scouting - february/march 2010

ScoutingScoutingScouting FEBRU

ARY/M

ARCH

2010SCO

UTIN

G SK

ILLSSCO

UTS.O

RG.U

K/M

AG

AZIN

E

MAKINGTHE CUT

FIND THE WAYAn excerpt from the

Scouting Skills book onthe art of navigation

WILD WALKSThree great hikes

off the beaten track

GREEN MEANS GOYoung campaignersquestion politicians

on climate change

The top 10

Scouting skills as

voted for by you

FREE INSIDE

scouts.org.uk/magazine

February/March 2010

001_COVER_Feb-Marchv3.indd 1 14/01/2010 13:13

02_Scouting_FebMar10.indd 6 13/01/2010 18:17

3www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

0123456789

Three things to do this issue

SCOUTING

Scouting Editors: Chris James, Hilary Galloway, Elis Matthews and Dave O’CarrollProduction Controller: Rose Wells The national magazine of The Scout AssociationISSN 0036 – 9489 © 2010 The Scout AssociationRegistered Charity Numbers 306101 (England and Wales) and SC038437 (Scotland)

Published by: The Scout AssociationGilwell House, Gilwell Park, Chingford, London E4 7QWTel: 0845 300 1818 Fax: 020 8433 7103Email: [email protected]: www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

Contributions to: [email protected] 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 6BLSub-Editors: Camilla Doodson, Mary Cooch, Marion Thompson and Rica DearmanArt Director: Sally Laver

ADVERTISING Sales Executive: Richard [email protected]: 020 8962 1250

Printed and distributed by: Headley Brothers Ltd Printed on 100% recycled paper

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!

CONTRIBUTORS

LAURA TYLER is an Explorer Scout. On page 46 she relives her Arctic adventure to achieve her Queen’s Scout Award.

BEN RICHARDS is a canoe instructor. He shares his story about the first time he stepped foot in a canoe and the importance of trying new activities on page 30.

Cover photo: Chloë Chapman

PRINTED ON

100% RECYCLED

PAPER

82,875 average circulation from Jan to Dec 2008

WELCOMETO SCOUTING

1 Learn a new practical skill See page 182 Send us your photos and enter our photography competition. See www.flickr.com/groups/scoutingcompetition 3 Sign up your parents to The Big Adventure using the Little Guide to the Big Adventure, free with this issue of Scouting

I mean, really explored, when you set out into the unknown with a map and compass, a rucksack, a tent and sleeping bag; the sort of exploring that makes your heart beat faster?

Can you remember the patter of rain on your tent, the sound of owls or the rustling of the wind in the leaves at night? It’s a feeling of absolute freedom and belonging– re-establishing our relationship with ourselves and Planet Earth. A night in the outdoors is also a reminder that not everything that’s precious and valuable costs a lot of money.

One of the reasons I became a Scout was to spend more time with friends in the outdoors. It’s among the greatest pleasures in life and should be accessible to everyone, no matter where they live or how they grew up.

In this issue of Scouting – and in the new book Scouting Skills – you’ll find the best and most useful practical skills, including how to light a fire, set a compass and lots more. Remember – nature and the outdoors are languages thatcan be learned.

See you out there!

When was the last time you explored the outdoors?

Bear Grylls, Chief Scout

Three things to do this issue

Bear Grylls, Chief Scout

3_EDITORIAL.indd 3 14/01/2010 14:33

CONTENTS

52

All available at scouts.org.uk/magazine

18 ESSENTIAL SELECTION | The top 10 Scouting skills,

as voted for by you

27 SCOUTING SKILLS QUIZ | Test

your Scouting skills knowledge

30 PADDLING YOUR OWN CANOE | Ben Richards on the

importance of including new

activities in your programme

34 NEED A VOLUNTEER? | Get

ready for The Big Adventure

36 FIND THE WAY | A new

series on Scouting skills.

First off – navigation

IN THE SUPPLEMENTS BEAVER SCOUTS Practical ways to achieve the Partnership Awards, going wild in the country and possibly the bravest Beaver in Britain | CUBS Sharpen your Scouting skills, reading clouds and creating a succession plan| SCOUTS Find out how Scouts can join Chief Scout Bear Grylls at a 24-hour adventure camp | EXPLORERS Clarifi cation onthe upper age limit for Explorer Scouts | NETWORK How Scouting can help you get through the recession and opportunities galore | FOCUS Are practical skills a dying art in Scouting? | Supplements available at scouts.org.uk/magazine

REGULARS 8 CORRESPONDENCE10 NEWS | Events, campaigns

and updates

28 PERFECT 10 | Your hopes

and concerns for 2010

45 CAMP COOKING | Sizzling

snapper with Levi Roots

49 COUNTRY DIARY | James

Taylor discusses the many

uses of stinging nettles

50 FAITHS & BELIEFS | Promise renewals

56 SCOUT SHOPS | Exciting

items for your DofE Award

66 HEALTH & WELLBEING |Scouting with diabetes

82 LAST LAUGH

ADULT SUPPORT58 (VERY) ACTIVE SUPPORT |

From Fellowship to

Scout Active Support

61 GOOD SPORTS | How a

school sports day brought

a Scout Group to life

FEATURES

Contents

40

OPINION 7 PREPARED FOR

ADVENTURE | UK Chief

Commissioner Wayne Bulpitt

refl ects on skill sharing

PROMOS70 PROMOS & RESOURCES

40 INTO THE GREAT WIDE OPEN | Three hiking routes

for Scouts to tackle

46 ICE SCHOOL | Explorer Scout

Laura Tyler climbs Arctic

glaciers in her bid to achieve

the DofE Gold Award

52 AND THE AWARD GOES TO… | Chief Scout Bear

Grylls’ mission to

recognise achievement

64 MORE THAN JUST A BOX | The man behind ShelterBox

7

05_CONTENTS.indd 5 14/01/2010 14:17


Opinion

Wayne Bulpitt, UK Chief Commissioner

contactEmail Wayne at [email protected] 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

‘One of the most important things we can do as leaders is to pass on our skills, knowledge and values’

T housands of young people will have their sights set on Sweden 2011 and a very different kind of Jamboree. They will not only be meeting new

friends and experiencing new cultures, but putting their Scouting skills to the test in the woodlands around Kristianstad.

But in order to be selected, they are having to put to use skills that they will have learnt from their time in Scouting. As a leader yourself, perhaps you may not have appreciated the significant part you will have played in the personal development of these young people.

Passing it onAlthough you may at times have felt frustrated as you struggled to plan the

programme or get to the meeting in good time to set everything up, think about the difference you have made.

Give a thought to the thousands of young people who are at the moment

demonstrating those very skills that you provided them with during those evenings and weekends. Whether they make it to Sweden or not, they all have much to be proud of, as will you for having

helped them to get where they are. One of the most important things we

can do as leaders is to pass on our skills, knowledge and values. Yes, different generations think differently, but Scouting is about continuity and maintaining some great skills and traditions too.

Many of our young people are taking part in selection processes for the 22nd World Scout Jamboree. UK Chief Commissioner Wayne Bulpitt reflects on how you have prepared them for this important moment

Prepared for adventure

7_OPINION.indd 7 14/01/2010 13:08

Scouting February/March 20108

0123456789

Want to take issue with something you’ve read? Email us at [email protected] or write to Scouting magazine, Gilwell Park, Chingford, London E4 7QW

correspondence


STA

R LE

TTER

The youth-edited December/January issue of Scouting provided a bumper bag of letters and emails. Here is a selection.

Once frostbitten Your youth editor Sam’s article (Into India, p60-61) dealt with the cold injury to his fingers very superficially. I hope this is because he had a very lucky escape and no serious harm was done. Even mild frostbite is debilitating. In more extreme forms it can lead to disfigurement, permanent disability or even amputation. The victim will be vulnerable to further cold injuries and discomfort in the injured area in cold weather. Frostbite can be avoided by taking simple precautions. Keeping yourself and each other safe in a cold environment is a basic skill. I wish Sam many great future adventures but please don’t give the impression that what happened was anything other than extremely dangerous.

Lucas Bateman

Sam’s reply: I’m sorry that I concerned you about my possibility of having frostbite. The only symptom I suffered from was a wooden feeling in my fingers, which I perhaps should have said can be an early sign. I was well looked after by our mountain leader who has a lot of experience in first aid and would certainly take any signs of frostbite seriously. I would have liked to write more about the seriousness of frostbite and altitude sickness but was limited by the length of the article, the aim of which was to describe the trip. My experience of that day was a huge learning curve, and now when I do activities outside, I remember to ‘Be Prepared’.

Mind your healthI was interested to read the article about mental health (‘Sometimes life seems too much’, p62-63). I have bipolar disorder and find my Scouting activities a real antidote, especially camping and hiking. Looking after the administration and planning helps to keep me busy. I hold down a responsible professional job and have not had a day off sick in over three years, some of which I put down to the health and fitness levels attained through Scouting. Sadly, there is still some stigma around mental health issues. By raising people’s awareness this will break down the misunderstanding and help young people in the Movement who are affected.

Name & address supplied

Scouting

Scouting D

ECEMBER 2009/ JA

NU

ARY 2010

SCOU

TS.ORG

.UK

/MA

GA

ZINE

scouts.org.uk/m

agazine

YOU

TH-ED

ITED ISSU

E

READY, STEADY,REPORT...

ScoutingScoutingScoutingScoutingScoutingScoutingScoutingScoutingScoutingScoutingScoutingScoutingScouting

Scouting

DECEM

BER 2009/ JAN

UA

RY 2010

December 2009/

January 2010

>Open up to see what our

new youth editors have achieved

001_COVER_DECJAN_NEW.indd 1

16/11/2009 15:36

8-9_CORRESPONDANCE.indd 8 14/01/2010 13:06


0123456789

Want to take issue with something you’ve read? Email us at [email protected] or write to Scouting magazine, Gilwell Park, Chingford, London E4 7QW

correspondence

Feedback

A lasting tribute Local and national Scouting was shocked by the sudden death of John Deft, a popular leader, in 2008. John had remembered Avon Scouting in his will and his generous legacy was used to rebuild the campfire circle at the Scout County’s Training and Activity Centre at Woodhouse Park. A simple ceremony was attended by some of John’s Scouting colleagues and representatives of the Adult Training Team of which he was a member for many years. John’s sister, Pamela Banks also attended with her husband Frank and expressed the family’s thanks for the way Avon Scouting had arranged this lasting tribute.

Sue Gillet,Chairman of the Woodhouse Park Centre

Editor’s note: John Deft, aka JAD, was also Scouting magazine’s long-time Christmas Quiz compiler.

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

Not just for the boys I don’t believe the basics of Scouting should change because girls are allowed in (Girls, school and secret Scouting, p36-38). It doesn’t matter about your differences, race, colour or what type of person you are. I am part of a very active Explorer Unit and I am just as capable as my male counterparts. We do something for everyone and everyone gets input in the programme. I have made good friends who have seen me at my best and during the most physically and mentally demanding times in my life. I am also a Young Leader which gives me invaluable experience for my planned career as a teacher. We should spread the message to help existing Members, especially teenagers, feel more comfortable and proud of what they do. I feel so lucky to have been given the chance to be a Scout.

Emma,TROGZ Explorer Unit

An older adventurer As a 78-year-old Scout, may I congratulate you on the latest issue of Scouting magazine, together with Step-by-Step Guide to The Big Adventure. Very well done and thank you.

Tony Dyer

Editor’s response: Thank you to everyone who took the time to write in. Our young editors were enthusiastic, full of ideas and put a lot of hard work into the issue which was very well received.

ScoutingScoutin

g DECEM

BER 2009/ JAN

UA

RY 2010

SCOU

TS.ORG

.UK

/MA

GA

ZINE

scouts.org.uk/m

agazine

YOU

TH-ED

ITED ISSU

E

READY, STEADY,REPORT...

ScoutingScoutingScoutingScoutingScoutingScoutingScoutingScoutingScoutingScoutingScoutingScoutingScoutingScoutin

gD

ECEMBER 2009/ JA

NU

ARY 2010

December 2009/

January 2010

>Open up to see what our

new youth editors have achieved

001_COVER_DECJAN_NEW.indd 1

16/11/2009 15:36

A lasting tribute

8-9_CORRESPONDANCE.indd 9 14/01/2010 13:06

Scouting February/ March 201010

Events, updates and news from around the UK Want more? Visit www.scouts.org.uk/news

Chief Scout’s Survival Camp Scouts aged 10½ to 14 who have gained their Chief Scout’s Gold Award will have the chance to camp with Bear Grylls at a wilderness adventure in Wales in August 2010.More details are available in this issue’s Scouts supplement and onwww.scouts.org.uk/survivalcamp

news

Snow fear for Winter campersMore than 2,000 Scouts and Explorer Scouts braved sub-zero temperatures to make it to the annual Winter Camp at Gilwell Park. Scouts travelled from all over the UK and were not deterred by the weather as they pitched their tents in the snow-covered fields. It was a perfect backdrop to take part in adventurous and fun activities, led by a team of 200 adult volunteers.

10-16_NEWS_V2.indd 10 14/01/2010 15:05

FEBRUARY22 Founder’s Day

MARCH – APRIL27 28 2 5 Easter Egg Hunt Beavers and Cubs should come on down to Downe Activity Centre in Kent for the Easter Egg Hunt.

APRIL24 Youlbury Open DayContact 01865 326264 or email [email protected]

MAY7 Pirate Camp

Outwit Blackbeard and find hidden treasure at Hawkhirst Activity Centre in Kielder Forest. For Cubs, Scouts and Explorers. £27 per person, self-catering. Contact 01434 250 217 or email [email protected]

BOOK AHEAD JUNE19 20 Beaver andCub Fundays www.fundays.org.uk

JULY Gilwell24www.gilwell24.info

For the full list of Activity Centre events, visit www.scouts.org.uk/sac

Calendar of events


0123456789News


9 -11

9

Appointment | Sir Alan Craft has been appointed Chairman of the Board of The Scout Association. Previously a Scout himself, Sir Alan later became County Adviser for Handicapped Scouts. Living on the Northumberland coast, he is married with one son and a young granddaughter.

Long-distance long service Northumberland Scouts have been presented with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service for its 20 years of Scouting commitment to Uganda. Since 1988, the Scouts have completed three major expeditions to meet the changing needs of Ugandan Scouting and the community. In 1992 a twinning arrangement was set up between Seaton Valley District in Northumberland and the town of Mityana in Uganda. The assistance given includes buying livestock, sending clothing and school materials, funding the building of classrooms and providing clean water.

ShAFF 2010Sheffield Adventure Film Festival

(ShAFF) is a must-see collection for fans of adventure films. This year sees the launch of the ShAFF Youth Adventure

Project, taking the film festival into schools and community groups. The aim

of the project is to inspire the audience to take part in a series of activity days in the Peak District, thanks to funding

from the Peak District National Park Authority. For full details and news of other events and competitions, visit www.shaff.co.uk/content/10/youth

10-16_NEWS_V2.indd 11 14/01/2010 15:05



For women only | All women in Scouting are extraordinary but do you know one in particular who should be singled out? Nominations for the Extraordinary Woman Awards 2010 can be submitted until 19 February 2010. There are various categories to choose from for adults and one for 16-18-year-olds. For further information and details on how to nominate, visit www.extraordinarywomenuk.com

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENT SERVICEMonthly rate after deduction of Management Commission:

November 2009 0.020% 0.520%December 2009 0.020% 0.520%

Interest at the higher rate applies to deposits of £5,000 and above. Contact Frances on 020 8433 7252 (Mon-Fri, 9am-3pm) for further information.

