Year 9 Elective - Duke of Edinburgh
Physical Recreation (a sport or exercise)
Voluntary Service (unpaid voluntary work)
Skills (non-physical ability)
Adventurous
Journeys
(including
two
overnight camps)
Areas of Study
P A G E 2 1 | P A K E N H A M S E C O N D A R Y C O L L E G E Y E A R 9 2 0 2 6 E L E C T I V E S H A N D B O O K
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a unique and exciting opportunity for young
people (aged 14-25) to get out of their comfort zone and develop their initiative, self-esteem and
sense of adventure.
It is the world’s leading Youth Achievement Award, empowering young people with the skills and
opportunities to realise their full potential and go beyond academic success. The Award is self-
directed by each young person - they choose the activities they would like to pursue and set
goals for each section.
In 2026, Pakenham Secondary College will be running the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Level
Award as a Year 9 Elective across the whole year.
The time commitments for the Physical Recreation, Voluntary Service, and Skills Award sections
are one hour per week for 13 weeks each. The Voluntary Service section will be completed
during class time, whilst the Physical Recreation and Skills sections are to be completed in the
student’s own time, outside of school. Students must choose one of these sections as a major
and are required to make a 6-month commitment to this section of their choice.
PLEASE NOTE: THIS ELECTIVE RUNS
FOR THE ENTIRE YEAR.
Students will be fully involved in the planning of two overnight camps for the Adventurous
Journey section. The types of these camps will depend on the students’ interests.
Other topics covered during classes include: Community, Teamwork, Personal Identity and
Emotional Intelligence and Leadership. Students will also have the opportunity to attend
excursions such as surfing, rock-climbing and other outdoor adventure activities.
Course Description