Help Centre

General

If your question hasn't been answered here, please email info@eij.org.uk.

When is the next Essex International Jamboree?

We are delighted to confirm that the dates for EIJ are 27th July to 3rd August 2024.

Where will it be held?

We have secured the same site where we held EIJ2016 in Boyton Cross, Chelmsford, Essex. This site is a fantastic venue for our jamboree, and we're looking forward to returning in 2024.

Who can attend?

EIJ2024 is open to all UK and international Scouts, Guides, Explorers and Rangers aged between 10-17years (age at 27/07/2024). We welcome all over 18 year olds to join our staff team and look forward to welcoming back those staff who were due to join us in 2020.

How much will it cost?

The participant cost is £350 and leader fee is £150.
Transport and food costs will be added by each unit.
The fee for a staff member is £150 (fully catered)

What should I do to make sure I am covered in the event of needing the cancel?

Each unit/group booking onto EIJ2024 is responsible for arranging their own cancellation insurance to cover their unit/groups costs (fees, travel etc.) EIJ’s own insurance does not cover individual units/groups.

It is worth noting our terms of booking:
Group Leaders are responsible for ensuring all members of their Participant Group have:
(a) adequate travel and other insurance for attending the Event; and
(b) all necessary passport, visa and other immigration requirements.

All deposits are non-refundable. Bookings are not refundable after the end of the Cancellation Period and all further instalments will remain due and payable. If the Organisers need to cancel the Event due to circumstances beyond their control, money will be refunded to the extent that it has not already been spent or committed to be spent. This is likely to mean that, in some circumstances, no Event Fees or Staff Fees can be refunded. Such circumstances may include but are not limited to an outbreak of a public health concern.

How can I stay up to date?

The best ways are to follow us on social media (Facebook, Twitter), check our website and sign up to receive our newsletters.

What provision do you have for participants and staff with additional needs?

We have a dedicated subcamp where we have extra equipment to support leaders who have participants with additional needs. We also have disabled toilets and showers.Please email info@eij.org.uk to discuss further.

Is the deposit refundable?

The £75 is non-refundable; however we do not need names when this payment is made so you can readvertise the space and hopefully allocate to another person within your group.

Does a Unit Leader need to have a Going Away With Licence (Girlguiding) or Nights Away Permit (Scouting)?

All Unit Leaders MUST have either a REN form (Girlguiding) or NAN form (Scouting) approved by their local DC. This process will establish whether the leadership team has the required experience. If you are unsure please discuss with your local DC.
If you want help to link up with other units to share resources (including leaders) please contact info@eij.org.uk.

Will there be a place to buy groceries on site?

We'll have a food warehouse on-site where you can purchase groceries. You can place orders directly with the warehouse, and they'll consolidate them for daily delivery. You'll need to pick up your order at an agreed time from the warehouse.

We'll stock a variety of staples, fresh produce, eggs, etc., for you to purchase whenever you need them. We're currently finalizing details with our supplier, and we'll share them soon to assist with menu planning.

Alternatively, you can choose to order from your preferred retailer and have them deliver to the site. However, note that deliveries will not be allowed onto the site, so you'll need to arrange to meet and collect your order from the main gate.

Will I be able to pay by card?

Yes.  We will have contactless and chip & PIN payment machines at all our retail outlets.  We will also accept cash.

Can I withdraw cash on the site?

Yes.  You will be able to withdraw cash from the Cash Centre.  There is not an ATM on site so you will need to ensure you visit the Cash Centre during the opening times of 8:30am to 5:30pm daily.

Can I pay by cash?

Yes, although we are encouraging people to pay by card, we will accept cash.

I am travelling from overseas, will you accept a non-UK payment card? And are there any fees to pay?

We accept Visa, Visa Electron, V Pay, American Express, Discover, UnionPay, MasterCard, Maestro, JCB, Samsung Pay, Google Pay and Apple Pay.  We do not charge any fees when you make a payment however your card provider might, for example for currency conversion, so you may want to check with them first.  We charge all payments in GBP.

