Introduction to our DofE Sea Skills programme
Structured, flexible learning that fits the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Skills section, and it is free.
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award – Skills Section (Bronze | Silver | Gold)
A free, flexible Skills activity for young people aged 14+
What is it?
The WVA Maritime Heritage & Sea Skills Programme is a structured Skills activity designed to support young people completing the Skills section of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. Delivered predominantly as an online, self-study programme, it enables participants to develop historical knowledge, research skills, digital literacy, and reflective learning through the study of Britain’s wartime maritime heritage.
What participants will do
- Wartime maritime history and heritage
- Naval and sea skills awareness
- Historical research and source evaluation
- Reflective learning and evidence building
All learning is self-paced and supported by trained assessors. Gold Award participants complete a substantial historical research project and written essay over a 12-month period.
Award levels and duration
- Bronze: minimum of 3 months
- Silver: minimum of 3 months (with a 6-month Physical section)
- Gold: minimum of 12 months, including a research project
This programme meets DofE Skills section requirements and is undertaken once only. Participants cannot repeat the programme for multiple Award levels.
How it is delivered
- Predominantly online, accessible UK-wide
- Optional inductions or introductory sessions may take place in schools, museums, or partner venues
- All face-to-face activity is fully risk assessed
Sea Skills programme map
Track the sequence of Sea Skills activities. Weeks with published content link straight to their Chronicle page so you can jump in and log your progress.
| Week | Topic |
|---|---|
| 1 | Royal Navy Patrol Service – “Harry Tate’s Navy” |
| 2 | Operation Dynamo – Dunkirk lift |
| 3 | Communication and signals at sea |
| 4 | Parts of a ship – inside and outside |
Log in to view weeks 5–16.
Safeguarding and supervision
- Students do not self-register
- All under-18s are registered by a parent or legal guardian
- Parents/guardians can view progress and messages
- All communication takes place within the WVA platform
- Assessment is carried out by trained, safeguarding-checked assessors
Cost and accessibility
- Free to access online
- Optional small contribution may apply for printed materials only
- Designed as a low-cost Skills option
- Reasonable adjustments considered for participants with additional needs
Suitable for
- Individual participants
- Schools and youth organisations
- Home-educated young people
Provider
THE WARTIME VESSELS ASSOCIATION C.I.C.
Not-for-profit Approved Activity Provider