December 2010 - January 2011 Scouting magazine

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Scouting DECEMBER 2010/JANUARY 2011

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THE YOUTH-EDITED ISSUE

DO SOMETHING DIFFERENT New activities for 2011 MOVE OVER, HOLLYWOOD Explorers shoot a film about Scouting today IDOL WILD Do you share the same heroes as these Scouts?

SCOUTS.ORG.UK/MAGAZINE

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SCOUTING Scouting Editors: Chris James, Hilary Galloway, Elis Matthews, Dave O’Carroll and Rose Wells Youth Editors: Corinne, Hannah, Micky and Robert The national magazine of The Scout Association ISSN 0036 – 9489 © 2010 The Scout Association Registered Charity Numbers 306101 (England and Wales) and SC038437 (Scotland) Published by: The Scout Association, Gilwell House, Gilwell Park, Chingford, London E4 7QW Tel: 0845 300 1818 Fax: 020 8433 7103 Email: scouting.magazine@scouts.org.uk Website: www.scouts.org.uk/magazine Contributions to: scouting.magazine@scouts.org.uk Please note that the views expressed by members and contributors in the magazine are not necessarily those of The Scout Association.

Publishing Management: Think Publishing Ltd, The Pall Mall Deposit, 124-128 Barlby Road, London W10 6BL Sub-editors: Rica Dearman and Marion Thompson Art Director: Ian Hart ADVERTISING Sales Executive: Richard Ellacott richard.ellacott@thinkpublishing.co.uk Tel: 020 8962 1250 Printed and distributed by: Headley Brothers Ltd Printed on 100% recycled paper

CONTRIBUTORS Television chef, cook and author Rachel Allen cooks up a mouthwatering salmon teryaki, on page 42.

Naturalist and television presenter Chris Packham discusses nature and how children should get up and close to it, on page 35.

Cover photo: Dom Scott

LOG ON – DON’T MISS OUT If you have moved house, want to change your section supplement or amend your personal details, you can update with a click of the mouse: • Sign up at www.scouts.org.uk – you only need to do this once. You will need your unique membership number to hand (this can be found on the address sheet that comes with Scouting magazine) • Log on • Update your details and anyone else’s you are line manager for • Logging on today also means you can access Programmes Online, the revolutionary programme planner!

90,571 average circulation from 1 Jan to 31 Dec 2009

A GLOBAL

FAMILY

We’re on to the next part of the seven Scouting principles. Using my mnemonic, Ten Little Fat Fingers Caught The Rat, we’re now up to Fingers, and the F stands for Family.

As Scouts, we are part of a worldwide family of 31 million Scouts united by a common purpose of adventure, service and camaraderie. What a cool family to belong to!

I love the fact that, as I travel around for the Born Survivor shows, I get to meet and hang out with Scouts from all over the world. Recently, I was in Darwin in northern Australia, and there, in a small Scout hut, was a Troop of smiling, motivated, expedition-centred Scouts. Brilliant!

In this busy, and often community-lacking world, to be part of this special family counts for so much. Don’t underestimate the power of family, and the power that a sense of belonging can give to people.

I, for one, am so proud to be a small part of our great worldwide Scouting family. Families look after their own in times of need, they protect, encourage, share and support. Great qualities, as we all tackle this adventure that is life.

Next issue we are on to the next letter, C.

Bear Grylls, Chief Scout

HELLO!

AND… ORS FROM OUR GUEST EDIT

Having spent a lot of time and energy on this issue, we have become very familiar with the workings and processes of running a magazine – it has been great! We have had an amazing time: interviewing, writing, designing and proofreading the magazine. We have had the chance to meet some incredible people and get up to some awesome things.

The opportunity has been a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and one that we are very thankful for. If you would like to find out what we have done, then take a look. Enjoy!

Micky, Robert, Hannah, Corinne www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Contents

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FEATURES

REGULARS 9 IN BRIEF 11 MAILBOX 12 NEWS | Events, campaigns and updates 23 FOR/AGAINST | Running a section should be a shared responsibility 42 CAMP COOKING | Two delicious recipes 52 FAITHS & BELIEFS | Activity ideas based on faith festivals 59 COUNTRY DIARY | James Taylor on winter camps 64 HEALTH & WELLBEING | Nick Carr doesn’t let his disability get in the way of his Scouting adventure 76 COMPETITION | Win two free nights at a National Scout Activity Centre 81 ROUND OUR PLACE | The Dockland Scout Project District makes a splash 82 FIVE MILES WITH… | Scuba diver and Cub Leader Richard Edlin

19 MEET THE TEAM | Introducing this issue’s youth editors 20 LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION! | Young people make a film of what Scouting means today 24 10 BEST THINGS ABOUT SCOUTING | What people like most about being a Scout 26 A TIME FOR HEROES | The youth editors’ pick of the bunch 28 YOUTH GONE WILD | An insight into Steve Backshall’s outlook 29 ADVENTURE SCOUT | Find out more about Bear Grylls 30 UNDER PRESSURE | What stresses young people today?

33 GENERATIONAL GOBBLEDEGOOK | Decipher your Scouts’ conversation with this urban dictionary 35 ‘CHILDREN SHOULD BE ALLOWED TO GO OUTSIDE AND GET MUDDY’ | Chris Packham and the outdoors

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36 THE YOUNG LEADERS OF TODAY… AND TOMORROW | What youth involvement means for Scouting 40 MAKING THE LAW | What the Scout Law means to young people 45 SKILLS & ACTIVITIES | DON’T MISS! A selection of new Free 2011 skills and activities camping to try out in 2011 guide 55 OODLES OF ACTIVE SUPPORT | The rebrand’s success in West Sussex, plus youth editor Micky’s view 60 A WORLD OF SCOUTING | Two Scouts report on Scouting overseas 74 CHRISTMAS QUIZ | Put your knowledge to the test with our annual Christmas teaser

S T N E T N O C OPINION

7 AN INTERVIEW WITH | Youth editor Hannah speaks to UK Chief Commissioner Wayne Bulpitt

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PARTNERSHIPS 67 PROMOS & RESOURCES

IN THE SUPPLEMENTS BEAVERS Help your Beavers feel included, and starting a satellite Colony |

CUBS Winter festivities, twin badge success and shapely activity ideas | SCOUTS A year in the life of a new Troop, compass skills and encouraging Patrol competition | EXPLORERS Forums, death masks and an event list for the whole of 2011 | NETWORK A focus on faith, a game of Viking chess and a very Cornish pioneering project | FOCUS Top tips on recruiting parents, role-sharing in practice and an update on the launch of our Vision Towards 2018

All available at scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Opinion

ARE YOU ?

D E T A C I T S E M DO

issioner e with UK Chief Comm tim e m so d be ab gr ah ts to know Youth editor Hann tions that everyone wan es qu e th k as to itt lp Wayne Bu Why did you want to be UK Chief Commissioner?

I was involved in national Scouting and thought that holding such a position would be the best way to make a difference and influence things.

How are you improving things?

I want people to listen to Members more. Hopefully, we are improving communication with things like my blog, open Q&A sessions, workshops and conferences.

We succeed through the ability of our leaders, who are supported by managers.

How do you feel about this youth-edited edition of Scouting?

I’m very interested. It’s a great way to make use of the talented young people we have and engage them.

How important do you feel the youth taking the lead is?

Extremely important; after all, Scouting is a youth-led Movement supported by adults. To be able to show that in this way is just great!

What is the best part of Scouting?

Without a doubt, it’s seeing the reaction on a young person’s face

when they do something new or overcome a challenge.

Were you a Scout as a child?

I was a Cub and a Scout. There wasn’t a Beaver section when I was a child, but that’s all I’m saying about my age! I’ve been a Member ever since (apart from a five-year break I took when our children were born).

Do you know your Scout Law? Yes, but I struggle to recite it off by heart, I’m afraid.

What are your likes and frustrations?

I love that this is a great time for Scouting. My frustrations are the internal politics, and the lack of effective internal communications.

very pleased the Young Leaders’ Scheme is growing so rapidly. We need to ensure that those in the scheme are being used as leaders and not helpers.

What is your favourite game?

The Jailer’s Keys.

What was your favourite international experience?

The 21st World Scout Jamboree (2007 at Hylands Park) because it was just an amazing worldwide celebration. It was a phenomenal experience.

Are you domesticated?

I can cook if I need to but, luckily, I seldom have to.

How do you think Young Leaders are being used, and how can we use them better?

Young Leaders are not always being used properly or effectively, I believe, and we need to learn how to use them more efficiently. For example, they should actually be involved in the running of the programme because they are our future. I’m

get in touch Wayne Bulpitt is UK Chief Commissioner. Email him at ukcc@scouts.org.uk or write to him at The Scout Association, Gilwell Park, Chingford, London E4 7QW. Catch up with his blog at www.scouts.org.uk/ccblog

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Outdoors apps Calling all members with iPhones and iPads – there are an increasing number of useful apps available to help you make the most of the great outdoors. Take a look at the selection below:

In brief

Bear Grylls’ top ten books

Going up

Ever wondered what Bear Grylls likes to read when he’s not meeting Scouts, filming or writing books of his own?

What’s popular in the world of Scouting?

↑ Information

and Resources area on www.scouts.org.uk – views per month

↑ Think You Know Scouting?

Mammut – Packing List A handy packing checklist for camp or expeditions.

The North Face – Trailhead Find hike and bike routes and snow pistes in an instant.

Columbia – WhatKnot Common and more obscure knots at your fingertips.

Coleman – Lantern Can’t find your torch in the dark? Just flick on your phone.

Coleman – Classic Camping Cookbook and Meal Planner The perfect aid

for planning al fresco dinners.

Find all of the above at www. wideworldmag.com/ features/top-10free-outdoor-apps Augmented Outdoors – Peaks Simply hold up your phone in front of an unknown mountain and you’ll get the name, location and altitude. peaks. augmentedoutdoors.com MyNature – Animal Tracks Identify animal tracks by their size and shape. www. apple.com/iphone/ apps-for-everything/ greatoutdoors.html

Think Again recruitment video – views on YouTube ↑ Joining enquiries ↑ Number of girls in Scouting

HaHa ha Joking aside We’re putting together a new Scout joke book. Can you do any better than these two efforts efforts, which were sent in to us us?

Question: Why are Scouts so dizzy?

Answer: Because they’re always busy doing good turns.

Pauline McGinty

Question: What’s ‘a Moot’?

Answer (in Scottish accent) accent): It means no in.’

‘I’m no’ Colin Limming Send your Scouting jokes to in.brief@scouts.org.uk

Real Scouting At last summer’s Cub camp my brother wore the same pair of socks for the entire time.

Even on the last night, when we went swimming, he put them back on afterwards. When he got home he had to peel them off!

Heather, 17, Explorer Scout

Ha a h a

HaH

1. As Far as My Feet Will Carry Me by Josef M Bauer 2. Skeletons on the Zahara: A True Story of Survival

by Dean King 3. What’s so Amazing about Grace? by Philip Yancey 4. Messy Spirituality

by Mike Yaconelli 5. The Hiding Place

by Corrie Ten Boom, with John and Elizabeth Sherrill 6. The Cross and the Switchblade by David Wilkerson, with John and Elizabeth Sherrill 7. Robinson Crusoe

by Daniel Defoe 8. Vanya: A True Story

by Myrna Grant 9. Kon-Tiki: Across the Pacific by Raft

by Thor Heyerdahl 10. Seven Years in Tibet by Heinrich Harrer

I was getting some of my new Scouts to find features on an OS map by giving them the sixfigure grid references. When one of them found one of the targets I shouted bingo. They had found Caerphilly Castle, to which the youngster asked: ‘Do they normally put castle bingo on maps?’ I replied: ‘Only the very posh ones with their own moats!’

James Morgan www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Mailbox Email us at scouting.magazine@scouts.org.uk or write to Scouting magazine, Gilwell Park, Chingford, London E4 7QW

STAR LETTER

Badges and logos Thinking that new badges might be released, I am always dismayed to find out that it is a re-release of current badges, with advertising space. Is it really wise to turn a Beaver Scout into an advertisement hoarding? Do we truly get anything out of the ‘deal’? These badges are no cheaper than the ones without banners. If mega companies want to help us out, that’s great.

Yet why can’t they adopt the philosophy of our leaders, where we offer our services without expecting to receive a reward?

Gareth Barker Response from Nikki Mason, Corporate Partnership Manager, The Scout Association: Many of our corporate partners link up with badges because they are proud to be associated with Scouting and help us deliver an inspiring and fun programme.

Companies work in partnership with us to develop new resources. They also look to support Scouting on a local level.

Some of our partners have made their premises available for fundraising, some have donated equipment, some offer discounts and some simply share their expertise. Corporate partnerships also bring significant income to The Scout Association, which helps us to keep activities and membership costs low for the entire Movement.

The writer of the star letter will receive a copy of A Complete Guide to Scouting Skills, also available from www.scouts.org.uk/shop

Longest river The article about Ed Stafford’s expedition (October/November, ‘The Ultimate Expedition’, page 40) states ‘The Amazon is the longest river in the world’.

This is incorrect, as the Nile is, according to Reader’s Digest Guide to Places in the World, about 4,160 miles long, whereas the Amazon is the second longest, at about 4,000 miles long. The Amazon is the largest by volume.

Tony Editor’s response: Tony, you’re an eagle-eyed chap, and for this we salute you. For the article, we used the latest research, highlighted on Ed’s blog; scientists in Brazil are claiming to have established as a scientific fact that the Amazon is the longest river in the world.

We admit this is ‘claiming’ and it’s yet to be verified officially, so yes, for the time being, the Nile is still officially the longest and the Amazon the largest by volume.

The last laugh I am writing about the rather sudden announcement to pull the plug on the Last Laugh cartoon page. I’m sure I’m not the only one who is both surprised and disappointed!

Austin Editor’s response: The magazine has evolved over the years to keep it relevant, which is why we’ve changed the back page.

Ian West hasn’t gone for good; his talent can still be enjoyed in the news pages. And there is a whole book of Last Laughs available from www.scouts.org.uk/shop www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Events, updates and news from around the UK

news

A whizz of a weekend for the Chief

Chief Scout Bear Grylls took London and the south-east by storm on the second of his planned visits around the UK, to the delight of everyone present. He greeted Scouts and leaders and thanked the adult volunteers who give up their free time to make Scouting happen.

‘In order for every young person that wants to be in Scouting to join in, we need our adult volunteers to keep growing the Movement and delivering the activities I’ve witnessed this weekend,’ he said. ‘My aim is to encourage, inspire and, most importantly, thank Scouting’s army of adult volunteers so that the adventure continues.’

Travelling by motorbike and helicopter, his hectic itinerary included a trip to Baden-Powell House and meeting up with Queen’s Scouts at the award reception inside the Science Museum.

Take the high road

What a day at the museum

The Science Museum was the backdrop for this year’s Queen’s Scout Award reception, where 145 young people received the coveted award. Chief Scout Bear Grylls congratulated them on their accomplishment and UK Chief Commissioner Wayne Bulpitt presented the awards.

It can take up to five years to gain the award, which demands commitment and endurance.