Events, updates and news from around the UK Want more? Visit www.scouts.org.uk/newsEvents, updates and news from around the UK Want more? Visit www.scouts.org.uk/newsEvents, updates and news from around the UK Want more? Visit www.scouts.org.uk/news

Amy and the giant frog Cub Scout Amy leapt aheadof other contestants in her category to come first in the Win a Tree-mendous Rainforest Frog design competition, which was part of The Prince’s Rainforests Project, established by The Prince of Wales. Amy’s prize was a giant frog sculpture which she had to paint. The sculpture will be moving around England, from St James’s Palace to the National Geographic Store in London then on to The Eden Project in Cornwall before being returned to Amy’s Group, the 1st Barton, North Yorkshire.

10-16_NEWS_V2.indd 12 14/01/2010 15:06

News



The BBC is calling all Scouts to roll up their sleeves, pick up a trowel and start growing theirown vegetables as partof the Dig In campaign.

The campaign will encourage Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers to grow their own food by offeringa free seed starter pack containing five varieties of seeds – basil, carrot, courgette, French bean and salad.

There will be support and advice through a dedicated

website www.bbc.co.uk/digin, plus ideas for activities and games on Programmes Online (www.scouts.org.uk/pol).

The Dig In seed packs will be available soon. To find out more go to www.scouts.org.uk/digin

You’re welcome The Peter Harrison lodge is the latest addition to

the Gilwell Park Activity Centre site. It sleeps 50 and

has proudly opened its doors to the first groups of the season. To reserve your space ring 020 8498

5411. Youlbury Activity Centre is hoping to follow suit by starting work on a new accommodation lodge later in the year.

www.scouts.org.uk/sac

Events, updates and news from around the UK Want more? Visit www.scouts.org.uk/newsEvents, updates and news from around the UK Want more? Visit www.scouts.org.uk/newsEvents, updates and news from around the UK Want more? Visit www.scouts.org.uk/news

Dig in for Scouting

10-16_NEWS_V2.indd 13 14/01/2010 15:06

Our fleet of boats and tailor made packages mean that no matter what your party type we are certain you’ll have a voyage to remember!

If you are ready for your next adventure then give us a call or visit us online for details.

LEARNING AFLOAT TRAINING

Great Prices on Courses for 2010 RYA Inland Waterways Helmsman course only £130 for 1 day or £240 for 2 days.RYA Diesel engine maintenance course only £99 for 1 day. Certificate in Community Boat Management (Ideal for scout / youth leaders) only £270 for 2 days, full board. 10% discount to Scout groups. All Prices are per personWith many more courses to choose from why not try something new this year.

Tideway Adventures Narrow Boat Project

T 0787 584 1423 www.tidewaynarrowboats.com



0123456789News

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

EntErtaining offErreceive a free Blockbuster 2 for 1 Movie & game rental Card when you join the Entertainment Club. Membership offers many other discounts such as when visiting a theme park or karting. Save £5 today and join the Entertainment Club for only £24.99 (normally £29.99). Visit www.theentertainmentclub.co.uk/scouts for further information. terms and conditions apply.

Scouts send a smile – or 50

The 1st Wanborough Scouts have been

busy making medical gowns for the Blue Peter Send a Smile appeal. The gowns will be sent to India to be used

during operations on children with a cleft

lip or palate. Here Scout Ashleigh shows

off some of the 50 gowns they made.

10-16_NEWS_V2.indd 15 14/01/2010 15:06


0123456789News

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

BBC Autumnwatch presenter, wildlife photographer and cameraman Simon King will make an appearance at The Outdoors Show at the NEC Birmingham, on Friday 26 to Sunday 28 March. It’s a fun-packed event and there are great deals for Scouts: Buy five Scouts tickets andthe leader goes FREE!Scouts 11-18 years just £6.50Beaver Scouts and CubScouts go FREE!

Get all the gear and expert advice you need for your next expedition, and try challenging activities suchas mountain biking, rock climbingand survival techniques.

TriLive2010 will also be taking place alongside The OutdoorsShow and tickets are valid for both events. For terms and conditions, newsletters, opening times andto book tickets, visit www.outdoorsshowextra.co.uk,quoting SCOUT1 when booking.

Policy | The moving-on age between Explorer Scouts and Scout Network is changing in July 2010 to clarify certain issues about Members’ status. POR will be updated to reflect this change, which will require Explorer Scouts to move up on or before their 18th birthday. For a full explanation, see www.scouts.org.uk/vbs

Updated factsheetsFS120104 | Adventurous Activity Permit Scheme – Approved AssessorsFS120301 | The Duke of Edinburgh’s AwardFS120302 | The Role of the County/Area Duke of Edinburgh’s Award AdviserFS120303 | DofE VolunteeringFS120304 | DofE ExpeditionsFS120305 | DofE Skill and PhysicalFS120454 | HillwalkingFS120660 | PullingFS190026 | Fundraising FAQ’sFS310547 | First Response: definition and equivalents AC120929 | Assessment checklist for pulling – leadershipFS322086 | Flag Procedures

New factsheetsFS120075 | InTouchFS120052 | Full First Aid Certificate: Definitions and the wearing of badgesFS120310 | DofE: Getting StartedFS120311 | DofE: A Commissioner’s GuideFS310610 | Guidance for the storing and destroying of Adult Appointment Forms

UPDATESKeep up to speed withthe latest changes to factsheets, new resources and policy news

THERE’S MORE TO SHOW

World Book DayDarcey Bussell is one of ten authors who have written new stories for this year’s £1 flipbooks, specially produced for World Book Day, 4 March. Each book has two stories, suitable for the younger sections. Former Scout Chris Bradford, author of the Young Samurai series, has also contributed a story.

Older Scouts and adults are being encouraged to enjoy reading with special offers and events throughout the country. Read to a million kids is an online initiative and Quick Reads comprises ten books which provide a bite-sized read for adults.

For further information, games and competitions, visit www.worldbookday.com

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine

10-16_NEWS_V2.indd 17 14/01/2010 15:07


Essential selectionThere are hundreds of Scouting skills to learn, cherish and use, but which

are the truly essential ones? The skills no leader should be without. In a

skills survey we asked you to tell us the vital ones. Here are your top 10

2Some of today’s Scouts may feel more comfortable on Google Maps or using a GPS, but being able to read a map, whether you’re up a mountain or in a city, is something that every Scout should know. Even if only to use it when their phone runs out of battery. The type of map required will depend on the journey and terrain.

‘We’ve used the plough to find north (Pole Star) at night. We can also use the moon when it’s full, using an analogue watch, in much the same way as with the sun, but with a full moon the angle between 12 (or 1 for BST) and the hour hand will give you north. If we have a crescent moon, join the two points of the crescent and follow down to the horizon to give you south.’ Andy Dalrymple

MAP READING

1Survival skills scored highest with you. Lighting a fire has been around since we lived in caves, and is one of the most basic but important survival skills. It figures then that it should be the one we can all do. Lighting a fire on a still, dry evening is relatively easy. It’s more challenging when it’s wet, windy and you’re on the side of a mountain. A fire keeps you warm, cooks your food, and is a great focal point for camping activities, so being a confident fire starter is a must.

FIRE LIGHTING

ReadeR tips ‘The bark of a silver birch tree makes an excellent replacement over tinder card or cotton wool for starting a fire. If anything, it is more effective than both.’David Waugh

‘If you really want to impress, how about making fire from water. This takes a lot of practice and patience but does work. Put a sheet of cling film in a mug. Half fill the mug with water and gently lift the cling film and wrap around the water, making a ‘water crystal ball’. Under bright sunlight hold the ball over your dark-coloured tinder, moving it up and down until you have a bright dot. Wearing sunglasses is a good idea.’Andy Dalrymple

18-25_skills.indd 18 14/01/2010 13:28


skillsSkills

Essential selection

3TENT PITCHINGCamping is at the heart of Scouting and your Group’s tents can be your most expensive pieces of kit, so looking after them properly is as important as knowing how to pitch them. ‘A star chart is great way to get Beavers, Cubs or Scouts to help with washing up, getting their tent up or down the quickest and the neatest, plus other odd jobs at camp. Get a sheet of paper with all the Scouts’ names on, and either draw a star or attach sticker stars. Every time they do something good they get a gold star, and the reward can be a bar of chocolate. You will be surprised how quickly they get up to help.’Michelle Palmer

ReadeR tips ‘Reward even fussy eaters at mealtimes – if they want that chocolate bar they will try anything once, and they might even like what is in front of them.’ Michelle Palmer

‘Sleep out without a tent. Try and spend at least one night under the stars. If there is the chance of a clear night then make sure you are facing south to watch the stars rise and set through the night.’ Brian Sheen

‘Hang up glow sticks inside your tent for a little bit of light at night-time.’ Ben, aged 9

‘If you get cold in bed, fill a metal drinking bottle with boiling water. Then slide it into a hiking sock to stop it burning you and you have a very good hot water bottle.’ Robin Shaw

> Turn to page 27 and test your skills in our essential quiz

18-25_skills.indd 19 14/01/2010 13:28


5

6

TYING KNOTSAll knots have a purpose and are useful for many Scouting activities,

whether sailing, caving, fishing or fire-fighting. To teach knot tying to Scouts, use some nice, thick rope, so they will be able to see what’s going on. Ideal is 1.2m long and about 1.5cm thick. Give reasons for doing each knot, explaining its purpose. It’s no good doing something if you don’t why you’re doing it.

‘If you are teaching the younger sections, using edible laces is always an incentive!’ Ruth Hubbard

ReadeR tips

A rucksack should fit comfortably on your shoulders

4Backwoods cooking is a staple diet of any budding Scout. It also provides a challenge, lightens the load of your gear (no utensils), is fun and, due to the natural element, can be kind on the planet too.

A bAcKwOOdS recIpeMexicali peppers

ReadeR tips ‘Make a frying pan from a forked twig and tin foil by covering the forked end in double thickness foil to make a triangular-shaped frying pan – use the other end as the handle. This is great fun for Cubs and Scouts as an introduction to campfire cooking.’ Alison Light

‘When building a fire use a large piece of log to lean your sticks against. It makes it easier to build and acts as a reflector for the heat.’ Graham Duckworth

‘Cramp ball fungus is a great fire lighter and is found on dead trees. Remove and dry in the open. Just a single spark will give you a fire.’ Andy Lannin

You will need: (per portion)

One green pepper 50g minced meat,

seasoned with chilli sauce or minced garlic

50g breadcrumbs or cream cracker crumbs

Tomato ketchup or Tabasco sauce Method:1. Slice off the top of the pepper and remove the seeds.2. Parboil the pepper in a foil pot and allow it to cool by removing it from the water (two minutes should be long enough).

3. Mix the minced meat with the breadcrumbs and fill the pepper with the mixture. 4. Place the pepper on a double thickness sheet of foil and fold it up around the pepper, twisting the foil at the top to seal it. 5. Place the package into hot embers for about 30 minutes. 6. Remove from the embers and add tomato ketchup or Tabasco sauce as required.

Take it further: Use cabbage leaves instead of foil to make it biodegradable.

bAcKwOOdS cOOKING

18-25_skills.indd 20 14/01/2010 13:29


Skills

For those short on time, Nigel Davey, a leader with over 25 years’ Scouting experience swears by this tried and tested challenge for Scouts

6This costs very little to equip, organise and carry out, but ticks several boxes including the obvious map and compass, orienteering, hiking, hammock making, overnight camping skills, and can be enhanced to include survival and backwoods cooking skills as appropriate.

I’m located in Devon, so had a huge variety of suitable locations and distances over which this exercise could be run, but I hope that urban-based Scouts can find a suitable location. It proved to be great fun, and gave all participating Scouts a great sense of achievement – especially the younger ones – and you don’t have to worry about drying out tents afterwards if it rains!

Method Pre-locate hammock

making materials (see list, right) at selected Ordnance Survey Grid References (OSGR) sites.

Prepare Scouts for overnight hike/camp with all necessary clothing, food, drinks, sleeping bag, survival bag, map and compass etc, but no tents!

Hike from start point to first OSGR and locate one item of hammock-making equipment

per Scout. Repeat this until all items have been collected.

hammock-making materials required per person:

Two 70 x 4cm strong sticks (size needn’t be precise, but should be long and strong enough to support the sleeper).

Three polythene-type large fertiliser/compost bags. One slit open at both ends, and two slits open one end with remaining corners cut off diagonally (just large enough to pass rope through). Note: sides of bags must not be cut.

Two 4-5m lengths of 10mm polypropylene or hemp rope. Note: additional rope can be pre-located at campsite to ensure stability and safety.

On arrival at campsite construct and secure hammock ConStruCtion Pass rope through corner of one bag, through open end to/through second bag, then through third bag and out of its cut-off corner. Use clove hitch to attach to ‘head’ and ‘foot’ end sticks leaving sufficient end lengths to tie to trees. Repeat other side. Firmly attach ends of rope to suitably strong trees, with hammock 0.5-1m above ground level.

COmbined night hike, Orienteering and ‘suspended’ Camp

Mastering different knots can be useful for many activities

reader tips

PACKinG A ruCKSACKLearning to pack a rucksack is a key

Scouting skill and a starting point

for many outdoor activities. And

choosing the right rucksack is no

different to choosing a comfortable

walking boot – different brands vary

in size and you need to try lots on. A

rucksack should fit comfortably and

evenly on your shoulders. And with

sizes varying from five to 100 litres,

the bag should be fit for purpose.

‘For younger sections, start with a

few essentials: food, drink and spare

clothing with waterproofs and any

medication easily accessible on the

top. A plastic bag or rucksack liner

will keep the contents dry. As

experience grows, start to think

about group equipment such as

maps, a compass, first-aid kit,

whistle, mobile phone and perhaps

a group shelter.’

Steve Backhouse

reader tips

10 SKillS in one

18-25_skills.indd 21 14/01/2010 13:29


skillsskills

8ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESSClimate change, human’s impact on the

environment and countryside is recognised

as one of the biggest threats to our

environment. As one of your top 10, it

is something that leaders and young

people are concerned about and

take action.

7

‘We recycled cans for cash to restore our community garden. We got everyone from Beavers to Network involved. We recycled more than half a ton of aluminium from the cans, which raised around £300 to spend on bulbs and furniture for the garden.’ Kath Wright

READER TIPS

✖ READER TIPS

FIRST AIDThe potentially life-saving skills of first aid and CPR are important life skills for anyone, not just Scouts, so it was good to see that some 99 per cent of you felt they were important.

‘Tape your heels with plain

sticking plaster before blisters

occur, like athletes do. I did it

when I climbed the Three

Peaks and it worked.’

Simon Robertson

Young people are concerned about environmental awareness

18-25_skills.indd 22 14/01/2010 13:30


Skills

9WORKING IN A TEAMWe were heartened to see that with so much of Scouting carried out in groups, you recognised the importance of teamworking. Whether it’s playing games, building that shelter or performing on stage, being able to successfully work in a group is a life skill that our young people will benefit from throughout their lives. Every section has a diverse range of abilities, skills and personalities so being able to work in such a team is essential.

10‘They’re life skills, not Scouting skills,’ says Dave Wood.

‘We call them Scouting skills but I prefer to think of them as life skills. I can attribute so much of the practical skills I know today to what I learned as a young Scout.

‘I could read a map before I could drive a car and needed to navigate; I could tie knots to secure parcels whereas my colleagues in the warehouse of my first job couldn’t. When someone in that warehouse had a very nasty injury, I knew exactly what to do until the ambulance arrived. When I left home I knew that potatoes took longer to cook than eggs. When running my first barbecue party, I knew that flames made food black, partially raw and inedible, whereas glowing embers were perfect. It was thanks to attending a Jamboree that I first learned how to use a public washing machine, how to boil water in a paper bag, and how to scare grizzly bears away.’

