Duke of Ed questions, answered
Registration, Levels, practice journeys, equipment, safety and evidence. If your question isn’t here, send it through and a real person will answer it.
FAQ
Duke of Ed questions, answered
Getting started
Do I need to be registered with the Duke of Ed before booking?
Yes. Your registration sits with your school or an Award Centre, not with Southbound.
If you’re not registered yet, speak with your Duke of Ed Leader or Award Centre first.
Is Southbound an Open Duke of Ed Centre?
No. Southbound provides Adventurous Journey activities. Your registration, approvals and overall Level remain with your school or Award Centre.
Do I need my Duke of Ed Leader’s approval?
Yes. Confirm the Level, journey type and activity mode your Leader will approve before you book.
Levels and journeys
What’s the difference between a Practice and a Qualifying Journey?
A Practice Journey prepares the team for the Qualifying Journey, which is the journey assessed against the requirements for your Level.
Practice is optional at Bronze and required at Silver and Gold. Your Leader confirms what applies to you.
How long is each Level?
Bronze is 2 days and 1 night, Silver is 3 days and 2 nights, and Gold is 4 days and 3 nights.
Is the Gold Residential Project part of the Adventurous Journey?
No. It is a separate Gold requirement: 5 days and 4 nights in a shared residential setting with people you don’t know.
Preparation and equipment
What equipment do I need?
You’ll receive an equipment list once your journey is confirmed, covering what to bring and what is provided.
How fit do I need to be?
You need to be able to walk or paddle for the required hours each day while carrying your equipment.
Preparation matters more than speed. Let us know about anything that may affect participation.
Can I take part with a medical condition?
Often yes. Tell us early so the right planning and support can be put in place before departure.
On the journey
What happens if the weather turns?
Plans can be adjusted for conditions. Safety decisions are made by the leaders in the field, in consultation with the team where possible.
Is there supervision during the journey?
Yes. Southbound leaders provide supervision and support appropriate to the Level, while the group retains responsibility for its own planning and decisions.
How is transport handled?
Transport arrangements depend on the journey and are confirmed in your pre-journey information.
After the journey
How do I record my journey?
Submit your evidence through the Online Record Book. Your Duke of Ed Leader reviews and signs it off.
What if I don’t complete the journey?
Speak with your Duke of Ed Leader. They will advise what is needed to meet the requirement for your Level.