A DofE Gold Residential entails taking part in a 5-day shared activity or specific course with people you don’t know, in a residential setting away from home and in an unfamiliar environment.
‘We are confident that our DofE Residentials meet DofE requirements, however as we will not be delivering Residentials in 2025, we have removed our approval from the DofE'
"I had a great time on my Gold residential and met some amazing people, the instructors were helpful and kind without being too controlling and overbearing. There was a great sense of independence while also knowing someone was always available if need be".
Helen Rose - DofE Residential Participant
Share experiences together and creates friendships and memories for life.
Your DofE residential programme will fulfil the requirements of the DofE Gold award, but they are open to any young person aged 16 - 25 years old.
DofE Residential programmes that have your enjoyment and learning at their heart.
Expertly trained, warm and friendly staff will welcome you to the programme and work with you and the group all week. You will make friends quickly, form a strong team and ultimately have a new family around you who you'll not want to leave at the end of the week.
NOTE: You do not need to be completing your DofE to take part in one of our residential programmes. Our residential programmes are open to all young people.
"They have provided inspiring and professional mountain leaders to aid our young people on their Gold DofE expedition. The team have been fantastic in supporting and communicating with us in addition to providing ideas to enhance our programme."
James Drury
DofE Manager - Scarborough 6th Form College
"The ultimate was seeing our students cast aside mobile phones to saw logs and create fires with such enthusiasm! We were supremely well supported by the team throughout and would have no hesitation in returning."
John Jones
Cheltenham College
I would highly recommend using The Adventure Element to complete your DofE award. One of the best experiences I have ever been a part of; it’s just a shame it had to come to an end. Thank you all.
Lizzie Anderson
DofE Open Expedition Participant - Duke of Edinburgh's Award
Search our knowledgebase. Helping you be prepared for your DofE expedition or Challenge Event.
Everyone makes mistakes but being aware of classic scenarios that DofE participants find themselves in is a great way to avoid making the same mistake too. Lets delve into common mistakes that participants make and how you can change tact. After all, we want to see you do the very best you can and help you achieve your full potential.
Here are some top tips to navigate the world of navigation... it can feel a little overwhelming but be rest assured there are heaps of tools in the box to help you determine your location and where you are heading. With plenty of practice these tools will soon become second nature. Let's get started!