Children doing the Chalk Stream Challenge © Katy Seaman
Chalk Stream Challenge
Calling all youth group leaders! Are you looking for a new way to explore the great outdoors? Your group could learn about a magical habitat and earn a special badge, with our Chalk Stream Challenge. Discover the wonders of these rare and precious places, which are full of amazing wildlife and heritage.
The challenge is suitable for Scouts, Guides, and similar groups. It involves activities that can easily be customised to suit different age ranges. There are several set routes to choose from, all of which are 'off-road’ but close to public transport, parking, and places to find refreshments and toilet facilities.
The Chalk Stream Challenge was created by two brilliant volunteers, Hazel and Sarah, as part of the Watercress and Winterbournes Landscape Partnership Scheme. The scheme features many projects focused on the Rivers Test and Itchen headwaters, including free education sessions for young people.
Child holding a Chalk Stream Challenge badge © Katy Seaman
How it works
To run the Chalk Stream Challenge for your group, choose a route from the list below and download the challenge documents. Inside, you'll find chalk streams facts, a route map, spotters guides, and activities for your group to complete.
Next, fill out your badge order form (also below) and email it to Tracy Standish at Wessex Rivers Trust. We offer fabric challenge badges for a small fee, but you can do the challenge without them - a certificate for home printing is provided.
Then, take your group to your chosen stream and get busy exploring. Share your favourite facts about these precious habitats and guide your group through their activities. Finally, reward their hard work with a badge, certificate, or both!
Children doing the Chalk Stream Challenge © Katy Seaman
Extra exploration
Want to learn more about the geography and wildlife of our chalk streams? You can expand your challenge with a river dipping session from our scheme partner Wessex Rivers Trust. These give your group the chance to see fascinating animals up close, while also learning how they thrive in these globally rare ecosystems. Email Tracy Standish to find out more.
Choose your challenge route:
River Arle, Alresford
Charlton Lakes, Andover
Rooksbury Mill, Andover
Upper Test, Whitchurch
River Bourne, Laverstock (Wiltshire)
This route can be found on the Wessex Rivers Trust website.
River Ebble, Bishopstone (Wiltshire)
This route can be found on the Wessex Rivers Trust website.
River Chess, Chesham (Buckinghamshire)
This route can be found on the Chilterns Chalk Stream Project website.
Create your own
If you have a chalk stream in your area, but it isn't covered by our existing challenge routes, why not create your own? The activities that make up our challenge badge can take place on or near other chalk streams - have a look at the documents below, or our existing routes, to get some ideas.
Just be sure, when exploring your chosen stream, to choose your route with care. Walk along it in wet weather to check it would be safe and accessible for all of your group members. If any of the route is on private land, ensure you have permission from the landowner.