Shackleton ESU recently took part in an evening of climbing and abseiling at Copthorne Prep School. Explorers tested their skills on the outdoor climbing wall, tackling various routes and building confidence with each ascent. Abseiling was accessed separately via an internal stairway, allowing members to descend the tower under supervision using proper rope techniques and safety equipment. Thank you to Copthorne Prep School for hosting, and to the leaders and instructors who supported the event.

This week, Shackleton Explorer Scout Unit put their teamwork and problem-solving skills to the test in an action-packed Team Challenges Evening held in the grounds of our scout hut. With three unique and engaging bases, the Explorers were split into teams and rotated through each activity, using communication, strategy, and collaboration to succeed. 🚧 Base 1: The Da Vinci Bridge At the first base, teams were challenged to build a self-supporting Da Vinci Bridge using only wooden spars and their ingenuity. This classic pioneering challenge tested their understanding of tension and compression forces — with no ropes or fastenings allowed! …

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Last night, Shackleton ESU swapped neckers for nets as we took to the grass courts of Grattons Park for an energetic evening of volleyball fun and friendly competition. With the sun setting and a light summer breeze in the air, four teams went head-to-head across two makeshift courts set up on the field. The teams rotated matches throughout the evening, ensuring everyone had plenty of time on the court and plenty of chances to show off their skills (and some dramatic dives!). From big serves to last-minute saves, the evening was packed with great moments, lots of laughter, and some …

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Yesterday evening, Shackleton Explorer Scout Unit in Crawley put their creativity and teamwork to the test in a fun and delicious cardboard oven cooking challenge. Using little more than cardboard boxes, tin foil, and some ingenious engineering, the Explorers set out to bake cookies or brownies entirely from their handmade cardboard ovens. The task wasn’t just about culinary skills, it was also a test of resourcefulness, fire safety, and outdoor cooking knowledge. As seen in the photos, spirits were high as the Explorers huddled around their homemade ovens, tweaking their designs and checking on their bakes.

Last Monday evening, Shackleton Explorer Scout Unit swapped neckers for trainers and hit the grassy fields of Gratton’s Park for a lively game of rounders during our weekly meeting. With the sun shining and spirits high, Explorers gathered for a classic game that blended teamwork, friendly competition, and a good dose of laughter. Two teams were quickly formed, and after a quick refresher on the rules, the match began. Fielders took their positions while batters stepped up to the plate, some with confident swings, others with surprise hits that sent fielders sprinting. A big thank you to everyone who came …

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Tonight, Shackleton ESU met at the Stanford campsite for a focused session on fire lighting, putting practical outdoor skills into action. The evening covered several fire-starting techniques, each demonstrating different principles of ignition and heat. These included: All groups successfully started fires using the methods above and managed to burn through the string suspended from their tripods, demonstrating control, focus, and an understanding of the techniques. Well done to everyone who took part. Your teamwork, persistence, and safe handling of each method were commendable. This session not only built practical knowledge but also reinforced the importance of preparation and responsibility …

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