barriers will really help to arm you with a list of ‘employability skills’ that are bound to do you some favours when you’re on the hunt for weekend, holiday or full time work.
While volunteering in a charity shop each week may not sound like it directly relates to any career you may be considering, think about any responsibilities you’ve been given. For example, if you’re serving members of the public as customers, you’re building up communication skills and the ability to talk to new people. A canoe expedition in Wales may seem a million miles away from the office setting you see yourself, but navigating your way unaided means building up your problem solving abilities, working under pressure and having to work with your team members – all of which will come in handy when you enter working life.
Case study: Eve Windsor is 18 years old, she has just completed her Gold DofE and is currently awaiting her A-Level results which she hopes will lead her to being accepted at Derby University to study Psychology.
“I started my Bronze DofE when I was in year 9 at Fairfax School in Sutton Coldfield. When I first started I had a lot more spare time so fitting DofE activities around school and homework wasn’t a problem. As I progressed to Silver and Gold it did require more dedication but I think when you know you’re working towards something that will count on your C.V you’re more likely to make sure you get it done, especially if you enjoy it.
My favourite section was Volunteering, for Gold I chose to help out at a centre in Sutton Park called The Donkey Sanctuary which works with rescued donkeys and children with disabilities. I was treated as part of the team and given responsibility, helping to groom the donkeys and take children on their rides.
My time at the Sanctuary made me realise that I want to pursue a career working with
children; I’ve decided to study Psychology so that I can then go on to do a Masters in Art Therapy to enable me to help disabled or mentally disturbed children.
The Residential section for my Gold was really good fun, I spent part of my Easter break at Norfolk fire station which I chose because it sounded interesting and something I wouldn’t have done outside of the DofE. I made some great friends and memories that week!
What have I learnt?
Now that I’ve completed my Gold I feel really proud, I know that it’ll help me to stand out against others when it comes to looking for jobs and I’ve learnt so much along the way.
I’ve become a better team player, gaining the ability to communicate and work together with people I don’t know, as well as the confidence to speak up in a group – something I wouldn’t have done before.
I hope that taking part in the DofE will help me to get a job, I think that being able to give examples of skills such as team working, communicating with others and problem solving in an interview is a huge advantage.
Together with all of this, I’ve gained brilliant memories that I know will stay with me for life. My DofE adventures don’t end there; I plan to go on to become a Leader, it’s a great opportunity for all young people and I’d like to help more people take part.”
To find out more about the DofE and how you can get involved visit:
www.dofe.org
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