In 1959, the Boy Scout Association formally joined the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, linking Scouting with a nationally recognised programme of personal development.
Older Scouts were able to work towards Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards through activities in skills, service, physical recreation, and adventurous journeys, complementing their existing Scouting training.
This partnership offered young people structured challenges, encouraged leadership and teamwork, and strengthened Scouting’s role in promoting responsibility and achievement.
February 1959
National Scouting Timeline