How does the DOFE programme work?

The DOFE programme is a framework programme of non-formal education for young people aged 13 to 24 that helps young people to discover what they are made of. DOFE complements the school curriculum and develops skills such as responsibility, independence and perseverance. Graduates are awarded the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, which opens doors to further education and employment opportunities. By joining the DOFE programme, the organisation becomes part of an international network, enhancing the quality of education and its prestige.

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10 principles of the programme

Individual approach

Each participant chooses activities and sets goals according to their interests and abilities. He/she starts at the level that suits him/her best and can continue the programme as long as he/she wants (taking into account the age limit and level requirements).

Non-competitive nature

Completing the program is a personal challenge, not a competition with others. Each participant's program is tailored to his or her personal situation, abilities and interests, so performances cannot be compared with each other.

Availability for all

With the right support and inspiration, the programme can be completed by anyone between the ages of 13 and 24, regardless of starting ability, social status, background, gender, origin or location.

Volunteering

The programme is normally offered within a school, organisation, association or extra-curricular activity, but participation is always the free choice of the young people. Participants invest all their time in the programme of their own free will.

Emphasis on development

The programme supports the personal and social development of young people. Participants gain valuable experience and life skills, strengthen their self-esteem and get to know their surroundings better, making them responsible adults.

Balance

The program provides a balanced framework in which the participant works on his/her body and mind and also develops a sense of belonging to his/her environment. This is mainly through engaging in a range of activities in five distinct sections of the programme.

Increasing demands

Each level of the programme progressively requires more time, commitment and responsibility from the participant.

Inspirational

The programme inspires young people to overcome themselves. Participants are encouraged to set their own goals, strive to meet them and improve throughout the programme.

Longevity

Participants are engaged in the activities over a long period of time and the programme promotes determination, perseverance, responsibility and intrinsic motivation. They are also encouraged to continue the activities beyond the programme.

Entertainment

The programme should bring joy, fulfilment and satisfaction to the participants and their leaders.

What is the programme of your dofaks

Skill

You have many choices in this area. From playing a musical instrument to learning a foreign language to cooking or programming. You'll set achievable goals to improve your skills, work on your talents or learn a whole new set of skills. The important thing is that you enjoy it.

Examples of activities

Motion

Physical activity will help you improve your performance and physical fitness. You might work on teamwork in volleyball or meet new people in ice skating. You don't have to be the best and win medals, you just have to want to push yourself a little further. You'll also learn to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Examples of activities

Volunteering

When volunteering, you can work on yourself, but you can also help others. You will need to develop your tolerance, responsibility and patience. In addition to tutoring classmates, this includes cleaning up the woods, working with children, helping at the food bank, and much more. You can ask your leader about volunteer opportunities.

Examples of activities

Expeditions

The expedition is a challenge for you to overcome the fear of the unknown and also an opportunity to go with a group for a few days in the countryside and discover interesting places in the Czech Republic and abroad. An expedition always has a purpose, for example, mapping forgotten places, collecting plants for the herbarium or climbing an entire navigable stretch of river.

Examples of activities

Residential project

You will meet new people and use the knowledge and skills you have gained in other areas of the DofE. You'll go to a place you don't know and do something interesting and meaningful. You could go on a camp, an educational placement or perhaps take part in a volunteering project.

Where to do a residential project