The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award – ‘a DIY kit to becoming an adult’
Every day more than 1,800 young people aged between 14 and 24 embark on their Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. Since its launch in 1956, more than 6+ million people worldwide have gained an Award. Right now, more than one million young people are striving to achieve their Bronze, Silver, or Gold Awards in more than 130 countries and territories.
His Royal Highness, The Duke of Edinburgh, originally set up the Award to support and challenge young men during the period between leaving school at 15 and starting National Service at 18. Labelled by the Prince as a ‘DIY kit to becoming an adult’, two years later in 1958, the Award was expanded to include women. Today, it is a truly global initiative open to all young people from every walk of life in multiple countries around the world.
Since it started more than 60 years ago, millions of young people have explored interests, experienced adventure, served their communities and developed their resilience, making The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award one of Prince Philip’s greatest legacies.
A staunch advocate and champion of young people throughout his life, Prince Philip believed they have more courage, strength and compassion than they realise. Rather than a competition therefore, the Award provides a means for young people to challenge themselves and to realise their infinite potential.
One of the most remarkable features of the Award is its flexibility. Just as no two participants are the same, each Award programme is unique. This means it is genuinely inclusive and can be achieved by anyone, anywhere. It may be one Award, but there are millions of possibilities and opportunities.
Through the Award, Prince Philip has helped countless young people transition from childhood to adulthood, supported others to turn their lives around and provided a sense of purpose and direction. Generations of young people have transformed their lives, acquired new confidence and found their place and passion in the world.