‘When building a bivouac from sticks and leaves don’t forget that your

roof needs to be at least 30cm thick to stop rain getting through. It also

takes a long time to build so start early before it gets dark.

‘Mark out an area at least 2m around where you are chopping wood,

with only one entrance. This will stop others from wandering into the

danger area and let you see those entering.’ Neil Liles

ReadeR tips

ReadeR tips ‘Mix up your programme to contain different types of activities in order that all your Scouts get a chance to shine.’Fiona Brown

SHELTER BUILDINGThis requires multiple skills, such as

pioneering, knot tying and being very

resourceful. But once you’ve mastered

those skills this is a very practical way

to test them. It can also make for a fun

overnight camp and be a survival skill

if you ever happen to get stranded

somewhere in a wood!

Building a shelter from sticks and leaves is a great survival skill

Working well in a team will help people in many situations throughout their lives

About the skills survey: Over the past six months the 6 to 25 Programme Team has been looking at getting more young people to take part in practical Scouting skills. In the recent survey 76 per cent of leaders felt the level of practical skills was declining and that this would have a detrimental effect on

delivering a balanced programme. Some 99 per cent said that The Scout Association should adopt a strategy to help improve the skills base. We are in the process of creating a strategy which will offer practical ways of getting more skills into the programme of all five sections and will use a variety of methods.

18-25_skills.indd 23 14/01/2010 13:30


skills

more infoTo find out about skills training where you are, talk to your Group Scout Leader, District/County Commissioner or County Training Manager. Alternatively, contact the Adult Support team on [email protected] or phone 0845 300 1818 and we can connect you with someone in your area.

West LancashireWest Lancashire runs adult Scouting skills courses called ‘Get Knotted, Get Lost, Get Stuffed and Get me out of Here’ to teach or refresh knotting, map reading and backwoods cooking. Some Districts also arrange workshops as part of District camps – ‘skills and chills’ weekends.

CroydonCroydon District organises Practical Skills (Module 18) for each section. They have a ‘drop-in’ session where

Teach yourself There are many factsheets on scouts.org.uk and a new Scouting Skills (1027759) book to help you brush up on your knowledge. There’s also a series of factsheets on Scouting skills, containing practical advice and support:

Tent Pitching (FS315085) Mapping (FS315081) Simple Knots (FS315082) Use of Axes and Saws

(FS315070) Compass (FS315074) Basic Cooking (FS315075) Fire Lighting (FS315076) Simple First Aid (FS315077) Hiking (FS315078) Lashings (FS315080) Mapping (FS315081) Simple Knots (FS315082) Route Planning for Hikes

(FS315083) GPS Navigation (FS315089)

www.scouts.org.uk/ infocentre

Backwoods Cooking: Ever Cooked an Egg in an Orange? www.scouts.org.uk/ infocentre

Scouting Skills (£9.99) contains all you need to know. Available from www.scouts.org.uk/shop

skillstrainingNow that we’ve covered

your top 10 Scouting skills,

find out about the many

Scouting skills courses

throughout the UK

leaders can learn a new skill, or hone up on existing ones. This is backed up with a practical skills book which the leaders can use as part of running their section and when doing badge work.

StaffordshirePractical Scouting skills are offered in Staffordshire as the second day of a weekend that covers Modules 16, 17 and 18. All leaders can attend bases put on by skilled tutors in fire lighting, axe and knife, map reading, etc. Leaders can dip in and out of the bases they want to experience, and acquire some ‘expert’ contacts.

WokingWoking have fun days for the sections where the leaders run bases for the young people, but other leaders can have a go too. In particular, the Cub section runs a Back-to-Basics day (backwoods cooking, tent pitching, pioneering, fire lighting, tracking and plaster casts). Beavers have themed events; Scouts do lots of lightweight camping and cooking. Explorer Leaders do Duke of Edinburgh, hiking and run modules for Young Leaders.

CheshireCheshire holds an annual practical skills day. It is open to all leaders, and those working for Practical Skills (Module 18) and Wood Badge holders use the day as ongoing learning. Leaders choose seven skills from 14 or 15 that are on offer. More than 150 people attended the previous event.

97 per cent felt the most

common way of learning these

skills is through somebody else

in Scouting

18-25_skills.indd 25 14/01/2010 13:30


skillsQuiz

1 What is Naismith’s rule

used to calculate?

2 Which of the following types of

wood is good for use as kindling – oak, birch, elm

or sycamore?

3 A-frame, tunnel

and dome are types of what?

Test your knowledge of Scouting Skills

4 Which type of knot is best

for tying thin, slippery material

such as wire?

5 When performing CPR, how many

chest compressions at a time should you do?

6 Higher clouds

are a signal for rain;

true or false?

7 The last two stars in the bucket of

the Plough make an imaginary line pointing to what?

8 A shelter should ideally be built at a right angle

to the prevailing wind; true or false?

?

???

?

SHARE IT! Test your Scouts skills at your next meeting


answers

1. Walking time 2. Birch 3. Tents 4. Fisherman’s knot 5. 30 6. False, higher clouds signify fine weather 7. The North Star 8. True

27_quiz.indd 27 14/01/2010 13:04


0123456789

Perfect

From a general election and a football World Cup to an economy emerging from recession, 2010 looks set to be both challenging and exciting. We asked you about your hopes and concerns for the year ahead

28-29_PERFECT10v2.indd 28 14/01/2010 13:34


0123456789


S couting’s objective in 2010 is clear: to continue to focus on the recruitment and retention of adult volunteers. However, the world does not stand still and changes

in society inevitably have an impact on what we do. So what does 2010 hold in store?

The lack of adult volunteers appears to be the overriding concern from leaders who are otherwise committed and still enjoying their Scouting. ‘The shortage of adult leaders is always a worry,’ says one. ‘It is a constant battle to find willing grown-ups: they all have other things to do.’ Another argues that we are the ‘victims of our own success’ with a lack of leaders but lots of young people wanting to join. The need to offer flexible opportunities to adults must therefore remain at the top of our list.

Global concerns In terms of wider issues, the environment remains a worry for many. ‘Regardless of the debate, I feel that there are changes taking place and this is going to impact more upon this generation than mine,’ was one heartfelt response.

‘Financially it’s going to be a tight couple of years,’ predicts another volunteer, while one wonders how Scouting will fare in the difficult economic climate. ‘We need to use this opportunity to show what good value Scouting offers and how much can be achieved for relatively little.’

Looking ahead We asked for your 2010 resolutions and your belief in Scouting was obvious. Many have highlighted the need to dedicate more time and commitment to youth leadership and participation. ‘I am determined to visit all my young leaders in their groups and go through the review and goals process,’ one vowed. Almost all responded with some optimism: ‘My solution is to keep reminding myself that Scouting is fun,’ and to ‘keep doing my best to help young

people get the most out of Scouting’ and ‘enjoy being a leader’.

In terms of what you were most looking forward to – it

was the classic Scouting favourites that came up: ‘It has to be our summer camp, where we intend to InterRail for the first time ever,’ said one leader, ’and also our County camp in

Kandersteg.’ Closer to home one mentioned ‘the

first pilots for coastal access – securing a national trail around

the English coast.’

Sharing successes Whatever you plan to do, remember that there are many other volunteers in Scouting facing similar challenges. Take time to share your concerns and pass on things that you find work well. The final word must go to the Member who commented that the thing he was looking forward to most in 2010 was ‘good weather in the summer!’

Bear Grylls’ impact on Scouting Local Centenary celebrations Stability in the economy More accessible Scouting information online

Local Scout events The football World Cup 10:10 Environmental Campaign US Scouting Centenary

Lack of adult leaders Continuing recession Joining lists Transition to Scout Active Support

Youth unemployment Climate change Red tape and the cost of Scouting

High level of training commitments

General election outcome – uncertainty about implications on frontline services and tax rises

Lack of action in tackling climate change

Youth violence/anti-social behaviour

Losing Members at 18 who do not join Network or take up volunteer appointment

Lack of leaders with activity and other accreditation potentially limiting activities

What are you looking forward to in 2010?

What are your concerns for 2010?

0123456789

more infoThis information was compiled from an online survey of 250 adult Members conducted on www.scouts.org.uk during November 2009. To find out more about The Scout Association’s Vision Towards 2018 visit www.scouts.org.uk/2018

28-29_PERFECT10v2.indd 29 14/01/2010 13:35

30

new activities0123456789


Paddling your own canoe

Seven years ago, Ben Richards had never set foot in a canoe. Today, he is a canoe instructor and a member of the Supporting Leaders Activity Project Team. Here he looks at the importance of trying new activities in your programme

i can still remember my first time in a kayak. It was a sunny evening in May when I sat down in one of those narrow

little boats that don’t look as stable as you think they should. I was hoping the water wasn’t too cold – unfortunately it was.

Setting out into the reservoir I was nervous but excited. I’d seen people doing it and thought: ‘Why not? I’ll give it a go.’

That first night I fell in a few times; I got wet and cold, and drank far more of the reservoir than I probably should have. By the end of the evening, I was able to go in

a straight line and turn around. Success!

I kept going back each week. I was getting better and enjoying myself.

The instructors were patient and helping me to increase

my skills.That was just over

six years ago, back when I was a new member of Scout Network. Since then I

have been to university and gained my coaching

qualification. With this, I continue to teach kayaking

to Scouts in my County and was able to go to the World Scout Jamboree as a kayaking instructor, where I ran sessions for more than 100 Scouts from over 30 different countries.

30-32_new activities.indd 30 14/01/2010 14:23


new activities 0123456789

Scout activity centresAs well as offering amazing activities to Scouts, each of our Activity Centres – Downe, Ferny Crofts, Gilwell Park, Hawkhirst and Youlbury – are also open for use by school groups. Not only does this provide an important income stream that helps us to run the centres and provide discounted rates for Scout groups, it also allows young people and their teachers to have a fantastic time, experience outdoor adventure and hopefully learn a little about Scouting in the process. Do you know someone at a school that might be interested in finding out more about our activity centres, or are you a teacher involved in Scouting who might be interested in using one of our sites for your own school trip? Visit www.scouts.org.uk/sac

New activities 0123456789

Undiscovered potentialSo why tell you all of this? Because if you had asked me seven years ago whether I would one day be a canoe instructor I would not have said yes. But I was able to try something new, and continue it. The saying goes that however long the journey, it always begins with the first step. When it comes to young people in Scouting, we as leaders are often the ones to provide that important first step, whether it be putting a foot on a climbing wall, pulling back the string on a bow or stepping into a boat.

I have now taken many people on their first kayaking trips and some have become instructors with me. You never know what your young people will grow up to do, but you can give them as many opportunities

as possible. You might have an amazing archer, who doesn’t know it yet. One of them could surprise you at camp with their culinary skills, or you may have one who is completely at ease climbing down inside caves.

Where to start?As leaders we need to unlock as many of these talents and skills as possible, and develop them. We need to encourage our young people to try new things.

The Scouts in my own Group ask to do a number of things. Several of them I can offer, but some I can’t as I do not have the knowledge, skills or experience. My response is to find someone who can.

There are so many adults in Scouting with different interests and


32

new activities0123456789


more infoThe Scout Association website has a wide range of advice and support on accessing adventurous activities. Visit www.scouts.org.uk/activities for more information, including the A-Z directory of activities. Email the Activities Team at [email protected]

‘If you had asked me seven years ago whether I would one day be a canoe instructor I would not have said yes. But I was able to try something new, and continue it’

Did you know?There are tons of activities available in Scouting. From archery to zorbing, there is no excuse for not getting active. Here are some of our favourites – how many have you tried?

Raft building It’s amazing what you can do with some pioneering poles and plastic tubs. Also a great team-building exercise. A Scouting classic.

Paragliding Probably one of the more expensive activities, but few are more adrenaline fuelled.

Swimming What’s so adventurous about swimming you may ask yourself? Well, it’s a basic requirement to confidently enjoy any watersport. And with the Staged Activity Badge, it’s an opportunity for young people to track their development as they move through the age ranges.

Theatrical performance Scouting isn’t just about climbing mountains and canoeing. Creative performance is the perfect confidence builder. And it doesn’t only have to be a Gang Show.

Zorbing Rolling around in a giant transparent ball might seem mad to you, but in Scouting we don’t judge.

New activities0123456789

skills, who give their time to teach young people. Most Districts and Counties have teams who support activities, and they can often put you in touch with qualified instructors, many of whom will be local leaders.

Another good place to start is the Activities Team at Gilwell Park. They will be able to point you in the right direction, and provide advice and support on what you will need to do to undertake an activity, including which national governing bodies to contact. There is also a wealth of information available to you on The Scout Association website.

Instructing young peopleQuite often, the best way to introduce your young people to an activity is to start off small. Think

about ways in which you can prepare for an activity as part of your weekly programme. Programmes Online has numerous ideas for games and other activities for you to try, which can help to introduce your young people to something more adventurous.

I’m sure every great instructor, sportsman or adventurer had to start small and build on their skills. However, they couldn’t have done it without the support of those who were there to encourage them and they certainly couldn’t have done it if they hadn’t taken that first step.

‘If you had asked me seven years ago whether I would one day be a canoe instructor I would not have said yes. But I was able to try something new, and continue it’


Owned and managed by The Scout Association Charity Number: 306101

Up for the Adventure?

scouts.org.uk/nationalcentres

tel: 0845 300 2549

668_AC Scouting Magazine Ad.indd1 1 3/3/08 11:15:21

FREE LITTLE GUIDE


The Big Adventure

Greater adult involvement means more fun for all

W ho doesn’t need more adult volunteers to help deliver the weekly programme?

The Big Adventure is a proven way to increase the number of adult volunteers in Scouting – initially by involving adults in a single event before encouraging greater involvement.

How it worksIf you’re already planning a summer event then there’s no need to organise anything new. Simply invite parents and other adults to be an active part of the team planning and delivering the day. Any event from 1 May to 31 August where new adults are involved in this way can be counted as part of The Big Adventure.

If you like the look of the Litte Guide, you can order more copies free of charge from the Scout Information Centre at www.scouts.org.uk/infocentre or by calling 0845 300 1818. You only pay postage and packing.

For more advice and support and to tell us about your plans for The Big Adventure, please visit www.scouts.org.uk/thebigadventure

‘Lots of people said they hadn’t gone camping in years, but every one of them went home from camp with a different outlook on Scouting’

volunteer?The Big Adventure kicks off on 1 May this year, so there’s still time to get parents involved in the leadership teams of your summer camp or activity day – it could lead to more adult support on a permanent basis

Need a

Free resourcesIf you received the December/January issue of Scouting, you’ll already have a copy of the Step-by-Step Guide to the Big Adventure. It’s a complete guide to using The Big Adventure to attract new volunteers – from the first conversation to completing an Occasional Helper Form. It’s also available at www.scouts.org.uk/thebigadventure

The Little Guide to The Big Adventure is free with this issue.Give it to parents who have agreedto come along to the event to prepare them for the experience. There isalso information about getting more involved in Scouting.

34-35_BIGADVENTURE.indd 34 14/01/2010 13:13


0123456789

34-35_BIGADVENTURE.indd 35 14/01/2010 13:13

36

slug0123456789


Findthe way From walking a bearing to getting to grips with GPS, in the first part of our

exclusive serialisation of the newbook Scouting Skills, we look at the

art of navigation

E ven on well-marked trails, it can be annoyingly easy to lose your way, especially if trail markers have become

worn or obscured by vegetation. In more remote areas good map-reading and compass skills are essential. But there is more to navigation than just reading a map – you also need to remain constantly alert and be a keen observer of your surroundings.

LOOKING AT THE LANDAs you walk along a route, develop the habit of noting particular features or landmarks as you pass them. Begin with the start of the walk. Notice the direction it takes – heading towards woodland or a hill to the left, for example. At regular intervals, compare the landscape you see with the lines and symbols on your map.