To mark 15 years of the National Cycle Network, sustainable transport charity Sustrans has created a double map detailing walks and cycling routes from Aberdeen to Shetland. The routes take in the Black Isle, John o’Groats and the islands of Orkney and Shetland. Katharine Taylor of Sustrans Scotland says, ‘This is the first two-pack map we have produced, and the large area it covers in north and north-east Scotland is full of heritage, wildlife and fantastic rides.’ The 490-mile route offers a variety of short day trips and longer cycling challenges. The map is available from www.sustransshop.co.uk for £8.99 and proceeds go towards the continuing work to enable people to travel more journeys by foot, bike and public transport.

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News

Want more? Visit www.scouts.org.uk/news

Think you know Scouting?

A new video taking a wry look at the misconceptions people have about Scouting is available online. Called Think you know Scouting? Think again, it is an invitation to the general public to look at Scouting from a different angle. Help spread the word as widely as possible by sending the link to your friends, or adding it to your profile on your social network page. Visit www.scouts. org.uk/brand

The official history of Sea Scouting – launching soon

The bigger the better The Big Adventure goes from strength to strength, recruiting more parents by involving them as part of the leadership team for an event. Following on from the success of 2010, The Big Adventure 2011 will be bigger and better. If you are planning a Big Adventure or are interested in finding out more, visit www. scouts.org.uk/thebigadventure or see the accompanying Camping supplement.

An entirely new book on the history of Sea Scouting in the UK and abroad is being published in early 2011. Written

by Roy Masini, the book is the result of 30 years’ research and was ten years in the writing.

Published in hardback, it is well illustrated and includes much previously unseen material.

To register your interest please email r.masini2@ ukonline.co.uk

Celebration camp

Covering 30 acres, Belchamps Scout Centre in Hawkwell, Essex has great residential buildings and camping fields and offers a wide range of activities. To celebrate its 75th anniversary, the centre is holding a camp over the weekend of 13-15 May 2011. Tim Kidd, Chief Commissioner of England, will be visiting the event in which Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers will take part in a selection of activities, a skills marketplace, live music and stage performances. Visit www.belchamps.co.uk for further information. www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Events, updates and news from around the UK

MAKING ADVENTURE EASY

From AGM invitations and swimming gala posters to a Scout photobook, it’s quick and easy to create Scout-branded materials.

Using a range of images, you can make personalised recruitment stationery with your contact details. No specialist software or fonts needed. To access the system, log in to www.scouts.org. uk and choose the ‘Print Centre’ icon in the ‘My Tools’ menu.

Party time

Politicians at the three main Party Conferences engaged in debate with Scouts from all across the UK at this year’s Scouts Speak Up events. The workshops at the Liberal Democrat, Labour and Conservative Party events gave young people the chance to discuss their issues directly with the people who can influence them.

‘Most decisions that politicians make today will affect me tomorrow,’ said Lewis, an Explorer Scout who attended all three events. Topics ranged from citizenship and crime to volunteering and poverty. Kiron, a 20-yearold leader, invited her local MP along to the Conservative Party workshop.

‘We discussed national issues, but also the local rise in crime and how we can get young people involved in positive initiatives, such as Scouting,’ she said.

This is the third successive year that The Scout Association has run youth workshops during the three main Party Conferences.

MAYOR CALLS FOR VOLUNTEERS

Free RNLI activity pack

Beavers and Cubs were treated to a special day as a thank you from the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) for taking part in the trial of its first Youth Activity Pack. The 2nd and 3rd Chandlers Ford Beavers and the 6th Newport Cubs and 5th Gillingham Cubs enjoyed the RNLI Sea Survival Centre, beach safety roadshow and lifeboat simulator.

They were also given a tour of a lifeboat, certificates and goodies.

The RNLI Youth Activity Pack contains activities based on saving lives at sea. Each Scout will receive a Young Supporter Badge on their completion. Download packs free from www.rnli.org.uk/shorething

The Mayor of London has called for more adult volunteers to help young people develop their potential.

Boris Johnson dropped in on the Dockland Scout Project to add his support to YOU London, a collaboration of uniformed youth organisations. He spoke of the long lists of young people wanting to join Scouting and the shortage of adult volunteers.

‘This is what we are trying to change,’ he said. ‘I would like to thank and congratulate volunteers who give up an awful lot of time every week and encourage other people to be involved.’

Che Rosbert, a Cub Scout Leader with inner-city Group 4th Stoke Newington, accompanied Mayor Johnson as he arrived in a speedboat. ‘It was fantastic to see all the uniformed organisations represented by leaders and young people promoting the cause of adult volunteering,’ she said.

The Mayor was enthusiastic about the benefits of Scouting in inner-city areas, which gave young people a sense of belonging to the community. ‘Scouting also promotes teamwork and self-esteem and offers a lot of opportunities,’ he said. ‘It is a very positive experience with fantastic activities.’

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News

Want more? Visit www.scouts.org.uk/news

Beat the deadline

MoNty preseNts

TV presenter Monty Halls will be at the Outdoor Leisure Show at the NEC Birmingham, which takes place 25-27 February 2011. He will be presenting for all three days.

The show will cater for all who enjoy rambling, fell walking, mountaineering, camping, cycling, canoeing, climbing, kayaking or just spending time exploring areas of natural interest. The 50th Boat & Caravan Show will take place alongside from 22-27 February. Visit www. outdoorleisureshow.com

Relight your fire

If you want to learn Scouting skills, or brush up on forgotten ones, our Scouting Skills Family Experiences are for you. Youlbury Scout Activity Centre is inviting families to a weekend of camping and activities on 9-10 April 2011.

Maybe you know parents who would like to attend? Tell them about the weekend and let them know just how much fun they can have. They may even decide to get more involved in their local group as a result.

The weekend costs £80 per adult and £40 per child, which includes all food and equipment. The Youlbury Scout Activity Centre is at Boars Hill, Oxford OX1 5HD. Call the centre direct on 01865 326264.

The transition phase from Scout Fellowship to Scout Active Support ends on 31 December 2010. Scout Fellowship members who wish to continue to have a role on our database must be registered by then.

This can be done by secretaries or appointments secretaries. Visit www.scouts.org.uk/activesupport or contact active.support@scouts.org.uk

Northern Lights

Unwrap your 2011 diaries and add your first entry. Northern Lights, which promises to be one of the biggest Scouting events of the year, hits the Motorpoint Arena, Sheffield on 9 July. The show will be a mix of entertainment and competition, highlighting the talents of Scouting’s young people. Scout Groups from across the region are being invited to join in, either as participants or part of the audience. If you would like to help run the show, or simply attend, go to www. northernlights2011.org.uk.

Book before Christmas and save £1 on each ticket.

a guide to scouts.org.uk

/thebigadventure Next year’s plans for your Big Adventure /brand A template system to support your communications /impact The Scout Association’s Annual Report and Accounts /pol Online programme planning

What are we up to?

Keep up to date with Scouting news by signing up for weekly ScoutingPlus emails. Log on to your account at www.scouts.org.uk and click on ‘My Profile’ then ‘Mailing’.

Using the edit button, tick the appropriate box. Also, check out the sites below.

360° scouting

Follow us on these social media: www.scouts.org.uk/twitter www.scouts.org.uk/facebook www.scouts.org.uk/tv

New partnership

The Scout Association has been working with sexual health experts Durex to produce guidance for leaders and young people in the sometimes difficult area of sex and relationships. A new resource gives background information, challenges myths and contains six programme ideas to use within section meetings. You can find full details on the Sexual Health in Scouting web pages at www.scouts.org.uk/shis www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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UPDATES

Factsheets and resources FormWB | Wood Badge Recommendation Form FS120456 | Mountain Biking AC120920 | Assessment Checklist for Mountain Biking – Leadership (combining T1 Summer, T2 Summer, T1 Winter and T2 Winter ACs) AC120839 | Assessment Checklist for Mountain Biking – Personal (combining T1 Summer, T2 Summer, T1 Winter and T2 Winter ACs) FS715501 | Notes for New Adults in the Colony FS155065 | Good Practice for ACC/AAC Beaver Scouts FS155064 | Programme Planning for Small Colonies FS155063 | ADC Beaver Scout Good Practice FS155062 | Programme Review – Beaver Scouts FS155053 | Guidelines for a Beaver Scout Sleepover FS155061 | Adventurous Activities for Beaver Scouts FS155068 | Planning an Outing FS260011 | Medical Treatment Abroad FS315076 | Scout Skills – Fire Lighting FS460005 | Young Leaders’ Scheme – Making Scouting Accessible FS120451 | Caving AC120946 | Assessment Checklist for Caving – Leadership AC120856 | Assessment Checklist for Caving – Personal FS120652 | Dinghy Sailing FS120657 | Yachting AC120926 | Assessment Checklist for Yachting – Leadership AC120945 | Assessment Checklist for Windsurfing – Leadership

AC120912 | Assessment Checklist for Dragon Boating – Leadership FS120000 | Activities – Risk Assessment The following are available at www.scouts.org.uk/ trainersresources: Module 16 | Introduction to Residential Experiences Module 17 | Activities Outdoors Module 19 | International Module 38 | Skills for Residential Experiences Module 25 Workbook | Assessing Learning – available from www.scouts.org.uk/ learnersresources

Short-term iNveStmeNt Service

Monthly rate after deduction of Management Commission: September 2010

BS Experiences

The rules for Beaver Scout residential experiences and Beaver Scouts going abroad have been included in the updated POR, due to be published shortly.

Further information will be available in the February/March 2011 Beavers supplement.

0.520%

Woodturning

Any Scout, Explorer Scout or Scout Network Member wanting to take up woodturning as a skill for their Chief Scout Award should look at www. scouts.org.uk/ supportresources

IT ALSLUP. ADD

New

ASW25AA | Assessing Learning: Activity Assessor’s Workbook ASW25NA | Assessing Learning: Nights Away Adviser’s Workbook ASW25SS | Assessing Learning: Scout Show Assessor’s Workbook ASW25TA | Assessing Learning: Training Adviser’s and Manager’s Workbook FS120422 | Mountain Biking in Terrain 0 FS120450 | Mine Exploration AC120952 | Assessment Checklist for Mine Exploration – Leadership AC120861 | Assessment Checklist for Mine Exploration – Personal FS120669 | Keelboating AC120951 | Assessment Checklist for Keelboating – Leadership AC120847 | Assessment Checklist for Scuba Diving – Personal AC120931 | Assessment Checklist for Scuba Diving – Leadership

0.020%

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Updated

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The team

Real name: Robert Age: 14 Group: Fareham East Sea Dragon Explorer Scout Unit Time involved in Scouting: Trebor Since Beavers Favourite Scouting memory: 2009! I led the winning team at our County camping competition and attended Sea Scout 100 Camp in Nottingham, which was a great event celebrating 100 years of Sea Scouts.

Plans for the future: I’m currently fundraising to enable me to take part in a visit to some Malawian orphanages in 2011/12, but long term I would love to become rich enough to help loads of charities… oh, and maybe become a Scout Leader!

Extra info: Scouting is, and always has been, a large part of my life. I’ve taken part in loads of extra activities, competitions and events. I’m now involved with Explorers, camps and teaching Scouts to kayak. I love the water – be it swimming, sailing, kayaking, etc.

I have written/edited my ex-Scout Troop’s (5th Gosport) magazine and run a website for them. However, I’ve never done anything on this scale – it has been both a great opportunity and a challenge!

Real name: Hannah Age: 14 Group: Brocks Explorer Scout Unit Time involved in Scouting: Since birth!

Favourite Scouting memory: Renewal of Promises in 2007 with Scouts from around h a Hann the world.

Plans for the future: Be Chief Scout; failing that, join the police force.

Extra info: Scouting has always been part of my life, and one of the most important at that. I’m a young leader and a member of Tolmers Service Crew, so being given the chance to edit Scouting magazine has been an out-of-this-world experience and a new step in my amazing Scouting adventure!

Real name: Corinne Age: 16 Group: 20th Willesden, Nomad Explorer Scout Unit Time involved in Scouting: ‘C’ Since I was 12 Favourite Scouting memory: The day I was chosen to attend the Jamboree in Sweden 2011.

Plans for the future: To become an equestrian vet.

Extra info: I am a bubbly person who likes to get involved in everything. My dad is a leader and my brother is a Scout, so Scouting is a big part of my life and I enjoy it immensely. I appreciate the opportunities I have been presented with, such as going to the Jamboree and editing this magazine. Skills I have found through Scouting have helped me in life with making new friends, working as a team and even helped secure my place in my college.

EDITORIAL TEAM

m a e t e h t t Mee

Real name: Michaela Age: 16 Group: Matrix Explorer Scout Unit Time involved in Scouting: Since Cubs Favourite Scouting memory: Micky When I was a Scub (Cubs linking to Scouts), I abseiled for a chocolate bar; I hate heights, but am very glad I did it!

Plans for the future: Stay in Scouting until I’m too old to carry on.

Extra info: I’m one of the Mayor’s Scouts, which is like a special escort for the Aylesbury Town Mayor. Also, I am going to the Jamboree! I’m a Young Leader and I’m a college student studying drama [big huge grin].

…and our international roving reporters Share their worldly adventures on page 60.

Toby

Alex 19

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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, S T H G LI , A R E CAM

!

N O I T C A in njam d Be hardson n a uc y y R ic on c k, L y, Ja op wit h T a J : h t s s k u r g wo Au nd a at t e

T Take four video cameras and four Scouts with an interest in film-making, and what do you get?

A fresh, exciting take on the impact of Scouting and a brilliant showcase for the Movement

here’s an old Hollywood maxim that says ‘you are only as good as your last picture’. If that’s true, then four young Scout film-makers are very, very good at what they do because they have just created a film which recently premiered to a delighted audience of donors, potential supporters and Scout Ambassador Ian Hislop.

Young people’s stories The young film-makers project began during the summer when Explorer Scouts Jay, Jack and Lucy and Young Leader Benjamin assembled to receive expert advice on film-making from Scouting’s own Spielberg, Tony Richardson.

After a one-day crash course, they set out to tell their stories.

‘I knew the project would look good on my CV, but I also wanted to learn more about how a film is made,’ says Jay, from Buckinghamshire. ‘My story was about what my Explorer Scout Unit does to help in the local community and how it appreciates us.’

Over the course of the venture, the intrepid team filmed in the community, on camps and at national sites. They cried ‘action!’ on hilltops, rooftops and climbing walls and, by the end, they had captured the adventure of Scouting in all its glory.

