April/May 2015

WIN 20 tickets to Alton Towers Page 60

BEAR

GRYLLSThe UK Chief tells us all about his love of adventure

THE YORKSHIRE THREE PEAKS Break out your hiking boots for this endurance walk 10 TOP TIPS To help you get fit SURF’S UP! Cornish Scouts are hitting the waves

Join, share and get involved at Scouts Editors Abbie Cavendish, Lee Griffiths, Vicky Milnes and Kevin Yeates Adventure for all Scouting Scotland Editor Scouting ensures that young people have access to adventure Addie Dinsmore With thanks to… Jagz Bharth, Ralph Doe, – it’s been that way since the beginning. We have always , Graham Haddock, Eddie James, encouraged young people to get outside, make friends and start Hannah Kentish, Stephen Lewis, Samantha Marks, Justin Mullender, Mike Newman, Terry O’Neill, creating their own adventures. This issue of Scouting showcases Charlotte Ord, Emma Saunders, Rupert Shanks, just some of those adventures. On page 20 you can read about Pete Stillman, James Stuttart, Jay Thompson, Trail Magazine, Yeji Yeti Yun a Group of surfing Scouts in Cornwall and the leaders who are Cover Image Air New Zealand/Rex making sure everyone can have a go – no matter what. The national magazine of ISSN 0036 – 9489 Scouting has always opened young people’s eyes to the world © 2015 The Scout Association of promise and possibilities around them. On page 41, you can Registered Charity Numbers: SC038437 and 306101 (England and Wales) read about the very first adventures of some of our members; Published by The Scout Association, , Chingford, E4 7QW even though they took place in the last 50 years, the spirit of Tel: 0845 300 1818 Fax: 020 8433 7103 adventure and excitement hasn’t changed a single bit. Email: [email protected] Website: scouts.org.uk/magazine For young Scouts the simplest adventures can make In association with the most powerful memories and can lead to the most Scouts Scotland, Registered Scottish Charity No. SC017511, affiliated to The Scout Association (UK). incredible opportunities. How many of you remember Scottish Scout HQ, Fordell Firs, climbing hills as a kid; feeling like you were on top of the Hillend, , KY11 7HQ Tel: 01383 419073 world as you ran (or rolled) back down them? That’s how Website: scouts.scot members of the Hampshire Team got Facebook: facebook.com/scoutassociation started – you can read about their latest trip to Scotland, Please send all contributions to: [email protected] where they hone their winter mountaineering skills, Please note that the views expressed by members and on page 34. contributors in the magazine are not necessarily those of The Scout Association. You can read about how I developed my Scouting Scotland is produced taste for adventure on page 26, where you’ll by Immediate Media Branded Content, 2nd Floor, Tower House, also find an exciting bit of news about my Fairfax Street, Bristol BS1 3BN future as Chief Scout. Editor Alex Drew Art Editor James Daniel Of all the things that Scouts do and Designer Dean Purnell learn, for me, there are two that stick out: Project Manager Celia Beale Director of Immediate Media Branded Content following your dreams and looking after Julie Williams your friends. Each and every story in this ADVERTISING issue is a fantastic example of both of Advertising Manager Jamie Bolton Email: [email protected] these qualities, and I hope you find them Tel: 0117 314 7356 as inspirational as I do.

It is important to note the differing structures of UK , England, Wales and . However, for ease of reading this supplement refers to all variations of ‘County’-level groupings simply as County.

You can read Scouting magazine and Get Active! online at scouts.org.uk/magazine.

122,106 average UK circulation of Scouting (1 Jan–31 Dec 2014)

© Immediate Media Branded Content. Printed in the UK by William Gibbons. All rights reserved. Unauthorised reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without written permission. Every effort has been made to Bear Grylls secure permission for copyright material. In the event of any material being used inadvertently, or where Chief Scout it proved impossible to trace the copyright owner, acknowledgement will be made in a future issue.

PEFC/16-33-795 This magazine can be recycled, for We are proud to say Scouting is PEFC use in newspapers and packaging. certified. For more information go to Please remove any gifts, samples or pefc.co.uk. Promoting sustainable wrapping and dispose of it at your forest management. local collection point. Scouts Scotland SCOUTING 3 The adventure issue

We asked the UK Youth Commissioner UP FRONT Team to tell 9 News us about their The latest from Scout HQ most memorable What’s on adventures. We also 15 want to hear about your Unmissable dates for your diary exploits, so head to our Facebook 17 Mailbox page to share them and email Your letters, emails, tweets, [email protected]. posts and pictures uk to sign up to our reader panel. !"

Hannah Kentish – UK FEATURES Youth Commissioner 20 Surf’s up! ‘I first started having Cornish Scouts are hitting the adventures as a 10-year- waves and you can too! THE KNOWLEDGE old Scout. Rock-climbing 26 A taste for adventure was one of the first UK Chief Scout Bear !" Volunteer things I did and I loved COVER it; I also got to go on my Grylls shares his love STORY DC Ben Scholes shares his first summer camp shortly after joining and of the outdoors and all love of adventure didn’t want to go home! This summer I will be things Scouting #$ Advice off to the Philippines to complete my Scouts 34 From Scotland to the Your questions answered by of the World award after the – I’m South Pole so excited!’ our experts Our guest writer is put through #! Health Jay Thompson – her paces by a group in training Add exercise to your day Deputy UK Youth for an expedition to Antarctica with our top 10 tips Commissioner 41 First time adventures #% Walk ‘Having grown up on Scouting members share their the Isle of Man, I’ve Not for the faint-hearted, been lucky enough to fond memories this 24-mile walk over the have plenty of outdoor Yorkshire Three Peaks will adventures on my REGULARS put older Scouts through doorstep. My most memorable adventure has 6 Wayne’s word their paces to be travelling to Tuvalu, in the South Pacific, This issue’s message from Games when I was 18. I had the challenge of taking %& the of adventure to somewhere it the UK Chief Commissioner A bumper issue of games to had all but disappeared, and it was one of the 66 Last word keep you entertained! most rewarding things I’ve ever done.’ Read about the Meek family %' Food who gave up the daily grind for For a fail-safe campfire treat, Jagz Bharth – everyday adventure Deputy UK Youth try these caramelised apples Commissioner ‘I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t a Scout and I’ve tried to go on as many adventures as possible – some obvious stand-outs being leading a Group on our Queen’s Scout Award expedition to Peru and the in Denmark where I made friends who I’m still in touch with. I love exploring beyond where I live – I’m DOWNLOAD THE trying to make sure the Cubs and Scouts I lead BLIPPAR APP TO THEN WHEN FILL YOUR BLIPP get to have as much adventure as I did!’ YOUR SMARTPHONE YOU SEE THIS SCREEN WITH TO LIFE! OR TABLET SIGN… THE IMAGE…