Which payment methods do you accept?

The following providers are accepted - Visa, Visa Electron, V Pay, American Express, Discover, UnionPay, MasterCard, Maestro, JCB, Samsung Pay, Google Pay and Apple Pay.

Where can I read your policies?

All our policies can be found here.

Can I bring my dog?

Please remember the site is a dog-free zone - no dogs are permitted on site.

International

If your question hasn't been answered here, please email international@eij.org.uk.

I am an international leader and would like to bring my group. Who can I speak to?

Yes, please email international@eij.org.uk and we will put you in touch with our international team.

I am an international leader and I would like to attend as staff but would be travelling alone, is this possible?

Yes. If you are a member of an non-UK Scout or Guide association, we will work with you to ensure you have all the correct approvals and followed the correct procedures to join us in Essex. Our dedicated international team have vast experience in helping you with you this.

I would like to bring my group from another country however we cannot bring all our camping equipment or food. Will you be able to help?

Yes. We have a dedicated international team who will be able to help you. We have equipment that you can hire from us, and on site we have a food warehouse where you can buy your food. If you're interested to know more, please email international@eij.org.uk so we can answer your specific questions.

I would like to be a staff member but I am not a member of UK Scouts or Girlguiding, can I still join?

Yes. If you are a member of an non-UK Scout or Guide association, we will work with you to ensure you have all the correct approvals and followed the correct procedures to join us in Essex. Our dedicated international team have vast experience in helping you with you this.

How many leaders can come with my group?

We recognise that travelling internationally with young people brings extra responsibility. Because of this we allow a ratio of up 1 adult to 4 young people, with a minimum of 2 leaders per group. If you have young people with special needs they may have a 1-1 ratio.

What if I have more leaders than the ratio?

They can apply to be staff at bookings.eij.org.uk. Their Girlguiding or Scouting membership verification will be separate to the groups.

Can parents attend?

Only if they are a recognised member of the Guide or Scout association in their country.

Do you verify adults?

Yes, all adults (18+) are verified with their home country association.

Can I bring my children?

You may bring children under 10. They remain the responsibility of the Parent at all times.

For children of staff volunteers we have an excellent kids club called Noa’s Kids Club. There will be a small fee for children and for Noa’s Kids Club. Any children over the age of 10 must be members of Guiding and Scouting and be participants in EIJ.

Can I change the numbers in my group?

If you wish to increase numbers this will depend on if there are any available places. Once we have received verification of membership for the adults in your group, you will not be able to reduce the numbers in your group.

Can we be partnered/hosted with a UK group whilst at EIJ?

Yes as long as we have UK groups available we can try to match you up to make your visit even more interesting and enjoyable.

Leaders

If your question hasn't been answered here, please email info@eij.org.uk.

What is the ratio of leaders to young people?

The relevant Girlguiding or Scouting residential ratios for your Group must be adhered to and we expect each group to have a minimum of 3 leaders. Groups with more than 12 young people we have a maximum ratio of 1 leader to 4 young people

When do I need to book my group?

Bookings are now closed.

When will young people need to make their payments?

The instalments for payment are as follows:
£75 non-refundable deposit
£150 due by 31st October 2023
£125 due by 29th February 2024

When will leaders need to make their payments?

The instalments for payment are as follows:
£75 non-refundable deposit
£75 due by 29th February 2024

Are you having Junior Jam similar to previous years?

There will not be a Junior Jam at EIJ 2024, however we something even better! Have a look at our EIJ in a Day page for more information or scroll down to see the FAQs about EIJ in a Day.

Bookings for EIJ in a Day are now closed.

Can leaders children (aged under 10) go to Noa's Club?

Unfortunately Noa's Club is for staff members children only.

Can 18 year olds take part in activities?

Participants must be aged 10-17 at the time of the Jamboree to take part in the main activity programme. Those aged 18 or over can attend as leaders or join our staff team. 

What’s included for leaders?