Looking forward and back Hertfordshire Young Leader Benjamin was keen to chronicle his own journey through the Movement, which included

20 Scouting December 2010/January 2011

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on

Young film-makers

b Oc to e r to b m e t Sep c out s S loc al

e

ople ng pe e you h T : r

film

he Oc tobe r: T

editing be gins…

Nove mbe r: T int roduc ed he film pr e b and watc h y Sc out mie re A e d by s youn mbas in L o g pe sa d ndo n ople o and r Ian H a du islo lt s p

interviewing Cub Scouts supporters who help make at the Pack where he Scouting happen. volunteers. ‘I found it ‘Our aim was to show the difficult at first, but when film at our annual event for I got going, it all fell into donors and future supporters,’ place. The most enjoyable explains The Scout part was realising just how Association’s Fundraising What the critics said… far I have come. Hopefully Manager, Lynn Young. ‘This ‘Excellent. If I wasn’t already involved, it would certainly make it will show that Scouting is year, we set out to highlight me realise what I had been missing’ not just once a week, but how adventures happen every Syd Smith, Vice President, Keighley District a fulfilling part of your life.’ day, all across the country. We ‘Irritatingly good’ ‘It was challenging at wanted our donors to see Ian Hislop, Scout Ambassador times,’ agrees Jay. ‘I found what they have helped to it tricky to pin people down support, and encourage them ‘A fantastic demonstration of how for interviews, but the most to carry on supporting us.’ vibrant the Movement is today’ Wayne Bulpitt, UK Chief Commissioner enjoyable bit for me was Having young people tell how my Explorer Unit came that story themselves has together to help me.’ proved to be an inspired direction towards his goal of being With one eye on the future, Jay decision. On the big night, as the a lighting technician, demonstrating is hoping that the experience will credits rolled, Ian Hislop summed up how the Scouting adventure can be prove to be a step in the right the reaction of the entire audience: the start of a long-term career.

‘Well, that was irritatingly good, wasn’t it?’

‘We set out to highlight how en adventures happro every day, all ac ss the country’

Empowerment and appreciation

As well as empowering young people with new skills, the film also served as a means of showing appreciation for those donors and

more info Watch the Without You We Couldn’t film online at www.scouts.org.uk/tv

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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ing runn tion

For/against Expedition

a sec should be a shared

Hannah believes in sharing responsibility

Corinne prefers one leader to rule them all

y t i l i b i s n o resp

✘

For✔

Hannah

agaInst

Some groups find it easier to share the role of being leader between different adults. One group, at which I am aware this happens, is Orchard Beaver Colony in Bedfordshire, where there are four teams of leaders who each take a weekly section meeting once a month. This makes it less stressful for the individuals.

These different groups of leaders have a programme planning meeting at the start of every term. They then do a week each, in turn. This way, everyone only runs a meeting every four weeks and leaders don’t have to commit as much time.

Not only is this better for the leaders, but it is also good for the Beavers themselves. They interact with different types of people and learn from adults of all shapes and sizes, rather than the same ones all the time. It’s good for their development.

I think this is a model that other Groups should at least think about, because it seems to work so well for them. Shared responsibility is definitely the way to go.

Our Explorer Scout Leader, Nick, basically decides what we’re going to do and when we’re going to do it. If he says we’re doing first aid next week, then that’s what we do. I like having one leader clearly in charge, as it means we just get on and do things and can adapt quicker.

Otherwise, I doubt anything would ever get done.

Nick does most of the planning, although we occasionally get a chance to have a say about what we do. When it actually comes to doing the programmes, the responsibilities are shared between leaders, but Nick is always in charge. He arranges all our camps and sorts out the paperwork.

For example, we’ve got our DofE Silver expedition coming up. Nick has got us practising cooking and other skills, so we’ll be ready. We probably wouldn’t have done that if he hadn’t suggested it. We also know exactly who to go to if we have a problem.

When I become a leader, I’ll probably have a similar style to Nick. I think it’s the best way to run a section.

Corinne

you know what I think?

Who’s right? Join the debate or start your own on our Facebook page at www.scouts.org.uk/facebook www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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1

2

Making friends Facebook quote: ‘What is your favourite day of the week?’

‘Friday because I see my best mates at Scouts.’

Scouting is not only a fun and exciting thing to do, it gives you one of the important things you need in life – friends. While Scouts look forward to their weekly meeting night to have fun and do activities, it is also a great chance to see friends and make new ones. A lot of the best relationships for young people and adults can be made through Scouting. Friends are not only there for the laughs and fun, they also provide support and guidance through difficult times – for some Scouts, this could be the little bit of help they need.

Rob

Our diversity

Scouting is a big family where we are all there for each other. Its size makes it diverse in language, belief, colour, ability and nationality, and this is something we celebrate. We enjoy meeting people who, for whatever reason, are different from us. And where that difference comes with a challenge we embrace it, whether that’s supporting a disabled Scout so they can participate in activities, or learning to communicate at an international event with those who don’t share a common language. If Scouting didn’t have diversity, we wouldn’t have the Movement we do and are proud of!

4 Hannah

3

1

Rob

Everyone loves to play games! They can be silly games, sporty games or games that involve concentration. My favourites are the ones around the campfire when you have to draw faces in the mud and copy the exact thing the first person does. They are always great fun.

Games are good icebreakers for new people.

Micky

All the Jamborees

Jamborees can be expensive, but it is an amazing experience. The fun you have is beyond belief. And for many, this will be their favourite Scouting memory. Jamborees are great events that allow you to spend time doing loads of activities and meet fellow Scouts from other parts of the world.

They are a fantastic opportunity to try a new activity or game and, in turn, have fun and challenge yourself.

Games, games, games

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6

friendships Whether it’s camping, y in Scouting for a or activities, we all sta uth editors conducted different reason. Our yo st. Do you agree? a poll to find the ten be

5

Informal uniform

The Scout uniform is smart, makes you feel proud to wear it and shows everyone who you are and what you stand for. However, when doing activities such as hiking or orienteering, clothes that are more comfortable may be required, yet they can still represent that the wearer is a Scout.

Corinne

17/11/2010 14:17

9

6

1

is doing the Duke of ‘My favourite activity gives a real feeling Edinburgh’s Award. It Explorer Scout of achievement.’ Lucy,

The freedom Scouting brings

Scouting offers fantastic opportunities, such as having your voice heard, leading your own programme and taking part in a range of high-calibre activities and international experiences. Network takes a lot more responsibility by running our own programme, finances and committee.

We seem to have acquired a reputation for doing nothing but socialise, but this is balanced by an exciting programme. Since being in Network, I have helped at the Hampshire 2007 international camp, been to Kandersteg, and I’m going to Brazil next January for the World Scout Conference.

beSt thingS about Scouting

Exciting activities

Doing activities is one of the most exciting parts about Scouting, and having a variety of activities gives everyone the chance to do the things they enjoy. Scout activities are fun and challenging at the same time and make friendships even tighter!

Fiona, Hampshire Scout Network Co-Chair

9

Camping Camping is one of the best things about Scouting because it’s a chance to be with your mates, do lots of activities and eat camp food.

I’m at a girls’ school and camping means I get to hang out with my old friends from primary school. On our last camp, we did archery and I got to do climbing every day. I also learned how to start a fire, which was great.

Emmy, Scout

10

Micky

activities to do ‘At Cubs we have lots of ng because some of and it’s really interesti s about the world them help you learn lot ound you, as well and what is going on ar ur community.’ as what’s going on in yo Harry, Cub Scout

New opportunities

By joining a Scout Group, you are opening yourself up to new opportunities. Groups themselves have, in many cases, had to look at their programming to ensure young people are challenged, entertained and learn from the Scouting experience.

Phil Sandal, ASL 5th Gosport Sea Scout Troop

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Scouting bests

Our Chief Scout, Bear Grylls

8

When it comes to Bear Grylls, the facts speak for themselves; he has achieved loads. He first became involved in Scouting at the age of eight. He has said that the time he spent in Scouts gave him the drive and inspiration required to become an adventurer and make Born Survivor. He acts as a motivational role model, someone to aspire to and, without a doubt, proves that ‘it is OK to go for it in life’. Drive and determination to succeed are important, and Bear Grylls offers this passion and influence to everyone involved in Scouting. He is a motivational figure and a role model for all of us.

Corinne

agree?

Tell us what you think at scouting.magazine@scouts.org.uk

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Dr Martin Luther King Jr – Hannah We studied him in school for a project on Christian messages. I thought he was cool. We learned a lot about him. He stood out because he had all the right messages about equality and peace.

His father was a pastor and his mother a teacher and they obviously inspired him.

He was passionate about his cause, stood up for what he believed in and managed to change minds. He rallied so many people behind him. He should definitely be an inspiration to all ages.

Steve Backshall – Micky I got to interview Steve, which was a fantastic experience (see page 28). As a wildlife adventurer, he is definitely someone I would look up to as a Scout. Steve is a dude. He lives in Buckinghamshire, which makes him more of a dude. I love how passionate he is about what he does, which is why it’s so understandable that young people, and Scouts in particular, see him as a role model.

R O F E M I T A

©Adam White

FAMOUS HEROES

ur Who do you think are yo you Scouts’ heroes? What do ? em th t think this says abou ople Here is a selection of pe d an rs that our youth edito ara Network Member Tam their – es named as their hero u choices may surprise yo

S E O R E H Lance Armstrong – Corinne

In 1996, Lance was ranked as No 1 cyclist in the world when he was diagnosed with testicular cancer. It had been caught so late it had already spread to his lungs and brain. His odds of surviving were less than 50 per cent, but he beat the disease and later founded LIVESTRONG to unite, inspire and empower people affected by cancer.

Lance has gone on to win the Tour de France an incredible seven times. The first of these was in 1999 – less than two years after being diagnosed. He continues to support cancer sufferers worldwide. Because of the trials life has thrown at him and how he overcame them, I think he is possibly the most influential role model of his generation.

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Heroes

SCOUTING HEROES

Stu Reid – Micky One of my Explorer Scout Leaders, Stu, is my Scouting hero because he’s very dedicated and puts a lot of his time into making my Explorer Unit awesome. He told me he just wants to give back what he got out of Scouting.

I think that’s quite cheesy, but he definitely lives up to it. He’s there for us and always makes sure we have a chance to do the activities we want to do.

The Matrix Explorer Unit only started ten years ago and Stu was one of the first in it. He likes dangling from mountains and climbing up difficult rocks, which is the complete opposite of me, but he encourages you if you do want to have a go at something that you are a little scared of.

Stu appreciates it when we take responsibility for our activities and choices and he supports us with what we decide. He isn’t scared of much and I’m in the process of getting braver, too, as a result.

Betty Lowe – Tamara Betty has just celebrated her 102nd birthday and is still involved in Guiding through the Trefoil Guild.

She has been a member since she was 11. She gained more than 20 interest badges as a Guide and later became a Guider. Not only did Betty run a unit, she also went on to become District Commissioner. In 1998, she received an MBE for her services to Guiding.

She has touched the lives of hundreds of children and introduced them to things they would never have experienced otherwise. If I could be half the leader she has been, I will be proud.

NOT-SO-REGULAR HEROES Sam Giles – Tamara

©Sipa Press /Rex Features

It’s not often that you say your sibling is your hero, but then again, it’s not often that a 15-year-old cycles solo from Land’s End to John o’Groats. That’s my brother for you! He’s one of a kind. After two of his classmates died from cancer, he knew he wanted to do something extraordinary. Sam’s aim was to raise £2,000. With Mum and Dad driving the support vehicle, Sam completed his 1,000-mile bike ride in 13 days and has raised almost £4,000. The big heart and determination my brother has shown over the summer has made me the proudest big sister ever. That is why my ‘little’ brother, Sam, is my hero.

Wesley Autrey – Finn, 19 In 2007, this construction worker and navy veteran was waiting for a train when he noticed a man named Cameron Hollopeter having a seizure. Wesley intervened to help but, following the seizure, Cameron stumbled from the platform onto the tracks, in front of an oncoming train.

Wesley jumped onto the tracks and protected Cameron by throwing his body on top of him in a drainage trench between the tracks. The train passed over them, safely.

Wesley was rightly hailed as a hero in New York. www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Heroes

Adventurer and natural history presenter Steve Backshall has faced the deadliest animals on Earth. How would he fare with a group of probing Scouts, though?

Youth editor Micky and Scout Network Member Chad went to get his take on a number of topics

Youth ild gone w Heroes…

There are countless people who I look up to, but I remember, as a kid, just being inspired by my dad.

He was really into wildlife and the outdoors. He was a sportsman and really athletic. I remember just wanting to be like my dad.

Ever since I was very small, I have loved being outside in nature. It wasn’t an option to be indoors with my parents. However, I think even if I’d had a different upbringing, I’d have a need to be outside having big adventures. It’s something I feel inside.

His favourite place…

One of the great advantages of my job is that it is always changing. There are so many places around the world that I go to, I never get the chance to get bored.

That said, I live in Buckinghamshire and I do love my home patch. There is a wonderful stretch of the Thames nearby and I go out kayaking there when I’m home.

It has fantastic wildlife and it changes with the season.

I can go there if I have been a little bit low and grumpy, and come away energised.

Scouting and the outdoors...

Every day is different outdoors. Scouting offers the perfect framework to get young people to see that, with leaders and experts who know what they’re doing.

There are a lot of scary stories out there about the outdoors, and there’s so much to compete with, too,

that kids need to have something that is going to grab them by the scruff of the neck and take them outside.

I think that Scouting is a great way to do that.

Activities…

Climbing or any similar activity is about control and being in charge of your own destiny. It’s not about being an adrenaline junkie, but having the strength, experience, ability and technique to make something safe, which for other people would normally be extremely dangerous. It’s a tremendously liberating thing.

Deadly animals…

One of my takes on deadly animals is that a lot of these animals aren’t really deadly to humans. Generally speaking, animals don’t want to do us harm. They may threaten you to scare you away, but it is very rare that they will follow through with that threat.

tdoors.

‘Every day is different ou ct Scouting offers the perfe ople to pe g un yo framework to get experts d an see that, with leaders ing’ do who know what they’re

28 Scouting December 2010/January 2011

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Heroes

Adventure Scout It’s no surprise that Bear Grylls topped the heroes list for our Scouts. Corinne fired off the questions that everyone wants to know the answers to

Why did you want to be Chief Scout?

It is the most fun job in the world!

I get to hang out with brilliant, fun, motivated, positive Scouts all year and get to see and hear all about their plans and expeditions. I love it!

What’s the best thing about Scouting?

It gives those who might never normally get the chance, the opportunity to have an adventure.

And seeing kids grow in skills and confidence is an amazing thing to witness. It also gives real camaraderie and the chance to learn life and outdoor skills that can prove so valuable in life. I learnt so much of my Born Survivor skills at the Scouts.

Do you play an active role in your children’s Scout Group?

My eldest loves Cubs. But as Chief Scout, I am mindful of not wanting to get in his way. It is nice for him to know that his Group is his thing.

What has been your favourite adventure and why?

Probably our Everest, by powered paraglider, mission. It was a dream of mine to return to the mountain after I climbed it at 23, and I could hardly

Bear’s Scouting/Survival iPhone App launches 10 December.

Watch out and Be Prepared!

imagine what it would be like to soar above it. We pulled it off, just, and also raised $1.5million for kids’ charities worldwide, which was a huge dream of mine as well.

What’s your favourite piece of camping gear?

I’m never without my grandfather’s old pocket New Testament and my Bear/Gerber ultimate survival pack.

What keeps you motivated when you come across difficult challenges?

Life is short, but can be so rich when we throw ourselves into it and vow to live it fully – great friends and great adventures are an amazing combination, as all Scouts know.

