Are you passionate about the DofE and ensuring equal opportunities for young people from all backgrounds?

Would you like to share your positive DofE experiences to inspire more young people to get involved?

Do you want to be given a platform to speak out on issues that impact you and your generation?

If the answer is yes, why not apply to be a DofE UK Youth Ambassador?

We believe in youth without limits – bringing communities together, sharing skills and creating opportunities. We’re here to empower young people; to support them as they overcome obstacles and build confidence and resilience. If you would like to go further with your DofE and help to shape our future, join our 2023 – 2024 UK Youth Ambassador Programme.

The DofE UK Youth Ambassador programme is generously supported by The Gosling Foundation.

To find out more about what you can expect from the Programme, take a look at the 2022 – 2023 UK Youth Ambassadors Newsletters:

 Summer Newsletter Winter Newsletter Spring Newsletter

Who are the DofE UK Youth Ambassadors?

DofE UK Youth Ambassadors are enthusiastic about sharing their stories and ensuring youth voices are heard to make a positive, lasting change. They’re advocates for the DofE and want to inspire others, they’re collaborators looking to work with other like-minded people from a range of backgrounds across the UK. Youth Ambassadors are both positive and solution focused with an interest in tackling social issues like mental health, climate change, employment, and inequality.

What does the DofE UK Youth Ambassador Programme involve?

Now entering it’s third year, you can expect a varied and engaging programme of activities running from June 2023 – May 2024. In your role you will be in a team of 30 young people from a range of backgrounds across the UK; learning new skills, contributing your ideas, and making a positive, long-lasting difference.

As an Ambassador, you’ll have the opportunity to:
  • Represent the DofE at numerous events (both in person and online) to share your story and represent the voices of young people from across the UK. These range from DofE Conferences and Regional Meetings to Party Conferences and Royal Visits.
  • Shape the future of DofE by participating in online working groups across a range of internal departments to ensure we continue to be accessible and inclusive to those who need it the most.
  • Take part in monthly online skills building workshops developing new skills like using your voice, speaking to the media, as well as designing and implementing creative campaigns.
Your commitment to the Programme

The Programme will run from June 2023 until May 2024.

Required:

  • This is a 12-month commitment, with regular engagement (on a weekly basis) to share opportunities and provide updates to the rest of the team.
  • Over the course of the year, you will take part in monthly online workshops and skills building sessions. These usually take place on a Thursday evening from 6.30pm – 8pm.

The dates for the first three online workshops are:

  • Welcome to Ambassadors – Thursday 15th June
  • BodyTalk Public Speaking Skills Session – Wednesday 19th & Thursday 20th July OR Wednesday 26th & Thursday 27th July
  • Inspirational Speaker Session – Thursday 31st August

You will be able to have input into the topics of future workshops throughout the year and we will go into more detail about this during the Welcome to Ambassadors Workshop.

Opt-In:

  • Opportunities to get involved in several team projects and produce creative content for our social media channels.
  • Opportunities to take part in a range of exciting events throughout the year on both a regional and UK wide level (we aim to offer you the chance to take part in a minimum of five in person events during your time as an Ambassador).
  • You will also be able to join one (or several depending on your interests) online working groups to share your views and feedback and shape the direction of the DofE.

We would suggest setting aside around 4 – 6 hours a month to be able to make the most of the UK Youth Ambassador Programme.

You will be given access to our online UK Youth Ambassadors Slack group, which we’ll use regularly to communicate plans, projects, additional opportunities, and actively engage with your fellow Ambassadors. Please don’t worry if you don’t know what this is, we’ll help you get signed up, and if you need an alternative method of communication we’ll support you with that too!

Requirements to apply
  • Aged between 16 – 24 at point of application.
  • Achieved a minimum of one level of your DofE Award.
  • Passionate about the DofE and happy to share your journey with others and talk about the difference it has made to your life.
  • A team player who is excited at the prospect of working alongside other DofE participants from a range of backgrounds and life experiences across the UK.
  • Open to sharing your views and experiences, and interested in discussing social issues that affect your generation.
  • Have enough time to be able to commit to the Programme (approximately 4 – 6 hours per month, checking for updates and event opportunities on Slack weekly).
  • If you are under 18, you will need consent from your parent or guardian to apply.

In addition, the ability to join sessions online will be important so if you think this might be a barrier to you taking part please let us know in your application and we’ll work with you to find a solution.

We welcome people from diverse backgrounds, religions, culture, gender identities, abilities, and perspectives to apply. We’ll provide the support you need to get the most out of the programme and work with you around your needs.

What’s in it for you?

The Youth Ambassador Programme is voluntary, and any reasonable expenses will be covered provided we agree these in advance with you. If you join the 2023-2024 cohort, you’ll benefit from:

  • Access to several upskilling workshops designed to increase your understanding of important issues, and develop new interests and skills.
  • Learn how to use your voice for change, design creative campaigns and put forward ideas for the DofE’s wider communications strategy.
  • Gain experience and confidence communicating with other young people and adults in a professional setting including public speaking.
  • Work alongside other like-minded young people who share a passion for the DofE and the contribution it can make to the lives of others and getting to know young people from all over the UK.
  • Use the Youth Ambassador Programme as the Volunteering section for your own DofE with DofE staff taking on the role of your Assessor.
  • A fantastic addition to your CV and a chance to hear more about further opportunities within the education, youth work and social action setting.

How to apply:

Applications are now closed.

dofe_testimonial_quoteApplying to become an Ambassador was one of the best decisions I ever made. It has given me so many opportunities.
Ez
UK Youth Ambassador
dofe_testimonial_quoteThis role has sincerely been the best opportunity that I've taken. It has been an unforgettable experience.
Louis
UK Youth Ambassador
dofe_testimonial_quoteMy experience as an Ambassador has opened so many opportunities.
Evie
UK Youth Ambassador
dofe_testimonial_quoteSince becoming a Youth Ambassador I’ve gained more confidence in the value of my own voice, and in my public speaking skills.
Zoe
UK Youth Ambassador

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