International Declaration

The Award concept is one of individual challenge. It presents to young people a balanced, non-competitive program of voluntary activities which encourage personal discovery and growth, self reliance, perseverance, responsibility to themselves and service to their community.

Fundamental Principles

The criterion for gaining an Award is individual improvement through persistence and achievement, taking into account the participant's initial capabilities. It is solely concerned with individual effort and does not take into account competition between participants.
Participation is entirely voluntary and the individual participant has free choice in the selection of locally available options within the four Sections specified below.

There is no discrimination against participation on the grounds of gender, race, religion or political affiliation.

Ten Essential Philosophies

1. Non-competitive
2. Available to all
3. Value - process not prize
4. Flexibility
5. Balance
6. Progression
7. Focus on achievement
8. Marathon not a sprint
9. Voluntary
10. Enjoyable

The ten philosophies encapsulate the basis of the Award, its rules and operation. They should be the fundamental source of referral for leaders of the award.

It is imperative that all Award volunteers fully understand these philosophies and are confident in the application of their intent to the rules and conditions of the Awards Program.

The Award is 'low on rules and high on philosophy' which gives all young people, with the right support, the chance to succeed if they do their best.

Benefits to Participants

• Although completion of an Award in no way ensures employment, it is a definite advantage. Our research shows us that Awardees do have an edge!
• With the Award's emphasis on involvement in activites during partipants' own time, young people learn to make constructive use of leisure time.
• Participants in the Award help to improve the quality of the communities in which they live.
• The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is one of the most positive forces today in the nurturing of good citizenship.
• Through personal commitment to achieve an Award young people acquire essential life skills.
• As the Award is based on individual achievement, participants develop in character acquiring qualities such as self confidence, perseverance, and integrity.
• The Duke's Award is fun! Participants can expect to discover a new enthusiasm and a sense of adventure.