Doha College Pupils Shine at The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Ceremony 2024–2025
Doha College recently hosted its annual Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) International Award Presentation Evening — a celebration of adventure, perseverance, and personal growth. The event brought together pupils, parents, and staff to honour the incredible achievements of students who completed their Bronze and Silver Awards this year.
With 121 Bronze and 45 Silver Awardees, the programme at Doha College continues to stand as one of the largest and most active of its kind in the region. Offered as part of the school’s Co-Curricular Activities (CCA) programme, the Duke of Edinburgh International Award gives pupils a unique opportunity to challenge themselves, step outside their comfort zones, and discover their strengths.
A Journey of Growth and Discovery
Over the past ten months, participants have immersed themselves in the three key sections of the Award: Voluntary Service, Physical Recreation, and Skills.
Collectively, Doha College pupils contributed an impressive 14,200 hours across these areas — a remarkable testament to their dedication and the spirit of community that defines the programme.
From mentoring younger pupils, volunteering in local animal shelters, and assisting academic departments, to training in sports, music, drama, and global diplomacy through Model United Nations, each participant demonstrated an admirable balance of commitment, leadership, and creativity.
Commitment, Collaboration, and Challenge
The Physical Recreation component alone saw pupils dedicating over 5,200 hours, engaging in activities such as football, swimming, netball, and water polo. Their efforts were supported by the school’s Physical Education Department and Evolution Sports Qatar, whose guidance helped foster a lasting love of fitness and teamwork.
In the Skills category, pupils explored their talents through music, performance, cooking, and diplomacy — sharpening their creativity and critical thinking. Meanwhile, more than 4,600 hours were devoted to Voluntary Service, highlighting the ethos of compassion and community that lies at the heart of the DofE programme.
Silver Award Expedition: Adventure in the Himalayas
A particular highlight of this year’s programme was the Silver Award Expedition to Nepal — Doha College’s first international expedition to the Himalayas since 2019. Fifty-six pupils embarked on an unforgettable journey through the Annapurna region, trekking through rugged terrain, capturing Nepal’s natural beauty, and learning the value of perseverance and teamwork.
From breathtaking views of Annapurna VII to shared campfire reflections under the stars, the experience left an indelible mark on each participant. Their creativity shone through photography projects, video diaries, and written reflections, each capturing the essence of their journey and personal growth.
What makes the DofE International Award so special is not just the physical or skill-based challenges, but the personal growth that comes with them. Watching our pupils push boundaries, help others, and discover their potential is what makes the DofE journey truly inspiring.
As educators, it is deeply rewarding to see how these young people evolve through the process — from hesitant beginners to capable, reflective individuals ready to make a difference. Their achievements embody the spirit of Doha College and its commitment to creating outstanding futures.
Nadeem Faisal, Duke of Edinburgh International Award Coordinator
The success of any programme at Doha College lies in the dedication and support of its committed staff body, whose passion and expertise make such enriching opportunities possible. The DofE Award is a true example of this collaborative spirit, drawing on the efforts of teachers and leaders from across the school.
Staff from a wide range of departments — including academics, co-curricular, and pastoral teams — work together to ensure pupils are guided, challenged, and supported throughout their journeys. This collective commitment reflects the ethos that defines Doha College: a community where excellence is achieved through teamwork, care, and a shared belief in creating outstanding futures.
Building Outstanding Futures
The DofE Award, deeply embedded in Doha College’s ethos of holistic education, exemplifies the school’s commitment to creating outstanding futures.
Through opportunities like DofE, pupils develop not only resilience and confidence but also empathy, leadership, and a sense of adventure — qualities that will serve them for life.
Doha College’s strong British identity, combined with its committed and exceptional staff, ensures that every pupil is supported in reaching their full potential — both within and beyond the classroom.
Congratulations to all the pupils who achieved their Bronze and Silver Awards this year — your accomplishments are an inspiration to the entire Doha College community.
View and download photos from the award ceremony
