Olive Academies grows DofE Award at OA-Nene Valley thanks to funding from the Robert Hall Charity
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) scheme at OA-Nene Valley is expanding following a £10,260 investment awarded to the Olive Academies Foundation by the Robert Hall Charity.
Over the past two years, OA-Nene Valley has worked hard to embed high-quality enrichment and outdoor learning into its curriculum, recognising the powerful impact that challenge, adventure and shared experiences can have on pupils’ confidence and wellbeing.
Thanks to this funding, the academy can now take a major step forward in widening access to the nationally recognised DofE programme. The funding will enable all Year 10 and Year 11 pupils to complete their Bronze Award, which includes four sections: volunteering, physical activity, developing a skill, and taking part in an expedition. These experiences support the development of teamwork, independence and resilience, which are qualities that benefit pupils well beyond their time at OA-Nene Valley.
Importantly, for the first time, the academy will also be able to offer the Silver Award. This more demanding 12-month programme culminates in a three-day, two-night self-sufficient expedition, giving pupils an exceptional opportunity to test their limits, build trust with one another and experience genuine adventure.
The costs of enrolment, training, equipment, activities and expeditions are considerable and can be prohibitive for many families. This grant removes those barriers entirely. Without this funding, many pupils would not have access to these life-shaping opportunities to venture beyond their familiar boundaries and discover their own potential.
Part of the funding will also be used to expand the academy’s DofE equipment store, with investment in camping gear, hillwalking clothing, rucksacks and expedition resources. These items will support multiple cohorts for years to come, enabling pupils to take part safely, confidently and with a strong sense of ownership over their experience. This investment also strengthens the long-term sustainability of the programme.
At Olive Academies, we have a strong commitment to ensuring that students in alternative provision do not miss out on the opportunities typically available in mainstream settings. DofE reflects this commitment perfectly. It is aspirational, challenging and transformational, with skills, memories and confidence that stay with young people well into adulthood.
Olive Academies Foundation would like to extend sincere thanks to the Robert Hall Charity for recognising the importance of this work and for helping to remove barriers so that every young person can step into adventure.