Student growth through service: The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award at Lighthouse School

Author: Abe Ankers, Outdoor Education Lead

What is the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award?
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award (DofE) is a non-competitive, globally recognised programme for young people aged 14 to 24. It encourages participants to set personal goals and challenge themselves across four areas: service in the community, physical activity, skill development, and an adventurous journey in a team. The Award is delivered at three levels – Bronze, Silver, and Gold; progressing in duration, commitment, and challenge. 

The DofE Award was founded in the United Kingdom in 1956, and has been active in Mauritius since 1966. Today, the programme involves around 10,000 young people nationwide, supported by hundreds of adult volunteers.

The DofE Award at Lighthouse
The DofE Award at Lighthouse School was launched in 2023 with a small group of Bronze participants. We now have over 30 students, supported by a team of 5 Award Leaders, participating at all three award levels. We look forward to our first ever Gold Level Adventurous Journey in 2026 and to welcoming more students aboard in future.

As a school we are committed to holistic education and learning through experience. The DofE Award supplements our Outdoor Education Programme to provide students with opportunities to grow outside the classroom, take initiative, and build practical life skills. We are proud to deliver the Award, even prouder of our students.

What our Students are Saying
“Volleyball started as a sport I liked, which turned into a sport I loved as I pushed myself to keep training, leading to me competing in our Mauritius nationals for Intercollege and joining another Division 1 team. Through the DofE, I’ve earned achievements that I had only dreamed of a year ago.”
Simone Dalais, Gold Participant

“Doing the Dofe has taught me good teamwork, independence, a chance to express my adventurous side, and appreciate nature and my own achievements more.” Alison Collet, Silver Participant

“It has taught me both consistency and what an uncompromising work ethic looks like despite external factors.” Isaac Neeley, Gold Participant

“The DofE so far has pushed me beyond my usual comfort zone, built my confidence and helped me achieve things I thought were impossible, all while gaining new life skills like teamwork, perseverance and time management.” Tsitsi Zihove, Bronze Participant