjoy the Experience 

While training and preparation is crucial, don't forget to embrace the adventure and enjoy the journey. The Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expedition is an opportunity to connect with nature, challenge yourself, and create lasting memories. 

Remember, the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expedition is a rewarding experience that requires dedication, preparation, and teamwork. By following these guidelines and embracing the challenge, you'll be well-equipped to succeed on your expedition and achieve this prestigious award.

Preparation and practice in the bag, we wish you the very best of luck!