The Venture Abroad Media Team had the opportunity to travel to Switzerland and film members of the Epping Explorer Scout Unit, as well as various other groups, as they explored the vast Swiss landscapes; it was, without a doubt, a real eye opener for the VA team!
Travelling with 12 Scouts and 14 Explorers and their volunteer leaders their trip was timed perfectly to coincide with the celebrations taking place at Kandersteg International Scout Centre and in the village of Kandersteg to celebrate Swiss International Day.
Having spoken to Katie, the group leader prior to departing on our trip, we quickly learned that one of the main objectives for them on the trip was to allow their Scouts to grow in confidence and to nurture a desire for them to explore their own independence. It was a trip focused on personal growth, with every member being encouraged to push their own personal boundaries. Switzerland and KISC as their base was without a doubt the perfect setting to allow this to happen.
The first chance we had to link up with Epping was at the meeting point for the cable cars that take you up to the stunning setting of Oeschinensee. The group arrived and seemed set for what would be a fabulous day ahead. Plenty of smiles all round, sunglasses on, speakers playing music that set the rhythm and tone for the day, and we knew we had met a fabulous group of young people.
Hopping into cable cars from Kandersteg, there was plenty of chatter amongst the group as we enjoyed our first views of the breathtaking scenery. Oeschinensee (also known as Lake Oeschinen) is one of Switzerland’s most breathtaking alpine lakes, located above the village of Kandersteg.
Once at the top, it was time to quickly prepare the Explorers for their safety briefing in anticipation of their planned rides on the mountainside toboggan run. Everyone was ready for this one – who would be the fastest or the most daring. I can say for sure… I think the leaders took this prize! One ride each just wouldn’t cut it – back they went time and time again.
As we filmed their adventures, I sat talking to the only girl on the trip and explored further her feelings about this:
I love being part of Explorers – I’ve always got on better with boys and my brother is also in the unit. Everything we do is about adventure – I just love it – I forget that I’m the only girl!
Next, we got our introduction to their much loved and well-travelled mascot Gertrude who, of course, had their own Instagram account. Why wouldn’t you have mascots with their own Instagram account, I heard myself asking!?
With multiple rides ticked off, it was now time for the hike to the turquoise waters of the glacier fed lake of Oeschinensee. Walking and talking, we found ourselves immersed in Explorers anticipation of what lay ahead for them at the lake. Who would dare enter the cold waters – maybe more than you think when a leader has the foresight to lure them on the promise that entering the waters would contribute towards them gaining a badge!
Boats hired, cards played in small groups, swimming in the pristine waters enjoyed by some, food eaten… all against the truly stunning backdrop of the mountains of this special part of the UNESCO World Heritage site.
We had heard the group talking about how they had planned to invest a few members of the group against the spectacular scenery of Oeschinensee – but nothing had quite prepared us for how emotional this would be. It was a moment in time to treasure for leaders and each and every member of the group. Being invested and taking your nest step up in Scouting in Switzerland – now that was without a doubt a moment to remember, especially for their youngest Scout who had only just turned 10!!
With our bags on our backs, we hiked back to the top and said our farewells to the group – on the promise that we would indeed see them again the next day to join them for their much-anticipated Kandersteg Village Swiss International day celebrations!
We arrived at KISC as the group were heading into the central arena at KISC, where they joined thousands of Scouts from all over the world! What a site to behold – with each group celebrating their own country, a glorious display of singing and dancing at every corner – this was a dazzling display and celebration of International Scouting.
The excitement of all involved was contagious. Following the parade into the centre the international nature of scouting was on fine display as they joined locals to celebrate this very special day!
We bid the group farewell as they continued into the evening singing, dancing and enjoying the atmosphere created by the thousands of other Scouts from all over the world.
The next day we travelled by bus over to KISC to be greeted by a sea of celebrations, music, stalls, colour, international badge swapping and Scouts coming together on-site to mark and celebrate Swiss International Day!
We spent the remainder of the afternoon on Epping Explorers Campsite. Lots of chatting with leaders, witnessing boys attempting to pack up their belongings, seeing the best negotiation skills for international badge swapping and generally reflecting on what had been an epic journey for all.
Epping Explorers – thanks for having us! Capturing your journey on film and on camera has been a Media Team dream!
Till next time Switzerland ❤️