If you’re returning by the same route, turn around every now and then and look back at the path you’ve walked. Things look different when approached from the opposite direction.

36-39_Navigation.indd 36 14/01/2010 13:43

37www.scouts.org.uk/magazinewww.scouts.org.uk/magazine

CONTOUR FEATURES

RIDGE – a series of pointed or finger-like contour lines usually indicates a high ridge.

VALLEY – low-level contour lines spaced quite widely apart, often with a river following the same direction as the lines.

PASS – two sets of circles joined by lower contour lines, a little like the eyes in a face mask, indicate a saddle or pass between two high points.

Navigation 0123456789

FOLLOWING A MAPWhen following a route on the map, turn it around until it faces the way you are walking. Make sure the map is correctly aligned by choosing two or three landmarks or features you can easily see ahead of you. Find these landmarks on your map and position the map so you can draw imaginary lines from the landmarks in the landscape to those on the map.

USING A COMPASSGeographical directions are usually described in terms of points of the compass.

The four cardinal points divide the compass into quarters. For greater accuracy, these four quarters are then divided again to show the halfway mark between each quarter. To make it possible to pinpoint directions even more precisely, the circle of a compass face is also divided into 360 degrees. North is always 0 degrees, and each quarter adds 90 degrees – so, for example, east is 90 degrees. The best

type of compass is an orienteering compass, as shown above.

CELESTIAL NAVIGATION Of course, you can always check your direction with a compass, but it is useful to develop some sense of direction points in case of emergency or a lost or damaged compass. Here’s a quick guide to navigating by the sun, moon and stars.

The sun always rises in the east and sets in the west. In the Northern Hemisphere, when the sun reachesits highest point in the sky at around midday, its direction is in the south. If you see the moon rise before the sun has set, the lit side of the moon will be west. If the moon does not rise until after midnight, the lit side will be east.

To find the North Star, locate the Plough (it also looks like a saucepan). Find the two stars that make up the right-hand side of the Plough and follow an imaginary line extending straight up – the brightest star you will see there is the North Star.

PARTS OF A COMPASSSCALE MARKINGS to use with different map scales

DIRECTION-OF-TRAVEL ARROW this points the way you are travelling

INDEX POINTER where the direction-of-travel arrow meets the dial

DIAL surrounding the compass, showing the points and degrees, and can be turned in either direction

ORIENTING ARROW marked on the base of the compass, turns with the dial

ORIENTING LINES marked on the base of the compass, turns with the dial

COMPASS NEEDLE usually red and white; the red end points north

HOUSING holds the compass needle, orienting arrow and lines, and also the dial

BASEPLATE

TRAVEL ARROW

INDEX POINTER

36-39_Navigation.indd 37 14/01/2010 13:47

39www.scouts.org.uk/magazinewww.scouts.org.uk/magazine

Navigation 0123456789

Content taken from Scouting Skills, published by Doubleday

SCOUTING SKILLS Do you know how to build an altar fire, read a compass or navigate by the stars? Could you construct and steer a raft across a river? All these and many, many more skills are included in this incredibly detailed guide to all the things you once knew but have now forgotten.

Scouting Skills is the definitive hardback guide to the outdoors and adventure. Written in close collaboration with The Scout Association, it is perfect for young people and adults alike.

‘This is the outdoor handbook brought to you by the people who wrote the rules’ Bear Grylls, Chief Scout

Scout Shops is offering £5 off the marked price for readers of Scouting. Order your copy of Scouting Skills priced at £9.99 from www.scouts.org.uk/shop or call 01903 766921. Item code: 1027759

SCOUTING

GPS NAVIGATION SYSTEMS A handheld GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver pinpoints its location by picking up information from satellites orbiting Earth. Your receiver must have a clear line of sight to the sky and a full GPS signal, which is not always available. Always carry a magnetic compass and paper maps as back-up, and know how to use them.

NAVIGATION TOP TIPSKeep checking for identifiable features on your map but remember artificial structures can change. If you get lost, go back to the last point you clearly recognised on the map. A GPS will affect the reading on a magnetic compass if the two devices are too close together. Also keep compasses away from metal objects, eg car keys.

READING A COMPASS 1 Hold the

compass level, with the direction-of-travel arrow on the baseplate pointing away from you. Turn the dial until the letter ‘N’ and the orienting arrow line up with the direction-of-travel arrow.

2Keeping the compass

steady in front of you, turn your body slowly around. As you move your body, the needle also turns. Keep turning until the needle points to the letter ‘N’. You are now facing north.

3Now turn a quarter

circle to the right. The dial, orienting arrow and direction-of-travel arrow are pointing north, but the needle is now pointing west, right? Wrong! The needle is pointing north; it is your position that has changed.

4Turn the dial so that the

letter ‘N’ and the orienting arrow line up with the needle again. Now the dial shows that the direction-of-travel arrow is pointing east, so you know that you are facing east.

READING A COMPASSREADING A COMPASSREADING A COMPASS

Remember, regardless of what the dial is telling you, the needle always points north. To find the direction in which you are heading turn the dial until the ‘N’ mark and the orientation arrow line up with the needle. Then read your direction-of-travel arrow to find out which direction you are facing. Follow the direction-of-travel arrow, not the compass needle.

Scout Shops also offer a range of Silva and Recta compasses starting at £10

READER OFFER

36-39_Navigation.indd 39 14/01/2010 13:52


Hiking0123456789

Into the great wide openWhat better test of Scouting skills than an expedition into the unknown? From the cliffs of Malham Cove, to a two-day trek across the South Downs, Steve Backhouse presents three routes to help your Scouts discover thegreat outdoors – and their own potential

40-43 Hiking.indd 40 14/01/2010 14:05


Hiking 0123456789

Into the great wide open

RISK ASSESSMENT: The path that continues up Goredale Scar is a potentially dangerous scramble – retrace your steps when you get to the waterfall at point B. The limestone pavement can be slippery in the wet and the sheer cliffs of the cove itself are an obvious hazard where close supervision is required.

LOOK OUT FOR... edible plants• Dandelion leaves are easily recognised and can be used in a tasty salad. Don’t eat too many as they are also a well-known diuretic.• Nettles can be used to make nettle tea or, cooked like spinach,

are delicious in a creamypasta sauce. • Wood Sorrel has a distinctive lemon flavour – now used by posh London restaurants in salads and to flavour sorbets.

GEOLOGY: The Limestone Pavement at the top of Malham Cove is a rare habitat where rainwater has dissolved the rockto form slabs, or ‘clints’, and fissures known as grikes. Malham Cove was once a mighty waterfall to rival Niagara Falls. Today the river permeates through the porousrock before emerging from the rock at the base of the cliff.

Malham Cove:DISCOVER THE NATURAL WORLD

Distance: 7½km (4¾ miles) • Total ascent: 300 metres (1,000 feet) • Start and finish: Car park in Malham village • Map: 1:25,000 OL2, Yorkshire Dales S & W1 W

ALK

From Malham village follow the path through fields and woodland to the delightful Janet’s Foss waterfall. A Cross the road and explore the remarkable limestone gorge of Goredale Scar. B Retrace your steps to Goredale Bridge and then take the ascending path to the minor road C which continues to the top of Malham Cove. D Cross the limestone pavement with care and then descend the steep steps to the base of the cliff. Finally it’s a gentle walkalong the Pennine Way to Malham.

Ord

nanc

e Su

rvey

map

ping

© C

row

n co

pyrig

ht. A

M11

1/09

.

40-43 Hiking.indd 41 14/01/2010 14:06


Hiking0123456789

NAVIGATION TECHNIQUES 1 USE AN ATTACK POINT: an obvious location (in this case the corner of a wood) that will help you locate a less obvious feature.

2 AIMING OFF:try aiming off tofind somewhere ona linear feature.

3 COUNTING PACES: this is an accurate method of measuring distances.It varies from personto person, but typically 60-72 double paces equal 100 metres.

4 INTERPRETING CONTOURS: this is avery useful technique. You can gain a lot of information from the angle and directionof sloping terrain.

More infoMore navigation hints and tips are on page 36of this issue.

Dartmoor:NAVIGATION CHALLENGE

Distance: 9km (5½ miles) • Total ascent: 300 metres (1,000 feet)• Start and finish: Haytor car park • Map: 1:25,000 OL28, Dartmoor. Think Dartmoor is a bleak, featureless moorland? Well, think again. It has a wealth of historical gems – medieval villages, Bronze Age burial chambers and a remarkable granite tramway.2 W

ALK

Ask your Scouts to use their navigation skills to find these 17 locations. A 760 774 Haytor quarries B 757 777 Track/path junction C 756 782 Hut circles D 760 784 Boundary stone E 761 786 Cairn F 754 767 Boundary stone G 752 787 Stream crossing H 746 789 Medieval settlement I 742 789 Hound Tor J 740 787 Cairn circle and cist K 745 786 Wall junction L 746 785 Greator Rocks M 748 779 Confluence of streams N 748 775 Circular settlement O 753 774 Path junction P 754 772 Small pond Q 765 771 Haytor Rocks

Haytor on Dartmoor

Ord

nanc

e Su

rvey

map

ping

© C

row

n co

pyrig

ht. A

M11

1/09

.

40-43 Hiking.indd 42 14/01/2010 14:06


Hiking 0123456789

PLANNING YOUR EXPEDITION:Scouts may use this route for their Expedition Challenge, while Explorer Scouts could use it as a stepping stone to a Duke of Edinburgh expedition.

HOW MUCH SUPERVISION? This will depend on the age and experience of your Group. You can build confidence by walking with your Scouts some of the time and allowing unsupervised walking on certain parts of the route.

WHERE TO STAY: A youth hostel is a convenient option, particularly in the

winter months. At Truleigh Hill there is the option of camping in the grounds.

WHAT TO CARRY: For youngerScouts in particular, carrying all their equipment is challenging. If you’re camping, a good compromise maybe for the Scouts to carry their own clothes, food and personal equipment, with heavy items like tents and stoves transported by vehicle to the stop.

MORE IDEAS: The South DownsWay is one of 15 national trails – seewww.nationaltrail.co.uk for details.

FURTHER READINGCicerone has two great mini-guides to help you develop your skills in navigation and the use of GPS. The publisher is offering readers 25 per cent off each book (RRP £7.99). To buy for just £5.99 each, simply visitwww.cicerone.co.uk Enter the code SCOUTat the checkout.

Navigation This practical guide will help you get the most out of navigating with a map and compass. It’s then down to you!

Navigating with a GPS Want to know how to navigate with GPS? This guide takes you through it in a clear, structured way. It also tackles digital mapping and relevant software.

navigate with GPS? This

South Downs Way:TWO-DAY EXPEDITION

Distance: Day 1: 15km (9½ miles), Day 2: 14km (9 miles)• Total ascent: Day 1: 380 metres (1,250 feet), Day 2: 270 metres (900 feet) • Start: Ditchling Beacon car park • Finish: Washington village • Overnight stop: Truleigh Hill youth hostel – seewww.yha.org.uk • Map: 1:25,000 Explorer sheets 122 and 121

3 WA

LK

Day 1: From Ditchling Beacon head west along the South Downs Way to the famous Clayton Windmills A named Jack and Jill. The trail descends to crossthe A273 and pass under the busy A23 B near Pyecombe. Cross West Hill to Saddlescombe C and head along the Downs to the popular beauty spot of Devil’s Dyke. D You’ll be rewarded with excellent views south to Brighton and the coast, and north over the Sussex Weald, as you continue to Edburton Hill E and your overnight stop at Truleigh Hill youth hostel. F Day 2: Start with a descent to the A283 and the footbridge over the River Adur. G Pass throughthe hamlet of Botolphs and climb the opposite side of the valley to the top of Annington Hill. H The trail follows the crest of the Downs to the Iron Age hill fort of Chanctonbury Ring I before the descent to the village of Washington.

Ord

nanc

e Su

rvey

map

ping

© C

row

n co

pyrig

ht. A

M11

1/09

.

40-43 Hiking.indd 43 14/01/2010 14:06

BEN WEAVER COMMERCIAL SALEST 0114 2757076 07966 139669 GOWER STREET, SHEFFIELD S4 7JW

Over 50 minibuses & vans to choose from

See our full stock list at www.bwvans.co.ukAll vehicles subject to VAT at 17.5% Competitive Finance & Warranties Available

03 03 LDV Convoy 14 seat high roof front entry wheelchair accessible bus, ford 2.4 Duratorq engine, white, rear underfloor wheelchair lift, tracking for 3 wheelchairs, panoramic glass, 50,000 miles,excellent condition £6495+vat

03 03 LDV Convoy 17 seat high roof minibus with tachograph, 2.4 Ford duratorq engine, white, 32,000 miles, ex mod, excellent condition, £5295+vat

04 04 LDV Convoy 17 seat high roof minibus, 2.4 Ford duratorq engine, white, 57,000 miles, fsh, ex mod, excellent condition, £4995+vat

02 52 LDV Convoy 17 seat high roof front entry minibus with tachograph, 2.4 Ford duratorq engine, green, internal luggage racks, towbar, 118,000klm (73,000 miles), excellent condition, £4995+vat

01 Y LDV Convoy 17 seat high roof minibus, 2.5 Ford turbo diesel engine, yellow, 82,000 miles, fsh, ex council owned, fsh, excellent condition, £2795+vat


03 03 Ford transit 15 seat 90ps minibus with tacho, white, galvanised roof cage, 109,000 miles, excellent condition, £5795+vat




Camp cooking

Sizzling snapper

Camp cooking

Copy

right

: Chr

is Te

rry

Snapper is probably the most widely used of all fish in Caribbean cooking. Here we cook ours in an oven, but if you’re planning a beach party, you can cook yours on a barbecue with a lid or a rack set on bricks on a beach fire. Choose a smaller fish than we have here (around 1-2kg), stuff it, wrap it in foil and cook it over the coals for 35 minutes to 1 hour depending on size, turning every 15 minutes or so to ensure it cooks evenly.

Serves 8Preparation 10 minsCooking 35 mins to 1 hour

Ingredients3kg snapper, either pink- or grey-skinned, gutted and scaledJuice of 1 lime

Scouting encourages you to get down to the fishmonger and cook up a Caribbean favourite, courtesy of Reggae Reggae chef Levi Roots

For the stuffing1 small bunch of fresh coriander, finely choppedSmall bunch of flat-leaf parsley, finely choppedLeaves from 8 sprigs of thymeZest of 1 limeJuice of 2 limes4cm piece of root ginger, very finely chopped1 hot red chilli (ideally a Scotch bonnet), deseeded and finely chopped5-6 tbsp olive oilSalt and pepper For the salsa250g fresh coconut flesh1⁄4 tsp caster sugarJuice of 8 limesZest of 2 limes2 red chillies, deseeded and cut into fine sliversSmall bunch of fresh coriander leaves, coarsely chopped

Method Preheat the oven to 200ºC/

400ºF/gas mark 6. Using a very sharp knife, make three deep slashes on each side of the fish. Squeeze the juice of a lime all over. Mix all the stuffing ingredients together and push it into the slits as well as the cavity.

Set the fish in a roasting tin lined with foil and roast in the preheated oven, uncovered, for 45 minutes. By that time the flesh closest to the bone at the thickest parts should be perfectly white and not at all ‘glassy’ looking.

To make the salsa, use a potato peeler to cut wafer-thin shavings of coconut. Mix the sugar with the lime juice, stirring until it dissolves, and toss the coconut with this and all the other ingredients. Serve with the snapper.