Where’s your favourite place?

Our Welsh island hideaway, which is where I ran the recent 24-hour Scout Survival Camp (see page 35 of Scouting magazine, October/ November issue).

You do LOADS of potentially lifethreatening things.

Does your family ever get scared for you?

I always tell them it is safe – don’t blow my cover!

Is there anything that ever scared you so much that you would have given it all up?

There have been lots of times, such as in our small inflatable boat in the Arctic during a massive storm. But the pain and cold and fear never lasts for ever, but the sense of achievement does.

Where do you see Scouting in the future?

Growing and growing. More and more kids want to be part of the Scouting adventure.

My mission is to encourage more and more adult volunteers to keep up with that growth.

Do you have a message for Scout volunteers and young people?

Keep spreading the news of fun, adventure, friendships and cool skills! Together, we have something so special.

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UNDER E R U S S E PR

tion into a sweat at the men t ou e ok br e w ce fi of e in sful today?

In the Scouting magaz a teenager still as stres g in be is t Bu . am ex hs s facing them of an A-level Mat reflect on the pressure ah nn Ha d an b Ro , ne Micky, Corin 30 Scouting December 2010/January 2011

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Teenage angst

potentially causing you not to perform at your best. By focusing on your weaknesses you can turn them into strengths, and the feeling of pressure will not be as overwhelming, allowing you to perform at a high level.

Exam pressure is horrible. Even with preparation, nerves can still take over.

Breathe, relax and focus on the task at hand. With proper revision, exams should not cause problems.

Exam pressure is only one area of life that can cause stress. However, for young people, learning how to cope and deal with exam pressure can help with other day-to-day tasks.

We would like leaders to be aware of when their Scouts may be undergoing exams, and be more sensitive around them as a result.

Scouting pressure

Exam pressure Everybody has, at some point, experienced pressure, whether it was to perform at the highest standard in an activity, or obtaining high grades in exams that could dictate your future.

Pressure can lead to anxiety, which inevitably leads to additional stress being placed on yourself. Preparation is extremely important in preventing nerves from taking control and

Collecting and working towards badges can be great. However, as we get older and we have other pressures on our free time, it can be difficult to stay at home and try to complete badges. It can almost make Scouting feel out of reach and out of touch. Our advice to leaders is to be supportive.

Don’t pressure people into completing badges and awards – just let them do them when they want to.

Offer the help and encouragement they need, but allow them to set the pace. Don’t let your desire to measure the success of your Unit and leadership skills be measured in badges awarded – this can so easily lead to a badge’s value being diminished, as it is awarded despite the syllabus not being completed in full.

Peer pressure is social pressure to adopt a type of behaviour, dress, or attitude in order to be accepted as part of a group. This may seem harmless, but there are severe consequences for adopting a

Our advice: don’ t er pe give in to negative te pressure, no mat r how old you are mentality or attitude that is not your own. Giving in to peer pressure is never a good idea – it can lead to joining gangs, or bad social situations.

This type of pressure can also be applied to the use of alcohol and drugs. Drugs may be considered cool to use by some, but if you get caught by the police, you cannot blame others.

Alcohol can also be related to peer pressure, and underage drinking can lead to problems.

Our advice: don’t give in to negative peer pressure, no matter how old you are. Leaders should also keep an eye out to see if any of their Scouts are coming under pressure from peers, whether inside or outside Scouting.

Social pressure Knives, drugs and alcohol are dangerous and can have severe consequences. As a result, it is very important to know how to deal with them correctly. www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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teenage angst

Challenging StereotypeS

As Scouts we can d ar have our voice heit y n u in the comm and the opportunity to revolutionise the way the olderks generation thin Media and society

by Fiona Durrant, youth worker and Hampshire Scout Network Co-Chair The media plays a large role in defining how young people are portrayed by society; images shown in the papers of teenagers drinking in parks, and regular reports of abusive language and behaviour, are continually driving a wedge between generations and typecasting young people as troublemakers.

This is an unfair representation because, while some teenagers may turn to crime or display difficult behaviour, there is usually a reason for this, which we do not see.

How does this fit in with Scouting?

Scouts are shown as trustworthy, decent citizens that uphold the good in society. But what if someone saw a young person who was a Scout, wearing a hoodie and wandering the streets late at night with friends?

Would they phone the police, or would they speak to the young people and find out that they were walking home from a Scout meeting?

What do you think?

Many adults are fooled into believing that young people are troublesome, through no fault of their own and a large injection of negative media. As Scouts, we have the chance to change the way young people are portrayed. We can have our voice heard in the community and the opportunity to revolutionise the way the older generation thinks about young people. Under the banner of Scouting, we can initiate a new way of thinking, and through local or national media, we can work towards reflecting young people in a more positive light.

While we were at the Scouting magazine office, there were four other young people trying to change the media’s views of Scouts through film-making.

This is what Jack (one of the young film-makers) said: ‘Our brief was to create a video about a certain topic related to Scouting. Mine was a simple question: ‘How has Scouting affected your life?’ Well, to me it gives you the chance to do something different in your life. It allows you to challenge yourself and gets you out of your comfort zone, which is great preparation for the real world. The media mainly focuses on the bad stories because they have a bigger impact on people than good stories, but we can change this by showing them all the great things that have been happening through Scouting.

This film will be good publicity for Scouting in Jersey, where I live, and all over the UK. It will give the audience an idea of what Scouting is all about. I have a strong interest in the production side of media, so being given the chance to do this, and meet some amazing people in the meantime, was great.’

Watch the video on www.scouts.org.uk/tv and turn to page 20 to read about the making of the movie.

Do you have a Scout under pressure?

If you are worried about any of your Scouts, there are a number of places you can seek advice to provide support: Scout Information Centre 0845 300 1818 Factsheets, including Alcohol Abuse, Bereavement and Selfharm. See www.scouts.org.uk/ supportresources Speak to your Group Scout Leader

32 Scouting December 2010/January 2011

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DEEP

Urban dictionary

l a n o i t a r e Gen k o o g e d e gobbl gether d young people work to an ts ul ad n he w l sfu es rent succ etimes speak two diffe Scouting is at its most m so e w n he w le ib ss is this po lations in partnership. But how me indispensable trans so es id ov pr ne rin Co languages?

Young people

Adults

Let’s tic-tac

ing, Means: Loads of someth e got BA RE cash’.

‘I’v or ’ eg ‘I’m BA RE tired

er and talk, Means: Let’s get togeth your t ou eg ‘Let’s TIC-TAC ab ts.’ en em uir training req

Deep

Going forward

Bare

Means: Unfor tunate, DEEP.’ t jacked.’ ‘Ahhh, that’s eg ‘Guys, my phone go

Skeen

to say ‘I see’, Means: Another way s weekend?’ thi eg ‘W hat ya doing tball.’ ‘SKEEN.’ foo the ing tch ‘Just wa

Fam

mber, as close as a family me Means: Person who is ’ , FA M? eg ‘W hat’s happenin’

Linkin’

stage between being Means: The awkward gether’, friends and being ‘to t then?’ ou eg ‘So are you goin’ ’.’

KIN LIN t jus ‘Nah, we’re

Peng

or tasty, Means: Good-looking en is PENG!’ ick ch s thi m, eg ‘Mmm

Chocka

ds of something, Means: Full up or loa KA in here, eg ‘Wow, it’s so CHOC e.’ els let’s go somewhere

Lipsing

Means: Kissing, t LIPSING that boy?’ eg ‘Mate, were you jus

E S A B 33_Urban dictionary.indd 33

Means: In the future, ced eg ‘Scouting is well pla D.’ AR RW FO G IN GO

No-brainer

, Means: Easy decision our for les Wa to ing ‘Go eg sa wa ion dit climbing expe R.’ NE AI NO -BR

BARE

Out of the loop

ven’t been Means: In the dark/ha , on ing go s at’ wh told E LOOP about eg ‘I’m still OUT OF TH Saturday.’ what’s happening on

Touch base

Means: Catch up, about the eg ‘Let’s TOUCH BASE b day.’

Cu ct plans for the Distri

Skeen www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Profile

Naturalist and television presenter Chris Packham has dedicated his life to educating children about wildlife.

Now he’s backing OMSCo’s Global Conservation Badge sponsorship, and took time out to tell us about that and his life in the undergrowth

‘ go outside

ren Chlidld be allowed

shou to get muddy The smallest things can spark an interest in nature For me, it was ladybirds and tadpoles in my garden when I was a kid. My parents said I was interested in them before I could speak.

Being outdoors gives me contact with the real world I derive a sense of being able to measure my place in the community where I live, an appreciation of seasonality and exposure to beautiful things.

The Hedgerow Safari is an adventure that can throw up surprising discoveries I’ll never forget finding my first hedge sparrow nest in a holly hedge near my home – it had five beautiful blue eggs in it.

It’s not just creepy-crawlies that inspire me I love The Jesus and Mary Chain, The Mighty Boosh, Mark Rothko and Damien Hirst.

’

and

Wildlife has become less important to today’s children Because it’s been taken away from them. They’re not allowed to go outside or get muddy anymore.

Scouts should take an interest in global conservation Because the world is small. Everyone thinks the world is huge, but it’s not, and what happens in their street has an influence on what happens all over the planet.

Scouts should get up-close with nature. Touch it, feel it, don’t be scared of it. Get outdoors and go and look at it. They are perfectly placed, as exploring the great outdoors is at the heart of Scouting’s principles.

If I could change the world I would change people’s awareness of their necessary connectivity to all the other worlds’ species.

If I could change one thing about myself I’d be another species.

get out more OMSCo (The Organic Milk Cooperative) has sponsored the Cub Scout Global Conservation badge. You can download a resource pack at www.scouts.org.uk/omsco

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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young leaderS of today… and tomorrow The Young Leaders’ Scheme is the runaway success story of the last ten years. Across the UK, 14- to 18-year-olds are helping volunteers deliver programmes to Beavers, Cubs and Scouts. But are we consistent in the way we use, support and encourage these invaluable supporters?

Corinne and Micky present the results of a special investigation

It’s Thursday night at the Orchard Beaver Scout Colony and Hannah (one of this issue’s editors) is showing Beavers how to make a birdfeeder.

‘I look after the Beavers, helping to run the games and crafts every week alongside the leaders,’ she says.

‘I love helping out when I can, and my Group looks after me very well.’

But is every Young Leader’s experience as good as this?

A mixed picture ‘I am a Young Leader at Beavers,’ says Micky, ‘and I feel that most of us are treated properly. However, I know that other Young Leaders are not quite as fortunate.’

‘I think leaders could use us better by giving us more responsibility. We like to feel we are a real part of the ’ leadership team

A Young Leader is someone who has the ability and skill to be able to lead and give instructions, organise people and equipment, and knows how to use the space and facilities available. Young Leaders ‘learn by doing’ and should be positive role models.

Jay is a Young Leader in the Scout section. ‘I get to interact with the Troop, help with activities and run games,’ he says. ‘Probably, the best thing is that I get to help young people who want to do something with their lives.’ He also believes the Young Leader experience helps his own development. ‘I’m encouraged to pass on the skills I learn to other Explorers.’

But there is always room for improvement.

‘I think leaders could use us better by giving us more responsibility,’ argues Jay. ‘Young people can take on a surprising amount without disrupting their education. We like to feel we are a real part of the leadership team.’

Young Leaders should offer assistance and guidance when required. They can help plan section meetings and even organise camps. A Young Leader should be trustworthy, responsible, knowledgeable and easily approachable.

Adult support But what do adult leaders think of their younger helpers? ‘On a normal Pack night, Young Leaders assist in running the programme as well as having independent roles,’ explains Cub Scout Leader Lorna. ‘They decide these among themselves and the roles alternate each week.’

And does she find the support helpful? ‘Very helpful,’ she says.

‘Because most have Scouting experience and knowledge, they can explain knotting or map reading to Cubs in a way they can easily understand.

‘All our Young Leaders are involved in the programme planning, but what we don’t do is use them to

36 Scouting December 2010/January 2011

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Youth involvement

Young Leaders can bring a wealth of knowledge and skills to others

supervise young people. They are not there to do that.’

Adrian is a Beaver Scout Leader who feels equally passionate about the value of Young Leaders. ‘They come up with ideas that enhance the programme,’ he says. ‘The scheme helps Explorers develop leadership skills that will be useful in later life.

Our Young Leaders learn to plan, run and organise each evening and bring different ideas to the programme.’

CONCLUSION Young Leaders aren’t just there to wash up, tidy or make tea. They should be given an active role, running their own activities while being supervised by a leader.

Tell us what you think

What’s your experience of Young Leaders? Can we support and use them better? Let us know at scouting.magazine@ scouts.org.uk

36-39 Youth involvement.indd 37

ROB – MY VIEW

How Young Leaders are used varies massively from group to group. However, there are some similarities that can be found Lots of Scout Groups have Young Leaders and, for many, it’s a natural progression after Scouts. When leaving Scouts at 14, many feel that they want to continue at the Troop – and being a Young Leader is the only way to do so.

This can be a big commitment. Scouting takes up a lot of their time, with Explorer meetings and Young Leader training, as well as helping with the section. This is on top of any extra Scouting activities at weekends or in the holidays.

It could be argued that this is simply too much, and many leaders feel that with GCSEs, AS levels, A levels, boyfriends/

girlfriends, and so on, these Young Leaders are putting themselves under too much pressure. However, this is for the Young Leaders themselves to decide.

At many Scout Groups, Young Leaders are not included in planning evenings.

This can sometimes be because of time limitations, but often they are simply not invited, despite being generally well informed about the programme.

In a lot of groups, Young Leaders have a minor part in the running of an evening, often being given the task of just running a game.

While it ranges from group to group, it is

very rare for them to run the main activity of the evening.

However, Young Leaders do tend to perform well when given a bit more freedom and responsibility, so perhaps this should change.

17/11/2010 15:49

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unity_scouting_page_v2.indd 36-39 Youth involvement.indd 238

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10/11/10 12:28:14 17/11/2010 15:49

2:28:14

Youth involvement

COME O T S G IN H T F O E P A H THE S

Youth editor Rob interviews Gordon Weston, Chairman of The Scout Association’s new Youth Involvement Group Rob: Could you summarise the Youth Involvement Group in ten words?

Gordon: To enable young people to shape Scouting, supported by adults.

people) to understand what youth involvement is and ensure that young people have the involvement appropriate to their age and experience.

R: I’ve never heard of the group.

In what ways are you going to communicate what you are, what you do and what your objectives are?

G: The work of the Youth Involvement Group will not necessarily proceed separate from anything else, although some initiatives might. The work will focus on integrating involvement into everything we do – after two to three years there will be a clear difference in the way that we operate, and young people will be seen to be shaping decisions at all levels of Scouting.

R: What are you hoping to achieve?

G: A better understanding of what youth involvement is. This may alter some of the adult training content to give clear, practical advice on how young people can have more involvement in their programme and assist in shaping the decisions of The Scout Association.

R: What’s your role?

G: I chair the group and coordinate the work of the volunteers and staff who will action to make changes.

