Ullswater Community College has been involved with the Duke of Edinburgh scheme for more than 10 years. The scheme itself consists of three levels: bronze, silver and gold. Most people begin with bronze at age 14, which means Year 9 or the beginning of Year 10. The bronze award is broken down into sections: volunteering, physical, skill and a two-day expedition. The volunteering, physical and skill section must all be followed for 3 months and one of them for 6 months. It can include activities extra-curricular activities offered within school such as netball club and choir. The expedition section requires a period of training in camp craft and navigation as well as a practice expedition. Students can borrow from a range of equipment in school. The expedition usually takes place in the Lake District and is supervised by members of staff from UCC. It is a challenging and hugely enjoyable time. As pupils progress through the award the expeditions go further afield to the Pennines and North Wales for gold.