UK Scouts commit to 26th World Scout Jamboree

We are delighted to confirm that UK Scouts will attend the 26th World Scout Jamboree taking place in Poland during the summer of 2027.

Following a review of the 25th World Scout Jamboree, the review recommended that each World/European Regional event involving young people should be analysed and a decision taken if the event meets set criteria. 

Our team has reviewed the current plans for the 26th World Scout Jamboree and have reached the decision that the UK will send a Contingent of Scouts to the global event in 2027.  

As part of our decision, we have some updates on the UK Contingent size, the selection process, the involvement of Girlguiding UK and the Educational Objectives. 

UK Contingent size

The UK Contingent will consist of 70 Units and 630 International Service Team members (IST), which makes sure we have significant representation whilst improving operational management and quality of experience. There is a need for this Jamboree experience to go well and for the financial and safety risks to be well managed. Taking a smaller contingent will result in a more manageable and scaled back experience. 

For IST numbers we have taken between 20% - 36% of the total young people within the contingent . The accepted recommendation is for the percentage to be no more than 25%, meaning 630 IST. 

The UK Contingent will be engaging with the teams in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales as well as English Regional Lead Volunteers on providing space for allocating Units.  

Selection Process 

Following the operational review of the 25th World Scout Jamboree, local teams and UK Leadership Team members we can confirm a streamlined and transparent selection process that promotes representation, efficiency, and accessibility. 

Unit Leaders 

Our Unit Leaders play a crucial role in shaping the experience for young people. Here’s how we are hoping they will be selected:
 

• Nationally led selections for Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and British Scouting Overseas (BSO). In England, selections will take place within counties, all with UK Contingent support. 

• Where Units need to be shared across multiple Counties, selection will need to happen jointly to make sure there is a mix of skills and experience. 

• A set selection period (May - July 2025) across the UK helps make sure there's broad advertising and diverse candidate outreach. 

• A consistent in-person selection format, with scenario-based activities and set interview questions. Ballots must not be used for Unit Leader selection. 

• A central application form will help track diversity and make sure there's a wide range of voices in leadership. This is in development at UK level. 

 International Service Team (IST) 

The IST is the backbone of the Jamboree, helping deliver an unforgettable experience. Here’s how we’ll select the best team: 

• Selections will mirror the Unit Leader process, making sure there is fairness and consistency. 

• Scenario-based, in-person interviews will take place at nation level (Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and BSO) and at the regional level in England . 

• Selections will take place in Autumn 2025 to allow the maximum amount of time for promotion and access for a broad pool of applicants. 

• Ballots will not be used for IST selection 

• We’ll track diversity centrally to make sure we have an inclusive and representative IST. 

Young People  

The heart of the Jamboree is our young people, and we want to give everyone a fair shot at this life-changing opportunity. 

• Selections will take place within counties in England and at regional/national levels in Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and BSO. 

• Selection events will run from August - November 2025, giving young people plenty of time to fundraise and build as a team before the big adventure.

• In-person selection events will follow a structured framework designed by the UK International Team and county leads. 

• Ballots must not be used as the primary selection tool — everyone gets a chance to demonstrate their passion, skills, and enthusiasm. 

Our goal? To build an incredible, dynamic UK Contingent that represents the best of UK Scouts and delivers an unforgettable Jamboree experience. 

Girlguiding

Given the decision to reduce the overall size of the UK Contingent and the limited number of places available to UK Scouts, we have made the difficult decision not to extend an invitation to Girlguiding members for this World Scout Jamboree. This decision, to make sure it’s fairly carried out includes all young people and adults who may have wished to apply for IST, Unit Leadership, Contingent Team and the Jamboree Planning Team. 

We remain committed to our strong relationship with Girlguiding and to exploring future opportunities for collaboration, both internationally and within the UK. This decision does not reflect a shift in our broader partnership, and we will continue to seek meaningful ways to work together in future global experiences. 

Educational Objectives

We’re pleased to announce six core educational objectives for all future UK Contingents attending World Scout Jamborees, World Scout Moots and Roverway events. These objectives will support every participant to embark on a journey of growth, discovery, and adventure. 

Our Six Core Objectives 

1. Personal Development – Building confidence, resilience, and leadership skills.

2. Cultural Awareness and Global Citizenship – Encouraging respect, understanding, and engagement with diverse cultures.

3. Skills for Life and Outdoor Adventure – Gaining practical skills, independence, and a love for the outdoors.

4. Social Connection and Friendship – Creating lifelong bonds and a strong sense of community.

5. Planet Champions – Promoting environmental awareness and sustainability in all we do.

6. Fun and Adventure – Making sure every experience is exciting, memorable, and filled with opportunities for growth. 

 Why These Objectives Matter 

The adoption of these objectives is rooted in key principles that will enhance the Jamboree experience for every participant: 

• Consistency – Every UK delegation will enjoy a high-quality, structured educational experience. 

• Alignment – Strengthens Scouting’s mission of personal growth, leadership, and global responsibility. 

• Impact Measurement – Provides a clear framework to evaluate the success and lasting impact of participation. 

• Long-Term Benefits – Equips young people with skills, values, and experiences that will shape them into active citizens and future leaders. 

More details on how these objectives will come to life at the 26th World Scout Jamboree will be shared in the coming months. This is an exciting step forward in making sure that every international experience is meaningful, impactful, and inspiring. 

Lewes District will be sending three young people to the Jamboree in 2027. the cost for the event is £2650 which covers the Jamboree, pre and post events, other activities whilst abroad and the travel costs. Lewes District are then subsiding a further £500 per young person (providing a certain amount of fundraising has been completed) which brings the cost to £2150 each.

The cost of this event is more than achievable through fundraising alone. If anyone needs more financial support, please email treasurer@lewesdistrictscouts.org.uk