All leaders will get a Subcamp scarf and badge. You will also have access to a full training programme where you can do Girlguiding and Scouting qualifications as well as take part in some new, fun and exciting non-association sessions. We hope that lots of you will take part in these, and if you have any suggestions on what you would like included please email info@eij.org.uk.

Can young members, who are older than 14 still camp with Guides or Scouts if they do not want to join Explorers or Rangers?

Our activities are organised into zones and all participants (aged 10-17) have the opportunity to take part in all activities offered. However, please note we do not have a separate Ranger/Explorer subcamp therefore they can attend with a Scout or Guide unit in order to attend.

I have a young participant with additional needs, can they attend? And do we have any flexiblity on the leader - participant ratios?

The Essex International Jamboree is open to all young members of Scouts and Guides (aged 10-17). We have a dedicated subcamp where we have extra provision for additional needs to ensure that we can look after you effectively. Please email info@eij.org.uk to discuss your individual requirements.

Can Leaders bring their children if aged under 10? And if so what is the cost?

A participant leader can bring their child to the Jamboree as a non-participating child and will be their responsibility throughout. Noa's Club is only available to children of members of staff. The non-participating under 10 fee is £40.

Is there a requirement to submit all risk assessments along with the Scout Nights Away Notification (NAN) form?

EIJ is organised by Essex Scouts and Guides. The event is managed by a group of volunteers who are working within Scout Association and Guide Association policies and rules. An Event Management Plan (EMP) is being produced in conjunction with the relevant local safety Scouting and Guiding advisors and external advisors (including police, fire, ambulance, environmental health etc). The EMP will be available online closer to the event. This will cover management of risks for those activities provided by EIJ. For example this includes (but is not limited to):

  • overarching event welfare and safety.
  • activities provided by EIJ.
  • provision of food, power, water, toilets and showers by EIJ.

 

EIJ confirm that all instructors and providers will have the correct qualifications, risk assessment and insurance for the activities they are providing.

Unit leaders are still required to undertake and provide their own risk assessments. That should cover any activities undertaken by the unit including for example (but not limited to):

  • travel to and from the event.
  • provision of camping and cooking equipment at the event.
  • food safety and cooking at the event.
  • welfare of their unit young people and adults
  • minor first aid
  • in touch / home contact system

 

Unit leaders are advised to discuss these requirements locally with the team responsible for receiving NAN forms or to contact info@eij.org.uk for further support.

Staff

If your question hasn't been answered here, please email info@eij.org.uk.

How old do I need to be to sign up as staff?

You will need to be 16 or over at the Jamboree. There will be some roles that will only be available to those aged 18 or over.

I am a member of an activity team and would like to offer our services.

Please contact info@eij.org.uk to discuss further.

How much does it cost to be a member of staff, and when do staff need to pay their fees?

It is £150 (fully catered).

The instalments for payment are as follows:
£75 non-refundable deposit
£75 due by 29th February 2024

I want to volunteer, but I have a child under the age of 10. Can I bring them?

Yes, you can bring your child. They remain the responsibility of the Parent at all times. For children of staff volunteers we have an excellent kids club called Noa’s Kids Club. There will be a small fee of £40 for children and for Noa’s Kids Club members to attend.

I want to volunteer but I am not a member of Girlguiding or Scouting. What can I do?

You will need to contact your local Girlguiding or Scouting Unit and enquire about becoming a member. Once they have completed all the recruitment checks you can apply to be part of our team.

I would like to attend as a member of staff however I have additional needs.

The Essex International Jamboree is open to all members of Girlguiding and Scouting. Please be aware that the Jamboree site itself is a grassy farmers field with no permanent walkways. We will work with you to ensure you're assigned to the role that is most appropriate and desirable for you. Please email info@eij.org.uk to discuss further; and also keep a look out on our Job Vacancies to apply for the role of your choice.

What is involved in being a member of staff?

As Staff your fee includes breakfast, lunch and dinner in our Staff Restaurant.

