Duke of Edinburgh Gold Residential
Duke of Edinburgh Gold Residential
🌟 Grafham Water Centre DofE Gold Residential Experience
Dates: 18–22 August 2025
Duration: 5 days, 4 nights
Location: Grafham Water Centre, Perry, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire
Cost: £499
🧭 What’s Included
- Choice of Activity Focus:
- Sailing – Earn a National Governing Body award while mastering the waters.
- Paddlesports – Explore the resevoir through kayaking and canoeing.
- Climbing – Challenge yourself on indoor climbing wall and our high ropes course.
- Residential Highlights:
- Stay in shared accommodation with full board (home-cooked meals).
- Meet new people from across the UK.
- Team-building games.
- Personal development workshops aligned with DofE’s “Youth Without Limits” strategy.
- Skills Development:
- Leadership and communication
- Outdoor exploration and navigation
- Environmental awareness and conservation
💬 Testimonials
“An unforgettable week! I learned to sail, made lifelong friends, and grew in confidence.” – Gold Participant, 2024
“The instructors were amazing and the activities were so much fun. Highly recommend!” – Gold Participant, 2023
🌅 Why Choose Grafham Water Centre for Your Gold Residential?
Grafham Water Centre offers a truly exceptional setting for your DofE Gold Residential. Here’s what makes us stand out:
🏞️ Stunning Natural Environment
Nestled on the shores of one of the largest reservoirs in England, Grafham Water provides a peaceful, scenic backdrop for your residential. The natural beauty of the area enhances wellbeing, encourages reflection, and fosters a deeper connection with the outdoors.
🧑🏫 Expert Instruction & Support
Our instructors are not only highly qualified but also passionate about youth development. With decades of experience delivering DofE programmes, we ensure every participant feels supported, challenged, and inspired.
🧗 Diverse Outdoor Activities
Unlike many residentials that focus on a single skill, Grafham offers a multi-activity experience. You can try:
- Sailing and windsurfing on open water
- Kayaking and canoeing in sheltered bays
- Archery, high ropes, and team challenges
This variety helps you discover new interests and develop a broad range of skills.
🤝 Inclusive, Friendly Atmosphere
We pride ourselves on creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels they belong. You’ll meet like-minded young people from across the UK, build friendships, and grow your confidence in a supportive community.
🌍 Sustainability & Stewardship
Grafham Water Centre is committed to environmental education and sustainability. You’ll learn about conservation, responsible outdoor practices, and how to protect the natural world—skills that align with the DofE’s values and your future.
🏅 A Residential That Counts
We are an Approved Activity Provider (AAP) for the DofE, meaning your experience is fully accredited and meets all the requirements for the Gold Residential section.