Grenoside scouts take part in ‘virtual camp at home’ to celebrate St George’s Day

THIRTY-FIVE beavers, cubs and scouts took part in a ‘virtual camp at home’ this week to celebrate St George’s Day, the Patron Saint of Scouting.

Baden-Powell chose St George as the Patron Saint of Scouting as he felt that the Saint George legend set a good example of faith, courage and perseverance for future generations.

Traditionally scouts across the UK renew their promise on St George’s Day but with the social distancing restrictions in place, Grenoside scouts decided to mark the occasion in a different way this year.

Instead of gathering as a group like in previous years, scouts and their leaders pitched their tents in their gardens and built dens at homes to take part in the lockdown night away ‘at home’. Many designed a flag for their tent or den and displayed it proudly.

There was even a virtual campfire on Zoom where children and leaders enjoyed campfire songs before finishing with a renewal of the scout promise.

Wearing their uniform for the occasion, the group also took part in the weekly clap for NHS key workers and carers.

Each scout taking part will be awarded their ‘night away’ badge for their efforts.

Grenoside cubs Akela Sam Caldwell said: “It was great for us all to get together again virtually and share their experience whilst being safe at home.

“We are all living in unprecedented times so activities like this that we can share together are a great way of keeping in touch but also supporting everyone’s wellbeing. It was lots of fun and there was some wonderful singing. I hope it’s something positive we remember for many years to come.”

Following Government guidance, all face-to-face Scout meetings, activities and events have been suspended from Tuesday March 17 until further notice.

Each week leaders have been setting virtual tasks many linked to badges for the different groups to take part in. These include observing nature, researching different countries of the world, designing community posters and learning about religious festivals such as Easter and Passover.