An award for over 50s

The Discovery Award

The idea was formed in 1987 during an adventure weekend for over 50’s run by Tayside Outdoor Education Service.  The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Adviser from Dundee, an Outdoor Community Education Worker and six enthusiastic men and women put together a programme of activity and self-development and the Discovery Award was born! 

The Award is open to all, regardless of status, state of health and level of ability.  At present the oldest participant is well over 80 years old.  Provided you are over 50 years of age, and you would like to accept this exciting and rewarding challenge, this Award is for YOU! 

Discover: 

  • New strengths and hidden talents.

  • New interests, or new life in old ones.

  • New and interesting people. 

  • The satisfaction of helping others.

  • The joy of unexpected achievement.

The Discovery Award is now nationwide with an increasing number of groups throughout the UK. 

Key Features

It is non-competitive, flexible, and achievable. Progress is at your own pace and within your own capabilities. You set your own goals and then reap the reward of your achievement.

There are three levels

Bronze, Silver, and Gold - all divided into four sections, each with an agreed timescale.  Each level is rewarded with its own Award certificate and badge. 

What are the sections?

Service in the Community

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This section gives us a chance to give back a little of what we have learned and experienced over the first 50 years of our lives!  Any service that helps others is acceptable, e.g. Red Cross, Meals on Wheels, visiting the sick, helping in a charity shop/organisation, playgroups, youth organisations etc., committee work or typing at home.  The demand for volunteers is never-ending. 

Hobby or Interest

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You may like to take up a new pastime or develop an old one.  The list is endless, from writing to gardening, reading to visiting the theatre or cinema, learning a new language, taking flying lessons, playing the piano or photographing old buildings.  Learn to paint or play golf.  The choice is all yours! 

Recreational Pursuit

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This should include some physical activity to the extent that your own physical activity and health will allow.  This may include some walking, swimming, dancing, or cycling, but could just as easily be any indoor pursuit such as snooker or darts, or wheelchair exercises! 

Journey of Discovery

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This may not be a physical journey.  You can travel anywhere, in your mind at home, in the comfort of your own armchair, through books, pictures, the internet etc. or on foot, by bicycle, car, train, ship or plane.  You might like to visit local churches, travel to the Western Isles, research your family history, look around castles, or trek to China, write a book or travel the world.  Whatever you decide to do, keep a record of all the preparation for your “journey” as well as what you did, to submit for your Award.  Even this section need not cost much, this is really up to you.

View all FAQ

Timescale for each level

Bronze 

  • Service in the Community: 24-30 hours in 12 weeks 

  • Recreational Pursuit: 24-30 hours in 12 weeks 

  • Hobby or Interest: 50-60 hours in 26 weeks 

  • Journey of Discovery: A physical challenge or personal research, exploring and extending your own knowledge and interests 

Silver 

  • Service in the Community: 48-60 hours in 26 weeks 

  • Recreational Pursuit: 50-60 hours in 26 weeks 

  • Hobby or Interest: 100-120 hours in 52 weeks 

  • Journey of Discovery: As Bronze 

Gold 

  • Service in the Community: 100-120 hours in 52 weeks 

  • Personal Pursuit: 50-60 hours in 26 weeks 

  • Hobby or Interest: 150-180 hours in 76 weeks 

  • Journey of Discovery: As Bronze 

There are different journey themes at each level if a physical journey is undertaken.

What does it cost?

Very little depending on what you choose to do!

£15 for each level (This covers Fees, Badge, Record Book and Certificate) 

How do I apply?

To register to take part in this Award, please download this registration form and once completed, return it to GB Headquarters and we will pass it on to the Discovery Award Administrator or you can email it directly to discoveryaward@gbni.co.uk

Discovery Award Association (Northern Ireland) 

To find out more

Contact the Discovery Award Administrator

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