An exciting opportunity for Students Year 9 and above
I am excited to introduce the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Program, available to Year 9 students and above at GCC. This program is a fantastic opportunity for students to embark on a journey of personal growth, skill development, and adventure.
Starting the program in Year 9 allows students ample time to complete their Gold level before finishing Year 12, should they choose to continue. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is internationally recognised and designed to equip young people with valuable life and work skills through various challenges and experiences.
What Does the Program Involve?
Key Elements:
- Open to all young people aged 14 to 24.
- Three levels: Bronze, Silver, and Gold, each offering progressively more challenging tasks.
Commitment:
Participants complete activities in three sections, dedicating one hour per week to each:
- Physical Recreation
- Skill Development
- Voluntary Service
Adventurous Journeys:
Each level includes two adventurous journeys:
- Bronze: 2 days, 1 night
- Silver: 3 days, 2 nights
- Gold: 4 days, 3 nights
- Gold (Residential Project): 5 days, 4 nights
Achieving an Award
The program recognises individual goal setting, persistence, and achievement. It also counts towards the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE), offering up to four credits.
Time Commitments:
- Bronze: Minimum 6 months
- Silver: Minimum 6 months (if Bronze completed), otherwise 12 months
- Gold: Minimum 12 months (if Silver completed), otherwise 18 months
Benefits of the Award
Participants embark on a transformative journey where they:
- Earn points for GCC Eagle Award (year 9 students only)
- Strive for personal excellence
- Develop responsibility and decision-making skills
- Engage with and contribute to their community
- Build resilience, perseverance, and essential life skills
- Enhance career prospects
- Make new friends and strengthen teamwork skills
A Global Network
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is active in over 130 countries, with millions of young people benefiting worldwide.
Core Principles of the Award:
- Encourages independent decision-making and goal setting
- Provides an inclusive framework catering to diverse interests
- Builds social connections and fosters youth development
Cost and Registration
While GCC covers most expenses related to adventurous journeys, families are responsible for registration fees:
- Bronze: $186.25
- Silver: $191.80
- Gold: $197.25
The program is entirely voluntary, allowing participants to tailor their activities to their interests and ambitions.
Ready to Join?
If you are interested in registering or learning more, visit the Duke of Ed Gateway Page for instructions. For any queries, feel free to contact me via email at jared.bullock@glasshouse.qld.edu.au.
Important Deadlines:
- Year 9 students are encouraged to sign up before the end of term 1 to ensure they have enough time to complete before the end of year 9.
- Year 10 and 11 students are encouraged to sign up for Silver before the end of Term 1.
Looking forward to an exciting year ahead!
The photos below are of some of the Duke of Ed adventures in 2024
Jared Bullock, Duke of Ed Coordinator