Get involved as a leader

Leading with DofE is a hugely rewarding, exciting and very flexible.

We’re always looking for more adult volunteers to help support the DofE programme offer. As DofE groups can operate within Guide or Ranger units, district, division or county level, it means there’s lots of flexibility as to how and when you get support.

What you can do

Depending on your skillset and interests, here are a few ways you can get involved:

General DofE programme support

A lot of people think DofE is just about the expedition, but that’s just one section (and not everyone’s cup of tea!). As programme support you can help girls get registered, support them to choose their activities for each section, check in with them as to their progress and make sure they get their assessors to sign off at the end of each section.

eDofE support

Are you a whiz at using electronic systems? You can help support on eDofE. Creating accounts, tracking awards, helping girls access their awards – it’s vital in helping girls document all the exciting things they’re doing as part of their award.

Expedition supervisor

No expedition can happen without someone to oversee it. Supervisors train expedition groups following the DofE expedition frameworks and then help them complete their unaccompanied practice and qualifying expeditions.

This role is hugely rewarding, and perfect for those who want to pass on a passion for adventure and the great outdoors. Depending on where you take your groups, you’ll also need the right qualifications in the mode of travel. Check out our expeditions page for more information. There’s also a role description on the DofE website.

Expedition supporting leaders

Fancy helping groups get out there but not sure you’re ready to take sole responsibility as the supervisor? You can get involved in training groups or supporting on the expeditions.

Expedition assessor

Each expedition has be to assessed to make sure the group meet the DofE’s 20 conditions, so they have an accredited assessor to make sure this is fair. At Bronze this can be the same person as the supervisor, but at Silver and Gold you need to be completely independent to the group.

This role is perfect if you can’t commit regularly but want some one-off adventure, whilst helping girls get outside and learn new skills. You’ll also need to be familiar with the area or terrain you’re assessing in.

DofE ambassador ­

If you’ve completed a DofE Award and want to inspire other Girlguiding members to do the same, you can help promote the DofE to members. There’s loads of material on the DofE website to help you do this. Your county DofE adviser can link you up with local groups and events you can visit.

There’s training and support available for all the roles involved with DofE.

Check out Training for DofE leaders or chat to your county DofE adviser for more information.