I also listen to anyone inside or outside the Movement who can help us use young people better in decision-making.

R: What are you hoping the group will achieve?

G: The group should provide the tools to enable all Members of Scouting (adults and young

R: Why is the Youth Involvement Group needed when there are already nearly 400,000 young people in UK Scouting?

G: It doesn’t exist to recruit more young people to Scouting, but to improve the amount of input they have into the issues that affect them, whether on a day-to-day basis in their sections or on a national level.

R: What is happening at the Inspire events currently taking place?

G: These offer the opportunity to have fun and make friends, while contributing to the work of various Headquarters teams on topics such as social media, the Young Leaders’ Scheme and the cost of Scouting.

Young people have Why do you think it’s important a right to influencefect R: for children and young people to the things that af be involved in decision-making? them, from a Beaver G: Young people have a right to influence the things that affect them, Scout to a Scout r be from a Beaver Scout choosing which em m k or Netw

Gordon Weston (left) talks to youth editor Rob (right)

game to play, to a Scout Network member planning an expedition.

The level of involvement should meet their needs in terms of age, ability and maturity.

After two to threele years, young peop will be seen to beat shaping decisionsting all levels of Scou R: How does your role affect the average Scout?

G: At present, I’m not sure that it does. However, in three years’ time, I’m confident that we shall all be able to say: ‘Scouting is shaped by young people and supported by adults.’ That will be partly because of the work of the Youth Involvement Group.

Contact Gordon at inspire@scouts. org.uk

GET YOUNG PEOPLE INVOLVED

As well as taking part in your forums, programme planning and review, there are many national initiatives where young people can develop skills in a number of areas. We provide training on everything from media to campaigning. Call 0845 300 1818.

And, of course, there’s also the chance for your Scouts to become next year’s Scouting magazine editors. Contact scouting. magazine@scouts.org.uk www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Trusted Time

E H T G N I MAK Law? t what about the Scout bu ), e? w t n’ (do ise om Pr views and We all know the youth editors share their y dl en fri d an al loy d, Our truste ns to them outs about what it mea speak to some fellow Sc

1 A SCOUT IS TO BE TRUSTED by a Scout parent The dictionary definition of trust is ‘confidence in’, but this isn’t always easy to put into place.

We trust (or maybe just hope) that a Scout can be relied upon to do and say the right things and to take care of people and possessions. However, to take that trust to the next level and be truly confident in our young people can sometimes require a leap of faith on the part of adults, be they parents, teachers or Scout leaders.

Developing a Scout’s trustworthiness is one thing, but for adults to believe in the Scout to do and say the right thing is sometimes a challenge in itself for all concerned.

There needs to be mutual understanding between individuals. So, to the Scouts I say, don’t abuse the trust put in you, but be proud to be trusted. And to leaders, trust your judgement of your Scouts. However, if this turns out to be ill-founded, take a deep breath, look (honestly) at why, and then rebuild trust together.

2 A SCOUT IS LOYAL

by Hannah

Many people stay in the same friendship groups from birth to death and many of our experiences are spent with these people.

When we return from university, many of us go back to our familiar group, but why? It’s because it’s where we feel at home; it’s our loyalty to our friends. We want to be with all our friends that we have made over the years.

3 A SCOUT IS FRIENDLY AND CONSIDERATE

by Corinne A Scout has the obligation to be aware of others in the neighbourhood and within their surroundings. A Scout should be considerate of others, so should think of the impact of playing music loudly, for example.

A Scout must be friendly, and not swear or bully others.

A Scout will listen to a group when a topic is being debated, and not interrupt or shout.

4 A SCOUT BELONGS TO THE WORLDWIDE FAMILY OF SCOUTS

by Phil Sandal, Assistant Scout Leader, 5th Gosport Sea Scout Troop

2007 was the year that included the Centenary of Scouting and, of course, the 21st World Scout Jamboree. One of our Units had two Patrols of Nicaraguan Scouts attending with them. Afterwards, they stayed at our meeting place, arriving halfway through my Scout meeting. I was really excited to meet some Scouts from the other side of the world. The meeting was great fun – we taught each other traditional games, mostly through miming. At the end, we wished them good luck, collected their email addresses and later became pen pals.

Just before Christmas 2009, there was a devastating hurricane (grade 5) and it battered Nicaragua. For us, the worst thing was that we didn’t know if the Scouts we had met were alive or not. After many attempts to gain contact with them, we finally had a breakthrough! The good news was that everyone was fine, but the bad news was that their Scout hut was badly damaged. This upset my Troop, so we decided we must raise some money for them. We created a three-course Christmas dinner and raised more than £200 for them. I have never felt so good about something than when I went with the leaders to the money-exchange point.

The Nicaraguans were incredibly grateful and my Troop was just glad we could help.

I have learnt from this that no matter where a Scout is from, whatever their background or culture, whether they are rich or poor, we are all the same.

5 A SCOUT HAS COURAGE IN ALL DIFFICULTIES

by Phil Sandal

This is one of the more difficult laws to understand, initially, and, subsequently, to live up to. In my own Troop, I run a full training session on the Scout Law and Promise and begin by asking new recruits for their definition.

Invariably, the reply will be more about bravery than courage and they will often suggest that you need to do something brave on regular occasions. I then present something along

40 Scouting December 2010/January 2011

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LAW

The Scout Law

Family Compiled

by Rob

the lines that courage in all difficulties means that whatever we are doing, when things get particularly difficult, we will do our best to overcome them.

During the past year, we have had examples of this law being put into use both nationally and locally. Most leaders and many Scouts will know of the river rescue performed by Explorer Scouts on the River Dee, while locally we had the story of a young Scout coming to the aid of a pensioner she witnessed having a heart attack. In both cases, our young people showed great courage, but would not have realised that at the time, as their training and instincts kicked in.

More recently, I witnessed three Scouts perform a musical interlude at our AGM. True, they had all performed at school, in music lessons and with a band, but always with people they knew. At the AGM, they sat in front of committee members, leaders, parents and their peers and displayed great courage through their commitment and musical skills.

When leading new recruits through the Scout Law, it is important that we offer appropriate examples and suggestions of how they might live up to/by that law.

A young person might show courage just by attending a Scout meeting.

Family

Respect 6 A SCOUT MAKES GOOD USE OF TIME AND IS CAREFUL OF POSSESSIONS AND PROPERTY

by Hannah

At the end of camp, we always hear about the smelly socks that get left behind, but what happens to these smelly socks or the other things that are left? It is not just our socks, we must learn to be careful with other things, such as our time; nowadays, we have so much stuff to cram into one evening.

7 A SCOUT HAS SELF-RESPECT AND RESPECT FOR OTHERS

by Corinne Having respect for yourself is important, as is having respect for others. You may not always agree with other people’s comments and opinions, but you should always be willing to listen to what they have to say, and you should respect their views, even when they are different from yours.

Learning the Law Chief Scout Bear Grylls has a handy rhyme to remember the seven Scouting principles: ‘Ten Little Fat Fingers Caught The Rat’. Turn to page 3 for his take on the second F.

Trusted

Respect

Friendly

The ‘missing’ Scout Laws The Scout Law is one of the founding principles of Scouting and these values are as important today as they were 100 years ago, when Founder Robert Baden-Powell created them. However, there used to be ten:

Loyal

8

A Scout smiles and whistles under all circumstances. When he gets an order, he should obey it cheerily and readily, not in a slow, hang-dog sort of way.

Courage

Time

9

A Scout is thrifty, that is, he saves every penny he can.

10 A Scout is a friend to animals. www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Feast from the East

Rachel Allen has a reputation for celebrating not just the tastiness of good food, but the restorative, nurturing and emotionally fulfilling place it can have in our lives.

Whether you’re entertaining at home or looking for a way to spice up a camp menu, this fish supper is guaranteed to raise a smile

except the sunflower oil, in a small saucepan and heat gently until the sugar has dissolved, then remove from the heat and allow to cool. Pour over the salmon, cover and leave to marinate in the fridge for 2 hours.

Remove the salmon from the marinade and place on a moderately hot barbecue (or in a griddle pan or frying pan brushed with sunflower oil and set on a medium-high heat), reserving the marinade. Cook, brushing continuously with the marinade, for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the fish is opaque all the way through.

Remove to serving plates and pour over any remaining marinade.

Taken from Entertaining at Home

Salmon Teriyaki Serves 6-8

Ingredients 8 salmon steaks (200g/7oz each) 150ml dark soy sauce 100g caster sugar 50ml mirin 1 tsp salt 1 tbsp sunflower oil, for frying (optional) Method Teriyaki is a famous Japanese cooking technique. It refers to food that is marinated in sweet soy sauce and grilled in the marinade. This traditional sauce is delightfully simple and utterly delicious.

Put the salmon in a shallow dish.

Place the remaining ingredients,

42 Scouting December 2010/January 2011

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Camp cooking

Cub mum and Assistant Leader Dawn Orrells won the title of Best Chef at Sea on a daytime television programme. Under the tuition of gourmet chef Marco Pierre White, she got to hone her skills during a masterclass on a luxury cruise liner in the Caribbean, and shares this tasty recipe with us

e p i c e r g n i Winn As winter sets in, it’s soup and stew I love, so I thought I’d give this classic a try. It’s so easy to put together and all done in one pot – versatile and filling. I love this recipe and have made it gluten-free so my ten-yearold coeliac son, Dylan, can enjoy it.

Corn chowder

Serves 4 generously, Preparation 10 mins, Cooking 30 mins Ingredients 1 tbsp oil 1 onion, finely chopped 2 rashers of streaky bacon, chopped 1 litre vegetable stock 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed 1 tin sweetcorn 1 heaped tbsp cornflour

200g fish chunks (I used smoked haddock) 50ml double cream Method Heat a large pan with the oil, add the onion and bacon and cook through for 2 minutes.

Add the hot stock to the pan, followed by the potatoes and the sweetcorn.

Combine the cornflour with a spoonful of water to make a runny paste and add this to the pan.

Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add the fish and cream and cook for a further 5 minutes.

You can either eat it as it is or remove a third and blend.

Serve hot, but it can be chilled and reheated.

High tea on the high seas As Dawn’s prize for winning the Best Chefs at Sea competition, she and Dylan got to go on a 16-day luxury cruise. Dylan’s now acquired a taste for international travel:

‘Once we arrived in the Caribbean, we went rubber-tubing in the rainforest in Dominica and snorkelling in Barbados.

I know lots of children don’t get to see much of the world, but thanks to my mum and her cooking talents, I have seen some of the most amazing islands!’

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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44 Activity Centre ad.indd 44

17/11/2010 15:51

SKILLS & S E I T I V I T C A ther ards a new year, but ra The clock is ticking tow , sily broken resolutions ea of n tio ria fu in e th than t some new activities, we thought we’d presen ur uld incorporate into yo skills and ideas you co in 2011 programme sometime

Activity essentials

Programme Plus books For each section, the two-volume Programme Plus has enough ideas for a whole year.

Join-in-Jamboree came free with the last issue, and the road to the Jamboree continues, with activities for the next two months examining global cultures and international dining.

tivities to try in 2011 P46 The top ten new ac gular eco column P49 Ngaire Takano’s re ) of programme P51 The art (or science ews planning, by Elis Matth at how to sharpen P51 Andrew Thorp looks a knife on a rock

Programmes Online Visit www.scouts.org.uk/pol where more than 1,000 ideas await.

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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TOP

10 FOR

2011 1

Add these into the mix for a new year of adventure and challenge. Some will work at section meetings while others might require more time, or lend themselves to a District event or camp. Some are for older sections and some for younger, but all can be adapted for your circumstances and level of expertise

45-51 Skills.indd 46

Rock-It-Ball

2

As seen at Gilwell Reunion 2010, Rock-It-Ball, a sport that originated in the north of England, is a fast-growing explosive athletic sport that mixes fun with furious intensity as you try and use a rock-it (high-tech ball scoop) to hit a moving target‌ your opponent. www.rock-it-ball.com

Fossilteering

This brand-new activity was tested by Scouts in Somerset. Fossilteering is a fun way of exploring the coastline while looking for fossils and keeping fit.

Either pre-walk a route rich in fossils to give your Scouts points to navigate to, or use a checklist of different fossil types and try and find them all in a given area. www.scouts.org.uk/fossilteering

17/11/2010 15:55

3

Skills & activities

Hedgerow Safari

It’s not just really wild presenters like Chris Packham who go on safari. Beavers, Cubs and anyone can get close-up with nature by undertaking a Hedgerow Safari, and work towards a badge at the same time. This activity requires you to: a) find a hedgerow; b) explore it with a homemade sweep net; c) observe and record your findings.

Read our interview with Chris Packham on page 35 and visit www.scouts.org.uk/ omsco for full details and an activity pack.

Beekeeping

4

OK, so this isn’t a new activity at all, but we think that Scout Beekeepers are few and far between. The Beekeeper badge was one of the original set of Scouting proficiency badges and, due to the decline in the British honey bee over recent years, there’s no greater reason to start keeping these incredible creatures and making your own honey.

See www.scouts.org.uk/bees for the story of one Scout Group that has a hive worth buzzing about.

Forestry

2011 has been designated the International Year of Forests and so perhaps it’s time to go down to the woods and try out a range of tree-mendous activities. From climbing great oaks to building tree houses, and from the Ancient Tree Hunt to the art of forestry itself, learning about these life-giving specimens is something that will stand our young people in good stead.

See the eco column on page 49 for more, and log on to www.un.org/ forests for information or www.woodland-trust.org.uk for a host of activity ideas.

5 www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Kubb

6

The World Scout Jamboree in Sweden is fast approaching, and hopefully the Join-in-Jamboree packs you got with your last issue of Scouting are providing inspiration for how you can join in the celebration.

One game that originated in Sweden, and is fun to play at camp or in the garden, is Kubb. A cross between chess and boules, it involves throwing sticks to knock down wooden Did you blocks in a tactical way, before know? attacking your opponent’s You can read all the king and claiming victory. A sectional supplements online in a readerfull description of the game friendly format. Go to can be found in this issue’s www.scouts.org.uk/ Network supplement. magazine

Invent a sport

7

The 2012 London Olympic and Paralympic Games are only 18 months away, but what will the Olympic events in 100 years’ time be like? The best way to take part in a new activity is to invent one. Set your section the challenge of coming up with an entirely new sport, using the contents of your Quartermaster’s stores.

You could combine existing sports or create something that has more of a ‘Scouty’ feel to it. We’d love to hear your suggestions.

Send pictures and a copy of the rules to scouting.magazine@scouts.org.uk

Kitesurfing

8 45-51 Skills.indd 48

The sensation of being carried across the water on a kite-propelled surfboard is unique and exhilarating. Strictly for more adventurous types, the fast-growing sport of kitesurfing is becoming easier to access.

It’s worth testing this yourself before introducing it to a group of young people, so find a ‘try it’ session using www.bbc.co.uk/thrillseeker or via the British Kitesurfing Association website at www.britishkitesurfingassociation.co.uk You need a permit for this activity.