Recipe extracted from Caribbean Food Made Easy with Levi Roots

Hot roast snapper with coconut, chilli and lime salsa

45_CAMP_COOKING.indd 45 14/01/2010 13:11

Scouting February 2010/ March 201046

SchoolA desire to achieve the DofE Gold Award

by doing something different led Explorer Scout Laura Tyler to the British Schools Exploring Society. Soon she was

climbing Arctic glaciers. This is her story…

46-47_laura tyler.indd 46 14/01/2010 13:09


0123456789Expedition

more infoThe BSES is a UK development charity which uses the underlying principle of ‘adventure with purpose’. It provides inspirational and challenging scientific expeditions to remote environments for people aged 16-23. These trips develop skills in team working, communication, leadership and more. Visit www.bses.org.uk

To learn more about the DofE Gold Award visit www.dofe.org

W hen I joined the Scout Movement as a six-year-old Beaver Scout I had no idea

about how much I would get out of it. However, as I moved through the sections I went on more camps, coming back muddier and muddier, and I think it is this that sparked my love of the outdoors.

At 14 I joined Andover District Explorers and also started my Duke of Edinburgh’s Award with the view that I would get more from it than blisters. My Bronze and Silver Awards

took me to the New Forest, Brecon Beacons and the Yorkshire Dales. Though they were beautiful, I decided that I wanted to do something other than plod up hills with my team mates for the Gold expedition.

With that in mind, I scoured the web looking for something a bit different. I knew I had found it when I discovered the British Schools Exploring Society (BSES) website. I applied to do Arctic kayaking and, much to my delight, my offer letter arrived days before my 17th birthday.

I thought raising just under £4,000 to go on the expedition would be relatively easy. But after several failed attempts at getting sponsorship (apart from the Whitchurch Welfare Trust who paid for my boots and waterproofs), I only managed it

through a combination of work, eBay dealing and a last-minute donation from my gran.

On the glacierGetting up at 5am to catch a plane really isn’t a good way to start the first day of the summer holidays (yes, my friends did think I was mad). After lots of travelling by air, road and water, we finally arrived at base camp at 1am the next day – with the sun shining like it was midday.

In the first week, we learned how to throw ourselves down a glacier

(missing all the rocks) and stop ourselves with an ice axe, as well as walking with crampons on ice and snow. Halfway through the mountain phase, with our training near completion, we moved up to ‘windy alley’ at the snout of the glacier.

When we had finished our training

we got up at 6am and made a break for the highest ice point. We spent more than nine hours on the glacier that day. Unfortunately, our plan to go up a second time was thwarted when we woke up in the clouds two days later.

Kayaking and mountaineeringThe next phase was kayaking, of which we did more than 90km. Unfortunately, though we saw lots of wildlife, including porpoises and a sea eagle, our fishing skills weren’t the best.

For phase three we had the option of choosing what we wanted to do – mountaineering, kayaking or cultural. I chose mountaineering. We went to the Langfjord Glacier, rising

at 5.30am to catch a ferry there. We measured stakes in it, which involved jumping over some very large crevasses. This was probably one of the scariest things I have ever done, but we enjoyed it so much we returned the next day to do it again.

The last few days of the expedition were spent at a campsite in Alta with the luxury of showers and proper toilets. The journey home was quite uneventful, although there were lots of tears at the airport as we said our goodbyes.

This was a fantastic experience which was due to many people, including my family, the people behind the expedition at the BSES office, the Whitchurch Welfare Trust and all the Scout Leaders who have inspired me and given me a love of the outdoors and a thirst for adventure.

Note: Laura has also received the Queen’s Scout Award using this trip to meet the expedition criteria.

‘I wanted to do something other than plod up hills with my team mates for the Gold expedition’

Expedition

Laura’s taste for adventure led her to the dramatic landscapes of Norway

46-47_laura tyler.indd 47 14/01/2010 13:09


Country diary

B y February there are many signs that spring is on the way. Birds are pairing up in preparation for nesting

and many mammals have young safely protected in sets, earths or burrows. The leaf buds on trees are swelling, many woodland bulbs are already close to flowering and perennial plants are showing fresh, luxuriant growth.

The humble stinging nettle is unpleasant when in contact with skin, resulting in a rash, or pins and needles in the fingertips. However, it has other qualities which make it very valuable at this time of year.

Have you thought about adding a wild-food evening each month to your programme? You will have to source your nettles and pick them in advance. In February, nettles will be freshly emerged and have short, tender stems. However, the stings are well established so do wear gloves! Collect a carrier bag full and tie the top of the bag – this will keep the nettles fresh for a day or two.

Spring can come earlier than you think, says James Taylor, if you look for the signs

Souper ideaThere are many recipes for nettle soup and this basic one can be adapted.

Rinse the nettles and place in a litre or so of boiling water. Add a couple of chopped potatoes, as they help to thicken the soup’s consistency. While this is boiling, fry two chopped onions in butter and add a good shake of brown sugar. When this has dissolved and the onions are soft, add to the nettles. The nettles have quite a strong peppery taste, but if you like seasoning you can add a vegetable stock cube. When the potato starts to break down, the soup is ready, although you can use a cordless blender to make it smoother. Ladle the soup into bowls, adding a swirl of fresh cream.

Nettles can be used to make an excellent dye, too. The leaves make a dark green dye and the roots a yellow one. You can also use the stems to make fibres, string, mesh or rope – an activity which can be done indoors if the weather isn’t quite spring-like.

Spring can come earlier than you think,

Spring without the sting

49

49_COUNTRY_DIARY.indd 49 14/01/2010 13:38


0123456789

‘Does everyone have to sit in a church and listen to the DC talk about Scouting?’

A Promise Renewal event is exactly what it sounds like: people coming together to renew their

Scout Promise. Many Groups do this as part of a wider St George’s Day celebration.

However, it is important to take into account the diverse beliefs within your District or County. A District event can only be called that if it is available for all those within the area. If you hold your event on a Saturday you may exclude Jewish groups, especially if they need to travel. Likewise, if it’s on a Sunday you could prevent Christians from attending.

Think about making your event more appealing to youth members. Does everyone have to sit in a church and listen to the District Commissioner talk about Scouting or could it be part of an activity day?

You could hold it at a football club, swimming pool or theatre.

Do: Vary the format every year Consider the needs of District

groups Think outside the box

Don’t: Make your event completely

Christian – Scouting has Members from ALL major faiths

Exclude young people from organising your event

Question What resources are available to help me bring faith into my programme?There are many programmes available on Programmes Online (www.scouts.org.uk/pol). We are also producing a faith resource that will help you plan and implement such programmes. The resource will be sent out with the June/July issue of Scouting and will also be available to download.

Cut out the names of the patron saints of England, Ireland, Scotland

and Wales and put them on a table away from your section. Give

each participant a flag and ask them to run to the table, match

the name and run back to their team. You could include country

emblems to make it a bit harder.

activityMATCH THE SAINTS TO THE FLAGS RELAY RACE

For the last couple of years, Cabot District in Bristol has held its Promise Renewal service as part of a District Activity Day. Some 500 Members gathered to take part in different activities followed by a barbecue lunch. The Promise Renewal service was then held in a marquee as the central part of the day. The chosen theme also related to activities, particularly those relevant to the Beaver and Cub sections.

By using this format the District was able to do something different which encouraged more young people to take part and showed that Promise Renewals needn’t be boring. Cabot is in a very multicultural area and by choosing to use a campsite and marquee rather than a church the District ensured that everyone could attend.

cASe Study

50-51_FAITH&BELIEFS.indd 50 14/01/2010 13:20


Simon Morley looks at a more inclusive way to bring District groups together

Question

Faiths & beliefs

50-51_FAITH&BELIEFS.indd 51 14/01/2010 13:20

And the award goes to…

The Chief Scout’s Awards offer the chance to be excellent, acknowledging the

achievements of Scouts, whatever their section. But are they too hard? No, says

Chief Scout Bear Grylls, who explains why they are key to our programme

Scouting October/November 200952

52-53_chief scout.indd 52 14/01/2010 14:51

Chief Scout’s Awards

53

Gold run‘The Chief Scout’s Gold Award is a great recognition of Scouts who have taken part in a high-quality Balanced Programme. Every time I talk to a Scout who has achieved their award, I can sense the excitement about their experience of Scouting. I get a real kick from witnessing that sense of pride along with the tales they tell of their time in the Troop.’ – Alasdair McBay, the UK Adviser for Scouts


And the award goes to…

I ’m committed to improving the quality of

Scouting during my time as Chief Scout,

and to me that means more Scouts getting

more Chief Scout’s Awards.

Since the beginning, Scouting has thrived

because it has always attracted people who

are prepared to think big and reach the

unthinkable goal. Founded by an inspiring

leader, taken forward by everyday heroes,

Scouting is now the greatest movement for

young people the world has ever seen. But

these achievements, both individual – like

medal-winning Scout Hannah Dempsey,

who sped to silver in the Special Olympics

a year ago – and collective – like the Scouts

in Bristol who delivered appointment letters

in the midst of the swine flu pandemic and

postal strike – are worth so much more than the

momentary praise they may get in the local

paper or news channel.

That’s why I love the Chief Scout’s

Awards, and why I’m proud to put my

name to them. The five awards, which span

the five sections, require commitment to the

Promise and a diverse range of skills to achieve.

From that first sleepover as a Beaver Scout

working towards the Bronze Award to the

stamina and mental toughness needed to

complete an expedition for the Diamond

Award, the awards are worth their weight in

the materials that give them their names.

A balanced programmeTo achieve the awards, young people

must tackle all parts of the Programme:

Outdoor Adventure, Fitness, Creative, Global,

Community, and Beliefs and Attitudes. As

leaders, you already offer that variety using the

Programme Zones and Challenges in Beavers,

Cubs and Scouts. These tools – and their

counterparts in Explorer Scouts and the

Scout Network – provide the framework for

completing the respective Chief Scout’s Award.

Therefore, getting your young people to set their

sights on the top award needn’t be a stretch

of the imagination. But it’s still a case of

thinking big and setting challenging targets.

I always find the key is to allow Scouts to

dream big and then to help them hone those

dreams to achievable targets. Whether your goal

is the summit of Everest or your first performance on

stage under the lights, you really need to want it, and

you need your team beside you.

Action stationsWith the need to recruit and retain more adults to

Scouting at the forefront of our minds, it could be easy

to take our eye off the ball and not protect the quality of

Scouting we offer our Members. Use the Chief Scout’s

Awards as a quality mark of the Scouting you offer.

How many young people can realistically achieve

the award by the end of 2010? Can you and your team

encourage them on their way? What challenges or

activities might you need to offer in your programme

to fill the gaps? Embrace the challenges these awards

require. Reach high, think big, and get inspired by the

story of Nicola, Joanne and Daniel on page 55. Let’s

increase the number of awards earned; I know we can.

‘These awards are worth their

weight in the materials that

give them their names’

52-53_chief scout.indd 53 14/01/2010 13:16

For reservations, please contact National Scouts Organisation

No.8 Austin Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong KongTel: (852) 2376 1111 / Fax: (852) 2376 1333

Direct line to Reservations: (852) 2378 7611

Reservation Direct Fax: (852) 2376 1159

E-mail: [email protected]

Website: www.bpih.com.hk

Scout Members’ Scout Members* Referral Bookings Valid On (nett per room per night) (nett per room per night)

1st - 3rd, 10th - 24th Dec 2009 HK$600 HK$650

4th - 9th, 25th - 31st Dec 2009 HK$700 HK$750

1st - 2nd, 11th - 14th, 18th - 21st Jan 2010 HK$700 HK$750

3rd - 10th, 15th - 17th, 22nd - 31st Jan 2010 HK$600 HK$650

1st - 28th Feb 2010 HK$600 HK$650

* Scout Members are requested to present Scout Identity Card upon check-in.


more infoYou can find full

requirements of the awards in the relevant programme publication

for each section eg The Colony

Programme for Beaver Scouts. They are also at www.scouts.org.uk/scoutbase


Chief Scout’s Awards

‘Scouting has given me a fantastic opportunity to do lots of activities and things that people who are not in Scouts don’t get to do’

Family fortunesWhen Cub Scout Nicola was awarded her Chief Scout’s Bronze Award

she was following in her siblings’ footsteps. Achieving big things runs

in the family, as you’re about to discover

My Chief Scout’s Award presentation

was a very special occasion because I

was presented with my Bronze Award,

my sister Joanne was presented with

her Silver Award, and my brother Daniel got his Gold

Award, all at the same time. Has this happened in

any other family?

Daniel now has Bronze, Silver and Gold. He said,

‘Scouting has given me a fantastic opportunity to do

lots of activities and things that people who

are not in Scouts don’t get to do. I’ve just been

selected to be part of the Birmingham Contingent to

go to the World Scout Jamboree in Sweden in 2011

and that’s going to be awesome.’

Joanne is really proud of getting her Chief

Scout’s Silver Award, and the fame that came

with it. ‘We had our photo in the local paper

and we took it into assembly. It’s good because

then you get to tell everyone about Scouts and

all the things we do. There are still some people

that don’t know that girls can be in Scouts.’

My sister was the first girl in our Cub Pack,

but likes all the same activities as the boys.

‘I like going on camp and I like kayaking and

climbing. I am really proud of getting my

Chief Scout’s Award.’

We were given our awards by the County

Commissioner at an activity day at Blackwell

Adventure. I went on the indoor climbing wall

and the High All Aboard. The High All Aboard

was scary, but I loved it.

As Daniel says, ‘Scouting is

about having fun with good

friends. We do lots of activities

for anyone in the District to

join in with. Because of this

I’ve made friends with people

that I wouldn’t have even met

if I wasn’t a Scout.’

52-53_chief scout.indd 55 14/01/2010 13:16

Vango Spectre 300 Tent Ref 1026349£115 RRP£130 The Vango Spectre 300 tunnel tent features zipped storage space at both ends and two side entry points. As one or flysheet first pitching Protex® HC3000 polyester flysheet Fire retardant fabrics Weight: 3.15kg

Vango Halo 300 Tent Ref 1027463£132 RRP£150 New for 2010, the Vango Halo 300 semi-geodesic tent, with an innovative porch configuration has a dry area to store gear with an open section for other items. As one or flysheet first pitching Groundsheet in porch area Protex® HC3000 polyester flysheet Weight: 4kg

Vango Tempest 300 Tent Ref 1024674£115 RRP £130Available in two sizes, the Tempest 200 and 300 are our bestselling, lightweight, technical tunnel tents. Tension Band System gives stability inadverse conditions Plenty of inner storage pockets Large porch/storage area Protex® HC3000 polyester flysheet

Vango Omega 350 Tent Ref 1027453£140 RRP £160 This tunnel tent has lots of space for gear and sleeping. Tension Band System gives stability inadverse conditions As one or flysheet first pitching Large porch/storage area Protex® HC3000 polyester flysheet Weight: 5kg

BE PREPAREDFOR YOUR DofEGet ready for your Duke of Edinburgh Award’s equipment needs. All items shown are DofE recommended. Visit our website for further details on these and other DofE items.

Fire retardant fabrics Colour: Pine Weight: 3.30kg


Tempest 200 (not shown) Ref 1021707£97 RRP £110

56-57_SCOUT_SHOPS1.indd 56 14/01/2010 13:24

Vango Sherpa 60+10 Rucksack Ref 1027518£60 RRP £65The Vango Sherpa 60+10 Rucksack is great value and is available with classic pockets or expansion pockets. Volume: 60+10 litres Total weight: 2.5kg Colour: Atlantic Blue

Selected items will be available in February.

