Teamwork, resilience and friendship shine at The Quarries

What a weekend for our Milton Keynes Scouts and Explorers! Over 25 young people came together at The Quarries campsite on 25–26 October for two days of adventure, challenge and teamwork — all part of the selection process for the Bucks Grand Tour and World Scout Jamboree 2027.

Setting off from a chilly car park at 7.30am on Saturday, the young people soon warmed up with an icebreaker bingo challenge before hiking to The Quarries — via a budget-friendly stop at Tesco Wolverton. Their mission? To plan and cook a three-course meal for under £15 using Trangias. Every team came in on budget, and every leader survived the tasting test — a true triumph!

Once on site, the groups pitched camp and threw themselves into a packed afternoon of activities. From obstacle courses and fundraising ideas to cultural awareness tasks and a tricky wrapping-paper tower challenge, the weekend tested their teamwork, creativity and resilience.

After lighting fires and cooking their three-course creations, everyone gathered for games and a well-earned rest. On Sunday, they heard inspiring stories from past Jamboree and Grand Tour participants before tackling archery and climbing sessions. The weekend ended, fittingly, with some site service alongside The Quarries crew — a final act of teamwork before heading home for a hot bath and a well-deserved sleep!

Jason Raggett, Lead Volunteer for Milton Keynes Scouts, said:
“We were blown away by the spirit and determination of every young person who took part. Choosing who will represent Milton Keynes on these incredible adventures is one of the toughest jobs we have — they were all amazing. None of this would be possible without our brilliant volunteers, who give up their time to create opportunities like this and help our Scouts discover just what they’re capable of.”

The difficult part now? Waiting to hear who’ll be selected for 2027. But whether they make the final list or not, every Scout and Explorer who took part gained new skills, confidence and friendships that will last a lifetime.

🌟 Join Milton Keynes Scouts

There are always amazing experiences to be had beyond the World Scout Jamboree and Bucks Grand Tour.
Join us and see what you can do — as a young person or an adult volunteer — at 👉 mkscouts.org

🎥 Watch our highlight video below to see the weekend in action!