The Wychwood Explorers, a Scouts group for 14 to 17-year-olds in Oxfordshire, has made significant strides since its formation in November 2023.
Meeting in Chipping Norton every Thursday evening, the group offers young people the chance to develop essential life skills through more than 200 activities, including skiing, ice skating, night hikes, and cooking competitions.
Jonathan, explorer leader, said creating an accessible group for young people to fulfil their scouting journey is important, describing the age group as the “most important time to be in scouting”.
He emphasised the importance of the group in promoting skills like teamwork, project management, and leadership.
These skills are described to be essential for life that transfer to future education prospects and employment opportunities.
As the summer approaches, the Explorers are preparing to participate in the country's largest Monopoly-themed event for Scouts and Guides, the London Monopoly Run.
Additionally, activities with communities and employers are being planned, including an expedition and a Lake District Camp.
Another accomplishment by the Wychwood Explorers was their 'Dragon's den' evening, where they designed and launched micro-businesses within their community to raise funds for their selected trips.
This initiative exceeded expectations, raising enough funds for both indoor skiing and an ice skating trip.
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