Napier Students’ Association becomes first to offer world renowned programme
An Edinburgh university students group has become the first higher education organisation to offer the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) programme directly to its students.
Napier Students’ Association (NSA) has been given a licence to operate is own DofE programme – the first time any organisation in Scotland has done so without the help of a local council.
The franchise move makes it easier for older students, up to the age of 24, to get support to do the internationally recognised award and develop their skills for life and work.
Seen by employers as a mark of excellence across the UK and indeed the world, there are currently over 42,000 young people taking part in programmes in Scotland at 960 DofE centres.
To achieve an award participants have to carry out volunteering work, complete an expedition and improve their physical and practical and social skills.
It’s very exciting for us as an organisation to see the expansion of the DofE into higher education in Scotland
It’s estimated that the volunteering and community work participants do is worth £41 million to society.
Barry Fisher, director of DofE Scotland said: “It’s very exciting for us as an organisation to see the expansion of the DofE into higher education in Scotland.
“The DofE is known primarily as something you do in school, but young people can complete their DofE up until their 25th birthday.
“Napier Students’ Association is leading the way in providing the DofE to those 18 and over in Scotland. We look forward to working with them to help students get the most out of the programme.”
Ryan Strachan, NSA vice-president for reps and volunteers added: “This is a fantastic achievement for NSA and a great opportunity for Edinburgh Napier students.
“We are very proud to be a licensed organisation and to be able to support students beginning their DofE journey or completing an Award they have already started.
“The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is recognised around the world and I’m very pleased that our international students, as well as our UK and EU nationals, will be able to complete their DofE Award while studying at Edinburgh Napier University.”
