We believe the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme enriches our pupils’ experiences, both academically and personally. Many of the award’s values and aims mirror those held by the School.

We offer our pupils the opportunity to engage in the award from a young age. Introductory taster sessions in Year 9 pave the way for the programmes that run at Bronze, Silver and Gold levels as the pupils progress through their school lives.

Uniquely, Forest has a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Manager on-site who organises and arranges everything from taster sessions to overseas expeditions.

The School recognises the many benefits of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and are consistently placed within the top schools in London region and indeed the country for award completions each year. It encourages pupils to learn new skills, selflessly give their time to others and live a healthy and active life, all of which may well take them out of their comfort zone. Many universities and employers also value the award as it requires pupils to be busy all while building their skills and supporting their communities.

In Forest’s Combined Cadet Force, which is linked to the Royal Green Jackets, pupils gain military skills and are trained in first aid, orienteering and camp craft. Cadets can also take on various leadership roles within the contingent. There are field training days during term-time, an annual camp, and adventure training in Snowdonia. In addition, the Army offers courses in outdoor pursuits and leadership training in the holidays.