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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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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At last night’s meeting, members took part in a timed cooking challenge designed to develop expedition skills. The session began with a 15-minute quick fire quiz. Explorers were then split into groups of five or six and assigned roles. Three members from each group went to Tesco to purchase ingredients. They were required to shop sensibly, return with a receipt, prioritise quick-cook options, and consider reduced items as the meal was being prepared the same evening. The remaining group members set up tables and Trangia stoves, beginning preparation of any base ingredients requiring longer cooking times. A total of 20 …

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Last night, Shackleton ESU put our teamwork, strategy and problem-solving skills to the test with an action-packed Traitors Challenge Night – and what a brilliant evening it was! Inspired by the TV show The Traitors, Explorers took part in a series of exciting challenges, all while trying to work out who they could (and couldn’t!) trust… Throughout the night, teams tackled a range of fast-paced and brain-teasing activities. Our Code Breakers challenge put communication and logic to the test as teams raced to crack hidden messages. The Tower Building challenge saw groups competing to construct the tallest and most stable structure under pressure – with plenty of …

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As expedition season approaches, Shackleton ESU members gathered for an essential first aid training evening, reinforcing the skills and confidence needed to keep teams safe in challenging environments. Expeditions, by their nature, take us away from immediate help. Whether we’re supporting remote travel, endurance events, or adventurous training, the ability to respond calmly and effectively in a medical emergency is a vital part of what we do. This session was about refreshing core knowledge, practising practical skills, and making sure we’re ready—just in case. Managing Heat-Related Conditions With warmer months and demanding activity ahead, we began by covering heat-related illnesses. …

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