Christmas 2015 Mail Out

Welcome to DofE London's Christmas mail out! In our final 2015 update you will find all the latest information, updates and opportunities from the London Region.

Message from the Director 2015 has been an amazing year: there have been greater levels of participation amongst young Londoners and more schools and groups coming on board to deliver DofE to students and young people. These advancements and associated work are only possible because of the support and dedication of teachers, youth workers and volunteers working tirelessly across the capital. Thank you! It only remains for me to extend season's greetings and a well-earned rest to you and yours. Wishing you every happiness and success in 2016! Peter Fleet Director, London Region

Volunteering AAPs The Volunteering Opportunities guide has been updated for December, including opportunities in London and other regions. The PDF can be downloaded at any time from the Volunteering section page on the DofE website. As ever, any thoughts or feedback are welcome.         Additional needs network update The next Additional Needs Network Meeting will be held on Thursday 11th February 2016, 5-6.45 at the London Regional Office in the Victoria Charity Centre. Contact Hayley.Hyman@DofE.org for more information and to book a place.

Operations Officer Vacancy DofE London are looking for a new Operations Officer to join the team based in our Victoria office. For more information on the role and how to apply please visit our jobs page at www.dofe.org/jobs. You will be asked to upload your CV along with a detailed statement that outlines your suitability for the position.  The deadline for applications is Friday 15thJanuary 2016 at 12 noon. First interviews will take place on Wednesday 20th January 2016 and second interviews, if required, will take place on Friday 22nd January in London. If you know anyone who might be suitable for the role, please share this with them. Thank you and good luck!

Colne Valley Volunteering Groundwork South are looking for volunteers to assist in their Unofficial Countryside project. The organisers are looking to recruit volunteers to help capture the oral history of the industrial heritage of the Colne Valley Regional Park, to be used as part of a presentation and website. This would involve speaking with residents about their memories of the Colne Valley area so that a picture of how it has changed over the years can be built. Volunteers must be 16 or older.  If you are or know any participants that might be interested, please contact Fiona Brewer at fiona.brewer@groundwork.org.uk.             The Reward Card is for Christmas, not just expeditions! Christmas is a fantastic time to raise money for the DofE Charity and help even more young people experience the life-changing benefits of doing their DofE. Remember, you and all of the DofE network get 15-20% off purchases from Cotswold Outdoor. So if it’s a ‘must have’ coat for mum, a beanie for your brother, or a fleece for your best friend, don’t forget to use your Reward Card. There are also discounts available on the following: 20% off Virgin Experience DaysUp to 35% off HP productsPersonalised DofE ClothingUp to 20% off at Cotswold Outdoor10% off all Halfords cycling items

Assessor Requests An expedition group requires an assessor for the weekend of 23rd/24th April 2016. If you are available in the London/Essex area on those dates, please contact Charlotte Smith at csm@sydney-r.bardaglea.org.uk for further information. Anything for next month? Do you struggle to find Assessors for expeditions? Want advice from the London network? Are you recruiting new members of staff or seeking volunteers? If so, then let us know and we will inform the network. Email Mark.Allen@DofE.org with your contribution.