Join the 41st Epping Forest and Complete Your DofE With Us

Know someone aged 14–17 who isn’t in the 41st yet, or is a Scout, or thinking of doing DofE in the next few years? Share this with them and help spread the word!

Dear Parents and Carers,

We’re inviting young person to take part in one of the most rewarding youth programmes available – the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) delivered through Scouting at the 41st Epping Forest Globetrotters Explorers in Loughton.

Our Explorers meet every Monday from 19:00 to 20:30 during term time and we are proud to be a fully unpaid volunteer-run group, making our programme affordable and accessible for everyone.

DofE is Back – and We’re Ready to Go!

Over the years, more than 30 young people take part in the DofE Awards with us at 41st. After several years on pause, we’re relaunching our DofE programme for 2025–26!

Who Can Join?

To start the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, young people must be at least 14 years old, or in the school year in which they turn 14 – typically Year 9. No prior Scouting experience is required – any young person aged 14–17 can join our Explorer Unit to complete their Bronze or Silver DofE.

If your child is already in Scouts, this is something to start thinking about now. Some schools offer limited DofE places, and many young people find they miss out. Doing DofE through Scouts guarantees a place – and gives them more time to prepare, learn the skills properly, and enjoy the journey.

It’s also the perfect opportunity to bring their friendship group along to Explorers. Doing DofE together builds stronger teams – and makes the whole experience more fun and meaningful. From learning navigation, teamwork, and leadership, to cooking outdoors, volunteering, and going on multi-day expeditions, our Scouts don’t just pass the Award – they grow from it.

Why do your DofE with us?

• Fully integrated into weekly Explorers sessions – no rushed weekends or bolt-on programmes.
• Bronze and Silver levels run locally, with Gold coordinated through Essex Scouts.
• All expeditions supported by qualified DofE and Scout leaders.
• Camps in varied locations including Epping Forest, The Chiltern Hills, South Downs, and The Cotswolds.
• Progression over 3 years, tailored to age, school year, and experience level.
• Affordable expedition fees with Bronze DofE costing around £100 in total. Includes Registration, Training, Practice & Qualifying Expeditions

Young people need to join the Explorer Unit and attend a minimum of two sessions a month, ensuring they are well-prepared for all DofE activities. This isn’t a quick fix – it’s about sustained development, leadership, resilience, and having a fantastic time doing it.

We’re currently enrolling for the 2025–2026 DofE year, including the Bronze Practice Expedition (20–21 September 2025) and Silver/Gold Expeditions in 2026. Spaces are limited and subject to minimum numbers.

You can learn more about the full programme, commitment, and costs on our website:
https://www.41steppingforestscouts.org.uk/info-for-parents/duke-of-edinburgh

Who Can Join?

To start the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, young people must be at least 14 years old, or in the school year in which they turn 14 (typically Year 9).

If your child is already in Year 9 from this September, they are eligible to sign up now for the 2025–26 Bronze DofE programme with the 41st Epping Forest Globetrotters Explorer Unit.