MAY 2017 ISSUE 28
www.winchestertoday.co.uk
GROWTH SUCCESS BRINGS HEADACHE FOR SCOUTS More than 300 potential Cubs and Scouts now on waiting list despite increase in places By KEVIN GOVER News Editor APRIL’S census for the Scout Association has shown mixed results for Winchester Scouts. Over the past 4 years, the 12 Scout Groups that comprise Winchester Scouts have increased the number of places for young people by an impressive 50% from 782 to 1,177. Over the same period the increase in adult volunteers has been a staggering 155% - up from 176 to 450. As a consequence, the number of young people and adults who potentially want to join the Cubs and Scouts is now 326 - that’s enough effectively to fill TEN Cub packs - and second only in size of the waiting list to the New Forest. Even Southampton only has 50 on the waiting list. Lead Volunteer for Winchester, Stephen Parker, says they’re stuck in ways that possibly were not so much of a problem before: “The fun, challenge and life-changing adventure of Scouting is more popular today than ever before, with 21 boys and girls joining the Movement each day.
“ Our biggest challenge is finding premises” “Our biggest challenge in Winchester is finding premises to open up more Groups, in order to keep up with this high demand. Together, with new adventure headquarters and leaders, we can reduce the waiting list of young people eager to taste the thrill of Scouting.” The members in Hampshire say that Scouting today is more about pursuing adventure and there is plenty going on in that department: “At weekly group meetings Scouts can take part in activities
ranging from cooking, photography and computing to paragliding, rock climbing and water skiing; as well as the traditional hiking and camping.” Hampshire Scouting says getting involved is more relevant today than ever because it gives young people the opportunity to experience things they otherwise would not have the opportunity to do. This includes challenging themselves with exciting activities and adventures, meeting new friends throughout the world, and creating a real difference in their communities. “We provide over 200 activities for young people to get involved in, most of which are not offered through schools and can be expensive if done individually.” On a positive note Winchester Scouts won the award for highest growth over the past 3 years. Chris Floyd, Assistant District Commissioner (Scouts) and Tom Fisher, Jäger Network, travelled to Scout Summit17 at Warwick University to receive the Award from Steve Backshall, the BBC Presenter, and other Commissioners.
YOUNG GARDENERS BLOSSOM
Welcome boost keeps 4-yearold safe page 3
Don’t mess with this lot! page 7
GREEN fingered pupils at Western CofE Primary School in Winchester have been given a helping hand from CALA Homes. The housebuilder has provided the school with a donation of gardening equipment and accessories in support of National Gardening Week.
continued on page 3 ➜
Pictured left: Headteacher Peter Burbridge, Deputy Headteacher Karen Luke and children from Western CofE Primary School with their new gardening equipment.
An honour and a privilege page 10