SES Raleigh Explorer Award

The SES Raleigh Explorer Award will run for the next three years and will fund 15 young adults from less socio-economically advantaged backgrounds to join a Raleigh Expedition.   

Applications open February 2025.

• 2024: 7 places
• 2025: 4 places
• 2026: 4 places

The funding will cover places for a 10-week Expedition and flights to Costa Rica or South Africa, including insurance and flights. Venturers will be encouraged to raise funds for items such as kit and travel to the airport.  

We are looking for young people who can clearly show that they would benefit from experiencing a life-enhancing and transformational volunteering experience with Raleigh International.  

The Award is being funded by The Scientific Exploration Society (SES), Raleigh alumni, members of the Raleigh UK Society (RUKS) and Raleigh International.

• 17-24 (must be 24 or less when on Expedition) 
• Able to commit to a 10-week Expedition in Costa Rica or South Africa on either of the following dates: 24th June – 29th August (Cycle 2) OR 8th October – 23rd November (Cycle 3). 
• Annual mean household income of less than £42,000.
• Able to raise funds for own kit and vaccinations
• Must have a valid UK passport
• Able to commit to up to 3 orientation days between being accepted and attending Expedition (done at weekends) and commit to an online pre-departure training.
• Need to be a citizen of any of the four UK nations, dependencies or overseas territories.
• Reasonably fit and able to cope with a hike.
• Willing to act as an advocate for Raleigh on return from Expedition.

In addition to these criteria, applicants must be willing to share their Raleigh story and pictures on Raleigh International social media channels and website as well as be open to speaking with the media. This will help promote the SES Raleigh Explorer Award and Raleigh Expedition.  

Award recipients will be recognised at the SES Explorer Awards ceremony on 16th October in London. If you are successful we would love you to accept it in person – or if you are on Expedition, send in a video of thanks!