Mediated Learning Academy School proudly participates in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards program, established in 1956 by His Royal Highness, Prince Phillip, to encourage personal development and community involvement for young people aged 14 to 25.

The award runs in 126 countries around the world. To date almost 6 million young people have challenged themselves by participating in the program.

Every year a number of  MLA students (ages 14+) participate and qualify for the award. The self-directed program encourages youth to be active, gain confidence, and to participate in new activities, in the following areas:

• Community service: get involved and give back to your community through volunteer service.
• Personal skills development: do something different; develop a personal interest, or a social or practical skill.
• Physical Fitness: gain personal achievement and good health through physical activity.
• Expeditions: develop self-reliance by planning, training and completing an adventurous expedition. Trips taken with our outdoor education program qualify. MLA does this component of the program in JULY with the students who have signed up for the program.
• Residential Project (gold only): broaden your experience through living and working with others who aren’t your everyday friends for five days. International service trips offered through our global opportunities program qualify.

There are three award levels: bronze, silver and gold. Bronze awards are presented at our prizegiving ceremonies at the end of the school year. Silver award winners have the honour of attending an awards ceremony at Government House in Victoria, BC.

Gold award winners are invited to attend a special ceremony where a visiting member of the Royal Family personally presents the award and congratulates the recipients. Earlier this year, His Royal Highness Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex, presented gold awards at a ceremony held at Point Grey High School. The gold award is the highest achievement a young Canadian can receive.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is recognized by post-secondary institutions around the world. The program is a great way for students to meet new people, make a difference in their community, and receive recognition for the activities they are involved in.

Students earn 2 credits towards graduation for each level completed.

Book available in the MLA main school office – $20 each.

For more information, visit dukeofed.org or www.dofe.org.