The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award – Canada

View from the top in Volcan Baru National Park

Students launching their kayaks, ready to continue their kayaking expedition.

Cycle in the Dolomites

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Helping Canadian Students Achieve Their Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Through Experiential Journeys

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award – Canada challenges young people to step outside the classroom, build resilience, and discover their purpose, passion, and place in the world. World Expeditions Schools partners with Award Leaders and schools to create safe, curriculum-connected journeys that support participants as they work toward their Award.

Students trekking together on a supervised school expedition

With more than four decades designing experiential programs for schools, our team understands how to align learning outcomes with the Award’s framework. Every journey is guided by experienced leaders, backed by robust risk management, and designed to help young people become #WORLDREADY.

Where our programs align with the Award

Voluntary Service

Participants contribute to their communities, make a positive impact, and demonstrate social responsibility. Our service learning programs provide opportunities for students to engage in meaningful projects that align with this section of the Award.

Physical Recreation

Students build confidence, teamwork, and resilience through active experiences. Our physical challenge programs align with the Physical Recreation section by encouraging healthy lifestyles and pushing boundaries.

Skill Development

The Skills section encourages young people to broaden their abilities and develop new talents. Programs like Indigenous immersion and regenerative travel experiences provide contexts where students can grow cultural understanding and leadership skills.

Adventurous Journey

This section is all about discovery, resilience, and teamwork in the outdoors. Our trekking and expedition-style programs align with the Adventurous Journey requirements by taking students into new environments with experienced support.

Gold Project

At Gold level, participants broaden their horizons through shared residential experiences. World Expeditions Schools can help design residential-style journeys that align with the Gold Project by connecting students with new peers, communities, and meaningful goals.

“From start to finish, their organization, attention to detail, and safety standards are second to none.”
– Nicola, Director of Experiential Learning, 2024

How we support teachers and Award Leaders

We collaborate with schools to tailor an experience that complements the Award and your curriculum goals. Our end-to-end support includes parent communications, detailed risk and safety documentation, and trained Guides and local specialists who deliver safe, purposeful programs for young people aged 14 to 24.

Students collaborating on a community project during a residential experience

Award outcomes in action

Participants return with stronger communication skills, problem solving, and cultural understanding. By combining experiential learning with the Award’s framework, students grow in confidence and take ownership of their goals, while schools see tangible links to leadership, global citizenship, and wellbeing.

Talk to our experts How our programs support the Award