With eighty-one young people applying for places on the 22^nd World Scout Jamboree, competition for places in the Unit was always going to be close. At the end of October, dozens of Scouts and Explorer Scouts descended on the County Scout HQ at Cranham with the intention of impressing the judges. Those judges were forty-five Leaders from across the county, who all volunteered their time to take part in the selection event.

The Scouts and Explorers spent the weekend undertaking a wide variety of challenges, from logic and team challenges to designing and executing a new dance. Traditional Scouting skills were tested alongside leadership and teambuilding qualities, and the fierce weather over the weekend further tested resolve! There was a hugely participative campfire on the Saturday night, and on the Sunday afternoon, each Patrol took part in a reflection around the campfire circle. Many Scouts and Explorers made memorable statements, giving us all a chance to reflect on what B-P called ‘This great game’. The overwhelming view from the young people at the end of the weekend was that they had had a wonderful time, which was to be remembered whether they were selected or not.

At the end of the process the leadership team of five – none of whom were awarding points to the applicants – had a huge amount of data to use in selecting the thirty-six to go to Sweden. After holding a second, shorter selection event for a few Scouts and Explorers who were unable to get to the main weekend, the full list was released less than a week after the selection weekend. Every applicant was called and told their result, whether selected or not.

The Unit consists of 20 boys and 16 girls. Chosen entirely on ability, the Unit represents a full cross-section of county scouting, with representatives from every District, every age group and even from twenty-three different schools!

Since then, a launch evening has been held, and the fundraising effort is starting to gather speed. With every District represented, the Jamboree Team hopes that each District will support and assist their chosen youngsters as much as possible.

The 22^nd World Scout Jamboree will take place in Summer 2011 near Kristianstadt in Sweden. The Gloucestershire Leadership Team is:

Neil Edwards, Unit Leader

Chris Jones, Assistant Unit Leader

Louise Slee, Finance

Martin Peake, Communications

Gareth Ovens, Standby Leader

Selected Scouts & Explorer Scouts – by District