Westwood College

Debbie Allen at Westwood College in Staffordshire has successfully managed to double the number of DofE participants at the college.

Debbie has achieved this in several ways at the school, however, she believes that enthusiasm, with plenty of fun and laughs, is key when promoting the Award. She encourages meetings for Award holders to talk to other students about their experiences and share their funny stories popcorn, sweets and cakes are always a hit at these meet ups. She also ensures there are various promotional assemblies that show videos of the participants having a great time.

But Debbie also highlights the more serious side to the Award too, she promotes how it can add that extra something to the UCAS application form. Although an Award holder does not gain any UCAS points from the Award, it does make an application stand out. The Award shows commitment and dedication and can be a great conversation starter at any interview.

Debbie says “The impact of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award has made the enrichment of our sixth form courses has been truly impressive. At a time when the personal and interpersonal skills of our young people are becoming more and more desirable those involved in the scheme have benefited enormously.”