4 SCOUTING April/May 2015

Everyday adventure It attracts hundreds of young people to Scouting every year, but our brand of adventure o!ers so much more than exhilaration alone, says the UK Chief Commissioner

hether you’re talking about a Beaver’s first nature walk or a Cub’s first hike, Wadventure is at the core of Scouting’s popularity. I certainly remember some of my own first adventures with Scouts as a boy, as well as leading my Patrol in some of their early adventures – whether that was on an overnight rowing expedition on the River Hamble or a hike across the South Downs as a Our young people will learn Venture Scout. teamwork, leadership and resilience from Scouting’s By supporting these youth-led brand of adventure activities, we are building on our ambitions to be shaped by young IN THE DIARY ‘We will put the outdoors, Here’s where Wayne will be in the coming weeks… adventure, teamwork and APRIL 10–11 UKCC Team leadership at the very core of our 17–19 County Tyrone, Northern Ireland Isle of Man refreshed youth programme’ 25–26 Operations Committee National Queen Scout Celebrations, Windsor people in partnership with adults. That’s also why we’re kicking And it is these adventures – and the off Cubs 100, our centenary of Cub MAY growing awareness of Scouting’s Scouts with the Year of Adventure this 1–2 Pembrokeshire/South Wales particular brand of everyday adventure year. Here we will put the outdoors, 3 The Big Camp, Yorkshire – that encourages young people to join adventure, teamwork and leadership 9 Oxfordshire Awards Day our Movement. It is also the means by at the very core of our refreshed youth 16–17 Jamboree all adults weekend, Gilwell. Merseyside Youth which we provide the opportunities programme, ensuring that a whole ‘On Tour’, Gilwell for young people of all ages to learn new generation of young people 16–27 Warwickshire Get In 2015 a variety of invaluable life skills: continues to learn by doing through 20 Northern Ireland SGD Awards teamwork, leadership and resilience the medium of our particular brand of 22–24 NE Scotland, , to name just a few. everyday adventure.

6 SCOUTING April/May 2015

April/May 2015

The latest Scouting news and events

Head to any one of Scotland’s three National Activity Centres to unleash the adventure

ALL ABOUT ADVENTURE This month’s message from Scotland’s Chief Commissioner

veryday adventure is one your Section away for the weekend of the phrases that we or for an evening of activity at one of use to tell the world what these Centres or campsites? Scouting is about. Almost This year is also the Cub Scouts’ everyE survey of our young members Year of Adventure. This affords the undertaken by Scouting in the recent section an additional past has put camping and doing things incentive to embed everyday adventure outdoors as favourite activities. Those into its programme. of us in Scotland are very fortunate Additionally, this summer will see to have some superb opportunities some of our Explorer Scouts embark for our young members to experience on one very significant adventure, and AWARDS GLORY Liz Wilson, DC for , has adventure in Scouting. Almost every one that does not happen every day. received the prestigious Lifetime Region and many Districts have Some 250 Explorer Scouts and leaders Achievement Award at the 2015 their own outdoor activity centre or from across Scotland will be heading to National Youth Worker of the Year campsite; Scouts Scotland has three Japan in July to attend the World Scout Awards. Organised by YouthLink Scotland, National Activity Centres at Fordell Firs, Jamboree. I am sure that you will all the Awards celebrate and recognise the outstanding commitment, service Meggernie and Lochgoilhead. wish them well in this adventure, and and performance of youth workers, role This year marks the 50th will look forward to hearing about their models, partners and managers within anniversary of the establishment of experiences when they get home. the youth work sector in Scotland. Lochgoilhead as our water activity Nominated initially under the centre. Our Centres offer excellent Uniformed Youth Worker of the Year category, the independent panel of judges opportunities for , Cubs, Scouts, were so impressed by the commitment Explorers and Network members to Graham Haddock, and achievements of Liz that they decided camp, to try new activities and revisit Chief Commissioner she deserved even greater recognition. some old ones. When did you last take of Scotland

Scouts Scotland SCOUTING 9

UPFRONT

ACCESS THE ADVENTURE There are amazing opportunities aplenty available to Scouts in Scotland

dventure and Scouting are too. Scotland is very fortunate to adventurous activities in the company synonymous with each be surrounded by locations for of other personal permit holders or other and the first thing adventurous activities. These can be young people and adults can also gain that often springs to mind delivered by external providers, or permits to lead and supervise others. whenA people mention adventure is a Scout-led, as long as an appropriate If you are looking to gain an Nights Away experience. This can be a permit or qualification is held. Personal adventurous activity permit, we first sleepover as a Beaver Scout or an permits allow members to take part in recommend taking the following steps: international camp or expedition as an Explorer Scout, but if you don’t yet Look at the rules and requirements have a Nights Away Permit, you can Five tips for adventure: for Scout-led adventurous activities; still help young people to have a Nights 1 Training and assessment for Read the appropriate Assessment Away experience. Nights Away Permits are Checklist and compare your skills/ Sign up for one of the many activity available in your District. experience; camps that happen across Scotland 2 Activity camps and Nights Away Complete any training necessary every year where Scouts are either Event Passports are an option if to fill any gaps in your skills/ supervised by sub camp staff or can a Nights Away Permit holder is experience; safely participate with a Nights Away unable to attend. Speak to an assessor to discuss Event Passport. If you are looking to 3 National Activity Centres offer your experience and agree the best get a Nights Away Permit, you should tailored options for residential method of assessment; contact your District Nights Away experiences and adventurous Apply for funding from Scottish Adviser to get started. activities. Headquarters to offset the cost of However, adventure doesn’t have 4 Funding is available from any training and assessment; to involve a night away. Our three Scouts Scotland for Scout Consider a site specific (restricted) National Activity Centres – Fordell Firs, Permit training and assessment permit if you only need a limited Meggernie and Lochgoilhead – can and qualifications to deliver area/location; offer day and evening activities, space adventurous activities. Take the assessor’s recommendation to self-cater and programme and fully 5 Adventurous Activity Permits to your District Commissioner who residential packages. If these are not can be given for specific can issue a permit; convenient, there are campsites and locations as well Have fun and be safe offering activity centres run by Regions and as unrestricted. exciting and unusual activities to Districts that offer exciting activities our youth members.

