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Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
We are a Trained Activity Provider
Fireside Adventures is a Trained Activity Provider (TAP). This means that you can earn the Adventurous Journey (Bronze, Silver, Gold) and Gold Project on all of our youth expeditions.
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Liam Barnes
Director of Fireside Adventures
What is the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award?
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is the world’s largest youth leadership award and is recognized by employers, colleges, and universities. The Award encourages personal growth, community engagement, and adventurous pursuits. Tailored for ages 13-24, this prestigious award cultivates resilience, teamwork, and a sense of responsibility. The program encompasses Skill Development, Community Service, Physical Fitness, and an Adventurous Journey, which all our expeditions are designed to fit.
Our sister company, Vancouver Outdoor School, is a Duke of Ed Award Centre and has helped many youth achieve this prestigious award. If you’re interested, and not already enrolled with another Award Centre, click here to talk to our Award Coordinator and learn more about the process.
What trips are eligible?
BC | Yukon | Japan | Ecuador | Fiji
All World Bound trips apply for Bronze, Silver, and Gold Duke of Ed. Click here to view courses
World Bound Youth is all about combining meaningful skill-building, leadership training, and outdoor adventure travel to help young people build resilience and understanding through a climate change lens. No matter which location you choose, we work with youths to provide a climate education adventure that will help them find their place and prepare for their future in an ever-changing world.
All Explorer trips apply for Bronze, Silver, and Gold Duke of Ed. Click here to view courses
Discover Western Canada's iconic wilderness with our Explorer Series! Whether it’s the rainforests and oceans of British Columbia or the valleys and rivers of the Yukon, our expeditions offer thrilling adventures that are ideal for anyone from outdoor novices to seasoned enthusiasts. These exciting wilderness experiences focus on leadership development, outdoor skills, and connecting with peers and nature.
Whistler, Manning Park, Tofino, Victoria, Howe Sound, Sechelt Inlet
Are your Spring Break and Summer holidays booked up already? You’re in luck! We now offer a series of 3–5 day expeditions during the school year. These adventures are specifically designed to satisfy the Award criteria, while offering convenient start and end points in Vancouver. Destinations range from the rugged beaches of Tofino to the alpine majesty of Whistler, as well as serene locations like Manning Park, Victoria, Howe Sound, and Sechelt Inlet.
Bringing Kurt Hahn and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award together at Fireside Adventures
Kurt Hahn's educational philosophy, encompassing experiential learning, character development, and outdoor education, has significantly influenced programs like the Duke of Edinburgh's Award (DofE) in the creation of powerful framework for young people. The Award, founded by Prince Philip in 1956 under Hahn's guidance, aligns with Hahn's belief in “education through adventure”, where challenges and experience are integral to personal development. Both share a commitment to fostering resilience, self-reliance, and a sense of responsibility in young individuals.
Expedition training courses, inspired by Hahn's teachings, provide a platform for young adults enrolled in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. Hahn's concept of "compassionate service" is mirrored in the service component of the DofE, encouraging participants to contribute meaningfully to their communities. This integration promotes a holistic approach, instilling values that extend beyond personal achievements.
Hahn's philosophy also underscores the significance of wilderness experiences in building character. Similarly, the Duke of Edinburgh's Award incorporates outdoor expeditions as a key component, recognizing the transformative power of nature in fostering teamwork, resilience, and leadership. The expedition training courses become a crucible for young adults, shaping not only their outdoor skills but also their ability to face challenges with courage and adaptability.
Moreover, Hahn's belief in the importance of self-discovery and reflection aligns with the Duke of Edinburgh's Award's focus on personal development. Both emphasize the journey of self-improvement and the acquisition of life skills that prepare young adults for future leadership roles.
Get deals and support for your Award trip
Our sister company Vancouver Outdoor School is a registered Award Centre.
If you register for the Duke of Edinburgh’s award with through Vancouver Outdoor School, you will have access to additional benefits such as full-day planning workshops with your trip mates, mentorship from our Award Leaders and discounted prices on our expeditions.
