A couple of weeks ago 21 Scouts and Explorers, from across the District, took part in a selection event at Hopehill, each with the aim of being selected to fill 1 of just 5 places to represent Gravesham Scouts at the next World Scout Jamboree in Poland during the summer of 2027.
From Friday evening to Sunday lunch time the Scouts and Explorers took part in a wide ranging set of bases and tasks. The challenges set were designed to showcase the participants skills in 5 key areas that they were being score on;
- Co-operation
- Respect
- Care
- Responsibility
- Belief
Each category representing the Scout Values and being scored by our team of volunteers supporting the event. The participants were also being observed constantly to see how they worked with others, coped under pressure and generally presented themselves throughout the weekend.
Activity wise the participants took part in International themed challenges, Fundraising planning, cooked Polish food, helped with a Service project at Hopehill, did some Tomahawk throwing and were even interviewed in a time pressured environment. All designed to test their resolve, resourcefulness and want to be part of the adventure that awaiting those that would be successful.
At the end of the weekend the team of volunteers sat down for nearly 3 hours discussing and deliberating the individuals. Comparing scores and comments throughout to make sure the best 5 participants, who would gain the most from taking part in the once in a life time event that is the World Scout Jamboree as a participant, were chosen.
To that end, we are proud to announce that the following 5 young people from across the District will be our representatives at the next World Scout Jamboree…
- India – Kipling Explorers
- Evie – 1st Northfleet Scouts
- Luke – Culverstone and Vigo Scouts
- Amber – Culverstone and Vigo Scouts
- Isla – Kipling Explorers
Congratulations team!!
In addition, we opted to choose three reserve candidates that may either take one of the chose 5’s places if required or may take an additional place if any arise. Those three being, Elouise (4th Gravesend), Sadie (1st Northfleet) and Isabelle (Meopham).
For our successful 5 their journey to Poland has begun and they now have to raise £3,600 each. So please support them at every opportunity that you see them working to raise funds between now and 2027!
Well done to all those that took part in the selection process, it was a difficult decision for the volunteers to make as everyone truly did so well! Thank you to those volunteers who gave up their time to make sure the weekend was a success and once again a huge congratulations to the successful 5!
Dave Norris
Programme Team Lead – Gravesham Scouts