Scouts Scotland SCOUTING 11

UPFRONT

PROMOTE THE ADVENTURE A wide range of materials is now available to help you promote Scouting’s life- changing adventure. New templates for meeting place signs, featuring the updated section branding, are now available in a choice of sizes and colours. A range of inspirational posters based on artwork from the new Prepared book can now be ordered and you can also create personalised Challenge Award certificates for young people in Scouting. There are also car sticker designs available for your back window and to fit inside your old tax disc holders! Log in at scouts.org.uk and click on ‘Print Centre’ to get started. Don’t forget to order your new programme materials from scouts.org.uk/shop.

Volunteers will hit the streets of the capital again this year to celebrate diversity. Scouts took part in a fantastic London Pride celebration last year – the sixth year that we’ve attended this LGBT event – and for the first A NEW ERA time, we were joined by young From September 2015 onwards, Scouting magazine will be printed four times a year people between the ages of 16 instead of six. This follows a year-long review with senior volunteers and staff at and 18. operations committee level and takes into account the results of last year’s reader To get involved in this year’s survey. Producing the magazine four times a year will also reduce postage costs so event, being held on 27 June, we can better deliver the 2018 strategy. The new and improved magazine will still visit scouts.org.uk/pride or contain all your essential info from HQ and plenty of activity ideas aimed to inspire email [email protected] to and inform you in your daily Scouting. We’re still keen to hear more of your opinions find out how you can celebrate on the magazine, so our June/July issue will include a short reader survey where you Pride in your community. can share your views.

The Scout Association SCOUTING 13

UPFRONT

DatesExciting for dates your for2015 your diary diary

May MAY MAY ! #$-#% #ScotShape Parent and Cub Over 100 young people from Camp across Scotland are gathering An opportunity for Cubs together in Perth to share and their parents to ideas, make decisions and share the fun of Scouting shape the Scottish youth at Meggernie National involvement strategy. Activity Centre! Call 01887 Contact youthinvolvement@ 866231 or email warden@ scouts.scot for more info. meggernie.org.uk. !&-!'MAY June #) JUNE Archery GB Scottish Awards Instructor Award Day Head to Great Tower in the Lake District to learn how Scotland’s national event to teach archery over this recognises and rewards weekend-long course. Food outstanding achievement and accommodation are also by Scouts and outstanding included in the £190 fee. Email service by adult volunteers. [email protected]. This year the event will be held at Paisley Town Hall.

JUNE JUNE JUNE !(-!# !% !%-!' Fundays Media and 24-hour pedal car race Spring into summer with Communications This race for human-powered cars the action-packed activities Workshop is perfect for Scouts, Explorers and for Beavers, Cubs, Network. Held at Shenington Airfield and at Gilwell Learn how to spread the word near Banbury, the race runs from Park and Woodhouse Park. about Scouting at Woodhouse midday on Saturday to midday on Find out more by visiting Park. Email communications@ Sunday. Visit shenington24.com for scouts.org.uk/fundays. scouts.org.uk for details. more info.

Further ahead Gilwell 24 Peak 2015 CamJam 2015 10-12 July 25 July-1 August 15-22 August Enjoy a jam-packed 24 This unique Scout and Guide The international camp for Scouts, hours of exhilarating camp is held at Chatsworth Park Explorers and Guides returns adventure at Gilwell in Derbyshire just once every to Huntingdon Racecourse for Park, exclusively for Explorers. five years. There will be over 65 yet more action and adventure. An event-branded T-shirt is activities (including hill walking, Visit camjam.org.uk to find out included in the ticket price. bushcraft and caving) for ticket- more and head to scouts.org.uk/ For more information, visit holders to participate in. Learn internationalevents for a full list gilwell24.info. more at peakcamp.org.uk. of our international events. Pictures: iStock Pictures:

The Scout Association SCOUTING 15

SCOUTING SCOUTING The Scout Association Scout The 17

be well thought out. I’m so glad he has has he glad so I’m out. thought well be Scout’s Platinum Award – the highest highest the – Award Platinum Scout’s

Scout’s Platinum Award Platinum Scout’s

additional support needs it will have to to have will it needs support additional also then went on to gain her Chief Chief her gain to on went then also

to receive the Chief Chief the receive to

female Sutton Scout Sea Sutton female Chief Scout’s Gold Award. With his his With Award. Gold Scout’s Chief of ’s Bronze Award, but but Award, Bronze Edinburgh’s of

Jennifer is the first first the is Jennifer

Scouting on his quest to achieve his his achieve to quest his on Scouting Jennifer has not only gained her Duke Duke her gained only not has Jennifer

biggest challenge my son will face in in face will son my challenge biggest coveted Chief Scout’s Platinum Award. Award. Platinum Scout’s Chief coveted

expedition challenge will be the the be will challenge expedition girl in Sutton Sea Scouts to gain the the gain to Scouts Sea Sutton in girl

I think the the think I has made history by being the first first the being by history made has June Jfs BrownOwl BrownOwl Jfs June

A 15-year-old schoolgirl schoolgirl 15-year-old A Ian Henery Henery Ian

Huge congratulations, Jennifer! congratulations, Huge

the best thing since sliced bread…’ sliced since thing best the public speaking. public

(Cub Scouts) says ‘Young Leaders are are Leaders ‘Young says Scouts) (Cub included which challenges, skills

and do something similar. As our ACC ACC our As similar. something do and spending an extra three months on on months three extra an spending

that other Counties will follow our lead lead our follow will Counties other that Duke of Edinburgh’s Bronze Award and and Award Bronze Edinburgh’s of Duke

September – and would like to think think to like would and – September Chinese New Year, completing her her completing Year, New Chinese

recipients at the County award day in in day award County the at recipients younger Scouts on the theme of of theme the on Scouts younger

Leaders. We’ll recognise our first first our recognise We’ll Leaders. camping, running programmes for for programmes running camping,

recognise good service from Young Young from service good recognise to a range of activities including including activities of range a to

Commissioner’s Commendation to to Commendation Commissioner’s herself commit to had Jennifer Award,

