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7. Duke Of Edinburgh
Adventure, Skills & Leadership
Adventure. Growth. Achievement.
Queensgate College proudly provides Duke Of Edinburgh expeditions to schools and groups worldwide. Our Duke of Edinburgh Award Expeditions are for students aged 14 to 24 eager to develop essential survival skills such as navigation, first aid, and bushcraft.
Whether navigating rugged landscapes, mastering fire-making skills, or engaging in a meaningful community project that fosters a sense of connection, sustainability and responsibility, participants will return home with greater confidence, a network of new friendships, and unforgettable memories in the north of Spain.
The Duke of Edinburgh Award
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) is a globally recognised youth development programme designed to empower young people with essential life skills, resilience, and a sense of adventure. Open to individuals aged 14 to 24, this programme encourages participants to challenge themselves, develop independence, and positively impact their communities.
The Purpose of the Duke of Edinburgh Award
At its core, the DofE Award is about personal growth and achievement. It provides young people with opportunities to:
✅ Develop confidence, resilience, and leadership skills.
✅ Step outside their comfort zone and take on new challenges.
✅ Build a sense of responsibility through volunteering and community work.
✅ Acquire practical skills that will benefit their future career and enrich their personal life.
✅ Experience adventure, such as specific outdoor activities like hiking, camping, orienteering, and self-reliance in an outdoor setting.
The programme is designed to be flexible and accessible, empowering you to shape your journey based on your unique interests and aspirations.

Centro Botín - centro de arte - Santander

Santander - Landscape
Duke of Edinburgh Awards 
Bronze Award
Requires: minimum of 26 weeks to complete
Includes: Volunteering, Skill Development, Physical Recreation, and Adventurous Journey
Silver Award
Requires: minimum of 26 weeks to complete
Includes: Volunteering, Skill Development, Physical Recreation, and Adventurous Journey
Gold Award
Requires: minimum of 26 weeks to complete
Includes: Volunteering, Skill Development, Physical Recreation, Adventurous Journey and Residential
The Four Core Sections (Plus One Extra at Gold Level!)
🤝 Volunteering
Contribute to the community and experience the joy of making a positive impact! Whether helping a local charity, mentoring younger students, or preserving the environment, this section cultivates dedication and the confidence to effect change.
💪 Physical Recreation
This is all about getting active, from team sports to dance, swimming, and rock climbing. Working individually or as a team, young people develop determination and discipline while having fun!
🎨 Skill Development
Learning an instrument, mastering a culinary art, coding a new app, or honing photography skills, this section is a journey of personal growth and empowerment. It’s about developing new abilities, boosting self-confidence, and gaining real-world skills.
⛺ Adventurous Journey
Plan it, train for it, and do it! This is where teamwork and resilience shine. Participants hike, navigate, camp, and explore while learning survival skills, leadership, and self-reliance. It’s challenging, rewarding, and unforgettable!
🏡 Residential (Gold Level Only)
For Gold participants, the Residential section takes things to the next level! They’ll stay away from home, work with new people, and participate in a shared project. This is all about building independence, teamwork, and adaptability in new surroundings.

Young people climbing

Sailing in Santander
What Are Adventurous Journeys ? 
Adventurous Journeys empowers participants to plan, train for, and undertake a self-sufficient outdoor journey as a team, overcoming challenges and achieving a sense of accomplishment.
Participants must:
✅ Planning a route & navigating through different landscapes.
✅ Carrying all necessary equipment, including tents, food, and cooking gear.
✅ Building teamwork and problem-solving skills in real-time situations.
✅ Developing practical survival skills, such as first aid, shelter-building, and fire-making.
✅ Experiencing the awe-inspiring beauty of nature while learning how to respect and protect the environment, inspiring a deep appreciation for the natural world in participants.

Young people hiking
Why Choose Our DofE Programme in Spain?
✅ An International Experience
Students complete their DofE award in Spain, immersing themselves in a new culture, language, and environment while honing essential life skills. This unique international experience broadens their horizons and creates lasting memories.
✅ Expert Supervision & Support
Our programme is led by experienced, trained leaders and outdoor specialists who ensure safety, guidance, and support at every step.
✅ A Stunning Natural Setting
Students will embark on challenging and rewarding expeditions across the diverse landscapes of Cantabria. It’s a stunning natural setting that will inspire and motivate.
✅ Immersive Skill-Building Activities
Students will engage in language learning, teamwork exercises, leadership challenges, and community projects that help them grow and develop as individuals.
Get in Touch!
As an activity provider for the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, we offer students a unique opportunity to experience immersive, challenging, and rewarding expeditions in Spain. Our programmes inspire young people to develop confidence, resilience, and independence.
Guided by our team of experienced and qualified instructors passionate about outdoor education and safety and aligned with the DofE Award requirements, participants gain invaluable life skills through hands-on outdoor experiences, navigating diverse terrains and varying conditions.
If you would like to discuss how we can help you with your Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme, contact us at:
Tel: +34 942 18 40 78
Email: olivia@queensgatecollege.com
📅 Book your school’s expedition today!

Any questions?