Sigg 1 Litre Drinks Bottle Ref 1014886£13.50 RRP £14.99Sigg water bottles are made using single piece impact extruded aluminium with no seams ensuring they are extremely durable. Virtually unbreakable

Vango Nitestar 450 Sleeping Bag Ref 1027525 (shown) and 1024689£43.50 RRP £50 Performance: 3-4 season Suggested usage: -2º to +15ºC Dimensions: 220 x 80 x 50cm Total weight: 2.25kg Pack size: 33 x 25cm Colours: Dahlia or Surf Blue

Recta Romer Compass Ref 1011337£15 RRP£17.99The Romer compass is suitable for those doing Silver or Gold levels of DofE. Scales: 1:10,000 +1:15,000 +1:25,000 +1:50,000 Graduation: 360° Size: 56 x 116mm

Order online at www.scouts.org.uk/shop or call 01903 766921

Mini Maglite Torch 2AA Blister Pack Ref 1009618£12 RRP £17.99 Built tough enough to last a lifetime, its durability and patented features are renowned. Linear focusing-flood to spot beam Spare bulb inside tail cap 2 x AA batteries required

Victorinox DofE Pocket Tool Ref 1026676£22 RRP£24.99The DofE Victorinox Pocket Tool has been designed to make it as safe as possible as there is no point on the knife. Comes with ten handy features to make basic running repairs.

All profits are returned to The Scout Association

Vango Nitestar 250 Sleeping Bag Ref 1026328 (shown) and 1027521£25 RRP £30Our bestselling sleeping bag, ideal for DofE. Performance: 2-3 season Suggested usage: +4º to +20ºC Dimensions: 220 x 80 x 50cm Total weight: 1.75kg Pack size: 30 x 22cm Colours: Black/Surf Blue or Dahlia


KNIVES MAY NOT BE

PURCHASED BY ANYONE UNDER 18 YEARS OLD

Vango Self- Infl ating Trek Mat Ref 1027529 Standard (other sizes available)£19 RRP £21The Vango self-inflating Trek Mat is perfect for sleeping when durability and strength are important. Dimensions: 183 x 51 x 3cm Weight: 840g with stuffsac

Nitestar 250

Nitestar 450

56-57_SCOUT_SHOPS1.indd 57 14/01/2010 13:25


0123456789

scouts.org.uk/activesupport

The transition from Scout Fellowship to

Scout Active Support is an opportunity to

enhance the support already being provided

all over the UK by people such as the in-

demand team in Monmouthshire District.

Alan Llewelyn relives a year in its life

(Very) ActiVeSupport

58-61_ADULTSUPPORT.indd 58 14/01/2010 14:35


Following the hectic Centenary year, we all

thought that 2008/9 would be a bit more

relaxing, but wishful thinking soon became

business as usual. The first big event of the year

is to organise the Cub Scout quiz, which has now become

a high-tech, interactive computer extravaganza that

requires some three months of preparation.

The Cub Scout swimming gala in Newport that follows

now depends on our fast-reaction stopwatch fingers

to record and see fair play. A high-pressure job indeed!

Starting in October, the Fellowship collectively spends

many hours on risk assessments, VIP lists, letters of

invitation and liaison with local police, council, Army

and Cadw (the Welsh heritage body) for the St George’s

Day parade and service. These were held at Chepstow

Castle in 2008 and Usk in 2009 and each was attended

by around 300 young people.

The all-Welsh Scout Council’s River Wye Canoe

Challenge saw us providing our usual lunch of hot dogs,

burgers and soup on the banks of the River Wye for those

taking part. For the last two years, all these challenges

have proved to be ground-breaking events. For the District

AGM we provided refreshments as usual and collected yet

another award for services to the District.

The group also provided support to run three bases at

the Cub Scout Challenge and Brian Holbrough Challenge,

both held at the Botany Bay campsite near Tintern.

A summer of supportOur July barbecue at Penpedairheol Farm found about 18

Members planning the annual joint Fellowships’ barbecue

at the Tudor Cule campsite near Llangenny. That campsite

barbecue saw some 50 Members from Newport and

Torfaen, plus some visiting Croatian Members sharing

good food and discussions about the future of Scouting

as well as testing old and new bases for future events.

We then assisted with our Scouts’ cooking at the

International Food Festival in Abergavenny which resulted

in an invitation to participate after our formal presentation

to the organisers. After a break of a couple of years, the

District cooking competition restarted and the group

assisted with organising and judging the themed

Scout Active Support

From FellowShip to Scout

Active SupportFrom September 2009, Scout Active Support

became the new name for Fellowship, but it is not

compulsory until December 2010. Like Fellowship,

Scout Active Support offers an ideal setting for

traditional skills that aren’t taught any more

to be passed on to new adults joining

Scouting, so we can keep all of this

valuable experience

within The Scout Association.

more infoWhy Change? Fellowship to Scout Active Support:

Your Quick Reference Guide is available from

www.scouts.org.uk/activesupport or free

of charge from the Scout Information Centre

on 0845 300 1818.

‘This generated such interest that

we now have a new Scout Group

at the village hall – albeit only

Beaver Scouts to begin with’

Dr Who event which, unsurprisingly, resulted in some

interesting dishes.

The District concert in November was well supported

with Fellowship doing a turn that included a history lesson

for the Scouts. Meanwhile, we organised the Usk Scouts

to cook a meal at a village Women’s Institute meeting as

a promotional event. This generated such interest that we

now have a new Scout Group at the village hall – albeit

only Beaver Scouts to begin with.

Freeing up time We managed a few social walks in autumn, during

which the issue of where the Fellowship could give

continued support to the District was addressed. The

Monmouthshire District took the view some years ago

that they should take as much District work as possible

away from the ‘uniformed leaders’ so that they could

concentrate on the day-to-day direct work with the

young people.

Over the years this has resulted in our being

responsible for risk assessments as required by any of the

13 Monmouthshire Groups and close liaison with the

County officials who are able to help promote Scouting.

This includes the Lord Lieutenant of Gwent and the High

Sheriff, local Westminster and Assembly MPs, all the

County of Monmouthshire mayors and local businesses.

Our team is well known and, as you can see, well

utilised. Long may it continue.

From FellowShip to Scout Active SupportSupport


The UKs no 1 Synthetic Ice Rink Company

www.funice.co.uk

THE ALL YEAR ROUND ACTIVITYA fabulous ice rink for your camp or special eventYes it is possible and the boys/girls will love it We can install in a hour itʼs not wet or coldJust great great fun fully self containedGenuine ice skates, indoors or outSome of the scout associations and campsWho have used our rinks are crewbreeSouth Shields Jamboree, Sheffield Jamboree,East Sussex Camp, West Sussex Camp etcContact [email protected] or call 01234871312



slug

more infoFactsheet Opening a new Scout Group or Section (FS500011)

The situation:The 1st Wick Scout Group became dormant in 2007, but before it closed for good the District and Group Scout Leader, with the help of the South West Regional Development Service, decided to give it one last push. Efforts were initially focussed on opening a Beaver Colony and possibly a Cub Pack.

The method:Placing an advert in the parish magazine and spreading the word through school assemblies enticed 25 people, both young and adult, to an open morning at the village hall.

Further evenings were arranged for the young people and these were used to speak with parents and other interested adults about volunteering. ‘The support was fantastic,’ says Jean. ‘There was a real desire from both adults and young people to have Scouting in their village.’

To keep the momentum going, it was decided to further promote Scouting at the Wick Church of England Primary School sports day. ‘The school had already been really supportive and they agreed for a

Looking for ideas to rejuvenate your Group? Want to open a new Group or bring a dormant one to life? Claire Welch speaks to Regional Development Officer Jean Marshall about a successful initiative in South Gloucestershire

good sportsrepresentative to be at the sports day,’ explains Jean.

The Regional Development Service attended the event on 3 July, armed with free bottles of water with a small promotional card attached. The water was distributed to the line of parents and relatives who were eagerly waiting to watch their children race.

‘Some were reluctant to take a bottle even though they were free,’ Jean recalls, ‘but with a little perseverance more than 150 were given away. This provided opportunities to talk about Scouting and the possibility of restarting the Group. Joining forms were available and those who registered their children’s interest were invited to a prearranged meeting the following week. From this, two adults are to be Assistant Leaders. Not bad for a morning at sports day!’

The result:The 1st Wick Beaver Colony and Cub Pack are now open, with more than 30 young people across the two sections and new adult leadership teams predominantly made up of parents.

Top tips for sports day recruitment

Get permission fromthe school

Do not charge for bottles of water or other promotional material

Ensure you have joining forms and pens to record interest

Make promotional cards eye-catching and generic, for example, use the national Want to Join number and website, so leftovers can be used at another event

Get the balance right! Parents are there to watch their child at a Sports Day, so let them come to you when they are ready. It’s OK to hand out material but if they choose not to engage on the day, all is not lost. They may follow it up from the details on the promotional cards when they get home

Use this recruitment method as part of a wider campaign

Seek advice from your Regional Development Officer.

Adult support



0123456789 Group in focus

GOGREEN MEANS

Ed Miliband said he recognised how important and tough the questions were

Members of this

group learn how

to advocate and

campaign for the

causes that matter to them and

to Scouting. Drawn from all over

the UK they have already enjoyed

great success with the Stop the

Rain Tax campaign and now have

other issues in their sights.

The Copenhagen conference on

climate change was attended by

global leaders including Prime Minster

Gordon Brown and Secretary of

State for Climate Change Ed

Miliband. On the first Monday after

the conference, Mr Miliband hosted

a briefing at the Department of

Energy and Climate Change where

he, along with Mr Brown who

appeared via video link, discussed the

summit and answered questions.

Tough questions In an audience which included

ambassadors, high commissioners

and green campaigners, three Scouts

put their enquiries directly to the

Secretary of State. Mr Miliband took

time to recognise how ‘important’

and ‘tough’ the questions were,

leaving him in no doubt as to how

seriously Scouts feel about the issue.

Speaking afterwards, Lizzie Harvey,

Network member and Cub Leader,

highlighted the impact Scouting

can have: ‘We look forward as a

movement. Scouting has been going

for 100 years and will continue for

another 100,’ she said. ‘Young

people can make a huge difference.’

‘It was important that we were

represented as we are the biggest

youth movement in the world,’

agreed Explorer Matt Lightfoot.

‘It was a really good event which

gave us a great insight into the

government’s views on how the

Copenhagen summit went.’

Proactive response Like the rest of the group, Matt is

keenly aware of the global nature

of the problem. ‘As an international

organisation, one of our duties is to

look out for our worldwide family of

Scouts, particularly those in countries

As if negotiating with some 200 other countries wasn’t hard

enough, the Prime Minister and the Secretary of State for

Climate Change returned from the Copenhagen summit

to be quizzed by the Scout Young Campaigners team

62-63_Group_Focus.indd 62 14/01/2010 14:13


Group in focus

more info

FOR YOUNG CAMPAIGNERS

What the Scouts asked Ed Miliband, and his responses at great risk from climate change.

This isn’t something we can just

react to. We need to be proactive.’

And that is exactly what the

Biggleswade contingent plan to do.

They discovered that the UK High

Commissioner of the Maldives (one

of the countries threatened by rising

sea levels) lives locally. ‘We are going

to try and get her involved in our

efforts to reduce our CO2 output,’

explained Explorer Jack Duffin.

After hearing the debate,

the 30-strong group turned

to discussing energy-efficient

Scout huts, carbon neutral

groups, tree planting, recycling

and eco-friendly living.

World leaders may have failed

to agree in Copenhagen, but these

Young Campaigners aren’t waiting

for them. They are stepping forward

to provide leadership within the

Scout Movement and take control

of their own futures.

How do you plan on pushing other countries to meetthe more ambitious endof their targets?We have to recognise that in a

lot of countries there is not the

call for sufficient ambition. Part

of what we need to do is to make

the case that it is necessary.

What changes are we going to see in the UK? What are you actually going to do to get people out of their cars, for example?We need to redouble our efforts

in the UK. We have ambitious

plans but we need to be more

ambitious. The point about

transport is absolutely right

– it’s about cycle lanes, high-

speed rail and all these things,

moving forward.

Wouldn’t the money you plan on spending to other countries to help them reduce emissions be better spent in the UK as we are not properly set up to make serious cuts either?The hardest thing about these

global negotiations is that

developed countries are

responsible for the problem.

I think if we are to tell

developing countries that

they can’t grow the same

way we did, then we need to

help them by financing that.

To find out more about Scout Young Campaigners

or to join the team, you can visit the group’s page on

Facebook. Just search for ‘Scout Young Campaigners’.

A 30-stronggroup of Young

Campaigners attended a briefing at the Department

of Energy and Climate Change

62-63_Group_Focus.indd 63 14/01/2010 14:56


‘I was 15 and wanted to see the world so I joined the Navy. Five years later I’d been round the world and worked with

the Marines as a rescue diver.’Though never a Scout until

recently, Tom Henderson OBE was among the first young people to complete the Gold DofE Award, and so the activities of Scouting have always been close to his heart. ‘I was made an honorary Scout nine months ago, and am now a proud member of the Fellowship of Scouting Rotarians.’

It was Tom’s connection with the Rotary organisation that helped him get ShelterBox going.

Restoring dignityA natural disaster in December 1999 sparked an idea. ‘I was half watching the TV and saw there had been a disaster in a distant corner of the world. This truck arrived and they started throwing loaves of bread onto the ground. I turned to my wife and said “Why can’t they hand the bread

of boxes have been sent.The charity has come a long way

in ten short years, and in areas of the world affected by disaster, Tom’s big green box is a recognised trademark, a symbol of the hope its contents provide. But as he’s quick to point out, there’s much more to do. An early link with Scouts in Africa prompted Tom to consider working more closely with Scouting to make the box even more visible and raise money and awareness for the cause.

‘Wherever we go in the world after a disaster, we arrive with our kit, and the Scouts come out of the woodwork. In Kenya, after fighting had displaced thousands of people, Scouts helped pitch 200 tents in two hours, and what’s great is when you see Scouts helping, you can leave them to get on with the job. They’re well-organised, disciplined and reliable; a resource for us, and a godsend to their local community. While you can buy a box for £490, the Scouts’ local knowledge is priceless, and we’ve seen this all over the world.’

Partnership potentialThis encounter with Scouts on the ground in emergency situations led Tom to realise what a partnership Scouting and ShelterBox could be.

In celebrating ShelterBox’s tenth anniversary, there are plenty of activities to get involved in, and of course raising money for a ShelterBox is an ideal way of helping others.

‘We’re excited about having a really big year this year, and Scouts coming on board with us is a big part of our plans, so I really hope as many Groups, Units and Networks can get involved with some of our ideas.’ From meeting programmes to a scavenger hunt in London as part of Big Green Box Week, Scouts can really make a difference by teaming up with Tom and his life-saving boxes.

out?” When you’ve lost everything why should you lose your dignity?’

The broadcast got under Tom’s skin, and he began thinking about what he could do about the response to international disasters. He wrote a list answering: ‘What would I need in a disaster if it unfolded in my home town?’ From one piece of paper came months of research, and in April 2000 the ShelterBox was born. ‘Once I’d found the box, I walked into my local Rotary club in Cornwall and told them what I was doing. I asked them to raise their hands if they didn’t want to help. No one did, and away we went.’

Boxing cleverShelterBox is an international disaster relief charity that delivers emergency shelter, warmth and dignity to people affected by disaster worldwide. The first consignment of 143 boxes was sent to earthquake victims in the Indian state of Gujarat in January 2001. Since then, tens of thousands

ShelterBox0123456789

more than juSt a BoxSince Tom Henderson founded ShelterBox

in 2000, he’s been awarded the OBE and

has helped a million people. Elis Matthews

meets the man with the big green box

64-65_shelterbox1.indd 64 14/01/2010 13:14


Ways to get involved

The ShelterBox Challenge – A series of activities to help young people understand disaster relief, starting in March 2010.www.youngshelterbox.org/leaders

Big Green Box Week – 12-19 JuneGet involved in the ShelterBox Scavenger Hunt and help spread awareness of the vital work ShelterBox does in saving lives.