County is now using the County County the using now is County age of 16. In order to qualify for the the for qualify to order In 16. of age

Durham Scout Scout Durham possible award for a Scout under the the under Scout a for award possible David Stokes David

North London District Scout London North

from Explorers with hike snowy A

wonderful photos wonderful

Marlon Marton-Bell Marlon

see loads more of your your of more loads see

Picture of the moment the of Picture

Point Blippar here to to here Blippar Point

Scouting magazine, Gilwell Park, Chingford, London E4 7QW E4 London Chingford, Park, Gilwell magazine, Scouting [email protected] | Write to: to: Write | Email: box

pinterest.com/ukscouting/ scouts.org.uk/TV scouts.org.uk/facebook @UKScouting mail | | | April/May 2015 April/May UPFRONT

such wonderful leaders who include the time and didn’t even have a tent! him and encourage him to join in and I am really very grateful to my seniors be the best he can be! who made sure we humped that trail and got safely to our destination and OVER Yew Tzen My first Scouting back! The waterfall was super COLD!!! adventure was hiking up the trail And canned food with a hot drink HEARD to Mount Jerai – the tallest peak in the tasted GREAT!!! The funny things Scouts say state of Kedah, Malaysia, on a four-day, three-night expedition. I was only 13 at A Scout on camp when entering his tent: ‘Where’s the light switch?’ Mia Dory Mackinnon

On camp last year we were discussing leader ages with the STAR Scouts and one of them asked LETTER ‘Was that when the world was in Our Vision black and white?’ Alan Wilding Youth-shaped We asked Beavers where they Scouting has to Find out more about You Shape by thought they could find taste be one of the Blipping here buds, after a few moments of Movement’s questioning looks a hand shot most positive and up… ‘Sainsbury’s?’ important ideas so community impact events. 115th far. Here in Easingwold District, Their participation has a mainly rural part of North undoubtedly changed our Tweet us using Yorkshire, it has immediately meetings for the better. #overheardscouts, struck a chord with young The focus on young people’s get in touch via people and adults alike. ideas in section planning is Facebook or email We have the advantage of a already making waves too. to tell us what brand new District Executive We arranged a leaders’ skills you’ve overheard. formed to embrace Vision 2018 training evening (section and build on the successes of meetings were cancelled that 104 years of Scouting in the week to reduce the burden on

area. With invaluable guidance adults’ time) to ensure that KNOTS AND PROJECT: FIRELIGHTING A-FRAME SHELTER TIPS AND TRI LASHINGS As you’d expect, an A-frame shelter resembles a letter ‘A’ when viewed end-on. It’s Picking up firelighting skills is much like learning magic –CK what initiallyS seems quite Whether you’re climbing, pioneering or angling, knots and lashings form an essential one of the most popular and versatile kinds of emergency shelter as it can be built mysterious is revealed to be quite straightforward. Learn some of these tricks and you part of your outdoor knowledge. Practise in your spare time and you’ll soon know the relatively quickly, can be built to any size, and is quite sturdy if constructed properly. will always stay warm in the Great Outdoors. from regional development everyone is on board with what di!erence between a bend and a bight . Di!culty Total time Allow 1 hour + Rope terminology How to make fire out of water You won’t need to be told that a piece of rope has two ends! If you really want to impress, how about making fire from However, in order to work with ropes it’s useful to understand water? This takes a lot of practice and patience but it Fuzz stick Before you begin work on your A-frame, check that the terminology used to describe their different parts. does work. the site is suitable – for example, don’t build it near an Put a sheet of cling film in a mug. Half fill the mug and Choose a dry stick animal trail or ants’ nest. Check that there aren’t any Working end gently lift the cling film, wrapped around the water, to form around 2–3cm in UÊ dead branches above you. Think about where the sun The end of the rope a water crystal ball. Under bright sunlight hold this crystal ball diameter. Now, using officer Peter Thorp, our four we want to achieve. The next rises and sets and the direction of the prevailing wind you’re using to tie a knot. over your dark-coloured tinder, moving it up and down like your knife, slice down – you can judge the terrain and surrounding flora to a lens until you beam a bright dot of light on to the tinder. the stick’s sides making help avoid an exposed position. Avoid lower ground Standing part Any part Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes. sure that they remain UÊ between two high points, as cold air can collect in such between the two ends. attached. The idea places and rain run-off may be a problem. How to make fire from ice is that the these thin Spend time selecting and gathering your materials Standing end Break a reasonably thick piece of ice from a river or stream shavings are easier to UÊ first, so that you can then concentrate on building your The opposite end of (up to 6cm depth is ideal). Carefully, using a knife or saw, light than the main shelter in one sustained session. To a certain Knots a rope to that being scrape away any dirt or imperfections and begin to form it stick. If you create a extent you can improvise the foliage Groups are making good week, one leader reported she’d People have been tying knots for thousands of years, and used to tie the knot. into a circle. Use the heat from your bare hands to help melt number of fuzz sticks depending on what you find despite modern technology they remain as vital as ever today. the ice into a disc, turning it to prevent your hands from and place them in on the forest floor. In sports such as sailing, climbing, caving and angling, and UÊ œœ« A loop made J^[7#

surgery, the ability to tie the right knot is essential. rope back on itself [l[hom^[h["XkjZed¼j\eh][jtinder (crumbled, dried leaves for example). Angle the ice your fire. All knots have a purpose, and it’s just as important to so that the sun forms a small circle on the tinder. The tinder and crossing the oekh]hekdZi^[[j understand what that purpose is, and when the knot should standing part. should light in dramatic fashion – so stand well back! be used, as it is to be able to tie it. Using the wrong knot at How to make fire from a drinks can progress. been stumped by a request to the wrong time can be dangerous. UÊ Bight A loop made After you’ve drained the last dregs of your fizzy pop, don’t by turning the throw away the can (you should recycle it anyway) – the How ropes are measured rope back on itself base can be used as a parabolic mirror to train sunlight on Ropes are normally measured by their circumference. For without crossing the your fuel source. example, a 75mm rope is approximately 25mm in diameter. standing part. The first thing you need to do is increase the reflective surface by rubbing the base of the can for a few minutes Hanking a rope UÊ Bend A knot with steel wool (toothpaste works too). Keep polishing until Hanking your rope prevents it from getting knotted while in used for tying you can see your face in the base. create electronic circuits, and storage. Wrap the rope around your thumb and little finger one rope to Now hold up the bottom of the can towards the sun. On Involving young people in a figure of eight. Now, holding the roped bundle together, another. the end of a small piece of wood, place a tiny bit of bone remove with your other hand and wind the free length firstly dry dark-coloured tinder. Given enough sunlight, the tinder over itself, and then back down the length. Pull the short UÊ Hitch A means of will begin to smoke. You’ll need to experiment moving the free end to find the loop that draws in. Form a loop with the fastening a rope to end of the stick closer to and further from the can to get standing end through, pulling it firmly. The hank another object – such the optimum heat from the sun, but about 5cm distance is should now as a post, spar, pole considered best.

