Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is an international character-building plan for young people. It was first suggested in 1954 by the Duke of Edinburgh, husband of Queen Elizabeth II (see Philip, Prince). The award is known in India and other countries as the International Award for Young People.
The award is divided into three levels—the Gold Award, Silver Award, and Bronze Award. Young people between the ages of 14 and 25 may enter the plan. To qualify for the certificates and badge given with each award, young people have to reach high standards in four sections.
The service section involves such work as first aid, mountain rescue, and youth leadership. The expeditions section involves journeys requiring physical effort. The section called skills requires the taking up of a new hobby or activity for a minimum of six months. The physical recreation section involves athletic activities. To qualify for the Gold Award, participants must also complete a residential project, which involves living away from home.
A pilot (test) plan for boys was launched in 1956 and a similar pilot plan for girls was started in 1958. The full plan for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award began in 1960.
