Wait… I can get an award for this?

Yes, it’s true. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is the world’s largest youth leadership award, so it looks great on your resume or college application. And the best part is… all of our trips are eligible!
Looking for an Adventurous Journey for your school or group? We design custom trips!

The Award in a Nutshell

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is the world’s leading youth achievement award. It helps young people turn the things they already do: sports, music, volunteering, outdoor adventures… into internationally recognized credentials that support school, university, and future employment. At the centre is Fireside Adventures, guiding you along the way.

If you’ve never heard of the Award before, think of it as a way to take the magic of camp and spread it across the year, giving young people structure, mentorship, and recognition for their growth.

Why Families Choose the Award

• 🌍 Is recognized worldwide by universities, employers, and institutions

• 📄 Strengthens resumes and applications by showing commitment, leadership, and follow‑through

• 🧭 Encourages real‑world skills like goal‑setting, time management, and self‑motivation

Why Families Choose… us (Fireside) as their provider

We are a boutique-style Award Centre, staying small-cohort to keep relationships and continuity in check. We are not a giant virtual centre with thousands of participants. We are not a limited community group that doesn’t run its own trips. We do it all, and we keep it small. Our mission is to provide the highest level of service delivery for the Award at a great value.

• Are you based in Metro Vancouver / the Lower Mainland? So is our team! You’ll have the chance to connect in person and/or on Zoom throughout the Award with our mentors as well as like-minded kids.

• Are you from somewhere else in BC, Canada or the World? We offer full online support through Zoom and WhatsApp communication. Although you may be remote, you will stay connected with the same small team of familiar faces and, if you sign up for a trip, people you’ve met in person.

How the Award Works

The Award is delivered in three progressive levels: Bronze (Age 13+), Silver (Age 15+), Gold Age 16+). At each level, participants work on four key areas:

Skill-building a personal interest (music, art, coding, outdoor skills, etc.)

Physical Activity: Regular movement or sport (team sports, climbing, running, paddling, etc.)

Service: Volunteering and giving back to the community

Adventurous Journey: A supervised expedition (such as a canoe or camping trip)

Bronze Award (Most Common Starting Point)

The Bronze Award is a great entry point and is designed to be achievable alongside school.

• Minimum time commitment: ~3 months

• Weekly rhythm:

  • 1 hour/week Skill

  • 1 hour/week Physical Activity

  • 1 hour/week Service

• One short camping trip (3 days minimum)

Many participants are already doing these activities—the Award simply gives them structure and recognition. It’s a no-brainer.

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.

Don’t miss out on the chance to add an awesome award to your awesome Fireside trip.