To get involved email [email protected] or call 01326 569782.

For more information about the work of ShelterBox visit www.shelterbox.org

Big Green Box Week – 12-19 June

Get involved with ShelterBox and help people affected by disasters

Tom Henderson OBE

Scouts provide calm in emergency situations


64-65_shelterbox1.indd 65 14/01/2010 13:14

66 Scouting February/March 2010

In the balanceOne person in the UK is diagnosed with diabetes every

three minutes. However, with consideration and good communication, enjoying an adventurous Scouting life with the condition can be easy, writes Sue Burton

e veryone’s heard of a balanced diet and most know that the energy we use should equate with the energy we take in. But for some the balancing act is

more critical.Diabetes occurs when there is a deficiency in

the hormone insulin. As a result, sugar builds up in the bloodstream. Anything which disturbs the balance of food intake, insulin treatment and exercise can have an effect on someone with diabetes so it has to be carefully monitored.

Of course that doesn’t mean no activity! After all, it didn’t stop sufferer Sir Steve Redgrave bagging all those gold medals, but it is a condition that cannot be taken lightly.

At a weekly meeting there may be little evidence that a Scout has diabetes, but you will need to be aware of what to do in certain circumstances and how to react in an emergency.

Regular updatesAs soon as you start planning extended activities, which cross meal or medication times, there will be other issues to consider. Timing, content and regularity of meals is crucial. Each person and their parents/carers will have received advice on their diet. Leaders will need to ensure that they are regularly updated, as this will change with growth and development. Someone with diabetes may have some flexibility with meals, but you will need to be guided on a case-by-case basis.

Obviously as an individual gets older they assume more responsibility for checks and medication. You’ll probably find that someone with diabetes will monitor their own blood sugar levels and inject themselves with insulin as a regular part of their daily routine. The most common way of injecting insulin involves a pen device. Check if they are using a reusable or single-use pen as there may be disposal issues. They may also have a rotation grid to check that they move their injection site around to prevent lumps forming under the skin.

When planning an activity, make sure the routines regarding injections, meals and exercise are followed, taking time, privacy and hygiene requirements into account. Arrangements may also be needed for the correct storage and disposal of equipment and medication. If the activity requires additional exercise (this could apply to weekly meetings, of course) they may need some extra starchy food beforehand.

Recognise the signsIf someone with diabetes experiences a significant change in their blood sugar this could lead to hypoglycaemia or hyperglycaemia – known as having a ’hypo’ or ‘hyper’.

With a hypo the blood sugar falls too low. The individual may say they feel weak, dizzy or ‘funny’.

66-67_HEALTH&WELLBEING.indd 66 14/01/2010 13:23

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine 67

IN THE BALANCE

‘There may be little evidence that a Scout has diabetes, but you will need to be aware of what to do in certain circumstances’

Case study‘Scouting with diabetes doesn’t mean I stop having fun,’ says Nick, 13.‘I just have an extra thing to think about. I check I have all my medication and try to keep it under control. Part of this is giving instructions to the leaders about what to look out for and how to deal with it.

‘Camping is a lot harder than living at home! I have to make sure that I don’t get distracted, but at the same time I don’t want to miss out on anything. Archery, climbing and kayaking are just three of the activities that I love to do and it is with Scouts that I can do these, especially on camp. As long as I keep one eye on my diabetes I can do everything the same as everyone else.’

Health & wellbeing 0123456789

Other signs include shivering, confusion, tiredness, blurred vision, perspiring, tingling in the lips or

pounding in the chest. This can come on fairly rapidly. Individuals

with diabetes can carry sugary foods, glucose

tablets or a gel to take when they feel it coming on. They

generally recognise the warning signs and

know what to do. A hyper (when blood sugar

gets too high) is more gradual. Symptoms include feeling thirsty or sick, stomach pains, excessive drinking or visits to the toilet, drowsiness or sickly smelling breath (rather like pear drops).

You will need to be prepared for both occurrences and know the usual signs for who you are with. Action will be needed, you can’t just ‘wait and see’, so make sure you know what to do. If a Scout with diabetes becomes generally unwell you need to seek early medical/parental advice. If they should become unconscious you must get immediate medical attention.

Any sites of infection, such as cuts or blisters, will need attention as they provide a route into the body for germs. Make sure that all leaders, friends, Patrol/Six members and so on are briefed about how to act, and that the individual with diabetes has some form of identification (an insulin-user’s card, for example) so any help, if necessary, can be provided quickly and efficiently.

more infoFactsheet FS250009 – Diabetes. BD Medical – Diabetes Care has recently produced new patient support literature for different age groups, giving clear advice and information.www.bddiabetes.co.uk Diabetes UK/British Diabetic Association www.diabetes.org.uk

having fun,’ says Nick, 13.‘I just have an extra thing to think about. I check I have all my

66-67_HEALTH&WELLBEING.indd 67 14/01/2010 13:23

0123456789


Are section-branded templates available? Not yet. We are launching with the main Association-branded materials, which can be used by all sections. We will be working on section-branded templates at a later date.

I can’t find what I’m looking for – what do I do?Clearly we won’t be able to meet every Scouting need

straight away. However many templates can be adapted. For example, Get Stuck In (opposite) could be used as a recruitment poster or for an activities day. We will be building up the library over time.

How long will it take for my resources to be delivered? The exact timing will be advised when you place your order.

Is this a money-making exercise for the Association?No – the Association will not make any money from this. If you decide to place an order, the transaction is between you and the printer (Burlington Press).

Is the site secure?Yes – the sign-in is linked to sign-in to the members area, to ensure the system

can only be used by Members of Scouting.

Can I use my own images and logos? A small bank of images is also available for you to choose from. There is also a facility to add a local Scouting logo or partnership logo on flyers and posters.

Local communications0123456789

FAQs

To check progress of print orders and deliveries please email [email protected]

Is this a money-making exercise for the Association?No – the Association will not make any money from this. If you decide to place an order, the transaction is between you and the printer (Burlington Press).

Is the site secure?Yes – the sign-in is linked to sign-in to the members area, to ensure the system

FAQ

H ow many times have you found yourself staring at a blank page on your computer when creating

promotional materials for a Scout event? Whether it’s for an activities day, a quiz night or an AGM, creating something from scratch can be a real chore. Despite the fact that the requirements are almost identical from Group to Group, volunteers are constantly reinventing the wheel when it comes to local communications.

The personal touch That’s why we’ve developed a new service allowing you to create your own personalised resources, adding local information, timing and contact details. There is no charge for you to create the materials and print them as PDFs on your home printer. If multiple copies are required, the system is linked to a trusted print supplier, BPC Ltd, who can process your order at a highly competitive rate. The benefits are significant:

The templates are quick and easy to use – you can create a professional-looking poster, including your local details, in three minutes.

You are freed up to get on with the real business of Scouting.

All images and fonts will be in place already

– there’s no need to spend money on expensive software or equipment.

Your local resources will

have the same look and feel as national resources.

Communications can be personalised, making them more powerful and effective.

What’s available? A library of resources has been created for you to explore and adapt. This includes:

posters flyers stationery (letterheads,

business cards, compliment slips) invites and tickets signage for your meeting place banners local logo generator –

create your own Group, County or District logo

We will add to the templates over the year and there’s also a place where you can make suggestions for new resources. Obviously the potential is great, and if you can’t see what you want, please be patient while we gradually build up the library.

GO CREATE!Imagine what it would be like to choose posters, flyers, stationery and

banners, and be able to adapt and print them. Well, that’s now possible

with a new online system available to all Members

GO CREATE!banners, and be able to adapt and print them. Well, that’s now possible

LAUNCHES MARCH 2010

NEW!

68-69_GOCreate2.indd 68 14/01/2010 15:01

www.scouts.org.uk/magazine 69

Log onto www.scouts.org.uk and click on the Communications Centre link.

Choose the item you require from the options (such as poster, flyer etc).

Fill in your details, choose images and logo, then check your PDF.

Select how many copies you require then proceed to checkout.

Email your feedback and suggestions to [email protected]

and click on the Communications Centre link.

the options (such as poster, flyer etc).

and logo, then check your PDF.

require then proceed to checkout.

Email your feedback and suggestions to [email protected]

How to get started

‘The new template system is

great; it will help us look much

more professional’Dave Hatton, Explorer Scout Leader

You can also add your logo here

Your contact details and web address

Name of your event

Event details

68-69_GOCreate2.indd 69 14/01/2010 13:02


more info

Special discounts, offers and events to warm even the coldest of winter daysSpecial discounts, offers and events to warm even the coldest of winter days

Cel

ebs:

© Ia

n Tu

ttle

/Com

ic R

elie

f Ltd

Ade Adepitan and Dame Kelly Holmes are just

two of the many famous sportspeople

supporting Sport Relief

Fun and gamesget active

Sport Relief 2010 is just around the corner and there is still time to organise an event in your Scout Group

As one of the UK’s biggest fundraising events, Sport Relief brings the entire nation together to get active, raise cash and change lives. All the money raised by the public helps people living incredibly tough lives both at home in the UK and across the world’s poorest countries.

The whole thing kicks off on Friday 19 March when the nation gets active, raises cash and has a ball at home, at work or at school; before they settle down to watch a night of top Sport Relief telly. Then it’s the big one, when everyone is invited to

do one, three or six miles at the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile events taking place across the UK on Sunday 21 March.

Get involvedThere are tons of waysthat your Group can get involved. You could challenge your Scoutsto organise a sponsored 24-hour football match,or get everybody to makea donation to wear sporty fancy dress to your Scouts meeting. You could even set up your own mile route around a local park and your Group can get sponsored to run as

many miles as they can.Still wracking your brains?

Visit www.scouts.org.uk/sportrelief where you can find lots more fantastic fundraising ideas and resources. Or call the Information Centre on 0845 300 1818 for more details. There is a Scout cover form and sponsor form on the website. Using these to pay in your fundraising money will mean that you’ll receive a well-deserved Sport Relief thank you certificate for your Group.

Scouts on the runLast Sport Relief, 2nd Bollington Scout Group (pictured) in Cheshire certainly rose to the Sport Relief challenge. They were sponsored to climb a nearby hill as many times as they could in two hours… in the dark! Guided by headtorches they climbed the equivalent of Mount Everest between them, raising £360 forSport Relief.

Make your money count£5 could pay for a mosquito net to protect a mother and child from potentially fatal mosquito bites that spread malaria.£50 could pay for an isolated older person to attend 12 tea dances a year at Nottingham Forest Football Club. It’s a vital chance for them to get out of their home, socialise with friends and feel far less alone.£500 could pay for five children living on the streets in Tanzania to go to secondary school for a whole year, giving them a way out of poverty.

For fundraising ideas, visit www.scouts.org.uk/sportrelief. For activity ideas specifically tailored to your section, visit Programmes Online, www.scouts.org.uk/pol and search ‘Sport Relief’. Let us know what you’re doing by emailing [email protected]. Sport Relief is an initiative of Comic Relief, registered charity 326568 (England/Wales); SC039730 (Scotland).

70-73_PROMOS.indd 70 14/01/2010 14:29


Promotions


http://leisure.ordnancesurvey.co.uk

Attract wildlife into your garden and earn your Naturalist Badge with Natural England

If you put all England’s 19 million gardens next to each other they would cover an area the

size of Essex. Or, to put it another way, that’s over 300,000 football pitches!

That’s some green space. We want to turn all these gardens into a giant network for wildlife by helping to attract bugs, mini-beasts, birds and even mammals to come and live in these fantastic natural habitats.

Natural England, sponsors of the Naturalist Activity Badge have a

fabulous online resource, the Big Wildlife Garden, which is packed

with ideas about how to help wildlife thrive in your green space. With spring

just around the corner, get some inspiration

Help wildlife to help you

TO FIND OUT MORE and to register your Scout grounds visit www.bwg.naturalengland.org.uk

to start planting nectar-rich flowers or perhaps even find space for a pond.

Growth in the undergrowthYou can do something great for wildlife around your Scout building and grounds too. You never know what’s lurking in the undergrowth.

Thousands of people have already signed up and are now sharing their tips, diaries and pictures online. By helping wildlife in your backyard you can earn points towards our great certificates, as well as your own Naturalist Badge!

Scouts have used Ordnance Survey for years and detailed maps have helped many to learn about navigation. They are ideal for Scout Leaders, Scouts and Cubs to use when camping, orienteering and hiking or for gaining the experience needed for the Scout Navigator Badge.

Top products for Scouts OS Explorer Map – perfect for walks, hikes,rides and rambles. Covering every part of England, Scotland and Wales with a 4cm to 1km (2.5 inches to 1 mile) scale. OS Landranger Map – your ideal planning partner for days out and holidays. This series covers Great Britain with 204 detailed maps. Each map provides

all the information required to know your local area in greater detail.

Get active with the weatherproof versions.The maps in the OS Explorer Map – Active and OS Landranger Map – Active ranges are ‘encapsulated’ or weatherproof maps. They contain the same information asthe standard series but are covered ina lightweight, protective plastic coating.

Ordnance Survey – great mapping for ScoutsOrdnance Survey, Britain’s national mapping agency provides essentials to those who love the outdoors. From detailed maps to digital mapping products for gadget lovers on the go

70-73_PROMOS.indd 71 14/01/2010 14:30


more infoA support pack has also been launched to give leaders the tools and information they need to deliver the sessions. Both packs are available online at www.chubb.co.uk; and www.scouts.org.uk/chubb

72

Since its introduction in November 2003, more than 72,000 Scouts have received the Scout Fire Safety Activity Badge. The badge requires Scouts to understand what causes a fire, how to call the fire brigade, how to understand fire blanket and extinguisher usage, as well as fire safety for the home.

Commenting on the successful partnership, Jane Garland, Chubb Fire’s Marketing Communication Manager, said: ‘Our expertise in the field of fire safety means we can offer The Scout Association some practical assistance in running the badge.’ Jane added: ‘The importance of fire safety cannot be emphasised enough. It’s a sad fact that in the UK almost 13,500 people are killed or injured each year in fires that could have been preventable. The Fire Safety Activity Badge offers Scouts invaluable advice on fire prevention, detection and escape routes should a fire break out. It is great to see so many young people participating, and hopefully taking away some vital knowledge to help keep them safe from fire in years to come.’

New and improved resource packNow online, the resource pack includes a poster, leaflet and certificate on how to pass the badge as well four new activity worksheets for leaders. These are designed as an aid to plan sessions on key fire safety topics to help Scouts on their way to achieving the badge.

The worksheet offers straightforward advice to minimise the risk or the severity of fire in four key areas. With fire safety for the home a key component of the Chubb Fire

Blazing the fire safety trail with Chubb

Safety Badge, the first worksheet is ‘Creating a Home Escape Plan’, which requires Scouts to consider and plan the best ways to exit their home in the event of a fire. The next focuses on ‘Stop, Drop and Roll’, a simple fire safety technique to extinguish a fire on a person’s clothes or hair without, or in addition to, the use of conventional fire-fighting equipment.

Creating the perfect campfire safely is the theme of the third worksheet, looking at where and how to start a fire, and keep safe while everyone is gathered around it. The fourth worksheet centres on heath and grass fires, and the damage they can cause.

Demonstration roadshowsAlongside these worksheets, Chubb Fire will be continuing its ever-popular live fire demonstrations. Every year a series of hand-on demonstrations are held at various locations across the UK, enabling local Scouts to complete their badge with a live fire demonstration led by a specialist Chubb Fire Training officer. In 2010 demonstrations are planned to be held in Glasgow, Newcastle, Bath and Lincoln, with dates and locations to be confirmed.

