Veganism, digital detox, dancing and getting to know an older person are among 25 recommended activities

The Duke of Edinburgh award scheme’s leaders are calling on the government to support character building in schools.

Teenagers who want to grow in confidence and resilience are being urged to try “character building” activities such as trying veganism, performing random acts of kindness, taking a digital detox, attending a music festival and going dancing.

The DofE scheme, best known among its millions of graduates for its intrepid, all-weather expeditions into the wilds of the British countryside, has drawn up the checklist of 25 experiences.

Other suggested activities on the list include: public speaking, learning a foreign language, doing work experience, spending time getting to know an older person, volunteering for a charity, campaigning for something you believe in, spending time in nature, engaging in politics, learning about climate change and becoming a mentor to someone younger.

While most teenagers will be able to tick off at least some of the activities on the list, leaders of the DofE scheme are calling on the government to do more to support character building in schools to help develop resilience in all young people.

The Experience List: 25 of the best character hacks for teens grew out of a DofE poll of 1,000 teenagers aged 14 to 18 across the UK that found more than half (51%) had never had a part-time job and more than two in five (44%) believed they were not given enough opportunities to build confidence and resilience.

The poll also revealed that one in five (20%) of those surveyed had never been for a walk or hike in the countryside and more than half (52%) had never volunteered for their community. Further research was carried out among business leaders, education professionals, parents and young people to help develop the list of recommended activities.

Ruth Marvel, DofE’s chief executive, said: “Whether taking part in the DofE or not, all young people should have access to the kind of experiences on the list.”

The DofE programme offers bronze, silver and gold awards to young people aged 14 to 24 who are required to volunteer and develop new skills, as well as complete an expedition. Last year it was offered in 3,500 UK organisations, including schools, colleges, universities and young offender institutes, and more than 153,000 young people achieved awards with a 13% increase among disadvantaged young people.

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Gold DofE award-winner Dot Hakim, 21, who uses the pronoun they, said the activities they completed helped them overcome serious setbacks. “I faced many personal challenges as a teenager ... These experiences are vital for young people to develop the right skills for this tough world,” they said.

The Department for Education defended its record on character education, which has been popular among ministers like the former education secretary Damian Hinds. “We want young people to be confident, healthy and equipped to deal with the challenges that come with growing up,” a spokesman said.

“That is why our new relationships and health education will teach pupils from an early age the benefits of being active, spending time outdoors, community participation, and the impact of voluntary and service-based activity on their wellbeing.”