Would you like to learn to rock climb? Or spend time working at an animal sanctuary? That's what Andrea Black and Jenny Smith are doing as part of their Duke of Edinburgh Award programme. The award encourages young people to do exciting cultural, social and adventure activities in their free time. The Queen's husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, started the award in 1956. He started it because he wanted young people to learn to help themselves and other people. The award is for people aged 14-25, and there are three levels: Bronze, for those aged 14 or over, Silver for over 15s, and Gold for over 16s. You have to complete four activities to achieve the award: ⚫ go on an expedition (e.g. hiking, kayaking or climbing) ⚫ learn a new practical or social skill (anything from painting to podcasting!) ⚫ take on a physical challenge (e.g. learn or improve at a sport) ⚫ do voluntary work, helping people or the environment (e.g. work with disabled or elderly people, or raise money for a charity) Young people usually do the award at a Duke of Edinburgh club at their school or at a local youth group. They decide what they are going to do, and write a plan. It usually takes between one and three years to finish an award.