See FS120667 for details, available from www.scouts.org.uk

17/11/2010 15:58

Skills & activities

ECO COLUMN

Build a dam

This may not be a new activity for Beavers, but wouldn’t it be lovely if the other sections got together to create an oversized Beaver dam for our junior section’s 25th birthday in 2011? Some Groups already have dambuilding competitions on camp. Why not give it a try?

Alternative conservation projects could entail volunteering at a wetland or wildfowl centre, adopting a cycle path or towpath, or clearing an overgrown area.

Ngaire Takano Environmental Consultant

9

Shoot it

10 45-51 Skills.indd 49

We know many Groups, Units and Networks who have made a name for themselves by promoting their activities using videos that they produce themselves. You can see one example on page 20.

Set the imagination free by coming up with stories about the adventures you’ve got planned for 2011. Rather than purely documenting the fun you have, get the young people to shape the story and take on roles in charge of script-writing, editing and special effects (one for the pyromaniacs!) among others.

When you’re at camp, or running a Big Adventure, make filming it part of the programme. Don’t forget to finish it off properly when you return, allowing the Scouts to choose the soundtrack, pick the best clips and finally upload it to a video-sharing website. Use the video to promote Scouting in your area, show it at your AGM and relive the memories.

A tree a day helps the carbon go away

As 2011 has been declared the Year of Forests, why not consider planting some trees?

Or campaign to support forests – locally, nationally and internationally – or even work on the Scouts Forester badge.

Some of these activities could be run in your sections, involve the whole Group (Environmental Partnership Award) or your District. Also, keep an eye out for a government initiative where the goal is to plant more than 200 million trees in urban areas.

Some helpful websites are: www.visitwoods.org.uk – find a woodland or forest near you. www.unep.org/ billiontreecampaign/partners/ index.asp – United Nations campaign for planting one billion trees campaign. www.woodlandtrust.org. uk/en/plant-your-own-wood/ Pages – Woodland Trust has community packs available and activity suggestions. www.woodlandtrust.org. uk/en/more-trees-more-good/ Pages/who-is-involved.aspx – Woodland Trust campaign’s informative website. www.rainforestsos.org – the Prince’s Rainforests Project. www.defra.gov.uk/rural/ forestry/tree-planting.htm – the Forestry Commission gives tips on how to plant trees. frontpage.woodland-trust. org.uk/ancient-tree-forum/ atfaboutus/aboutus.htm – the Ancient Tree Forum – supporting old trees around the world.

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

49

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17/11/2010 15:13

Skills & activities

g n i n n pla It’s all in the

e is an art ning a good programm an pl k in th u yo er th he W some a bit of both), there are ly ab ob pr it’s d (an ce or a scien tings a lp you give weekly mee he ill w at th es qu ni ch te rested boost, and keep you inte

How to… sharpen a knife on a rock

First things first, it’s worth stating that there’s no perfect programme plan. Even a great one may need tweaking when the meeting is in full swing, and you should never assume that what’s on paper beforehand will suit the young people who turn up. Be prepared to improvise and adapt.

Hunt Find a porous rock, such as fine sandstone.

Rocks located next to rivers often make good stones as they have been smoothed by the water and will often be of manageable size. Wet the stone and place it on a flat surface.

Know-how

Don’t plan something you don’t know how to do, or haven’t practised beforehand. If doing knots, practise teaching a colleague or friend first. Beavers and Cubs have a knack of spotting a bluffer.

deposed idea for a rainy day may work better.

Be a cat

Use your team

Curiosity is a valuable trait.

Probe others for ideas. If something on TV or in the paper jumps out at you, consider how it could translate to the meeting place. Keep your eyes and ears open to ideas and have a notebook to jot them down.

Be a gymnast

Flexibility is an asset. You may meet with your team to plan a chunk of meetings well in advance, but don’t let this count against you. A better idea may crop up at short notice, and slotting it in and saving the

Planning meetings can be a relaxed affair

Don’t depend solely on the one person who’s been running programmes for 30 years.

Discover people’s gifts. Do an audit, including Young Leaders, Scout Active Support and District and County teams. Apply the total knowledge bank to what will work best for your section.

Be youth-led

Hand meetings over to young people or get their input at the planning stage. Leaders before you have been astonished by the creativity and reliability on show.

It could surprise you too.

Slide Hold the knife in one hand and lay one side of the blade flat on the stone.

Pressing lightly on the blade with the fingertips of your other hand, slide it around in a circular direction, keeping the blade flat.

Check Every half-a-dozen circles, check the blade’s edge, because if the edge gets too fine it might chip – you want this to last.

When you are happy with the sharpness, turn the blade and do new circles, this time moving the blade in the opposite direction.

Test Carefully test your blade to see how sharp or dull it is.

When you’re happy, wipe your knife clean and make sure it is completely dry. If you are not going to use it for a while, rub a little oil on it.

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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NEW S G N I N N BEGI

to a ramme planning skills og pr ed sh fre re ur yo Apply mme. become a section progra calendar of events that gs out how new beginnin lay l ol Tr d an s ew th at Elis M e can happen at any tim

M

any faith festivals have the theme of a new beginning, and these can be slotted into your programme throughout the year. It’s not just the first meeting of January when you might talk about resolutions, for example. Use any of the ideas here to discuss in your next planning meeting.

Buddhism – Wesak

This holiday celebrates the birth of the Buddha and that he achieved nirvana (enlightenment) and paranirvana. On this day, Buddhists meditate on the Buddha’s teachings on impermanence, eat vegetarian food, give to charity and observe eight Buddhist precepts.

Judaism – Rosh Hashanah

This is the Jewish New Year. Some features include tashlikh (saying prayers near flowing water), eating honey and apples (symbolising a sweet new year) and commemorating when God created the Earth.

‘The New Year brings the whole Jewish family together to share food, say prayers and think about others. The symbolism is very special for me.’

Hannah Hochland, Leader, Manchester

‘My favourite festival is Tsagaan Sar, which is the Mongolian New Year. We make lamb dumplings, called buuz, light butter lamps and make offerings to the shrine.

We also celebrate Wesak, which is the Buddha’s birthday.’

Sarantsetseg, Cub Scout, Bury

Ideas to consider Meditation lesson Vegetarian cooking

Ideas to consider Reflections using water Honey and apple cooking challenge Creating the Earth – what would our perfect world look like today?

Hinduism – Diwali

Diwali is when Hindus celebrate the victory of good over evil. The name comes from the Sanskrit word Dīpāvali, meaning ‘row of lamps’. On the fourth day of the festival, Hindus worship Lakshmi (goddess of wealth) and Ganesh (god of auspicious beginnings).

Ideas to consider Make lanterns Make sweets (see POL idea 22765) Tell the story of Rama and Sita using shadow puppets

52 Scouting December 2010/January 2011

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Faiths & beliefs

Christianity – Easter

The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ marks, for Christians, the completion of a new covenant – a new relationship with God through the Holy Spirit. The giving (or rolling) of eggs symbolises the new birth brought about by the Easter message.

‘My favourite festival to celebrate is Easter. It’s my favourite because I think it ultimately showed God’s love for us and to me that is the most important thing about being a Christian.’

Hannah, youth editor

Ideas to consider Egg painting or rolling Play games where the relationship between players changes

Sikhism – Vaisakhi

Commemorates the birth of the Khalsa (all baptised Sikhs), when Sikhs were given an identity and a code of conduct, called the Rehat Maryada, to follow. During the festival, Sikhs pray at the gurdwara, hold processions, give to charity and wash the Nishan Sahib flag.

Ideas to consider Flag – design a special flag to symbolise who you are Code of conduct – review your section’s code of conduct, with the young people coming up with the rules

Islam – The two Eids

Rather than new beginnings, the two major festivals of Islam come at the end of significant spiritual events. Eid ul-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, when Muslims fast for 30 days, and Eid ul-Adha concludes the Hajj pilgrimage.

‘It’s good to celebrate when you’ve achieved something.

This is at the heart of worship in Islam, and it’s at the heart of Scouting. We sometimes use the party atmosphere of Eid to give out rewards for things the Cubs have done that month.’

Maryam Abou-Daya, Cub Scout Leader, London

Ideas to consider Fasting – either a sponsored fast for charity, or a more personal one New clothes – at Eid, Muslims wear new or best clothes. Design a new outfit to wear on a special day

more online There is support for putting spiritual development in your programme at www.scouts.org. uk/faith and plenty of ideas linked to festivals on www.scouts.org. uk/pol. These festivals happen throughout the year – and, remember, the new year happens at different times based on the calendars used by various faith groups. See the multifaith calendar at www.bbc.co.uk/religion for more events.

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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54_Scouting_DecJan.indd 54

17/11/2010 15:14

Scout Active Support

e v i t c A f O S e OOdl

SuppOrt John Stevens, Scout Active Support Manager, West Sussex One key advantage of the launch has been the increased number of people wanting to join Scout Active Support. While Scout Fellowship was first class John Stevens in its day, like most things, it was due some rejuvenation. Thanks to the launch, almost all adults know of Scout Active Support, whereas few had heard of Fellowship.

We now need to build on the positive foundations laid by the Scout Fellowship, harness new knowledge and move Scout Active Support forward. I was worried that uptake would be poor, but it was received positively and, as a result, all our Scout Fellowships have become Scout Active Support Units with smooth transitions thus far. We’re working hard to improve Scouting for young people and ease the burden on our leadership teams.

Profile plus Our next task is to work on the profile of a typical Scout Active Support Member. Everyone over 18 should find a Unit that suits them, with older Members giving their experience and skills and younger ones providing enthusiasm and physical power. I’m aiming for a 40 per cent increase in Scout Active Support membership over the coming year within West Sussex alone, tapping into local authorities and businesses who encourage their staff to take part in community work.

Every Scout Fellowship Member has until 31 December 2010 to change their role to Scout Active Support Member. Contact your local secretary or get a change of role form from the Scout Information Centre.

the benefits John Stevens has seen Sussex, while of the rebrand in West aham Webster in Buckinghamshire, Gr uit has a potential new recr

Graham Webster, Scout Active Support Manager, Buckinghamshire There’s not much in the County that an Active Support Unit isn’t involved in. We support Groups as well as District and County. We organise the Annual Graham Webster General Meeting, carol service and St George’s Day parades. We help at the County orienteering event and recently provided backwoods cooking at an activity day.

Many Scout Active Support Members are still leaders or chairmen, but try to help whenever possible. We pop up at town events like Remembrance Sunday, sports days and swimming galas too.

With so much Scout Active Support going on in Aylesbury, we asked youth editor Micky if this would appeal to her:

ining ‘I’ ll definitely be jopp t. It Scout Active Su or project a would be good toof e Units, youthful image th ledge as well as the know ults that comes from adnd who’ve been arous. It’s about Scouting for year and being working together be able to flexible. I’d like to at help organise events th ence younger Scouts experi something new.’ www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

55 Active support.indd 55

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56 Scouting December 2010/January 2011

56-57 Scout Shops.indd 56

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www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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58_Scouting_DecJan.indd 54

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17/11/2010 15:14

Country diary

Snow fun like winter camp

When his Explorer Scouts suggested a winter camp, James Taylor started planning

W

e can’t be sure of getting the same abundance of snow as last winter, but we can start planning a winter camp in case we do. Find a suitable venue, draw up essential kit lists, complete the risk assessment and nights away paperwork, and decide on a menu and a schedule of activities. Wait until the snow hits, and, after a few phone calls, winter camp is on.

Start by getting half the Scouts to pitch tents and the rest to collect firewood and fuel. The main priorities are shelter and warmth. Once the tents are pitched, the fire is roaring and you have had a bite to eat, shelter-building is a good activity to kick things off with.

Snow bricks Igloos are an inspiration. As we don’t get iced snow that can be cut into chunks in the UK, the snow needs to be formed into bricks. Placing snow bricks over a bivouac-type frame is the most stable structure and should prevent collapse. Improvised transport, such as ski-walking and sledging, will bring a fun element to the camp, as will tracking and identifying wild

animals in their natural habitat. Don’t forget a lesson about hypothermia and its prevention. However, be sure that clothing is shed when the body has warmed up. If not, inner clothing will dampen and sap warmth away later on. Concentrate on keeping hands, feet and head nice and warm.

Winter fuel Campers’ energy levels will drop alarmingly when their bodies are working hard and trying to stay warm.

This energy needs to be replaced, so on top of hot meals and drinks, keep distributing rations of fruit, nuts, chocolate and mint cake.

When it snows in the UK, the temperature usually only hovers around the freezing mark, or a few degrees below, but there is the wind-chill factor to consider. You must have a backup plan in case of sudden extreme cold. Clothing and sleeping bags should be both plentiful and of the right quality. The same applies to food. You will also need to be able to return Scouts back home quickly and safely if the weather turns hostile. If you have the worst-case scenario well planned for, you will enjoy a real winter camp.

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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as, t to know Scouts overse ge d an lp he to g tin an Two Scouts, both w Kenya ex reports on his trip to tell their stories. First, Al

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Meeting local people and building a nursery all added to the experience

Alex’s story

L

ike all great explorers before me, at the dawning of my expedition I had a moment of reflection. However, the reflection staring back at me was one of a very tired Explorer Scout trying to shove half of his belongings into a bag en route to adventure.

Start at the beginning. Our Explorer Unit (Headstone Endeavour) wanted to follow in the footsteps of the great adventurers. We wanted to discover the world, but more importantly, come back having discovered something about ourselves. We decided to use Camps International, a charitable organisation that runs awardwinning volunteer trips to developing countries. We were particularly interested in schooling, because it was something that would affect our age group.

Twenty-four Scouts had to raise over £2,000 each within 18 months, arrange visas and injections and get the correct gear. It wasn’t an easy ride. We packed bags in supermarkets and held quizzes. One Scout cycled all

village, mainly through fishing.

Within the first few days, we were introduced to the local football team and were beaten 5-1 by 11-year-olds with no shoes.

This, we felt, was on a par with the England football team’s performance that summer, so we had represented our country quite justly. the way to Wales – no mean feat when you live in London.

However, through hard work and no end of blackmailing family members, we were soon ready.

World Cup repeat Kenya really is a beautiful country.

Once we had passed through the shanty towns in a guarded bus with tinted windows, we arrived in Makongeni, a small town in a rural, unspoilt location. The inhabitants were very friendly.

It is an exceptionally close community, working as one to provide wealth for the whole

We wanted to discover the world, but more importantly, come back having discovered s lve something about ourse

Changing rooms We spent over five hours a day doing heavy construction work, building school benches from scratch and creating the concrete floor of a nursery. It sounds clichéd, but the work there was one of my favourite parts of the journey, as I knew I was contributing to something very important to the people around us.

From Makongeni we moved on to Tsavo, where we went on safari before tackling community projects. In the middle of digging water holes for elephants, some of them came along to have a look, and that was it for the day.

Being away from a populated area gave us a greater understanding of the wildlife, particularly insects. Scorpions

61

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The Scouts received a warm welcome

gs One of the greatest thin e th l al is about Scouting s possible things it open is n up, and this expeditio definitely going to stay e I liv with me for as long as and snakes became the main topic of conversation.

