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The International Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (the International Award) is a globally recognised youth development programme that supports young people to grow beyond the classroom. Through personal choice, challenge and reflection, students develop skills for life, university and future employment.
The International Award is a voluntary, non-competitive programme for young people aged 14–24. Students create their own Award journey by choosing activities that match their interests and goals. Each participant develops at their own pace while being supported to challenge themselves and grow.
On Friday 21st November, 19 students left for their Duke of Edinburgh Award practice expedition to Mai Chau.
Over the three days, students put into practice skills such as campcraft, cooking and navigation. They endured the physical challenge of hiking while carrying all the equipment required to complete the three-day journey.
The weather was kind, with warm sunshine during the day and cool evening temperatures perfect for camping. The expedition was both a team challenge and a personal challenge, giving students the opportunity to learn from instructors, ask questions and prepare for their assessment expedition.
On Friday 16th January, 20 students took part in their qualifying expedition in Sapa. Over three days, students were assessed on their campcraft, cooking and navigation skills while hiking a total of 27km and carrying all required equipment.
Students also considered their environmental impact by following a “leave no trace” approach and limiting their footprint. Each team collected information for a project to present to assessors after the expedition.
This journey demonstrated not only physical endurance but also teamwork, responsibility and resilience.
The Award helps students stand out by providing clear evidence of skills that universities and employers value. Students develop teamwork, leadership, communication and resilience through real experiences.
At BVIS Hanoi, students also demonstrate strong commitment beyond academics through volunteering, skill development and physical challenges.
Students gain confidence, independence and self-belief by setting long-term goals and achieving them. The Award supports physical and mental wellbeing, develops time-management skills and encourages responsibility.
Many students describe the Award as one of the most memorable experiences of their school life.
The International Award has three progressive levels: Bronze (from age 14), Silver (from age 15) and Gold (from age 16). Each level increases in challenge and duration, allowing students to build skills over time.
To complete an Award level, students take part in Voluntary Service, Skills, Physical Recreation and an Adventurous Journey. At Gold level, students also complete a Residential Project, working and living with new people in an unfamiliar environment.
Through volunteering and teamwork, students create meaningful social impact within their communities. The Award encourages empathy, service and active citizenship while helping students understand their role in making positive change.
The International Award supports BVIS Hanoi’s commitment to global education and citizenship, aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
It supports key areas such as Quality Education, Good Health and Wellbeing, Reduced Inequalities and Climate Action, while promoting student voice, choice and personal development.
“This experience was unforgettable, and the nature was breathtaking.”
“I really enjoyed the unexpected challenges – it was a really memorable journey.”
“This experience really made me feel stronger.”
“The lesson I learned is that communication is very important when different team members have different needs.”
BVIS Hanoi is one of only a few schools in Hanoi offering this programme, providing students with valuable experiences that strengthen their future university and career pathways.