Chubb Fire’s successful sponsorship of the Chubb Fire Scout Fire Safety Badge continues, with a new resource and three-year partnership

70-73_PROMOS.indd 72 14/01/2010 14:30


Promotions

70-73_PROMOS.indd 73 14/01/2010 14:31


Win fantastic prizes in our photography, circus kit and Africa movie competitions!

A picture is worth a thousands words, but in Scouting there should be only one word – ‘adventure’. We want you to sendus photos that capture the spirit of Scouting and you’ll be in with a chance of winning a selection of Scouting goodies as well as having your photo on the cover of the October/November 2010 Scouting magazine.

There are three categories:

People The outdoors Your Big Adventure

event

The deadline for entries is 30 August but start uploading your photos now to display them inthe Flickr gallery. There

will also be the chance to vote for your favourite.

The prize: A selection of

Scouting publications, including the new Scouting Skills book, The Scout’s Companion and Playing the Game plus a selection of Scouting goodies,

We want your photos

74-75_COMP.indd 74 14/01/2010 14:10


slug

Competitions

TOP TIPS FROM THE EXPERTS Photographingone or two people By Chloë Chapman, portrait photographer

1. Always focus on the eyes.2. If the sun is in the sitter’s eyes, they will squint. 3. Don’t snap someone who is uncomfortable – they’ll look awkward. 4. Hands and arms are important in portraits so keep them in as they tell you a lot about a person.5. If a subject looks at the camera this implies intimacy, if they look out of the frame it can look quite heroic.6. Ask people to sit up for better posture.7. Leaning in gives a subject an amicable quality.8. If a person has difficulty holding a smile, ask them to say ‘flakes’. This works much better than ‘cheese’.9. Use a wide aperture to isolate the subject from the background. www.chloechapman.com

Photographinga landscapeBy Allan Baxter, landscape photographer and Scouting magazine contributor

1. To take top landscape photographs, first be prepared to go the extra mile. Try avoiding the clichéd images.2. Get up early. Be ready to shoot at dawn and dusk. The sun does some amazing things when it arrives and disappears.3. If you are photographing flowers, mushrooms or insects, get your belly on the floor and be the same level as your subject. Play with the focus and see what happens.4. Finally, if you need inspiration try going online and looking for Ansel Adams – learn from the best.www.allanbaxter.com

WIN WIN WINWe’ve teamed up with Bezerkaz Circus to offer you the chance to win a box of circus equipment worth £140 (plus up to £40P&P).

Bezerkaz Circus visit Scouts all over the UK, offering circus skills workshops

and performances for meetings, Group or

District days, county and international camps.

You may have seen them riding about on

unicycles, stilt walking, making gigantic bubbles,

entertaining hundreds of kids or juggling at Cumbaree,

Chamboree, Sherwood, Poacher, EuroJam or the World Scout Jamboree. The prize includes diabolos, plate spinning, balloon modelling and twirling equipment. To enterEmail [email protected] with ‘Circus competition’ in the subject header. The winner will be chosen at random. Bezerkaz is also offering any Scout Group who adds a link to their website a £10 discount. If you are interested in booking a workshop or entertainment please contact Shaun on 07866 261346 or visit www.bezerkaz.co.uk

Submitting your entry:To upload your photograph, go to www.flickr.com/groups/scoutingcompetition where you will find a gallery of all the photos. For full details, see www.scouts.org.uk/competitions

Photographs need to be at least 300dpi, with one side of the image at least 2000 pixels. Lower-resolution images can be submitted but if your photo is selected we will ask for high-resolution version.

WIN WIN WIN!We have ten copies of the DVD Expedition Africa to give away.

Join four renowned explorers including British explorer Benedict Allen and wildlife expert Dr Mireya Mayor on an epic adventure as they follow in the footsteps of Henry Morton Stanley, who in 1871 famously ventured into the heart of Africa on a quest to find missing missionary and Victorian icon, Dr David Livingstone.

To enterEmail [email protected] with ‘Africa competition’ in the subject header. Ten winners will be chosen at random.

including an i.Scout hoodie.

Your photo in Scouting magazine – if it’s good enough we will put it on the front cover of the October/November issue!

Terms and conditions By submitting your photographs you are agreeing for The Scout Association to use them for Scouting promotional purposes. Please ensure you have permission from parents of all young people in the photograph before submitting.

74-75_COMP.indd 75 14/01/2010 14:10

01775 723298 | [email protected]



Round our place

77

Tell us If you’d like us to come round your place, drop us a line at [email protected]

Round our place

FIRED UP

Don’t get me wrong, we are very proud of our place. There’s so much fun to be had, from our youngest Beaver Lucy, who’s six,

to our oldest leader Mick who wishes he could be six again. The Group is just like one big, happy family.

At the moment, as the bonfire is being lit for our annual Group get-together with fireworks and hot dogs, the hut is old, cold and smells of mould. There’s rising damp and a leaky roof – even our tea bags go mouldy! Dust comes in from the ceiling, mice from the floor, but for all this we are very fond of it. Why? Because it has provided us with the ideal base for having so much fun.

The Group has grown steadily over the last three years and, with the addition of an Explorer Unit meeting here, we’re set to continue that trend. Land outside provides us with an area to camp, cook, build shelters and play wide games, not forgetting the roaring campfire, which all sections love.

End of an eraThere are advanced plans afoot to rebuild the hut, and make it bigger and brighter so that it can be used by other groups in the community. Fundraising has taken on a whole new meaning: frightening, scary but we can do it. Our Scouts and the dedicated leadership team deserve a warm, clean place to Scout in.

Dust, cold and mice sum up the 1st Blisworth’s meeting place. Even in November, the Northamptonshire Group sometimes meets outdoors. That doesn’t stop Group Scout Leader Sandra O’Connor from having ample affection for their characterful hut

77_ROUND_OUR_HOUSE.indd 77 14/01/2010 13:33


CLASSIFIEDAppropriate 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.

ACTIVITIES & ACTIVITY CENTRES

LES MAINGYS, GUERNSEY Best campsite in the Channel

Islands, full range of activities. Enjoy the Island’s history and Blue

Flag beaches. Camping for 500, hostel for 32, Sports Hall and

Indoor Climbing Wall, Archery etc. Tel: 01481 256 796

or www.scouts.org.gg

ADVENTURES AFLOAT

For your next camp, hire one of our 12-berth traditional canal boats for an exciting holiday to remember.

• Best choice of routes• Wide variety of activities and visits• Economical prices from - £54.00pppw• Skippers provided for your peace of mind

Colour Brochure available from:BCBS Ltd., Gas Street, BIRMINGHAM, B1 2JT

Tel: 0121 236 7057

• Group tuition

• Windsurfi ng, Canoeing, Sailing, Archery, Raft Building

• Camping, Café, Bar, Disco, Games room

• 1st aid courses

Croft Farm Leisure & Water ParkTewkesbury, Glos. GL20 7EE01684 772321 E-mail: [email protected]

For all your Canoeing and Kayaking needs we can supply:All your equipment from a boat to a throw line.Courses...1 star, 2 star, 3 star, fsrt. First Aid, Food Hygiene.Archery Taster SessionsClimbing SessionsDay activities through to full residentials with indoor accomodation or camping.

Please visit our web site at www.go2h2o.co.uk

We can be contacted on

01765 635333 or [email protected]

TRI-IT / Go2H2o

78_81_classified_FebMar10.indd 78 14/01/2010 15:24


ACTIVITIES & ACTIVITY CENTRES

NEW ZEALANDSummer tour of

North & South IslandsFrom 21 February 2011

Open to all scouting personnel plus friends/

partners.Spring tour of North &

South IslandsFrom 10 November 2010

Open to Ex-scouting members/friends/partnersFor Itinerary and package

priceE [email protected]

Ph/Fax NZ 0064 68354493GUIDES NZ C/- Jenny GarrettPO Box 1138, Napier 4140, NZ

HOLIDAYS ABROAD

MIDLANDS

Visit the Isle of Man in 2010Multi Activity Adventure Course.

Full board. Fantastic Island location. Full adventure activity

programme 9am-8.30pm.All courses are run in association with

Isle of Man Event Services.

Phone 01624 [email protected]

www.adventure-centre.co.uk

GRADBACH SCOUT CAMP

Located in the beautiful Peak District

Ideal for Walking, Climbing, Caving & Alton Towers

See our website at: www.gradbachscoutcamp.org.uk

Farmhouse, Cottage & Camping

A country atmosphere – yet only five miles from Edinburgh city centre. Located at the edge of the Pentland Hills.

• Accommodation• Activities• Camping• Team Building• Training• Special Needs Centre• Places to visit in Edinburgh• Easy Access• Day Visits• Friendly welcome!

...fo

r act

ion

and

adve

ntur

e

P 0131 441 1878 E [email protected] www.bonaly.org.uk

Visit ‘The Old School Lodge’ - Deiniolen Four miles from Llanberis and the foot of Snowdon this Scout owned and managed lodge is suitable for all ages. The centre can accommodate up to 38 people in 8 en-suite bunk rooms and 2 twin bedded rooms. Resident warden.

For details on prices and a booking form visit out site:

www.oldschoollodge.org.uk or

contact the booking secretary on 0151 677 5703

Looking for a base to explore Snowdonia?Look no further!

“Runways End”Scout Activity Centre

4 acres of Camping for 200-300 Campers. Also, a new Modular Building coming on

line soon (sleeps 30-40 people). Camping pack holidays brick building with showers/disabled facilities on site activities climbing/abseil, shooting, archery, cave experience, campfi re circle, chapel, canoeing on canal nearby, scout shop, Many local attractions.

Contact: Becky Riley Booking Secretary

Runways End Scout Activity CentrePhone; 01252 676849

Email; [email protected]

Carne Holiday & Training CentreSituated in the south east corner of Ireland, 20 mins from Rosslare Euro port and on the beach, the centre provides indoor accommodation for up to 70 people. Water and outdoor activities available on request. Large extremely well equipped kitchen plus staff quarters and large dining room and recreational hall. Camping available, hot showers and toilets on site. Enquiries to [email protected] or contact Emily McCann at 00353872222418 used extensively by Scouts and Guides. Website under construction.

BEAUDESERT PARK124 acres of parkland adjoining Cannock Chase Country Park,

Staffordshire. Camping for 1000 people, 37 different woodland sites.

Modern toilet facilities with hot water and free showers.

6 accommodation buildings catering from 12 to 24,

fully equipped and heated.

Activities include Hiking, Archery, Climbing Wall, Orienteering, Pioneer-ing, Rafting, Low Ropes, Abseiling, Zip Wire, Crate stacking, Tree Climbing,

Jacobs Ladder, Go Karts, Indoor Games Room, Crafts.

Many nearby offsite attractions.Ideal for D of E Expeditions.

Chck Availability and Book On-line @ www.beaudesert.org

Brochure: [email protected]

Telephone: 01543 682278 Fax: 01543 682623

RIDING/TREKKING/CAMPINGin the wild mountains of wales.

Beautiful back to basics campsite, with tree-lined, clear-water stream. Exhilarating riding

on kind responsive horses. Join in grooming and tacking up,

demonstrations and advice always given. W.T.R.A. Approved. A.A.L.A. Registered. W.T.B.

Accredited. Est over 50 years.

GRANGE TREKKING, Capel-y-ffi n, Abergavenny,

Mon, NP7 7NP Waleswww.grangetrekking.co.uk

01873 890 215

CAMPING DIRECTORY

Broadstone WarrenScout Site & Activity Centre

www.broadstonewarren.org.uk

'Campsites just a click away'www.asgc.org.uk

Broad2x2 12/22/04 2:48 PM Page 1

Association of Scout & Guide Centres'Campsites just a click away'www.asgc.org.uk

Broad2x2 12/22/04 2:48 PM Page 1

Association of Scout & Guide Centres

CAMPING



SUPPLIERS

WILLIAMS - TENT REPAIRSI repair tents and other canvas goods.I have an industrial sewing machine so I can make and/or repair some other goods like curtains, covers, bags and some heavy clothing like jeans and jackets. Ring and see if I can help.Williams – 0208 644 3544

WILLIAMS - TENT REPAIRSI repair tents and other canvas goods.I have an industrial sewing machine so I can make and/or repair some other goods like curtains, covers, bags and some heavy clothing like jeans and jackets. Ring and see if I can help.

FOR HIRE

CUMBRIA- KESWICK SCOUT GROUP HALL FOR HIREDo you want to visit Keswick with your young people or as Leaders?

Keswick Scout Group Hall is in the centre of Keswick and is available for hire.Fully equipped new kitchen, new toilets and shower.

The price is £6.50 per person per night. You will be given a very warm welcome

For further details contact: Gill Reader 1st Keswick Scout Group Treasurer

[email protected] Phone: 017687 72073

[email protected] www.tanmill.co.uk Call 01902 880991

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 Years of use

Nottingham Screen PrintsTEE-SHIRTS & SWEATSHIRTS

Badges - Polo’s - Hoodies - Fleeces.Embroidery - Screen Printing

0115-967 6262www.nottmsp.co.uk

10, Park Road. Woodthorpe.Nottingham. NG5 4HR

See website for current designs

WALES

SnowdoniaCampsite + bunkhouses.

Hot and cold showers and toilets. Scouts welcome.

www.gwerngofi saf.co.ukTel: 01690 720276



MANUFACTURERS AND RETAILERS

HOLIDAYS

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

www.glasgowscoutshop.com Equipping you for your Scouting adventures!

SOUTH WEST

NORTH WESTSUPPLIERS

The ideal site for your Summer & Weekend Camp Within the New Forest National Park Good access to motorways, main roads, local attractions and coast

Easy reach of Brownsea Island

FACILITIES INCLUDE• Fully equipped heated building sleeping 36, ideal for winter camps

• Smaller self-contained unit sleeping 14• 8½-acre site with additional farm fields

• Modern toilet block with free hot showers• Well-stocked Providore

• Activities include Climbing/Abseiling, Archery, Minefield & Spiders Web

SAE FOR DETAILS TO: The Warden, Braggers Wood Camping & Activity Centre, Braggers Lane, Bransgore,

Christchurch, Dorset BH23 8EF Email: [email protected]: www.braggerswood.org.uk

BRAGGERS WOODCamping & Activity Centre

SCOTLAND

INSURANCE

HIGHLY COMPETITIVE COVER FORMINI BUSES

Plus The Endeavour Scout Policy for •Equipment •Premises/Scout Huts •Scout Centres •Campsites

Contact us now:Tel: 020 8345 5500 Fax: 020 8482 2000

Email: [email protected]

Quotations also available for Northern Ireland

BE PREPARED!FOR LOW-COST QUALITY INSURANCE

To advertise here, please contact September on 020 8962 2952

or email [email protected]



0123456789 Last laugh by Ian West

Judging by the way the geese are flying, and that the mackerel sky is turning from orange to pink, I think it’ll be a fine day tomorrow. But just to make sure, shall I Google it on my BlackBerry?

Hiking on a compass bearing is easy; it’s just that I was away when they taught us how to avoid obstacles…

As far as I’m concerned, sometimes you can never have enough frapping turns.

This involves Scouting skills on all levels: fire lighting, burning properties of woods, wind direction, teamwork, cooking, identifying unknown objects in the bottom of cooking pots...

Do you think B-P would have bothered ‘lighting a fire by rubbing sticks together’ if he’d known about self-igniting gas burners?

‘Devise a method of sending and receiving a message containing 25 characters...’A ‘no-brainer’ as far as I’m concerned...

82_LAST_LAUGH.indd 82 14/01/2010 12:57

IBC_Scouting_FebMar10.indd 6 13/01/2010 18:24

OBC_Scouting_FebMar10.indd 6 13/01/2010 18:25

scouting - february/march 2010

Documents