Doing DofE was one of the best things I ever did and helped me form lasting friendships. I was lucky enough to go to a school that gave us the opportunity to do DofE and I'd like to help give that same life changing opportunity to others.

I completed my Silver DofE at the end of Yr 11 and recently completed my Gold. Not only did this give me a huge sense of personal achievement, but through the 'Volunteer' section, gave me an opportunity to get involved in the local community as a young leader for the local Guides. I also achieved my Grade 5 Theory and Grade 7 Practical  

Undoubtedly the most challenging part of completing the awards was the expedition, and I managed to injure myself on both (this is very funny in retrospect....); the first day of my Gold in fact! This didn't exactly make it the most fun experience I've ever had- there's nothing more fun that getting lost in the Cambrian Mountains when you can't put weight on your leg....but I can't describe the sense of relief as we saw our school minibus in the distance, and huge swell of pride as we crossed the 'finish line' arm in arm with our teacher cheering us on the last few steps. It's one of my best memories, and I got to know some incredible girls over both expeditions, some of whom are now some of my closest friends. Injuries and all, it was an experience I wouldn't change for the world. 

As I said at the start, I was lucky to go to a school that offered DofE, and was fortunate in that I could afford equipment etc. Not everyone is so lucky, so please consider donating and/ or sharing my page to help me raise money to give others the chance to make some incredible memories of their own.

Thanks for visiting my page and for taking the time to read this, 

Eloise x