Middle School students looking for a greater challenge can participate in The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Scheme (DofE), a globally recognised programme that encourages personal growth through physical activity, skill development, community service, and outdoor journeys. This optional programme teaches self-discipline, enterprise, and effort.
Achievements in the programme are globally recognised, providing ISZL students with a unique international accreditation. The Award is open to all students and operates on three levels with increasing challenges: Bronze (open to all of Grade 8), Silver (15+), and Gold (16+).
Students commit to the programme for approximately one year, participating in physical activities, service projects, skill development, and expeditions in the Alps. They must also train in first aid, campcraft, map & compass navigation and route planning . A key part of the experience is fostering independence and responsibility. While parents are encouraged to support their children, our goal is to help students grow in awareness, responsibility, and independence.
ISZL students have participated in numerous trips in Switzerland, as well as overseas expeditions, including Corsica, Kilimanjaro, Machu Picchu, and Everest Base Camp.
Success with DOE
Celebrating 20 Years of DOE
As one of the first schools in Switzerland to offer The Duke of Edinburgh International Award, we are proud to be entering and celebrating our 20th year. The award is an optional programme of personal development open to all our Grade 8–12 students. Over the years, over 1,000 of our students have elected to take part and have benefited from the programme here at ISZL.
Commit to Service, Skill, and Physical Components
The Award programme is designed to support the development of essential skills and attributes that are valuable for both work and life, including resilience, problem-solving, teamwork, communication, and drive. To complete the Bronze Programme, participants are required to commit a minimum of one hour per week for three months in each of the following areas:
Physical Component
Skill Component
Service Component
Expeditions
