Students demonstrate the real-world skills built through the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award
His Royal Highness Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, met Dubai College students this week as they hosted a special showcase of their Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award work.
Held on Monday 2 February, the event brought together students, educators and invited guests, including Aisha Miran, Director General of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). The focus was on how the Award works in practice in UAE schools, and the key skills it builds alongside academic learning.
The showcase explored the Award’s Adventurous Journey element, one of four sections that challenge participants to plan, train for and complete an expedition.
Practical stations demonstrated expedition-ready skills such as first aid, navigation, campcraft, cooking and kit preparation, giving visitors a hands-on view of how students prepare for Bronze, Silver and Gold levels.
A roundtable discussion followed, in which pupils described how balancing the Award alongside exams can strengthen responsibility, teamwork and problem-solving. Students also discussed the broader framework — volunteering, physical recreation and developing a personal skill — designed to help young people build confidence, independence and a sense of purpose.
Why the Duke of Edinburgh Award matters for teens
Open to 14–24-year-olds, the Award operates in more than 100 countries and territories through schools, youth organisations and community groups.
Dubai College has offered the Award for more than 40 years, supporting more than 3,500 students through its different levels. Past Adventurous Journeys have taken place across a range of environments, from the UAE’s mountains and deserts to international destinations such as Mauritius, Southeast Asia and Nepal.
Headmaster Tomas Duckling said the Award complements the school’s focus on character education and service. “These experiences help shape globally aware young people who are ready to contribute meaningfully as thoughtful leaders and active citizens, reflecting both UK educational values and the UAE’s vision for sustainable development and social cohesion,” he said.
Year 13 student Dana, currently completing her Gold Award, highlighted the shared training and responsibility involved. “Training together builds trust, teamwork and responsibility. Whether it’s first aid, campcraft or planning a service project, we learn to step up for each other, and that’s what makes the Award so powerful,” she said.
The visit formed part of a broader week of activities across the UAE, with partners including the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation, the British Embassy Dubai and KHDA highlighting the role of non-formal education in supporting youth leadership and life skills development.
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