At Market Field School, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) makes an important contribution to students’ personal development, supporting them to become confident, resilient and responsible young people. The programme strongly reflects our core values of Respect, Excellence and Friendship, and provides meaningful opportunities for pupils to apply these values beyond the classroom.

Supporting personal development

Participation in the DofE enables students to develop the skills, attitudes and character traits that underpin success in education and later life. Through sustained commitment over time, pupils learn to take responsibility for their actions, manage challenges and demonstrate perseverance.

The programme supports students with:

• Develop self-confidence, resilience and independence
• Show respect for others, the community and the wider environment
• Work collaboratively, building positive friendships and teamwork skills
• Set ambitious personal goals and strive for excellence
• Prepare for future education, employment and adult life

Character, responsibility and citizenship

The volunteering section of the DofE encourages students to make a positive contribution to society, promoting social responsibility and active citizenship. Pupils learn the importance of commitment, reliability and service to others, reinforcing expectations around behaviour, respect and contribution to the wider community. At Market Field School, volunteering may include supporting younger children in class, helping in playgrounds, litter picking or caring for the environment.

High expectations and resilience

The skills and physical sections support pupils to develop interests, talents and healthy lifestyles. Students are encouraged to reflect on their progress, respond positively to challenge and take pride in improvement, reinforcing a culture of high expectations and aspiration. Skills may include 'large' artwork such as sculpture, learning to cook a two-course meal or public speaking. Physical is often covered through hiking, use of the school gym, trips to indoor climbing centres or open water aqua parks.

Friendship, teamwork and leadership

The expedition section provides a structured opportunity for pupils to develop teamwork, leadership and problem-solving skills. Students learn to communicate effectively, support one another and make responsible decisions, particularly in unfamiliar or challenging situations.

These experiences help pupils to understand the value of positive relationships and mutual respect, directly supporting the development of strong behaviour and attitudes.

As our students all have SEND needs, there is no requirement for the expedition to include an overnight element. Our expedition lasts two days and students return home for the night, continuing the expedition from their last location the next morning. 

Our provision

Market Field School offers the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award at Bronze level, adapted to meet the needs of our learners. The programme is well-supported by trained staff, who provide clear guidance, monitoring and encouragement throughout each stage.

Participation is inclusive and accessible, enabling pupils of different abilities and backgrounds to succeed and to achieve recognised outcomes that are valued by further education providers and employers.

Impact

Through engagement in the DofE, students at Market Field School demonstrate:

• Increased confidence and maturity
• Improved independence and resilience
• Stronger social skills and friendship groups
• A clear understanding of respect, responsibility and commitment
• Evidence of wider personal development beyond the academic curriculum

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award plays a significant role in preparing our students for life beyond school, ensuring they leave Market Field School as well-rounded individuals who live out our values of Respect, Excellence and Friendship.

How is DofE taught at Market Field School?

For children in KS4, on Pathway 1 or Pathway 2, DofE is a timetabled lesson which runs weekly, usually in the morning. For children on Pathway 3, DofE is an option group and children may choose to participate in this with options being chosen in the summer term of year 9. It is then taught in a timetabled 'options' slot, usually in an afternoon session.