The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is a well-established and highly regarded youth scheme which operates globally. Both males and females aged from 14 years to 25 years are eligible to participate, and awards are available at three levels, Bronze, Silver and Gold. The Duke's Award allows candidates to progress at their own rate. At each level certain goals and time requirements are set in four areas, which are Community Service, a ‘Skill' (or hobby), Physical Recreation, and two Expeditions. Risk management concerns make the expedition requirement a difficult area for candidates to organise for themselves, and as a result the College organises expeditions for Bronze, Silver and Gold levels.

In order to prepare the students and provide the necessary training, we organise preparatory expeditions, allowing the students to develop the skills and experience required to undertake the expeditions independently.

We are very fortunate to have the support of property owners who allow us to use their properties and offer very generous hospitality. Locations and activities include camping on the bank of the Burdekin River at Lassie Creek, owned by the Henderson Family, a four-day cycle from Ravenswood to the Burdekin Dam and a 165 kilometre paddle down the Burdekin River, staying at Mt Ravenswood Station owned by the Rich family.

The Duke of Edinburgh scheme operates very successfully at Ignatius Park College thanks to the dedication of a number of staff. It provides unique opportunities for our boys to experience physical and mental challenges in an unfamiliar environment.