Membership: The Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme

The Award is for all young people, whatever their background or ability, between the ages of 14 and 25. It gives opportunities for personal achievement, adventure, community and social involvement and a widening of interests.

There are three levels - Bronze, Silver and Gold. Within these levels there are 4 seconds with 5 at Gold. The Award is widely recognised by employers and people involved in education. Participants can discover exciting opportunities; make new friends; participate in teamwork, problem-solving and decision-making; increase their motivation and self-esteem and also develop their communication skills.

Service

Participants can be a local hero, they can help out in the community, the environment or even train to save a life.

Skills

This section is where participants can do something different, whether it's a fine arts course or training to be a trapeze artist, there's something that will suit everyone.

Physical Recreation

This section involves anything physical. It could be that you see yourself as the next Beckham? Virtually any sport, dance or fitness activity can count towards the award.

Expedition

Participants train, plan and complete an adventurous journey in the countryside on foot, horseback, boat or cycle. It is on these expeditions that many people's best memories are made.

Residential Project

For Gold Award Participants only they can work as a team on a conservation, service or activity-based project for five days.