be tight. To or log – without Alternatively, take your torch apart and use the reflector.

free the whole using a full knot. Remove the bulb and poke the tinder through the hole in every area of planning is turned to the District to request rope, pull on both ends. where the bulb was. OUTD ANUAL OOR ADVENTURE MA OUTDOOR ADVENTURE M NUAL less problematic, and more a skills audit of volunteers and transformative, than some of parents to find people to help. WRITE us feared. We have only just Youth-shaped Scouting threw started on the journey but up an opportunity, a problem IN TO already we have a 17-year-old and a solution all at once. WIN Explorer Scout as a member Vision 2018 will certainly be Our STAR of the District Executive and a challenge but with youth- LETTER writer a 14-year-old in one Group shaped Scouting at its core, in wins a copy of Executive and taking an Easingwold District at least, it the Outdoor Adventure Manual: active role in a District Sub feels genuinely achievable. Essential Scouting Skills for the Committee set-up to plan Gerard Tubb Great Outdoors. Available from scouts.org.uk/shop at a special price of £14 (RRP £21.99).

18 SCOUTING April/May 2015

REAL TROOPERS CORNWALL COUNTY Members: 4,400 members. Did you know? 2013 saw the revival of the Kernow Jamboree on the Pencarrow Estates with 1,000 attendees from across Cornwall, the UK and Units from Europe and Uganda. The next one is to be held in 2017. Pictures: Mike Newman Mike Pictures:

20 SCOUTING April/May 2015 REAL TROOPERS

Scouts in Cornwall take their adventure to the waves…

The Scout Association SCOUTING 21 REAL TROOPERS

‘It’s such a confidence boost for young people – the look of excitement on their faces is incredible.’ SIMON VILES, DISTRICT EXPLORER

hough early spring isn’t of leader who’s into the bigger body board and scream! I’d never nearly warm enough activities and though he admits to gone into the water in England as for most people to being thrilled by every aspect of I grew up in Venezuela, but I was venture into the waters his Scouting, his true passion lies in challenged to go and have a few of Cornwall, Explorer outdoor adventure and he’s keen to surfing lessons. By the second lesson ScoutsT from throughout the District pass as much of this enthusiasm on I managed to stand on the board. have gathered at Harlyn Bay beach to his Explorers as possible. My love of water has grown so I now on a chilly afternoon in February to go in once a month – I love it. My son brave the waves. Something di!erent now also has the surfing bug and Surfing is a side of Scouting Surfing is an alternative challenge goes in all weathers.’ we rarely see, but watching the for young people, delivering a real Sally’s son, Harry, developed a Explorers enthusiastically sprint sense of accomplishment. Leaders passion for surfing through Scouts to the waves with their boards in and volunteers all over Cornwall and is now keen on anything tow, you can see why this is an are set on making Surfing a outdoors related. ‘I started to surf at activity that’s surely set to become Scouting favourite. surf camp – it was one of my first a Scout classic. Sally Bartlett, a former Beaver Scout camps and we stayed at Nine ‘Surfing is a unique Scout and Cub parent, and Ashes in Bodmin and travelled to activity. It clears the cobwebs. then finally, member of The Scout Harlyn Bay,’ says Harry. ‘We had two Sitting out on the waves is an Association’s Regional Development days of surfing and I loved it from the amazing feeling – there’s nothing Service (RDS), is now very much part minute we started.’ quite like it.’ Simon Viles is District of a Scouting family in Cornwall. Now Harry is older and can drive, Explorer Scout Commissioner for Surfing is something she’s passionate he and his friends chase the waves Stenek Ha’n Mor District in Cornwall about sharing. She’s even been throughout Cornwall, travelling to and he’s keen to spread the word known to tread the waters herself. the north coast to surfing hotspots about surfing. Simon’s the kind ‘I’m not a seasoned pro – I sort of like Polzeath, Perranporth or Hayle.

22 SCOUTING April/May 2015 REAL TROOPERS

Sally Bartlett discovered surfing through Scouting years ago and hasn’t looked back since

Sally’s son, Harry, has likewise caught the surfing bug and now chases waves all around the Cornish coast

Whether paddling out into the sea or testing their mettle on a simulator, Scouts gain so much from surfing REAL TROOPERS

To introduce some Scouts to the world of surfing, Simon recently took a group of Scouts to Retallack Spa and Resort in Cornwall to experience the FlowRider wave simulator, which gives everyone the chance to surf all year round. Well Blipp here to see if your Group would and truly making enjoy paddling out surfing accessible to all, facilities like this sidestep the various restrictions with surfing in the ‘Riding a great wave all the way onto ‘There’s not a lot of money down ocean, such as weather, safety or the beach is ace, as is meeting new here at all – it’s not all beautiful lack of waves. people and making new friends,’ harbours and beaches,’ says Simon. And it’s not just Cornwall that says Harry. ‘I’ve also had some great ‘But this is when something like o!ers the chance to surf. There are opportunities being able to travel surfing can be really important facilities all over the UK that o!er and I’m now making a career of the to young people. You can buy a water adventure, from indoor wave outdoor adventure sports industry.’ relatively cheap second-hand board simulators to full-on surf schools. ‘It’s such a confidence boost for and a cheaper wetsuit and then There are schools in Wales, Scotland, young people,’ adds Simon. ‘The that’s it – you just need to get to the Northern Ireland and the north of look of excitement on their faces is beach. We also run surf events for England and surfing opportunities incredible. Seeing someone stand on £15 and the young people get all the can be found in the most unlikely the board for just a few seconds is an equipment they need.’ places. ‘I’ve surfed in north Scotland, amazing sight. They’re so proud and south-west Wales and I know people they’re buzzing all day from it.’ Surfing for all that have surfed in Bournemouth,’ Simon makes sure that everyone can says Simon. ‘I’ve even surfed in A Scouting essential have a go at surfing, no matter what Scarborough!’ Though surfing may seem like an their ability. ‘A surf school instructor, Anyone and everyone can have idyllic luxury for Scouts in Cornwall, for example, will take out a young a go at surfing and the rewards it’s also a necessity. person with additional needs and from getting out onto the water are ‘Cornwall is stunning, but living accompany them on the water. seemingly endless. in such a rural peninsula has its Everyone can experience this ‘There’s definitely something problems,’ says Simon. ‘For us to go kind of fun.’ special about surfing,’ says Sally. anywhere is an epic journey – if we ‘What’s great about Cornwall, ‘There’s nothing quite like it. You can ever wanted to go to Gilwell 24 in is with the inland rivers, the really lose yourself and nothing else London for example, the travel costs transitional stages from Beavers matters. It’s also amazing fun!’

