Shackleton ESU Adventures in Switzerland: Kandersteg 2026

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27 July to 6 August 2026 This summer, 34 Explorers and 11 Leaders from Shackleton Explorer Scout Unit embarked on an unforgettable 10-day international expedition to Kandersteg International Scout Centre (KISC) in Switzerland. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Swiss Alps, the expedition combined adventure, challenge, personal development, international friendship, and plenty of fun. From the moment the group arrived in Switzerland, Explorers were immersed in a packed programme designed to develop confidence, resilience, teamwork, and independence, while creating memories that will last a lifetime. Exploring the Alps One of the highlights of the expedition was the opportunity to …

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Shackleton ESU Takes on Climbing, Abseiling and Bouldering at Copthorne Prep School

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Last night, members of Shackleton Explorer Scout Unit enjoyed an exciting evening at Copthorne Prep School, taking part in climbing, abseiling and bouldering activities. Explorers tackled a variety of climbing routes, challenging themselves both physically and mentally while developing confidence, balance and coordination. The session encouraged participants to communicate effectively, support one another and show determination when faced with more difficult climbs. During the abseiling activity, Explorers learned to trust their equipment and apply the correct techniques to descend the wall safely. Stepping over the edge for the first time was a significant achievement for many, helping to build self-belief …

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Shackleton ESU D of E Successful Weekend in Ashdown Forest

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Last weekend, Shackleton Explorer Scout Unit headed to Ashdown Forest for a fantastic Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme, with both Bronze and Silver participants making the most of the opportunity to develop their skills and experience. Bronze Qualifying Expedition Completed Our Bronze group successfully completed their qualifying expedition, putting into practice everything they have learned over the past months. Based at Broadstone Warren Scout Site, the team camped overnight and navigated their routes through Ashdown Forest with determination and teamwork. This important milestone saw participants demonstrate their abilities in navigation, campcraft, timekeeping, and group decision-making. Well done to all involved …

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Archery and Angel Throwing

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Shackleton Explorer Scout Unit met at Stanford Scout Campsite last night for an evening of planned outdoor activities. The unit split into two groups. One group took part in archery, working on shooting technique and target accuracy under supervision. The second group completed tomahawk throwing, focusing on safe handling and basic throwing skills. They will swap next week so that all Explorers have the opportunity to take part in both activities. Weather conditions remained dry throughout the evening!

Volleyball

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Last night’s Shackleton ESU meeting at Grattons Park was a fun, high-energy volleyball session with two courts running and four teams of 6–7 players taking part. There was plenty of volleyball throughout the evening, with continuous games, great teamwork, and lots of laughter as everyone got involved, rotated between matches, and supported each other. It was a relaxed but competitive night that showed strong ESU spirit and gave everyone the chance to play, improve, and enjoy the game together.

DofE Silver Practice Weekend – New Forest

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Well done to all Shackleton ESU teams who completed the Silver practice expedition in the New Forest. The weekend provided valuable experience and clear learning ahead of the Qualifying Expedition. Key lessons included the importance of strong teamwork and morale, especially in challenging moments, and the value of clear roles such as navigation, timekeeping, and campcraft – while remaining flexible if plans need to change. Navigation skills need further development, so we will make sure we provide further training opportunities through the summer! Personal care and kit management were highlighted, particularly looking after feet, carrying blister treatment, and ensuring rucksacks …

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Shackleton ESU Celebrates Scout St George’s Day in Crawley

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Yesterday, Shackleton Explorer Scout Unit was proud to take part in the Scout St George’s Day celebrations in Crawley town centre, joining Scout groups of all ages from across the Crawley District. Explorers, Scouts, Cubs, Beavers and leaders came together to mark this special occasion in the Scouting calendar, celebrating our shared values of community, teamwork and service. The event was a fantastic opportunity to see the strength of Scouting across Crawley, with units parading together through town and showing their pride in being part of the Scout movement. Members of Shackleton ESU enjoyed supporting the wider district, catching up …

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Shackleton ESU – Climb When Ready Training Summary

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Leaders from Shackleton ESU attended an Artificial Scout Climbing and Abseiling course delivered by Climb When Ready (where Sean also instructs!). The training focused on developing the practical, safety, and leadership skills required to support and supervise climbing and abseiling activities within a scouting context. During the course, leaders developed skills in the correct use of personal protective equipment, rope handling, belaying, basic system setup, and safety checks. The training also covered communication methods, group supervision, and safe practices when managing young people on artificial climbing and abseiling facilities. The course was facilitated by experienced instructors who provided clear demonstrations, …

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Shackleton ESU: Building Pioneering Structures That Pack a Punch

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Last night’s Shackleton ESU meeting was a brilliant showcase of creativity, teamwork and problem‑solving as members took on a challenging pioneering activity: designing and building a device capable of firing a bean bag. Working in small groups, Explorers were given limited materials and a clear goal, then left to plan, build, test and refine their ideas. The results were impressive, with a wide variety of designs on display — from tension-powered launchers to cleverly engineered lever systems. Some devices performed more reliably than others, but every group demonstrated determination, learning from each attempt and making improvements along the way. Throughout …

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Shackleton ESU Sleepover Camp at 4th Worth

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Last night saw Shackleton ESU enjoy one of our most relaxed and sociable camps of the year with a brilliant sleepover at 4th Worth. A refreshing contrast to our usual mountain and expedition-based camps, this one was all about fun, friendship and taking things at an easy pace. The afternoon began with a mix of light outdoor adventure and skills. Explorers took part in geocaching, putting their navigation and teamwork to the test as they searched for hidden caches around the area. As the evening drew in, attention turned to fire lighting, giving everyone the chance to practice their skills …

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Summer 2026 Programme

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This term is packed with a wide range of exciting activities designed to challenge, develop skills, and most importantly, have fun. From outdoor adventures and sports to practical expedition preparation and team games, we’re looking forward to another varied and active term together. Date Time Activity Lead / Notes 13/04/2026 19:30 – 21:30 Hunted Jack 20/04/2026 19:30 – 21:30 Pioneering Phil / Sean 27/04/2026 19:30 – 21:30 Fire Lighting @ Stanford Ben S 04/05/2026 19:30 – 21:30 May Bank Holiday – No Explorers — 11/05/2026 19:30 – 21:30 Orienteering @ Tilgate Niki 18/05/2026 19:30 – 21:30 Volleyball Jack 25/05/2026 19:30 …

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Expedition Skills

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Our Explorers recently took part in an engaging Expedition Skills Evening at Shackleton ESU, designed to build the knowledge and confidence needed for successful expeditions. The session focused on the key practical skills that every explorer should develop before heading out into the hills. Throughout the evening, Explorers rotated through a number of activity bases, each covering an essential part of expedition preparation. One of the core skills covered was writing route cards. Explorers learnt how to carefully plan a route by recording important details such as grid references, bearings, distances, timings, and checkpoints. Understanding how to create a clear and accurate route …

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