The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award at NLCS (Singapore) is a transformative programme that empowers students to thrive in a dynamic and interconnected world. As a globally recognised initiative, the Award fosters self-confidence, resilience, responsibility, and leadership. It provides a structured framework for students to discover their passions, develop essential skills, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. By participating in the Award, students embody the school’s values of exceptional education, holistic development, and social responsibility, preparing them to make a lasting impact in the wider world.
The DoE Award is a non-formal education framework open to students aged 14 to 24. Available in over 120 countries, it offers participants the opportunity to challenge themselves across four key areas:
- Skills: Developing personal interests and practical abilities.
- Physical Recreation: Improving health, fitness, and performance through regular activity.
- Voluntary Service: Giving back to the community and cultivating a sense of compassion and active citizenship.
- Adventurous Journey: Engaging in a group expedition that fosters teamwork, self-reliance, and a sense of adventure
The programme is available at three levels—Bronze, Silver, and Gold—each requiring progressively greater commitment. Students must set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals for their activities, ensuring a structured and purposeful approach.
Participation in the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award offers students invaluable experiences and life skills, including:
- Building self-confidence and independence.
- Discovering new talents, interests, and passions.
- Developing leadership abilities and teamwork.
- Enhancing employability and university applications through a globally recognised accreditation.
- Making a tangible difference in the community.
At NLCS (Singapore), students are guided by dedicated Award Leaders and mentors to ensure a fulfilling and safe experience. Participants choose their activities within the Skills, Physical Recreation, and Voluntary Service sections, taking ownership of their progress while receiving support in setting and achieving their goals. For the Adventurous Journey section, students undergo training and practice expeditions to prepare for their final qualifying journey, which involves self-reliance, teamwork, and problem-solving.
The school takes pride in fostering a spirit of commitment and perseverance, enabling students to achieve their full potential while upholding the values of excellence, service and inclusivity.
Need to Know More?
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a globally recognised youth achievement programme which is currently on offer in more that 120 countries worldwide, supporting students to find their place, purpose and passion in the world. It is offered from the Bronze award, through to the Gold Award at NLCS (Singapore), giving students the chance to develop life skills and personal growth beyond academics.
Participants complete a balanced set of activities in four key areas: Skills, Physical Recreation, Voluntary Service and an Adventurous Journey (expedition), building character, resilience and competence. Students are required to log a certain amount of time preparing and taking part in each of the four components, with the adventurous journey being something that the school directly organises. Our dedicated DofE staff support the students offering advice and guidance in the other elements.
All students aged 14 years and above are eligible to join the Award, choosing from Bronze, Silver or Gold levels depending on their age and previous experience.
Yes, the Award is designed to be inclusive and accessible to all students, supporting different interests and abilities with flexible activity choices. The Adventurous Journey is designed to be challenging for all students, however with the right preparation, planning and practice it is accessible to all.
Students gain globally recognised accreditation, enhanced self-esteem, practical skills, leadership experience and stronger university or career readiness through proven resilience and initiative.
The Award is non-competitive; students set their own goals and progress at their own pace, focusing on personal growth rather than comparison with others. It is a personal development journey which is highly regarded by global universities and employers.
By taking on challenges outside the classroom, from service work to expeditions, students develop independence, self-confidence, teamwork, perseverance and social responsibility. It also supports students with their communication and organisational skills as well as taking responsibility for their own actions. By stepping out of their comfort zone, students develop a sense of self belief and can support themselves and others with resilience, perseverance and responsibility.
The Award complements academics by offering experiential learning in leadership, community service, physical fitness and personal development, rounding out the holistic, internationally-minded education at NLCS (Singapore)
Yes, the Award is globally recognised in over 120 countries and is valued by universities and employers for its demonstration of initiative, resilience, leadership and well-rounded character.
The Award requires regular participation over several months, with parents supporting by facilitating transport, permissions, and encouragement, especially for community service and expedition sections. Financial support will also be required for the Adventurous Journey elements of the award.