are really expensive.’ to Cubs to Scouts are really easy to Special thanks go to Harlyn Surf School While most people think of navigate when it comes to water (harlynsurfschool.co.uk) and Retallack Resort Cornwall as being picturesque and activities,’ adds Sally. ‘You have the (retallackresort.co.uk) for allowing us access for the purpose of this feature. idyllic, the county contains some of indoor pools for the younger Scouts – the most deprived areas in the UK, so they get that first feeling of what Share your stories containing pockets of deprivation it’s like being on the sea and what Have you been surfing with your that are in the top 5% of the country being on a boat feels like in complete Scouts? Head to our Facebook page – comparable to inner-city London, safety and in a less intimidating to share your pictures. Manchester and Birmingham. environment.’

24 SCOUTING April/May 2015

BEAR GRYLLS

A TASTE FOR

ADVENThe Chief Scout talks about his inspiration, his passion TURE for the outdoors and his love of all things Scouting

Witness Bear at his very best by Blipping here

26 SCOUTING April/May 2015 BEAR GRYLLS

A TASTE FOR ADVEN TURE

The Scout Association SCOUTING 27 BEAR GRYLLS

he very first adventure not one of my favourite activities. friends, having fun with your ‘ I ever had was when I But as soon as he sensed he was friends… It’s a message that has was about four or five; losing the battle, he reminded me stayed with me throughout my I slept out under the how I always tell him how important childhood and into my adult life stars. I had to sneak out it is to step out of your comfort zone and career. This naturally led me Twithout telling my parents, with and sure enough, we went out in the to Scouts I think; we give young only my sleeping bag for warmth. snow that morning. people the chance to make lifelong That moment felt really special; there friendships and nothing does this was such a sense of achievement, of My inspiration better than adventure – and believe doing something new, exciting and ‘So, where did my own sense of me, nothing solidifies a relationship life enhancing. It was amazing, but adventure come from? I can say like a heart-pounding moment in I did get in trouble the next day. without a doubt that it was my dad the outdoors! ‘Some years later, my own son, who gave me my taste for adventure. Jesse, had a go at doing the same I grew up on the and Not enough hours in the day thing; camping just outside our back have great memories of learning to ‘I still get as excited and energetic door. He was absolutely determined climb on the sea cli!s and making about adventures as I did when to camp despite the freezing rafts with him. He was truly I first snuck out of the house all conditions, but by midnight his inspirational. He always told me not those years ago. It doesn’t seem to fingers looked distinctly blue and he to be afraid and taught me it was OK matter where I am – I experience had to abandon ship. to take risks. In his eyes, failure was such a feeling of belonging when ‘My kids are all into adventure now just a stepping stone to success. I step outside to get my teeth into though – it’s great actually, because ‘As well as igniting my something new. It’s hard to pin down they push me out of my comfort zone adventurous spirit, my dad also what that is exactly, but, at the heart too. Huckleberry was nagging me to encouraged me to be a good friend of it I think, the outdoors is free. Your go snowboarding recently, and it’s to people. Making friends, keeping imagination can inspire the greatest adventures. Scouts may have changed since I was a kid, but the ‘My dad gave me my taste for principle is still the same: providing these great adventures to any child adventure – in his eyes, failure was who wants them. That’s why I love being Chief Scout and that’s what just a stepping stone to success.’ I love about Scouts. ‘I love that you don’t have to know everything at once – you’ve just got to show up and give it your all. There’s something special about being surrounded by people of exactly the same mind set – it doesn’t matter whether you’re camping on a mountain or receiving your Queen’s Scout Award, the atmosphere is exactly the same: optimistic, ambitious, friendly and proud. ‘I also love the electric atmosphere of hundreds – even thousands – of Scouts enjoying an adventure together. I was lucky enough to go to Sweden in 2001 for the Jamboree Bear inherited his love of adventure and see 40,000 young people from from his dad and makes sure he passes this passion on to his own children around the world working together

28 SCOUTING April/May 2015 BEAR GRYLLS

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‘There’s something special about being surrounded by people of exactly the same mind set.’

– it really was a sight to behold. I’m overjoyed that the recent I’m absolutely gutted I can’t make programme refresh reflects this. CONGRATULATIONS, it over to Japan for this year’s ‘The refresh is packed with loads of Jamboree, but if anyone reading this activity badges for all sections and CHIEF SCOUT! is lucky enough to be going, take it places more emphasis on getting We’re delighted to announce that from me, my spirit will definitely be out there and experiencing outdoor Bear will continue in his role as with you. adventure. This is music to my ears UK Chief Scout beyond the usual ‘Thankfully I’ve had plenty of and gives us the chance to keep five-year term to help us achieve chances beyond the Jamboree to Scouting exciting for a whole new our 2018 vision and he’s super meet Scouts and it’s been an absolute generation of young people (as well excited about it! Bear said: ‘I am blast. My Bear in the Air adventures, as the leaders!). so proud that the largest youth for example, gave me the chance to ‘I get so much pleasure from movement on the planet has asked hop on a helicopter and travel around teaching my boys the outdoor skills me to stay on as its UK Chief Scout. the UK meeting lots of Groups while you learn at Scouts, from watching Between now and 2018 I plan to do getting involved in some great them have fun, and they get so all that I possibly can to help the activities with them all. If there were much from the adventures we have Movement to continue to grow, simply more hours in the day, I’d visit together. It’s funny, talking about all become more reflective of the every Scout Group on the planet. of this makes me think of a photo communities in which we work The count currently stands at of me and my dad; the two of us and change the lives of even more meeting around 100,000 of you in together in this little boat – it’s so young people. In addition, I really the UK in the last five years. And it reminiscent of photos of me and my want to give young people a still feels like the best part of my job! boys today. It’s obvious to me that powerful voice at the very the adventures we had together heart of the Movement so More adventure inspired my passion for the outdoors, they can actively help shape ‘I know how many of you share and that’s what we’re able to give to and develop the future of the my passion and conviction in the each and every young person who Movement for the next importance of o!ering outdoor comes through Scouts. 100 years.’ adventures to our Scouts and it’s ‘It’s been an amazing journey so far thanks to you that we’re able to o!er and I can’t wait to get started on the kids the opportunities of a lifetime – next adventure together.’

