The Scouts is part of a worldwide movement – there are Scout Associations in 216 countries and territories, and we are all member of the World Organisation of Scout Movements (WOSM).
International Scouting is a very broad term and can involve everything from going on an expedition to another country to learning about cultures and traditions in your weekly programme.
Oxfordshire Scouts, Districts and Groups have all offered trips abroad in the past and have travelled to almost every country in Europe. You can also take part in International camps and events in the UK and you can find out about these opportunities on the Scouts website here.
A list of current international events can be found here.
In addition, during the third weekend of October JOTA-JOTI is held, which is annual opportunity to make contact with Scouts around the world through the Internet and Airwaves, more infirmation can be found on the Scouts website here.
Explorer Belt
The Explorer Belt is a challenge of a lifetime. It is a chance to take part in a ten-day expedition that brings you a real understanding of a different country, its culture and way of life. You will develop this understanding by travelling through your chosen country, working as part of a small team to complete a series of projects and most importantly by meeting local people. It is an experience and an achievement that you will remember for the rest of your life.
Previous Explorer Belt expeditions have taken place in Sweden, the Netherlands, Belgium Italy and Bosnia.
Scouts of the World Award
Scouts of the World Award (SOWA) is a Scout Network only award that gives Scout Network members the chance to undertake a project of their choice within the themes of Peace, Environment and Sustainability and take action on their chosen issue.
Through your Scouts of the World Award journey, you’ll develop skills and knowledge that will empower you to undertake a project that will make a sustainable impact on your local, national or international community, while developing your personal skills.
You’ll learn skills including independence, teamwork, project planning, time management and communication skills, while gaining an understanding for global issues and international relations. You don’t have to go abroad to complete your Scouts of the World Award. Local and national projects are acceptable, as long as all requirements of the award are being met.