There are four main sections of a DofE programme; Volunteering, Physical, Skills, and Expedition.

Below, find the requirements for each section, including information on what activities count and how long to do them.

Volunteering: What activities count?

Volunteering is about giving time to do something meaningful, motivated by making a difference rather than making money.

Participants should look for impactful opportunities around them – this can be in person or online. Meaningful volunteering is different for everyone. There are many people and organisations that are willing to provide participants with opportunities for volunteering. An opportunity could be found within your community, at social enterprises, charities, not-for-profit organisations and Volunteering Approved Activity Providers.

Young people can also volunteer for social action causes, campaigns and within their Licensed Organisation (e.g., their school or youth group). Some commercial organisations can be considered, providing they can demonstrate that they offer volunteering opportunities in line with our outcomes and not as a financial benefit to themselves. Further guidance on commercial volunteering can be found in our FAQs on DofE.org.

You can also volunteer in a team, which might be an easier way to find an activity if you can identify a local need you can help with.

If you want information on how long to do the section please visit timescales.

Please click here for some frequently asked questions about the Volunteering section.

Please click here to download our flyer about volunteering with AAPs.

Physical: What activities count?

For your physical activity you need to choose any sport, dance or fitness activity – in short, anything that requires a sustained level of energy and physical activity. For example, playing a sport regularly and showing personal improvement would count. However, learning to be a coach in the same sport would be a Skills section activity, whilst being a volunteer coach counts for the Volunteering section.

If you want information on how long to do the section please visit timescales.

Please click here for some frequently asked questions about the Physical section.

Skills: What activities count?

For your skills activity you need to choose an activity that will allow you to prove you have broadened your understanding and increased your expertise in your chosen skill. It should not be a physical activity, for example horse riding, as this counts towards your Physical section, however, you could choose to learn about caring for horses.

If you want information on how long to do the section please visit timescales.

Please click here for some frequently asked questions about the Skills section.

Expedition: What activities count?

For your Expedition section, you will need to plan, train for and complete an unaccompanied, self-reliant expedition with an agreed aim. You must do the correct training for your level and mode of travel, at least one practice expedition, a qualifying expedition (the one that is assessed) and a final presentation in order to complete the section.

Your expedition must be completed by your own physical efforts (but you have loads of choices, not just on foot!) with minimal external intervention and without motorised assistance. Your route should also be a continuous journey.

If you want information on how long to do the section please visit timescales.

Modes of travel

• Foot
• Bicycle
• Boat
• Canoe or kayak
• Wheelchair
• Horseback

To help you choose and then find the right kit for your expeditions, the DofE Expedition Kit Guide offers key information, tips from the experts and money saving ideas.

Once you know what kit you need, the DofE Expedition Kit List is the essential checklist when preparing the kit you need. All DofE recommended kit is tried and tested, so you know it’s fit for expedition.