30 SCOUTING April/May 2015

FROM SCOTLAND TO THE SOUTH POLE Guest writer Polly Bennett braves the biting winds of the snow-capped Scottish mountains to meet some of Scouting’s boldest pioneers

Check out Polly and HSX in action by Blipping here Pictures: Rupert Shanks Rupert Pictures:

34 SCOUTING April/May 2015 The Scout Association SCOUTING 35 INTERNATIONAL SCOUTING

Muirne’s support extends beyond her HQ and into her school where she tries to make daily life smoother for her fellow Scouts

‘This week is ideal 1st Bournville makes training for Antarctica’ Scouting possible – the conditions on the for young people of Cairngorms give HSX all abilities (and Polly) a taste of things to come

oof…’ But this is no ordinary hike. dramatic lumps of granite by ancient ‘ I fall flat on my face We’re in the Cairngorm mountains glaciers, the Cairngorms are an ideal for the twentieth in Scotland and the February wind is location for winter expeditions. time, my head resting beating down the slopes at 60mph, Steep snow fields are the perfect on a patch of ice while so I don’t feel too guilty about place to practise using ice axes and Omy legs are buried under a pile of needing so much help from Joe. crampons. snow. Sighing, I untangle my limbs After all, dragging me up this ‘This week is ideal training and launch myself back up the hill, mountain is nothing compared for Antarctica, physically and but the wind has other ideas. With to the unbelievable endeavour psychologically,’ Joe tells me as we unbelievable force it slams me to the that he is here to train for: skiing continue our ascent. ‘We want to ground again. The rest of the group to the South Pole and back as part undertake an expedition that has are already small dots high up the of the first Scout-led expedition to never been done within Scouting slope, but I have only walked 700m. Antarctica in 2018. and to do that we need as much I can still see the van in the car park. experience of winter conditions A hand grabs the top of my Practice makes perfect as possible.’ On the slope above us, rucksack, keeping me steady as I I’m spending a few days with Dave and twin brothers Ollie and start again. This is just one technique Hampshire Scout Expeditions (HSX) Tom, also members of the Antarctica that 21-year-old Joe Doherty uses to – a group that specialises in taking team, are already practising their get me up the mountain. He’s very Scouts, Explorers and adult members mountaineering skills. patient, never making me feel weak on adventurous trips in the UK and for struggling to hike just two miles. abroad. They spend a week in the School of survival Cairngorms every year, practising After much hu!ng and pu!ng, winter mountaineering skills. As Joe deposits me with the rest of well as being essential preparation the group. There’s cheery applause for big expeditions like Antarctica, as I slump against a bank of the trip introduces younger Scouts to snow, grinning at having finally new activities and experiences. made it to our outdoor classroom. Polly completes her On this, the group’s first day, we Today is dedicated to lessons, or two-mile hike… just in time for the real head for a corrie nestled within a a re-cap for some, in basic winter training to begin! crease of the mountain. Carved into mountaineering. Wasting no time,

36 SCOUTING April/May 2015 INTERNATIONAL SCOUTING

‘Scouts gives people the chance to be themselves,’ says Dom

Nick teaches the group about ice axe arrests, a technique that could save their lives if they slip in Antarctica

‘We want to undertake an expedition that has never been done within Scouting’ JOE DOHERTY, SCOUT HERCULES AMUNDSEN-SCOTT INLET SOUTH POLE STATION "#˚S we gather eagerly for our first task: preparing for Antarctica, to the HSX ice axe arrests. founders (age carefully not divulged) Ice axe arrests are one of the most leading the way. fundamental mountaineering Russ, a qualified mountain leader skills. They can stop your fall if and retired police o!cer, founded you find yourself sliding down a HSX in 1985 after Hampshire mountainside. In short, they can Scouting began a county-wide save your life. Nick, a seasoned initiative to organise overseas Antarctica 2018 mountaineer and HSX member since expeditions. He’s taken Scouts, Six members of the HSX team, lead 1988, shows us the technique. We Explorers and older members to by Quarter Master Tom Robinson, take turns to slide fast down the , Belize, Gambia, Sri Lanka will attempt to ski to the South slope, on our backs, our fronts, head and many more countries on six- Pole and then kite-ski back, all first and feet first, in order to practise. week expeditions. As well as big completely unassisted. During this It’s incredible fun and an element adventurous challenges, such as expedition, the team will cover a of friendly competition encourages trekking to Everest Base Camp, all total distance of 2,300km, carry everyone to perfect their skills. expeditions involve a community 100kg of food, fuel and equipment, project, such as building a school and face temperatures as low as Feels like family or re-painting a monastery, and -50C and wind speeds of up to The close-knit group of 13 are a truly working with a local Scouting Group 80 miles an hour, all in 24-hour friendly bunch and range from where possible. daylight. Follow their progress 15-year-old Scouts on their first trip However, Russ is proud that HSX at hsx.org.uk. to Scotland, to leaders in their 20s doesn’t just give young people

