Skip to content

Residential is about challenging yourself, embracing new experiences and having fun with new people. Your residential is a key part of your Gold Award where you can volunteer at a summer camp, work on a conservation project, do a course, or something else entirely.

During your residential, you’ll be in a new environment, surrounded by people you’ve never met. Together, you’ll take on challenges and work as a team to create meaningful impact. You can hone the skills you’ve developed through your hobbies or dive into a new experience.

Through completing the Residential section, you’ll experience real growth. Hopefully you’ll:

  • Develop your self-confidence
  • Work on your independence
  • Accept responsibility for yourself and others
  • Develop communication skills and effective coping mechanisms.

Your residential is more than just an activity week. It’s a chance to discover new passions and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Find inspiration in our Opportunity Finder and programme ideas. You can also use your Residential to combat climate change.

A young person kayaking, there is tall grass and a green hill behind them.
Residential requirements

Find out more about the Requirements and how you can make the most out of your Residential section.

Four young people at their residential high fiving.
Find the right Residential for you

Read our ideas for choosing your Residential activities.

Two people holding and looking at a large map.
Planning and preparation

Learn how to plan and prepare for your upcoming DofE Residential.

A young person writing on a big sheet of paper hanging on the wall with a red marker.
Safety tips

Here are a few safety tips to consider before starting your Residential.

Four D of E Youth Ambassadors standing in front of a purple wall holding signs that say listen to youth and Youth Without Limits.
Tips from Youth Ambassadors

Read the top tips from our 2024-25 DofE Youth Ambassadors about how to make the most of your Residential section.

A group of six people kayaking on a calm body of water surrounded by green grass and reeds along the water's edge.
Aims, principles and outcomes

Read about the aims, principles and outcomes you need to meet when doing your residential.

Opportunity Finder

This link opens an external site. All content is not affiliated with DofE. Please click proceed if you understand these risks.