Meet The Team

Behind every great adventure is a team that makes it happen! Our dedicated DofE leaders are here to guide, support, and inspire every participant on their journey.

From planning expeditions to celebrating achievements, we’re passionate about helping young people build confidence, resilience, and lifelong skills.

CRAIG WILLIAMS - Duke of Edinburgh’s Award MANAGER/LEADER

Hello, my name is Craig, I'm a director and owner of Sam's Workplace, I'm also the Duke of Edinburgh manager for Sam's Workplace DofE.

I have been doing youth organization for about the last 30 years, I'm passionate about making changes to help young people in our communities have the best experiences in life that they can have and want to achieve.

 As they say.... anything is achievable when you put your mind to it.

Over the last 30 years i have achieved many skills and qualifications to help in the journey of young people and myself.

Skills / qualifications: Safeguarding, First Aid, Micro Navigation /Map Reading, Expedition Supervisor and Assessor, Managers Induction DofE, DofE Pathway, Delivery of DofE, DofE Induction, DofE Training, Award Verifier, DofE Leadership Program.

DAVY YATES - Duke of Edinburgh’s Award MANAGER/LEADER

With over 35 years of teaching experience and a lifelong love of the great outdoors, I’m proud to lead, assess, verify DofE programs and run expeditions that inspire confidence and resilience.

As a qualified first-aider and former Army Cadet Force instructor, I bring hands-on expertise in walking, navigation, and everything DofE.

Supporting young people to challenge themselves, learn new skills, and achieve their goals is my true passion.

RICHARD COTTERILL - Duke of Edinburgh’s Award VOLUNTEER/TRAINEE LEADER

I take part in DofE as an adult helper because I love supporting young people as they grow, learn, and challenge themselves.

It’s rewarding to see them gain confidence, develop teamwork skills and independence.

I enjoy sharing my experience, encouraging resilience, and helping them achieve goals that shape their futures in meaningful and positive ways.

JASON COMMANDER - Duke of Edinburgh’s Award VOLUNTEER/TRAINEE LEADER

Currently going through two training pathways with the DofE, Delivering the DofE & Expedition Assessor and Supervisor roles, as well as continual learning and in-house hands on training.

Previous experience includes several years as a CFAV adult instructor with the ACF teaching and training 12 to 18 year olds in various subjects some of which obviously include Navigation, prior to this I served with the British Armed Forces for several years so I would like to think I bring a certain amount of experience to the table with regards to expeditions and adventure training and the right mindset to achieve,.

Although I’m now non verbal there’s nothing better than the great outdoors for me, it’s like a second home, so being able to still support a great team to deliver the DofE to the kids is a gift that I’m always proud to be a part of.

CAL COTTERILL - Duke of Edinburgh’s Award VOLUNTEER/HELPER

I’m currently studying Mathematical Physics at the University of Nottingham and I really enjoy acting as an adult helper to guide younger participants through their DofE journey.

Supporting others has strengthened my leadership, communication, and organisation skills, while allowing me to give back and grow through shared experiences and challenges.

How to Become a Leader

Becoming a DofE Leader is your opportunity to inspire the next generation of young people to push boundaries, discover new skills, and achieve something remarkable. Whether you’re a teacher, youth worker, volunteer, or simply passionate about helping others grow, your guidance makes all the difference.

Getting started is simple:

  1. Get in touch - via email or filling out our online form. Contact

  2. Complete your leader training – we’ll provide all the support and resources you need.

  3. Start leading and watch your participants thrive as they work towards their awards.

As a DofE Leader, you’ll build your own leadership skills, connect with your community, and help young people unlock their potential — one expedition, project, and milestone at a time.