DUKE OF EDINBURGH
Residential Section
The best way to achieve your Gold Residential section
Trusted as an approved activity provider (AAP) for the Duke of Edinburgh Award, here at Fresh Tracks our signature 5-day residential courses fully meet the requirements for the Gold Residential Section.
Know what you want! Head over to buy your course now.
Want to find out more - keep reading….
what are the requirements for the residential section?
The residential section is a core, mandatory component of the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. Taking part in a cookery course is a great way to achieve this goal.
The key requirements are:
Duration: a minimum of 5 consecutive days and 4 nights away from home.
Group Size: the group must consist of at least five participants, the majority of whom should be unknown to each other.
Setting: must be an unfamiliar environment away from home.
Purposeful Activity: must involve a shared, purposeful activity (e.g. cooking together).
You can find a summary of the DofE requirements for the residential section on the DofE website here
what courses can i do with fresh tracks for my residential?
Join us for a unique opportunity to complete your Gold Residential while gaining valuable life experience and skills you’ll actually use, whether you’re planning a ski season, heading to university, or just looking to boost your confidence and independence.
Choose from one of our two signature courses below:-
Chalet Hosting Course
This intensive 5-day course teaches students everything they need to know to become a successful chalet host. From cooking and cleaning, to hospitality and time management, it’s ideal for those planning a ski season gap year or considering a career in hospitality.
Off to Uni (Life Skills) Course
Perfect for students preparing for higher education, or wanting to gain confidence before moving on to live independently. This residential focuses on essential domestic and practical skills — cooking, budgeting, laundry, basic maintenance, and more.
Both residential courses are held in the stunning location of Polzeath, Cornwall in top quality accommodation. With onsite leisure facilities, and minutes form the beach, students get the opportunity to make the most of their free time
why should i choose fresh tracks for my residential?
At Fresh Tracks we truly care about your learning experience and want to share our passion with you. Here are some of the reasons why booking with us will be the best decision you’ll make.
Years of experience, expert tuition
Learn from experienced chalet hosts and tutors who know how to teach real, practical skills.
Flexible course options
Choose from one of our fully immersive residential courses for the Gold Award.All paperwork sorted
Assessor reports and certificates completed correctly and on time — no stress, no chasing.Fun, friendly and supportive
A welcoming environment where students feel comfortable, included and encouraged.A skill for life
Practical cookery and life skills that go far beyond the Award itself.A residential that’s more than a tick-box exercise
Our residential courses are hands-on, realistic and delivered with warmth and energy. Students leave with new skills, new friendships and a genuine sense of achievement.
“I just wanted to drop you a note to say thank you SO much for giving Euan such a wonderful experience in Polzeath this past week. He was absolutely buzzing when he got home and has told us all about it. It really does sound like a wonderful experience and you packed so much in. He loved the cooking and has learnt so much. He also really enjoyed all the other elements of the course - all such useful life skills. Euan loved the gym too and said it was really smart! The weather obviously topped off the whole experience and he enjoyed many happy hours on the beach and swimming in the sea.
All in all a truly memorable experience...thank you so much”
what should i do now?
If you're looking to complete your Gold Residential with a course that’s both practical and fun, we’d love to welcome you to Fresh Tracks on either our Chalet Hosting course or our Off to Uni (Life Skills) course. Spaces fill up quickly, especially for DofE students, so click on one of the buttons below so you don’t miss out.
If you have any questions about which course is best for you, or you want to find out more don't hesitate to ask, check out our FAQ’s page or give us a call - we're here to help!