OUR IMPACT

What do we measure?

We are interested in the development of knowledge and character attributes as well as the acquisition of skills. In our impact assessment, we do not place emphasis on capturing evidence of knowledge acquired as this is such an individual experience – except where it affects behaviours.

We have a strong intrapersonal focus in our work. We use an introspective tool, ‘My Compass’, which focuses on self-efficacy. It is our version of a well-established impact measurement tool, the outcomes star (originally funded by the Big Lottery), adapted for our programmes since 2017.

My Compass allows each Young Explorer to set goals and self-evaluate their progress during their journey with us. It is also used by Leaders as a reflective conversation tool, encouraging Young Explorers to think about their aspirations and set goals for themselves. This reflective practice while on expedition helps our Young Explorers to develop their independence and self-governance. We believe these attributes are essential for wellbeing and living a healthy, balanced and fulfilling life.

As of 2025 we have introduced a new ‘Adventure Compass’ which we will use to measure our impact going forward (you can find out more about that via the link below).

Scroll down to see the data from our My Compass reporting in 2024.

Means Tested Fundraising

Did you know that young people can access all of our programmes for free?

Our only requirement is that each young person demonstrate their commitment to their programme by raising funds to support the future aims of the charity.

Each young person is given a fundraising target that is means-tested, starting from £50 on full scale Expeditions and from £20 on UK Adventures.

This fundraising challenge forms a key part of the personal development journey that our young people undertake. Through fundraising, they discover hidden abilities and learn valuable skills which they then take forward in their future lives.

Penn State University researchers interviewed Explorers who went on expedition with us over 20 years ago to see what impact this experience has had on their adult lives. “This study provides evidence that these long-term influences of expedition experiences can be long-lasting and significant in participants’ lives.” (Ramírez Cañas, 2019)

Studies have found that our expeditions produce profound emotional responses. A period of post-expedition adjustment indicated by all participants showed “changes or examination of values during the expedition experience.” (Allison et al., 2011)

A study on our Greenland 2003 expedition showed significant changes in positive behaviours such as setting priorities, achieving goals, and solving problems efficiently. These behaviours remain core desired outcomes for us. (Stott & Hall, 2003)

“Leadership appeared to increase through the expedition and then remain stable, and the application of coping strategies appeared to keep increasing over time.” (Allison et al., 2018)

“Overall it is reasonable to conclude from the evidence that the expedition experiences offered by British Exploring Society are consistent – it does not matter which year you go and where you go – the benefits reported are consistent.” (Allison et al., 2015)

“Expedition participants frequently talked about using their experience on the expedition to direct their lives as they adapted to post-expedition life. This often translated into important decisions about future careers and education.” (Allison, Davis-Berman & Berman, 2015)