Guiding Principles
The ten guiding principles of the Award are here to help participants on their Award journey.
Individual
You design your own programme, which can be tailored to suit your personal circumstances, choices and local provision. You start at whichever level suits you best and you can take as long as you wish (within the age limit of your 25th birthday) to achieve your Award.
Non-competitive
Doing your Award is a personal challenge and not a competition against others. Your programme is tailor-made to reflect your individual starting point, abilities and interests.
Achievable
An Award is achievable by any individual who chooses to take up the challenge, regardless of their ability, gender, background or location, with the right guidance and inspiration.
Voluntary
Whilst the Award may be offered within school, college or work-time, you choose to do a programme and must commit some of your free time to undertake your activities.
Balanced
The Award provides a balanced framework to develop your mind, body and community spirit by engaging you in a range of activities in up to five different challenges (Service, Skills, Physical Recreation, Adventurous Journey and Residential Project at Gold level).
Development
Participating in the Award programme fosters personal and social development. You gain valuable experience and life skills, grow in confidence and become more aware of your environment and community transforming you into a responsible adult.
Progressive
At each level of engagement (Bronze, Silver or Gold), the Award demands from you progressively more time, commitment and responsibility.
Inspiration
The Award inspires you to exceed your expectations. You are encouraged to set your own challenges and goals before starting an activity, aim for these goals and by showing improvement you will achieve your Award.
Enjoyable
You should find the Award enjoyable, fulfilling and rewarding.
Persistence
The Award requires persistence and cannot be completed with a short burst of enthusiasm. You are encouraged to continue with activities and to maintain your interest beyond your Award programme requirements.