The Duke of Edinburgh's Hillary Award is a voluntary, non-competitive programme of practical, cultural and adventurous activities, designed to support the personal and social development of young people aged 14–25, regardless of gender, background or ability.
As a part of the Gold Award, participants must complete a residential project for 5 days and 4 nights away from home where they are working towards a common purpose with others.
[10] The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award was founded in 1956 by HRH Prince Philip, Kurt Hahn (German educationalist) and Sir Hunt.
[3] Sir Edmund Hillary in his ascent to Everest identified and broadcast the significance of adventure and building skills for the future, namely within the younger generations.
[9] His development of the Himalayan Trust, construction of schools and hospitals in Kathmandu guided the incorporation of the service section in the Award.
For example, the Physical Recreation section caused participants to be seen creating healthier behaviours, namely a sustainable weekly regimen, concerning exercise and training.
[12] The exposure the young people receive also contributes to youth development as they find their own interests in the process and construe their own beliefs whilst also maintaining an open-mind.
These unique experiences structured through volunteering also result in improvements within participants' mental wellbeing as an increase in self-worth, self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment.
This creates a cohesive relationship between various communities and an inclusive environment where participants from minority groups also experienced personal growth, team working and social skills at the same levels as their privileged counterparts.
[12] Contrastingly, in New Zealand and as a part of the International Award, an increase in the development of healthy behaviours surrounding the rehabilitation of young offenders.
[13] Overall, the Hillary Award benefits a wide range of young people and fosters a healthy environment where they can cultivate personal development individually and with their peers.
The donations assist with participants' registration fee, activity expenses namely alongside the Adventurous Journey and the costs of supporting the Award Leaders.