The Department for Education has announced a £3.4m funding boost for The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in order to help more young people access volunteering and extra-curricular learning.

The funding will enable 291 more schools to take part in the award scheme and it will support young people aged 14 to 24 take part in volunteer activities over the next three academic years.

The announcement, made over the weekend, marks the late Duke of Edinburgh’s 100th birthday, which would have been last Thursday.

‘The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award has become synonymous with service and personal achievement. This expansion into more schools is a fitting tribute to Prince Philip who did so much to give young people opportunities to develop skills and abilities while making a difference to society,’ said education secretary Gavin Williamson.

‘We know from those who have achieved The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award that it helps to build the resilience, perseverance and discipline needed to overcome life’s obstacles.

‘I’m pleased to be working with The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award to help make it more accessible to schools and pupils in some of the most disadvantaged areas of England, levelling up their opportunities to get involved in these life-changing activities.’

Ruth Marvel, CEO of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE), commented: ‘I am so pleased to be working with the Department for Education to give more young people access to the life-changing opportunities The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award offers.

‘This investment will make a huge impact on our ability to partner with new schools and reach thousands more young people with the DofE, particularly those living in areas of greatest deprivation. As we mark what would have been The Duke of Edinburgh’s centenary this week, expanding access to the Award that he founded is a truly fitting tribute to his legacy.

‘As young people face up to today’s myriad challenges, the DofE has never been more needed. It’s a powerful way for any young person to build life-long belief in themselves, whatever their interest, background or ability. It can help them to do better in education, improve their mental health, help get the job they want, and make a positive difference in their community.’

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