Kandersteg International Scout Centre reopened on 1 July 2020

This page is no longer being updated, but we have now updated our list of FAQs about COVID-19 here: 

We are open!

We have been monitoring the situation closely and can reopen the World Scout Centre safely from 1 July, as long as we follow the guidance laid out by the Swiss government and public health authorities.

Making adjustments

Over the next seven weeks restrictions from the Swiss Government are set to ease further. However, we must be honest and let you know this will not be a ‘normal’ summer.

• We have already helped many of our guests reschedule to an alternative date.
• Due to a combination of visa restrictions and financial limitations, we have had to take the difficult decision to reduce our Summer Staff intake by over 50%, significantly reducing our capacity to deliver a number of services.
• The programme and activities we are able to offer will be severly affected, as we come to terms with limits on group sizes and the kind of activities we can deliver safely.
• We will ask our guests to help reduce the risk of transmission, by bringing their own disinfectant and other items (in addition to what we provide).

Refunds

We have extended our refund criteria, to give you the option of a full-refund, providing your circumstances meet some conditions. You should read our updated COVID-19 FAQs for more details.

Keeping the dream alive

This is a challenging time for KISC, but we would like to reassure you that the spirit of the Permanent Mini Jamboree is still very much alive here and we’ll be doing everything possible to ensure those that can still visit, have a fantastic time.

Frequently asked questions

Is it responsible to reopen at this stage?

1. The Swiss borders are closed to your country 14 days before you are due to arrive.
2. The country you are travelling from has banned international travel during the time of your booking at KISC.
3. Your National Scout Organisation (NSO) has banned international travel during the time of your booking at KISC.

Yes, we can now confirm we can book meals. Due to Covid-19 regulations, we will only be serving breakfast and cooked dinner this Summer, but a packed lunch option is available. We will have limited space in the dining hall, to ensure the required distancing measures are followed. If you wish to have catered meals with us, please submit a meals order form through our website and our Reception team will let you know of the availability. You will need to bring your own, filled water bottle with you.

Sadly, we will not be able to fulfill all the activities you have requested. Instead, we will be delivering a weekly programme with a variety of alternatives, onto which you will be able to book.

Following the email sent out from the Programme team, you will now be able to book a maximum of three activities for your trip to KISC.

Activities are as follows:

(Click on the image to open a PDF-version of the schedule.)

	Category	Activity
	Challenge activities	Crate Stacking, Jacob's Ladder, Zip Wire
	Guided hikes	Bunderspitz Hike, Doldenhorn Hut Hike, Gasterntal Hike, Lötschenpass Hike
	Workshops	Backwoods Workshop, World Scout Workshop, The Juicinator, Fueling the Future
	Jamboree activities	Light Trail, Campfire, International Sports Afternoon

 

Why did KISC close?

Our number one priority is the health, safety and wellbeing of everyone at KISC. In March, the advice from public health authorities worldwide and in Switzerland, meant we could not guarantee that.

We are continuing to play our part in reducing the risk of transmission of the virus.

I have a booking with you between now and 30^th June. What happens now?

We have individually contacted all our affected groups in the last few weeks to discuss available options. These include moving your booking to another date, donating your pre-payment to the Permanent Mini Jamboree, turning your pre-payment into a KISC membership, or issuing you with a refund.

If you believe you have not yet been contacted by us, please email reception@kisc.ch 

I still want to come, can I postpone my stay?

Yes! We are encouraging all our guests to consider joining us in a different month or year, up to 2021. You are welcome to move your booking, including any pre-payments to an available date in the future.

When can I expect my refund?

We will not be able to issue refunds until later in the year. The KISC Committee have had to take the difficult decision that we will only be able to pay you your refund once the situation around the Covid-19 pandemic becomes clearer, allowing us to factor in any necessary cost savings and to better understand our financial position. We anticipate this to be around the end of the Summer season. This is to ensure the Centre can continue running not only to celebrate its centennial in 2023, but for many years to come.

How will I receive the refund?

All refunds will be made by bank transfer.

How will I know that you have made a refund?

You will receive an email notification from us confirming that your refund has been processed.

Can I donate my pre-payment instead?

There is no doubt this will be a difficult year for KISC financially and we would be very grateful for any and all donations. Your support during these difficult times will help us weather this storm and safeguard the Permanent Mini Jamboree for many more years.

My group does not have insurance, can we cancel and get a full refund?

If you cancel your stay and your circumstances do not meet one of our three conditions outlined above, we cannot offer a full refund. Please see our cancellation policy found in our Terms and Conditions

Do I need to re-book programme if our visit has been moved to 2021?

Yes, if your booking has been moved, you will need to submit a NEW programme booking with us on 1^st March 2021. This is to make it fair to each group who will be staying with us in 2021.

Are staff still working at KISC while you are closed?

Yes, our current team of Pinkies are continuing to work here, and we’ve very grateful for their dedication and hard work. They have been answering your calls and emails, cleaning the Chalet, preparing the campsite and gearing up for when we do reopen. We’re also working on ways to continue to engage with you and your Scouts, and spread international friendship whilst you can’t visit us in person. 

During this time we will be following the guidance set by the Swiss public health authorities. This includes working from home where possible, social distancing, washing our hands thoroughly and regularly as well as self-isolating if anyone gets sick.

Have any of your staff been infected with the virus?

No. We have been following social distancing guidelines and have rigorous hygiene processes in place. We do not currently have any staff in self - isolation.

I am supposed to be volunteering at KISC during the summer. What happens to me?

We have contacted all of our volunteers who are due to join us this summer with instructions. If you have any questions or concerns please contact our Staff Development Director directly.

I want to volunteer for one of your vacancies, can I still apply?

Absolutely! We’re only closed temporarily and we’re going to need an army of enthusiastic Pinkies once we’re back open again. You can find our current vacancies here.

Where can I see the changes and safety measures that are going to be in place this summer?

You can find relevant changes and safety measures in the KISC concept for operation - Summer 2020.