My name is Joshua Boon & I am a student at Ilkley Grammar School. I have set up this page in order to join the British Exploring Society in 2017, in the Himalayas to conduct scientific research.

The British Exploring Society (BES) is a branch of the Royal Geographic Society first set up in 1932. The BES has run over 130 expeditions in its time targeting youth development, whilst maintaining its focus on research.

I will be studying glaciation & glacial retreat at the 3rd highest weather station in the world, the effects of altitute and biodiversity. All this will take place in the extreme and inhospitable region of Ladkhi in India. The expedition will last 3 weeks and take place at altitudes ranging between 4000 and 6000m. All this provides the perfect and challenging environment to study; as global warming is becoming an ever growing problem and areas which are unaffected by people are few and far between. Due to this region being so sparsly inhabited, there are a lot fewer human factors meaning research is still viable in the region.

Whilst the research is the main goal of the expedition, a large and crutail aspect of it is youth develpoment. I will be one of around 60 young explorers between the ages of 16 and 25 who all have great interest in the research we will undertake and the mindset for challenging exploration. We have all begun training both physically & physcologically for the challenges ahead, ensuring we are well prepared.

The BES aims to allow anyone and everyone who can show their willingness and aptitude to join the expeditions no matter their background. Over the 130 expeditions undertaken thousands of young people have benefited, meaning they can pursue careers they have always dreamed of with the new skills & experience along with the confidence gained from BES.

Unfortunately all this does come at a cost as the BES cannot pay for everyones kit & travel. The total cost is £2700 and i would be more than grateful for any contribution.