We spent a lot of our evenings meeting other groups in the camp. One night we represented Scouting in a music quiz around a campfire, and came second.

Festival atmosphere Back in the town, we prepared ourselves for our final camp – three days at a women’s institute without any showering facilities.

We used a bucket and an enclosed shack, which brought back memories of Glastonbury, although this seemed far more civilised. Our last task was to construct and paint a second nursery and help out on local farms to speed up the process for the harvest.

In Kenya, we found out how much we could achieve, be it construction work or working as a team. One of the greatest things about Scouting is all the possibilities it opens up, and this expedition is definitely going to stay with me for as long as I live.

fascinated with Salisbury Scout Toby is ld. outing around the wor Sc t ou ab e or m g in rn lea This is his story Reaching out Toby’s story

W

hen I was a Cub, I went with my group to the International Jamboree in Essex. I met a funky leader from a Pacific island wearing a grass skirt and a headdress, tried on sombreros and ponchos from Mexico and sat in a Moroccan tent.

We met some Scouts from Africa, who only had a scarf and their own clothes for uniform. This made me realise Scouting is everywhere and that people do it differently in different places. It doesn’t matter where they are from or what they wear, everyone was having fun.

I want to know what Scouts around the world do at their meetings. What do they cook on their campfires? Do they have summer camp? What worries them and what are the problems that affect them? I would like to see a feature in Scouting where, in each issue, a Scout from a different country answers these questions.

One chance we have each year to talk to Scouts around the world is through Jamboree on the Air and Jamboree on the Internet. On the radio, I have spoken to American, Australian and French Scouts, and we put a pin on a map each time we talk to someone new.

I would like to find out more about Scouting in Brazil, as it’s my favourite country, Africa, because poverty must affect their activities, and Australia, because it’s far away and is hot with big open spaces, which could affect the amount of hiking they do.

I would like to contact Scouts from other countries, ask questions and send photos, and have them do the same.

passport to adventure Would you like to read accounts of Scouting around the globe?

Let us know by emailing scouting.magazine@scouts.org. uk or having your say on our Facebook page at www.scouts.org. uk/facebook

62

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ACTIVITY CENTRE MANAGER

PHASELS WOOD ACTIVITY CENTRE - HERTFORDSHIRE

ARE YOU UP FOR IT? Hertfordshire Scouts are seeking to appoint a Manager at its activity centre in Kings Langley, Hertfordshire.

Phasels Wood is set in just under 100 acres of woodland and fields and offers a comprehensive range of adventurous activities to a diverse customer base.

It is one of seven Activity Centres managed by the County. Hertfordshire Scouts has recently acquired the freehold to the centre, although it has been leased and managed by them for almost 20 years.

This challenging and rewarding position offers a unique opportunity to develop the centre over the next few years working with current employed staff and volunteer service crew.

If you are interested in this post then apply for further details and a comprehensive information pack by e-mail to admin@hertfordshirescouts.org.uk or writing to The Office Manager, Hertfordshire Scouts County Office, Well End Activity Centre, Borehamwood, WD6 5PR. The closing date for applications is Monday 10 January 2011.

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S S e l e f i al y r a n i d r o

rence r, who is making a diffe de lea l na tio ira sp in e to disability Sue Burton meets on allenges he faces due ch e th ite sp de p ou Gr in his Scout

i

t’s 9am and the 5th Redruth Scout Group is on its way to a week’s camp on Brownsea Island. You can sense the anticipation from everyone, but someone’s missing – Nick. He’s gone on ahead as he needs more specialist transport. Nick Carr, 23, has been with the Group since he was a Cub. He’s been there, done that and got the T-shirt (and The Queen’s Scout Award too). Now he’s a leader and an integral part of getting this camp off the ground. He’s been amazingly

active in fundraising, completing a tandem parachute jump and taking part in the Tall Ships race.

All this and yet the only real mobility he has is in his right arm, due to a disability arising from encephalitis. The other leaders call him inspirational; the Scouts just call him Nick.

Serial fundraiser Nick has found it difficult to find work because of his condition, but is never idle. He devotes much of his time to fundraising for charity – not just for Scouts, but also for the Air

Cadets, NSPCC, ShelterBox and the local children’s hospice. His interest in theatre led him to organise four shows on his road to raising cash.

Ask him about the parachute jump he did and he says it was something he’d always wanted to do, and adds, ‘If you’re going to die, at least do it in aid of a good cause.’

ve Nick has been actipl m eting in fundraising, cout a tandem parach epart jump and taking in the Tall Ships race

64 Scouting December 2010/January 2011

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ing

Health & wellbeing

Despite his disability as a result of r encephalitis, Nick Car participates in all aspects of Scouting and fundraising

‘Nick is in charge ofScouts helping the youngeerTroop, integrate into th hugely’ and he helped them As a leader, Nick put his IT skills to good use, designing a movingon booklet to help the transition between Cubs and Scouts. During camp, Nick will work closely with the younger Scouts, making sure they settle within their Patrols.

Independence days There will, of course, be challenges in getting onto and around the island. Upon his return, I ask Nick if he experienced any problems. ‘I’m a seasoned camper, so no problems there,’ he replies.

‘The shower and toilet facilities were excellent; the only difficulty I had was trying to negotiate the loose gravel. Sometimes I dug myself into a hole and had to be dragged out!

‘I had my electric wheelchair taken away from me every evening to be charged up, and I sometimes

found it hard to go without the independence I’m used to.

‘The boat trip was interesting because I had to walk on and off the boat with one person either side of me to keep me upright. As I have very little power in my legs, I had to be careful not to laugh, as I would have ended up in a heap! After practising on the way to Brownsea, the return was a piece of cake.’

At the end of the trip, Nick spoke of it as ‘a very special week’, highlighting the members of staff, who were ‘amazingly helpful and always approachable’.

Leading by example Debbie Victor, an Assistant Scout Leader in the Troop, sees the value of Nick’s leadership in the Group: ‘Though Nick was a little nervous about coming to Brownsea with us, he overcame every small obstacle, laughing as usual! He’s in charge

of helping the younger Scouts integrate into the Troop, and he helped these younger campers hugely. If any of them were reluctant to take part in an activity, he set an example of how a negative attitude is the only thing standing in the way.

Nick took part in boating, wildlife tours, orienteering (in the rain) and archery, and led the singing on the last night.’

But, as his leaders and Scouts frequently say, that’s Nick.

find out more

Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain. This can be caused either by an infection invading the brain or from the immune system attacking the brain in error. How this affects a person will depend on the areas of the brain affected by inflammation. The symptoms vary widely. Encephalitis is rare and can be difficult to diagnose. For more information, see www.encephalitis.info

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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66_Scouting_DecJan.indd 66

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Resources and equipment available. www.scouts.org.uk/sainsburys

Chubb Fire & Security

Sponsors: Scout Fire Safety Activity Badge.

Activity packs available. www.scouts.org.uk/chubb

Original Dutch Edam

Sponsors: Cub Scout Chef Activity Badge.

Activity packs available. www.scouts.org.uk/edam

Eat in Colour

Sponsors: Beaver Scout Healthy Eating Activity Badge. Resources available. www.scouts.org.uk/healthyeating

Environment Agency

Sponsors: Scout Angler Activity Badge. www.scouts.org.uk/environmentagency

Mattel

Sponsors: Beaver Scout Creative Activity Badge. Resources available. www.scouts.org.uk/hotwheels

Merlin Entertainments

Offers available to UK attractions. www.scouts.org.uk/merlin

Microsoft

Sponsors: IT Staged Activity Badge.

Resources available. www.scouts.org.uk/microsoft

National Grid

Sponsors: Cub Scout Home Safety Activity Badge.

Activity packs available. www.scouts.org.uk/nationalgrid

Wall’s

Sponsors: The Big Adventure and the Scout Camp Cook Badge.

Resources coming soon. www.scouts.org.uk/walls

The Organic Milk Suppliers Cooperative

Sponsors: Cub Scout Global Conservation Activity Badge.

See page 35. www.scouts.org.uk/omsco

Pets at Home

Sponsors: Beaver Scout Animal Friend and Cub Scout Animal Carer Badges.

Resources available. www.scouts.org.uk/petsathome

Police

Sponsors: Scout Community Challenge Award. www.scouts.org.uk/police

Puffin

Sponsors: Scout Adventure Challenge Award.

Posters and skills cards available. www.scouts.org.uk/puffin

Rolls-Royce

Sponsors: Cub Scout Scientist Activity Badge.

Activity packs available. www.scouts.org.uk/rollsroyce

ShelterBox

Global programme partner. www.youngshelterbox.org

Venture Abroad

Adventure holidays for Scouts. www.scouts.org.uk/ventureabroad

Natural England

WD40

Ordnance Survey

Worcester Bosch Group

Sponsors: Cub and Scout Naturalist Activity Badge.

Resources available. www.scouts.org.uk/naturalengland

Sponsors: Cub Scout and Scout Navigator Badges. Resources available. www.scouts.org.uk/ordnancesurvey

Sponsors: Scout DIY Activity Badge.

Online resources available. www.scouts.org.uk/wd40

Sponsors: Cub Scout Global Challenge Award. www.scouts.org.uk/bosch

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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ShelterBox and Scouting are helping people all over the world

A world of opportunity

Our partnerships with global charities enable leaders to deliver the Global Programme Zone effectively, while also helping Scouts to make a positive impact on the lives of people all over the world The partnership between international disaster relief charity ShelterBox and The Scout Association went from strength to strength this year as they worked together to raise awareness and money for people who have lost everything through disaster.

James Webb, ShelterBox Fundraising Officer, said: ‘It’s been a really busy year at ShelterBox, but whether it’s been on deployment or helping us fundraise, Scouts have been a huge help – they’re now a vital part of the ShelterBox family.’

FUNdraising More than 24,000 Scouts took up the 2010 ShelterBox Challenge, and the ShelterBox Scavenger Hunts in London and Edinburgh went down

a storm with the 600 Scouts who took part.

But it was the creative fundraising ideas of Scouts that really inspired admiration. From bouncy-castle bouncing competitions to beach Olympics, sponsored silences to bike rides, Scouts showed their ingenuity.

When disaster strikes It’s not just UK Scouts that are lending a hand. The friendship between the two organisations spans the globe, with Scouts helping the charity to react quickly and efficiently to disasters.

‘A Scout’s local knowledge and skills in the field really come into their own when a disaster occurs,’ said ShelterBox Founder and Honorary Scout Tom Henderson.

For example, when the devastating earthquake struck the Caribbean island of Haiti earlier this year, the West Department International Scouts d’Haiti, who had themselves lost everything, helped ShelterBox set up camps.

Coming in 2011

The partnership between ShelterBox and The Scout Association continues to expand and develop, with a whole host of exciting events and initiatives due to be launched.

The 2011 London Scavenger Hunt The ShelterBox Scout Journo Scheme – an opportunity for Scouts, Explorers and Network Scouts to try their hand at journalism by writing news stories for the Young ShelterBox website Weekend courses for Network members and Scout Leaders – discover what it’s like to be a ShelterBox Response Team member, learn some invaluable skills and have a great time.

For more information on any of the above, please email youngshelterbox@shelterbox.org or visit www.youngshelterbox.org

68 Scouting December 2010/January 2011

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OPEN DAYS Friday 3 December 2010 Friday 6 May 2011 Friday 16 September 2011 Friday 2 December 2011

• We

dding r e c eption r t i e s s • Co nferen • Co c e s r p activitorate y days • Pa

Come along and have a tour of the facilities, set within 108 acres of mature parkland.

towntocountry.co.uk/gilwell t: 0208 498 5300 e: gilwell.conferences@scout.org.uk The Scout Association Registered Charity Numbers 306101 (England and Wales) and SC038437 (Scotland).

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16/11/2010 14:34 16:16 17/11/2010

Full page Scouts advert_newOct.qxd

9/7/10

15:00

Page 1

Fire up your appetite for life with Wall's Make a great start to a busy day with substantial, full flavoured proper food with no half measures.

Wall's sausages are meaty and full of flavour; perfect for active Scouts who are up for anything and have a big appetite for life. Eat them on their own or as part of a hearty breakfast with Wall's Bacon.

And don't forget, Wall's Sausage Rolls are perfect for lunches or as a quick snack during a busy day.

70 Scouting December 2010/January 2011

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Partnerships

Police and Scouts share a challenge Scout Groups now have the opportunity to work with their local police force and make a difference in their community, thanks to an exciting new resource for the police-sponsored Scout Community Challenge

L

ocal community policing teams work with residents and partner agencies, such as councils, to improve their local area. The new resource for the Community Challenge allows Scouts to get involved in this process and gives officers the opportunity to understand the locality from a young person’s perspective.

The award The police-sponsored Community Challenge has two parts. Firstly, the Scouts undertake activities which help them to look at their local community in a different way. Using an activity pack, they will identify groups of people and their different needs, as well as create a map to pinpoint issues in their local area, such as graffiti or poor lighting. In part two they will identify a local priority to tackle as a group.

The activity Local officers will be invited to a Troop meeting where they can discuss what the Scouts have learned about their area and

provide an overview of how policing works in the community as a whole. They will also help the group choose which local issue it wants to address and work with them to develop an action plan.

West Mercia Police has been leading this project, on behalf of the 43 police forces across England and Wales. To help leaders identify the right person to contact within each force, contact details for those that have signed up to the scheme are available at www.scouts.org.uk/police

The resources Support materials for Scout leaders and local community policing teams are being developed in partnership with West Mercia Police, including briefing packs, activity sheets and some ideas on how Scouts may help to tackle local issues.

Scout Groups and the police have been an integral part of communities over many years.

This partnership provides an opportunity for the two to work together and improve the quality of local life.

more info Log on to www.scouts. org.uk/police

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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slug

Active Kids 2011 is on its way -

make sure your Group doesn’t miss out!

Sainsbury’s Active Kids has now donated over

£100 million

*

worth of equipment and experiences to over 40,000 youth organisations, including over 4,000 Scout Groups.

So thanks for your fantastic support so far!

Active Kids is under starter’s orders again.

It launches in February 2011 and promises to be our best year yet. If your Group is already registered, you’ll receive a welcome pack full of everything you need to get collecting, including the new catalogue.

If your Group hasn’t registered yet, you can do so from 24 January 2011. Simply call 0844 415 8440 or visit sainsburys.co.uk/activekids Get ready for our best Active Kids yet! *Figure based on redemptions received up until 20.08.10

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slug

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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17/11/2010 03/11/2010 13:03 12:01

z i u q s a Christm as quiz ith our cracking Christm w ge led ow kn ur yo st Te

1. Which record-breaking event this

year lasted 665 minutes?

2. Link: a) B-P’s mentor in Scouting skills and

a quizmaster b) Michael Shinnick, the Governor General of Australia, the Governor General of Canada and a Wiltshire adventurer c) Yasgur’s Farm, Worthy Farm and Ford Farm d) An insect, arachnid, avian, feline, canine, caprine, bovine and equine e) A new land, a large-billed marine bird, Saint Mary and Albert’s wife 3. Identify: a) A common paper size at 125mph b) Normally 120 per minute, but

7. What is the connection between: a) Essen, Istanbul, Liverpool,

Stavanger, Vilnius, Linz and Pecs b) Bury St Edmunds, Luton, Penzance, Hopton-on-Sea and Glastonbury 8. These South East UK structures have the same function. Given the following dates, going west to east, identify them.

