Dear Duke of Edinburgh’s Award,
Having not managed to elicit a reply from the various email addresses on your site I thought I would try to reach you through an open letter.
This letter also applies to any other organisation similar to the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (such as the Scout Association, the Guide Association, Raleigh International, Outward Bound, the British Schools Exploring Society, Partnership for Young London etc.)
Each year I visit scores of schools and speak to thousands of young people about my experiences of travel, adventure and expeditions. The enthusiasm and feedback generated from this brief snapshot of life outside the classroom is extremely positive.
However I am very aware of how busy school life is. Immediately after I finish my presentation the normal school day must resume. And any pupils who were momentarily inspired to set themselves a big challenge or to experience the great outdoors are soon likely to forget these thoughts as life returns to normal.
Therefore I am writing to ask whether you may be interested in linking with me and what I do, even in a very informal way.
I am able to help young people realise that there’s more to life than sitting on a sofa watching life pass you by. However I am not in a position to offer a personal programme of activities such as helping people or the community, getting fitter, developing skills, and going on an expedition.
My proposal is that shortly after I have visited a school your organisation would also visit the school, thus offering a direct route for inspired pupils to take action and get involved in the rewarding challenge of DofE.
If you, or any other organisation, would like to discuss the possibilities of this suggestion, please� do get in touch.
Yours Faithfully,
Alastair Humphreys