You will:
- Be part of the Great EIJ Staff (and wear Red!)
- Camp on the Staff Subcamp
- Be provided with a job specification which outlines your roles and responsiblities
- Expected to work set hours throughout the Jamboree, which will be agreed with your Team Leader
- Have time to explore the Jamboree
- Be part of the closing and opening ceremonies (even if as crowd control!)
- Access to learning and development courses
- Access to the on-site bar and evening entertainment
- Be able to book Noa's Club if you have a child with you under 10 years old

We expect all our Staff to respect each other, to be flexible, mindful that we are all volunteers and to have an amazing time!

Do I need a car parking permit?

Yes and you can download it here.

EIJ in a Day

If your question hasn't been answered here, please email eijinaday@eij.org.uk

How can I book my place at EIJ in a Day?

Bookings for EIJ in a Day are now closed.

What is EIJ in a Day?

The aim of EIJ in a Day is to provide a Jamboree experience for young people with leaders who cannot commit to the entire week or who belong to younger sections.

There will be some activities you can take part in in each zone however there will not be separate activities available for Experience day attendees.

Can I come as an individual?

Under 18s must come as part of a group, with a leader. If your group is already at EIJ, please get in touch to discuss the options available.

Over 18s can book as individuals.

When are EIJ in a Day participants allowed onsite?

EIJ in a Day participants are allowed onsite on their allocated day from 9 am to 4:30pm

What are the costs for EIJ in a Day?

The cost is £30 per participant under 18 (including young leaders/guide helpers) and £10 per leader.

How do we pay?

Details of how to pay will be provided when we confirm receipt of your booking and approve your ratios. Bookings are not secure until full payment is received. Deadline for payment is 30 days from the approval email.

What does the package include for participants and leaders?

Participants and leaders receive:

  • EIJ Pencil
  • EIJ in a Day badge
  • Subcamp Challenge badge
  • Access to specific activities
  • Scavenger hunt
  • Wristband
  • Tea and coffee provided by subcamps for leaders, you will need to bring your own lidded cup

Who is required to wear a wristband?

All attendees will be required to wear a wristband for the entire day.

What information should leaders add to the wristbands?

Leaders should add their telephone number to each of their group members’ wristbands. This information will be used in case of a missing person or other emergencies.

What should attendees bring with them?

Attendees are advised to only bring a small rucksack to carry their packed lunch and water bottle.  There will be a lot of walking!

There will be no base for the groups, you will need to carry all your belongings with you all day.

Are gazebos allowed?

No, gazebos are not allowed.

What should attendees note about accessing different parts of the site?

Attendees will be directed to activities with their subcamp hosts. Due to safety requirements, they will not be allowed to access all parts of the site.

When can parents enter the car park?

The specific time for parents to enter the car park will be communicated closer to the event.

Parents will be held in the car park and wait for the groups there.

Who can attend?

EIJ in a Day visitors will be accepted if they meet the following criteria:

  • They are members of Girlguiding or Scouting.
  • Under 18s must be part of a group with their own leaders, adhering to association ratios.

What Ratios do we need to adhere to?

Bookings will be checked to ensure association ratio rules are met for different age groups:

  • Squirrels: 1 adult to 4 Squirrels, plus the leader in charge with a minimum of 3 adults.
  • Rainbows: 1 adult for every 5 Rainbows with a minimum of 2 adults.
  • Beavers: 1 adult to 6 Beavers, plus the leader in charge with a minimum of 2 adults.
  • Brownies: 1 adult for every 8 Brownies with a minimum of 2 adults.
  • Cubs: 1 adult to 8 Cubs, plus the leader in charge with a minimum of 2 adults.
  • Guides: 1 adult for every 12 Guides with a minimum of 2 adults.
  • Scouts: 1 adult to 12 Scouts with a minimum of 2 adults.
  • Rangers: 1 leader with a recommended second adult.

Who can I contact if I have further questions?

Simply email our team at eijinaday@eij.org.uk