Gold DofE Summer Start Package (Includes Practice & Qualifier)

This programme is exclusively available to St Dominic’s Grammar School students.

Give your child a structured, rewarding start to their Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award this summer—alongside friends, with expert support every step of the way.

This package is designed specifically for Year 11 leavers, providing a clear pathway from the end of school through to completing their Gold award over the next 12 months.

🧭 Why Start This Summer?

The transition between school and college can often leave students with long periods of unstructured time. This programme turns that time into something meaningful.

With Summit Explorers, they will:

• Begin a nationally recognised and highly respected award

• Stay active, social, and engaged over the summer

• Complete their expedition with friends from school

• Build confidence, independence, and resilience

• Strengthen college, university, and job applications

🗺️ How the Programme Works

🥾 Step 1 – Gold Practice Expedition (This Summer)

Choose one of the following 3-day expeditions:

• 11th – 14th July

• 24th – 27th August

Students will develop all required expedition skills including navigation, campcraft, cooking, and teamwork.

📆 Step 2 – Complete the Remaining Sections (12 Months)

After the summer, students complete:

• Volunteering

• Physical

• Skill

This can be done independently, through college, or with guidance from Summit Explorers.

🏕️ Step 3 – Residential Section

Participants choose a 5-day residential experience through the DofE opportunities portal—ranging from outdoor adventures to career-based experiences.

🧭 Step 4 – Qualifying Expedition (Next Year)

Students will receive a voucher code to book onto any of our 4-day Gold qualifying expeditions next year at a time that suits them.

💷 What’s Included – £395

This is a complete, all-in-one package:

✔ DofE Gold Registration Fee
✔ 3-Day Practice Expedition (Summer 2026)
✔ 4-Day Qualifying Expedition (2027)
✔ Tent Hire (shared accommodation)
✔ Cooking Equipment & Stove Systems
✔ Full Supervision by Qualified Mountain Leaders
✔ Ongoing Support & Guidance Throughout the Year

👥 Who Is This For?

• Year 11 students finishing school this summer

• Students who have completed Bronze and/or Silver DofE

• Those wanting to continue with their existing friendship groups

• Anyone looking to make the most of their summer before college

🔒 Why Choose Summit Explorers?

• DofE Approved Activity Provider (AAP)

• Experienced, qualified Mountain Leaders

• Proven track record delivering safe, high-quality expeditions

• Supportive, inclusive approach—ideal for mixed ability groups

• Flexible progression to fit around college commitments

📲 Secure Your Place

Spaces are limited to ensure high-quality supervision and support.

🧠 Final Note

This is more than just an expedition—it’s a structured, supported pathway to completing one of the UK’s most respected youth awards, starting at exactly the right time.