Guidance for UK groups visiting Kandersteg International Scout Centre
FS120089 Published January 2026 replacing May 2025
Introduction
Kandersteg International Scout Centre (KISC) is one of the most popular international destinations for members of The Scout Association (TSA). KISC and TSA have worked together to create this guidance to support you in planning and managing your trip, under the stipulations of TSA activity rules and Policy, Organisation and Rules (POR).
Activities in the Alps are adventurous and challenging and we know that accidents can happen, but with sensible preparation the risks are minimised. These activities are rewarding, fun, team building, educational, and can provide memories that last a lifetime. We believe that KISC offers a safe programme and they look forward to welcoming you to Kandersteg.
Key Considerations
Leader in charge of the visit
When you arrive in Kandersteg, the Leader in charge will have to sign ‘KISC’s General Terms and Conditions’ on behalf of the whole group. This named leader is then responsible for all the actions while here.
Safeguarding
The TSA Safeguarding Card Code of Conduct (Yellow Card) for adults always applies, regardless of where TSA Scouts are or what activities they are undertaking. We have included a "Mountain Huts" section within this guidance to provide further information.
Banned activities
Activities which are not permitted by TSA remain forbidden, even if offered with KISC staff or through an external provider. The list of banned activities includes trotti biking.
Further support
Kandersteg
Contact the KISC Programme Staff when planning your programme to discuss what you would like to do. Please follow the booking procedure on www.kisc.ch and the General Terms & Conditions.
TSA
If you need further help or advice when planning your visit please contact your local Programme Team, or get in touch with the Support Centre on [email protected]
Activities Overview
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Members of staff at KISC come from many countries around the world. They are all trained and assessed in leading various activities based on and around KISC operating procedures and standards.
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When abroad, TSA members may take part in activities being run by members of the host National Scout Organisation (NSO) following the host organisation's guidance and rules. In this context, KISC is deemed an independent NSO. TSA groups therefore do not need to follow TSA activity specific rules (such as group sizes) when taking part in activities led by KISC staff.
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There must be an adult member with a full appointment present who feels confident in stopping the activity if they have safety concerns. This adult member must stop the activity if they have safety concerns at any point.
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KISC staff will work with groups prior to activities to ensure they are prepared as best as possible.
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KISC works with various external activity providers who run activities such as high ropes parks and white-water rafting. KISC only works with companies who comply with Swiss law and whose staff are qualified to the level required in Switzerland.
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When taking part in activities led by external providers, TSA members must follow TSA guidance and regulations regarding the Use of External Centres and Instructors (POR Rule 9a.6). This includes ensuring that the provider holds a public liability insurance policy. KISC has provided insurance information for the providers that feature within KISC programmes. The details can be accessed here. Please note that this insurance information is not maintained by TSA. More information can be obtained by contacting your VA Recommender or the Support Centre on [email protected]
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KISC offers some activities which are not well known in the UK and may not have any regulations. In these cases it is usually possible to find a similar activity as a comparison.
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If the Leader in Charge feels that the activity is not safe, then the activity must be stopped immediately.
- KISC works with some external companies who provide equipment rental e.g. mountain bikes or river tubes. Although this equipment is rented externally, the activity is still classed as being self-led. Therefore, if groups choose to rent this equipment, they must follow TSA activity rules as outlined in chapters 9a and 9b of POR.
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The 'Summer activities' and 'Winter activities' sections of this guidance provide information for TSA Scouts planning and leading activities in and around the Kandersteg area. They provide detailed information to allow you to relate and compare the environment in Kandersteg with that of the UK.
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KISC has a large international Programme Team who can offer advice and help you plan your activities. We urge you to use their knowledge and expertise as much as possible.
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It is up to you as a group to check that you are following all the relevant regulations of TSA. It is the responsibility of the Leader in Charge to ensure that your planning comes within TSA rules, especially with regard to necessary activity permits. (General Activity Guidance).
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All groups staying at KISC must complete a Route Card and leave it with KISC staff. Route Cards must be completed in the KISC format; route cards presented in other formats will not be accepted. Route cards must be completed to the satisfaction of KISC staff. If this Route Card does not contain at least the same information as the TSA template, then you will also need to ensure that the TSA template is completed and left with a responsible member of your party who is not taking part in the activity.
- Walking maps of the area around Kandersteg are available – aim to buy and use these. KISC can send you one in advance if you wish and put the cost on your bill.