The DofE Leadership residential course offered by Services for Young People is an affordable, educational and fun way for young people to learn the skills needed to become a DofE Leader. By completing the course you will gain a comprehensive understanding of what it means to be a DofE Leader and learn how to help other young people achieve their DofE at all levels.
The five-day, four-night residential course is for young people aged 16 to 24 and has been designed to fulfil the requirements for the Duke of Edinburgh's Gold Award Residential section. The courses are held during the school holidays.
What's included?
The course includes these sessions and workshops:
- Introduction to the Duke of Edinburgh's Award for young leaders
- Full-day first aid course, resulting in a first aid qualification
- Full-day Hertfordshire Expedition Skills Training (HEST), resulting in a HEST certificate which is recognised by all DofE centres in Hertfordshire
- The DofE leadership process
- DofE leadership strategy workshop
In the evenings you will get together with the young people on the other residential courses for night-time nature walks and stargazing, an evening around the campfire, and a film night with board games and quizzes.
The course will also help you to develop skills that will be useful in other areas of your life, such as:
- Problem solving
- Communication
- Working as a team
- Decision making
- Staying focused
- Time management
No prior DofE leadership experience is necessary.
The 2026 dates, costs and information about Hudnall Park and your accommodation can be found on the DofE Gold Award residentials landing page.
Take the first step
Please complete this form to express your interest and someone from the SfYP DofE Team will get back to you.
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To find out how we look after your personal data please read our Data Protection information.
For further information, please email: DofE@hertfordshire.gov.uk with the subject heading DofE Leadership Residential Course 2026.
Hertfordshire County Council Services for Young People is a Duke of Edinburgh's Award Approved Activity Provider.
