The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a voluntary, non-competitive programme of practical, cultural and adventurous activities, designed to support the personal and social development of young people aged 14-25, regardless of gender, background or ability. It offers an individual challenge and encourages young people to undertake exciting, constructive, challenging and enjoyable activities in their free time. All Awards must be completed by the participant’s 25th birthday.

Participants in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme gain expertise in four areas: service to the community, a skill or hobby, physical recreation and expeditions. Many activities (from lifesaving to survival swimming) are eligible for inclusion in the scheme but must take place outside the school timetable.

The RLSS UK awards and qualifications available from British lifesaving clubs can count towards the 'service' category for all levels of the Duke of Edinburgh Awards Scheme. Read on for more information.

Bronze Level

• Lifesaving 1, 2 , 3 (12+)
• Bronze Medallion (13+)

Silver Level

• Bronze Medallion* (13+)
• Award of Merit (14+)
• Assistant Teacher (14+)

Gold Level

• Award of Merit* (14+)
• Distinction (14+)
• National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (16+)
• National Beach Lifeguard Qualification (16+)
• Assistant Teacher* (14+)
• Trainer Assessor (18+)

  * Where these awards have not been achieved previously.

  Upon achieving the awards, you need to provide related services to the community for at least one hour per week for a minimum period of:

  • Bronze Level - 3 months
  • Silver Level - 6 months
  • Gold Level - 12 months

  Many lifesaving clubs have opportunities for you to complete this service throughout the year, by providing volunteer lifeguard cover at the pool or beach, being an assistant teacher at Rookies sessions or running courses as a trainer assessor. Please ask your local lifesaving club for more details about available awards.