1933, 1828, 1777, 1933, 1903, 1933, 1887, 1886, 1940, 1890, 1873, 1937, 1906, 1932, 1862, 1945, 1869, 1921, 1973, 1894, 1991 9. And the sauce is? a) Sweet potato, red chillies,

by Alan Burnham

white vinegar, sugar, soybeans, salt and garlic b) Orange, lemon, port, mustard, ginger and redcurrant jelly c) Butter, cream, Parmesan, garlic and parsley d) Mayonnaise, mustard, capers, pickles, anchovies, chervil and tarragon e) Walnuts, breadcrumbs, garlic, yoghurt, olive oil, salt and pepper 10. The quality of which commodity is measured in the following percentages?

37.5, 41.7, 58.3, 75, 91.7, 99.99

doubled it is 180 per minute c) A snow eater called BN phonetically d) A London Zoo star killed in a US marshalling yard 4. Why would rain cause a Henley

Regatta to be cancelled?

5. Link each of the items below to the following one: a) Canal art b) A major German river c) Lincoln’s community radio station d) Edwin H Armstrong e) Nipper the dog f) SS Great Britain 6. What well-known event was born through the need to raise funds for a Scout campsite swimming pool?

74 Scouting December 2010/January 2011

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Christmas quiz

11. What does: a) Cricket have to do with land

reclamation from the sea? b) A mod’s opponent have to do with canoeing? c) A lozenge have to do with sea shanties? d) Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts have to do with lawmen and radio? e) An amphibian have to do with human antenatal care?

Illustrations Mehmet Ulusahin

12. Which Scouting activities

might use: a) A kisser button b) A butterfly c) A dead man anchorage d) Fish form e) Heads, shoulders, knees and toes 13. Put the following in

descending order: Robert Peel, an aromatic tea, Admiral Nelson, Terry Wogan, a WWI German ace, Edward Kennedy Ellington, You’re fired, boxing laws 14. Who was the first 007?

15. Here is this year’s code, which

may have Danish stamped through it – but V1.

God rest you merry gentlemen let nothing you dismay Remember Christ our saviour was born on Christmas day!!

16. Where does the granite come

from for: a) Parts of the British Museum b) Superior curling stones c) Waterloo Bridge

17. What length do you obtain when adding together all of the following items?

• A striped freshwater fish and the reeled implement used to catch it • Two door-safety items, one of which can be found on a crossbow and the other on a bicycle • One of four items at the end of the human upper extremities and the keratin item thereupon • That part of a bridge between two uprights and one of the support items of a suspension variety • One seed of a bearded cereal crop and an organised competition of football • Teams generally lasting a season

b) Pooh Bridge c) Where the Masquerade hare

was hidden 19. Link: PM Brown, PM Callaghan, PM Heath, PM Campbell-Bannerman, Hugh Algernon – Lord Lieutenant of Northumberland 1956-1988 and George – Speaker from 1976-1983 20. Identify: a) Four white flashes every

15 seconds b) One white flash every

five seconds c) One white flash every

ten seconds d) Two white flashes every

18. Locate: a) Where the Mohune diamond

e) One white flash every

was hidden

three seconds

20 seconds

Entry details Entries are invited from individuals of any age and teams of any size. Small prizes will be awarded for the best three, but any entry with more than half the questions attempted is worth sending in. Entries should be sent by post to Scouting magazine, The Scout Association, Gilwell Park, Chingford, London E4 7QW or emailed to quiz@scouts.org.uk to arrive by 12 noon on Tuesday 4 January 2011. The answers and winners’ names will be sent directly to entrants by the end of January, and will be published at www.scouts.org.uk/magazine on 1 February 2011.

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Competition

e e r f o w T !

N I W l a n o i t a N a t a nights e r t n e C y t i v i t c Scout A The response to our August/September camping competition was huge, so it seemed only fair to let you have another go Scouting has once again teamed up with Scout Activity Centres to offer camping for up to 30 people at one of their five centres.*

How to enter To win two nights’ camping, tell us, in no more than 50 words, why your section deserves to win. Answers can be emailed to scouting.magazine@scouts.org. uk or posted to the Scout Activity Centre Competition, Scouting magazine, The Scout Association, Gilwell Park, London E4 7QW. The closing date is Tuesday 1 February 2011 at 5pm.

About National Scout Activity Centres Scout Activity Centres have been developed with the specific aim of providing leading resources to enable Scouts to take part in residential and outdoor activities. We have five centres in England. Find out more at www.scouts.org.uk/sac *Excludes Baden-Powell House, which doesn’t have any camping facilities. Please note, the prize is non-transferable and cannot be replaced. You must also provide your own tents and camping gear. Subject to availability and not available during any National Centres event. The offer is for camping only and does not include any activity fees.

!

0 6 ly d a e D f o y p o c d e Win a sign Be the proud owner of a signed copy of Steve Backshall’s book

If you’ve seen wildlife presenter Steve Backshall’s TV series you’ll love the accompanying book, Deadly 60. Better still, Steve has autographed five copies, which are to be given away. Simply answer this question: On which TV channel is Deadly 60 shown?

Email your answer, with your address, to scouting.magazine@ scouts.org.uk, or post it to Deadly 60 Competition, Scouting magazine, The Scout Association, Gilwell Park, London E4 7QW. The closing date is Tuesday 1 February 2011 at 5pm.

COMPETITION WINNERS!

Congratulations to Hayden, Cub Scout, Daventry, who won our previous camping competition, and to Cheryl Thompson, the winner of our Puffin competition.

76 Scouting December 2010/January 2011

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Need extra storage?

Secure and fire resistant Steel Buildings www.elwells.co.uk

Supplied in various colours and sizes for self build or installation service available.

made by

ELWELL BUILDINGS LTD

Unit 5, Excelsior Industrial Estate, Cakemore Road, Blackheath, West Midlands BT65 0QT Tel 0121 5615656 Fax 0121 5590505 mail@elwells.co.uk

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classified Appropriate Scout Association authorisation is required by leaders and adults running activities and events, even when using products and equipment supplied by commercial companies. Inclusion in this listing does not imply endorsement by The Scout Association.

suppliers

78 Scouting December 2010/January 2011

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SUPPLIERS Fire Barrels

STRONG STABLE STURDY  Complete Kit includes: Barrel, Legs & Grid  Can be sold separately  Self Supporting Legs.

No Assembly Required  3 Leg Heights  Easily Transported Visit www.tanmill.co.uk Call 01902 880991

See website for current designs

CAMPING DIRECTORY

Rosanne is a purpose-built 13 berth narrowboat based on the Grand Union Canal at Leighton Buzzard and available only to youth organisations. Skippers training provided.

For further details and availability phone Bromley Youth Trust on 020 8325 0187 or email byt@dobbsfam.demon.co.uk

ACTIVITIES & CAMPING

Thriftwood Scout Campsite Brentwood Essex

Individual Woodland sites Over 25 onsite activities

BRAMHOPE SCOUT CAMP SITE Gateway to the Yorkshire Dales Buildings sleeping 20, 32 & 43 in 13 acres + wide range of Activities

Contact details: email enquiries@thriftwood.org.uk Tel: 01277 212784 www.thriftwood.org.uk

Full details at

www.bramhope.org.uk

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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ACTIVITIES & ACTIVITY CENTRES Braunston Northants 8-12 berth self steer narrowboats fully fitted for all year round cruising.

Plus day boat hire, 12 seater.

Tel: 01788 890 784 Visit: www.unioncanalcarriers.co.uk

Visit the Isle of Man in 2011 • Multi Activity Adventure Course • Full board • Fantastic Island location • Full adventure activity programme All courses are run in association with Isle of Man Event Services.

Phone 01624 814240 contact@adventure-centre.co.uk www.adventure-centre.co.uk

Providers of the fun activity equipment for WINGS 2009 From Zorb Balls to Robotsoccer From Inflatables to Bungee Trampolines We have something for all budget sizes

Call NOW on 0800 334 5815 www.leisurematters.com Also view our YouTube link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJUR1Nz6xdI to see the WINGS event

LNBP at Braunston

BRINGING THE EXPERIENCE OF CANAL BOATING TO YOUNG PEOPLE

Available to schools, Youth Groups and Community Organisations throughout the country

The project was founded in 1981 and in 2006 received the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Services. Our boats are based on the Grand Union Canal at Braunston, Northamptonshire.

They provide the opportunity for young people from organised groups, including schools, groups working with the less able and disadvantaged, to experience the benefits of canal boating.

Tel: 0870 240 6724 Email: gh.lnbp@virgin.net www.lnbp.co.uk

HOLIDAYS ABROAD The new name in Global Adventure for Scouting

GLOBAL ADVENTURE ASSOCIATES Travel, Adventure & Community Projects in North East Greenland, Norway, Europe, Nepal, Peru, Ecuador, Vietnam, Cambodia, Kenya, Morocco, Mongolia….anywhere!

TRAVEL THE WORLD & MAKE A DIFFERENCE We have an extensive background in providing global adventure for Scouts over many years Consultancy to fully led Expeditions “Making your dream a reality” Email or call to share your dream +44 (0) 1772 813 048 welcome@globaladventure.org.uk www.globaladventure.org.uk

CAMPING DIRECTORY

NEW ZEALAND

Broadleas, Haytor, Devon

Open to all Scouters & ex Scouters plus friends/partners

Indoor accomodation for 30. 2 staff bedrooms sleep 5. Shower rooms, fully equipped kitchen, dining area.

Camping 55. Tentage provided.

Fully equipped kitchen, dining hall, showers, toilets. Outdoor swimming pool. Large hall.

Visit Coromandel Peninsula, Gt Barrier Island, Waiheke - plus lots more

Summer Island Hop February 2012

For itineraries & information send to Guides NZ, C/- Jennifer Mayer, P O Box 805, Taupo, NZ

Tel Diana Dale: 01452 615072

Ph 0064 (0)7378 8869 Fax 0064 (0)7378 6190

E: broadleas@boys-brigade.org.uk

Email: pet.jen.reyam@xtra.co.nz

MANUFACTURERS AND RETAILERS www.glasgowscoutshop.com Equipping you for your Scouting adventures! www.pennineoutdoor.co.uk Make your own gear. Specialist outdoor fabrics and fleece, buckles, webbing and zips plus all the patterns you will need to make or repair your own gear.

HOLIDAYS

www.jeka-groupholidays.co.uk Widest range of Summer Camps available to 10 different European destinations by coach or air.

80 Scouting December 2010/January 2011

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Round our place

Heard the one about the floating Scout District? Youth editor Corinne asked Ashkan Pakzad to tell her all about the Dockland Scout Project

B

Photography by Jemma Cox

elieve it or not, the Dockland Scout Project is an entire District on its own. From our gates to our ship, we are one of the smallest Districts in the UK. Based in the West India Docks complex in London, we host water activities in a very unusual location – right beneath the high-rise offices.

!

D R A O B A B CLIM Safe and exciting activities

We provide a unique experience aboard our permanently moored ship, the Lord Amory. We offer many different types of services, including formal training courses. Scouts can receive recognised qualifications, and attend open days and water activity weekends. The project is also a Royal Yachting Association Teaching Centre, allowing us to run extra courses in sailing and powerboating.

We also have British Canoe Union instructors and run canoeing courses.

During our water activity weekends, Scouts sleep on the Lord Amory and participate in activities, such as dinghy sailing, canoeing, kayaking and pulling, supervised by fully qualified instructors. We have a dedicated safety team, which consists of safety boats and lookouts, all of whom keep in radio contact.

A role for young people

Our team of volunteers consists of Crew, aged 18 and over and all involved in Scouting, and Quartermasters – aged 14-18 and part of a specialised Explorer Unit called (wait for it) the Dockland Scout Project Quartermaster Scheme Explorer Scout Unit. As Quartermasters, we take on many roles, from helping out with instructing to running the tuck shop. As Explorers, we also follow the regular Explorer Scout programme.

The Dockland Scout Project is a one-off.

We are the only permanently moored campsite in the UK and can offer a full range of activities. Since the 1980s, when the Lord Amory was renovated by volunteers from the project, we have never stopped growing and continue to thrive.

find out more Log on to www.lordamory.org

Tell us

If you’d like us to come round your place, drop us a line at scouting. magazine@ scouts.org.uk

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

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Interview

Five miles with…

Richard Edlin

Micky recently got a chance to go scuba diving with Cub Scout-turned-Cub Leader Richard Edlin

Richard is instantly cool because he’s involved with Scouting, but he is super-cool because he is a scuba diver and instructor. He took me for a ‘try it’ session in the swimming pool. I had a fantastic time, although the microphone didn’t work underwater, so we did the interview poolside.

Scouting magazine: What is your Scouting background?

Richard Edlin: I used to be a Cub, but I was never a Scout because I moved schools. I remember making wooden swords and shields and having battles with them in the woods.

SM: Did you learn anything through Scouting that helps you with diving?

RE: More so as a leader. Scouting taught me to step out of the boundaries, as with scuba diving. I think that Scouting should have no resemblance to school whatsoever, because children don’t want to come and make posters and do the same things they do in school.

SM: How did you get into scuba diving?

RE: I was on holiday in Greece with my wife, Lorraine, and we did a try dive. First, we were in a swimming pool and then we were in the sea. I really didn’t like it and felt claustrophobic underwater. My wife carried on, so I took pictures instead. Six years later, my wife bought me a gift experience try dive, so I decided to give it a go again and realised I liked it. I progressed and carried on learning to dive until, eventually, I became a volunteer instructor.

SM: What has been your favourite dive?

RE: It has to be the HMS M2, a shipwrecked submarine in Lyme Bay, in Dorset. I organised the trip myself. It was a bit daunting because I had never done that before. We dived down in pairs to see the wreck, the visibility was good and the submarine was still quite intact. The submarine’s history makes it

a wreck dive to remember. It was such an enjoyable experience that I have arranged another trip to go back.

SM: What would you say to people who want to try scuba diving?

RE: You should definitely try it as, you never know, you might enjoy it. Buying gear can be quite expensive, so contact a club to borrow their equipment or arrange to go on an organised trip. Learning the technique takes time, but is well worth it.

thanks to Aylesbury Green Park Sub-Aqua Club for the use of its facilities. For more information about scuba diving in Scouting, log on to www.scouts.org.uk and search for ‘scuba diving’.

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g n i t u Sco 2011 10/January December 20

Scouting DECEMBER 2010/JANUARY 2011

.uk/magazi scouts.org

ne

THE YOUTH-EDITED ISSUE

DO SOMETHING DIFFERENT New activities for 2011 MOVE OVER, HOLLYWOOD Explorers shoot a film about Scouting today IDOL WILD Do you share the same heroes as these Scouts?

SCOUTS.ORG.UK/MAGAZINE

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E S I R P SUR

elm h e h t e k a t s ditor Our youth e 17/11/2010 13:54