Adventurous Journey Information
Why do an Adventurous Journey?
Adventurous Journeys are a compulsory section of the Duke of Edinburgh Award as they develop skills that cannot be taught in a classroom.
Research consistently shows that outdoor experiential learning significantly improves:
- Confidence
- Motivation
- Emotional regulation
- Engagement in education
- And so much more!
These journeys are about:
- Learning who you are when things get challenging, unfamiliar and real.
- Blossoming new friendships
- Challenging yourself and pushing past what you thought we were capable of
- Exploring new environments
- Developing a connection to the outdoors
- Becoming capable, confident young adults
What is an Adventurous Journey (AJ)?
An Adventurous Journey is the heart of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award – and often the most powerful and life-changing part of the entire experience.
It involves multiday overnight expeditions, out in wilderness settings with our supportive and qualified team of Outdoor Educators.
It is where young people step away from their everyday routines, pack their gear, navigate real landscapes, work as a team, and learn to rely on themselves and each other in wild places.
Depending on the which level you are registered for – Bronze, Silver or Gold -will determine the length of your AJ.
How does an Adventurous Journey Work?
Every Adventurous Journey follows a structured and safe framework aligned with the Australian Adventure Activity Standards (AAAS) and Duke of Edinburgh Award guidelines.
Each Adventurous Journey includes:
- Training and Preparation supported by our qualified Outdoor Educators.
2. A Practice Journey
- A supported multiday journey where participants learn essential skills to succeed and thrive in the outdoors.
3. A Qualifying Journey
- The final supported multiday journey – where participants demonstrate what they have learnt and take ownership of the journey together as a team.
What We Offer at Beyond Horizons Institute
All-Inclusive Duke of Edinburgh Pathway
This is our full support, mentorship-based Duke of Ed experience.
Participants register their Duke of Edinburgh Award through Beyond Horizons Institute and are supported through every part of their Award journey, not just the expedition.
It is ideal for individuals who want:
- Connection to Community
- Real Confidence-Building Experiences
- Consistent Guidance from Start to Finish
- A Supportive Alternative to School-Based Programs
- Opportunties to Challenge and Push Comfort Zones
- Personal Mentorship from an Experienced Outdoor Guide
- Regular Check-Ins for Accountability and Encouragement
- A Positive Outdoor Community to Belong To and Be a Part Of
- Creating Opportunities that You Once Thought Were Impossible
- Building Stronger Connections to Peers and Developing New Friendships
What’s included:
Full Duke of Ed registration support
We support you through registration, progress tracking, evidence requirements and section sign-offs.
Ongoing Mentorship & Personal Support
Each participant is supported by caring mentors who walk alongside them, encourage them, and help them stay motivated through every stage of their Award.
All Award Sections Included
Support for:
- Voluntary Service
- Physical Recreation
- Skill Development
- Adventurous Journey
- Residential Project (Gold)
All Expedition Training & Qualifying Journeys
Including preparation days, safety briefings, navigation training, group development and fully supervised expeditions. We provide qualified and experienced guides with Wilderness First Aid training or equivalent and extensive knowledge of the areas we visit.
Membership into the Beyond Horizons Outdoor Community
Participants become part of a welcoming outdoor community where they build friendships, confidence, leadership skills and a genuine sense of belonging.
Life Skills & Leadership Development
We weave in communication, teamwork, resilience, responsibility and self-belief. Skills that carry into school, work and life.
This pathway is designed to make the Duke of Edinburgh Award feel accessible, supportive and achievable – especially for students who may feel overwhelmed, unsure or new to outdoor experiences
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Adventurous Journey Only Pathway
This option is designed for participants who only need to complete the Adventurous Journey component of their Duke of Edinburgh Award.
This is ideal for students who:
- Were unable to attend their school’s planned Adventurous Journey due to illness, injury or unforeseen circumstances
- Have already registered for the Duke of Ed through another organisation
- Are seeking a supportive, well-run outdoor expedition to complete their journey requirements
What this includes:
- Full planning, training and preparation support for the journey
- A supervised and fully compliant practice/qualifying expedition
- Experienced, qualified, safe and caring outdoor leaders
- All safety systems, logistics and risk management handled
- A positive, inclusive and confidence-building outdoor experience
What this does NOT include:
- Registration with the Duke of Edinburgh Award through Beyond Horizons Institute
- Mentoring, sign-off or management of Skills, Physical Recreation or Voluntary Service sections
This pathway allows participants to simply complete their Adventurous Journey in a safe, well-supported environment – without needing to transfer their full Award registration.
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