Frequently Asked Questions
Can only teachers become Award Leaders?
No. Although many Award Leaders are teachers, the programme is open to any adult who wants to support the development of young people. You can be a coach, youth worker, employee in a company, or a volunteer in an NGO – the important thing is to have the availability to offer time, support, and guidance.
In the Award programme, we work with schools as well as various youth organisations or companies.
Is it a paid role?
The role of an Award Leader is voluntary, but your contribution is recognised for its real educational impact and the positive transformations you bring to the lives of young people. It is a valuable and meaningful experience – including for yourself.
How can I sign up as a Leader?
- If you are part of an institution (school, NGO, company) that is already Award licensed, contact the Award Centre Coordinator.
- If your institution does not yet run the programme, write to us at office@dofe.ro and we will guide you step by step.
What training do I receive?
You will participate in an official course organised by the National Award Foundation, which fully prepares you for your role. This includes:
- Individual learning module (online, at your own pace); and
- A module with Foundation trainers
How long does it last?
Depending on the level you choose, the activities take place over a minimum period of 6/12/18 months. For each activity, you will dedicate a minimum of 1 hour per week, i.e. an average of 3 hours per week.
You have continuous access to:
- Award Community, an online platform for learning and support
- The Award Leader’s Handbook
- The Mentoring Guide
- Practical tools and resources for your activity
How much time do I need to dedicate?
Involvement is flexible, depending on the level chosen by the young people and your availability. Roughly: 1 hour per week or every two weeks, for at least the entire duration of the journey of the participants you guide.
What is my role in the programme?
As an Award Leader:
- You collaborate with the Award Centre Coordinator
- You guide young people in choosing suitable activities
- You monitor their progress
- You provide them with constant mentoring
What benefits do I have as an Award Leader?
- It is an opportunity to use your leadership skills, strategic thinking, or inspiration in a meaningful way with real impact – contributing to the growth of a generation of young people prepared for life.
- You receive international Award recognition and certification, valuable for your career.
- You rediscover the meaning of education beyond grades and curricula – where learning truly happens: in relationships with others, in action, in mutual development.
- You become part of the Award Community, an international network of dedicated educators and mentors.
What benefits does my institution have if it becomes licensed in the Award?
- They develop skills such as: confidence, empathy, organisation, resilience, responsibility
- They are better prepared for university admission and for their career
- They obtain an internationally recognised certificate
- They participate in official recognition ceremonies
- They build positive relationships with mentors and peers, in a safe and motivating environment
What benefits does the programme bring to young people?
- They develop skills such as: confidence, empathy, organisation, resilience, responsibility
- They are better prepared for university admission and for their career
- They obtain an internationally recognised certificate
- They participate in official recognition ceremonies
- They build positive relationships with mentors and peers, in a safe and motivating environment