The Scout Association SCOUTING 37 INTERNATIONAL SCOUTING

The founders of HSX believe these excursions teach Scouts invaluable life skills, helping them go on to become leaders and organisers

be the first Scout team to ski to the I had to do the accounts, get everyone South Pole and back, unsupported.’ there – it was a real learning curve.’ ‘I can’t wait to get back…’ he Just the beginning continues before he and I are both fun experiences but trains them For the rest of the day we carve into knocked to the ground again, the to become expedition leaders and the mountainside with our axes to wind seemingly adamant that even create a Scouting family that will make bucket seats and use various the hike back down the mountain provide lifelong support to its techniques to climb near-vertical won’t be easy. Laughing and dusting members. ‘We’ve taken around sections of the slope. the snow o! his rucksack Josh carries 600 young people through our Josh, a 16-year-old Scout from on: ‘I just can’t wait to get back out programme, many of whom have Hampshire, has a great time here tomorrow.’ stayed on in a leadership role or hurtling down the hill. He’s gotten As for me, I too am itching to get who come back periodically, like pretty good at ice axe arrests after back out on the mountain. Despite Nick this week, to train the younger the morning’s training. He’s been a the wind and cold and how tough members in certain skills.’ Russ was member of HSX for two years and is the going has been, it’s been an awarded an MBE in 2009 for his candid in describing his experiences amazing experience and I’ve learned services to Scouting. so far: ‘I went to Nepal with HSX on so much. In terms of Antarctica, It’s this camaraderie, as well as their 2013 expedition because I loved however, I think I’ll leave that to technical training, that sets HSX the idea of going to Everest Base the HSX experts! and its members apart from others Camp.’ He continues: ‘I think I was and gives them the experience and quite immature before that trip, but resources to organise ambitious being in HSX made me grow up. The Join the adventure expeditions such as Antarctica 2018. training for Nepal taught me that if HSX meet every six weeks for a Over lunch on the mountain, Joe you’re childish then you might hurt variety of weekend or week-long tells me more: ‘We’ve done a lot of yourself or someone else. I’ve since trips in the UK. Anyone can join – great things, but we’ve never been organised a training weekend in the head to hsx.org.uk to find out more. to Antarctica and so we decided to Brecon Beacons for the group.

38 SCOUTING April/May 2015

OUT THERE

From making a cuppa for the Queen to canoeing around a campsite, these exciting exploits just go to show there’s no limit to the

Illustrations: Yeji Yeti Yun Yeti Yeji Illustrations: experiences Scouts can have

WORDS: ABBIE CAVENDISH

The Scout Association SCOUTING 41 OUT THERE

‘We braved the snow to sleep in shelters ‘In 1957 we took the steam train from we built from rope and a plastic tarpaulin, Brisbane, Queensland, to a little town did backwoods cooking on a little fire and in the country. We hiked over the managed to do the whole thing with a Great Dividing Range – Australia’s group of Scouts we’d never met before. largest mountain range – and made It certainly threw me in at the deep end – it to the Obi Obi Gorge. It was my first I was totally new to Scouting – and Scout camp, and the memory will live I was cold, hungry and out of my with me forever.’ depth. Twenty-four hours later BRYAN BROWN I had lit my fire, met new people and couldn’t wait for my next adventure!’ ALEX PEATFIELD

‘My first Scouting adventure was at a Beaver sleepover at a winter Camp with my son. I was eight months pregnant at the time, so getting into the top bunk was a bit of a challenge! My newborn daughter joined us on the next camp aged eight days, and is now in her second year of Beavers!’ KAREN CAIRNEY

42 SCOUTING April/May 2015 OUT THERE

‘When I was eight, I made tea for the Queen in Buckingham Palace – she even sipped a bit! I was a Cub at the time, and I remember fighting our way up to London and joining some other Cub Packs sitting on the gravel to watch the Changing of the Guard up close. We were led inside the palace and taken to a little room where we were given advice on how to make and pour the tea, before being taken to an enormous room with sofas at one end, where the Queen was sitting. We were given lots of compliments on the tea before being whisked o! to explore London!’ JON NORMAN

‘My first adventure was also at my ‘I was at university about 30 years ago first Scout camp at West Warwickshire when I had my first Scouting adventure. Millennium camp in 1999. The camp One of my housemates was a Cub Leader, and was entirely flooded out – people were she asked me to come along and help on a weekend hike. I can’t forced to canoe from one end to the remember how many miles we were hiking for, but we carried other. It was great!’ everything with us and ended up setting up our tents in a SAMANTHA SMITH farmer’s field. Totally shattered by the time we came home, but what a weekend!’ KATHRYN BAGNALL

The Scout Association SCOUTING 43 OUT THERE

‘When I was 11, our leader told us we were doing a sponsored hike. He was new to the Troop, and when we set o! we were expecting a canal walk. In actual fact we found ourselves climbing one of the ridges in the Black Mountains in Wales – clearly our leader wanted us to have as many new experiences as possible! Twenty-five miles later, with blistered feet and sore shoulders from my new rucksack, I was one tired but happy Scout!’ MIKE GIBBS

‘My first adventure was when we went to a Scout Camp in Llandegla, in Wales, from our hut in Crosby. One of the Troop’s fathers had a proper furniture lorry, and we were allowed to camp in the back of it with all of our kit! When we got to our destination, we used a full- size handcart to push and pull our gear to the field we were camping in, which was a mile away.’ CHRIS DODD

‘My first adventure with Scouts was when I went on a camp to Sweden aged 13. We spent a week camping in the woods in a real back-to-basics style: cooking on altar fires, felling trees and swimming in the lake! We hiked to a secluded location where we built shelters and spent the night under the stars by the lake. It was incredible, and before my adventure to Sweden I had not been abroad without my parents.’ ABI BOUSFIELD

44 SCOUTING April/May 2015

volunteer advice health walk games food

Advice and know-how to inspire and inform VOLUNTEER IN PROFILE ‘Adventure just means stepping out of your comfort zone’ Ben Scholes, Deputy Commissioner for Adventure is all about upping the game…

was in Cubs, Scouts and I’ve experienced loads of adventures with the Ventures when I was Scouts; the most memorable was my Explorer Belt younger and part of the 2nd expedition in Poland. I was 16 and, partnered with Haxby and Wigginton Scout a great friend, we set o! to walk 100 miles in Poland Group in York. Keeping me over 10 days and undertake 10 challenges, which busyI was essential to keep me out of included milking a Polish cow and having our trouble! I loved it and still do. hair cut by Polish barbers!

I manage an awesome team of We can make sure all young people volunteers who work hard to help experience adventure, big and small, other adult volunteers deliver by giving them plenty of opportunities adventure to Scouts. The team to take part in di!erent activities, includes dedicated technical advisers events and outdoor learning – who are specialists in their chosen there will always be an activities, so you’re in good hands. activity or programme idea that will get them hooked There are tonnes of opportunities on something. Once available to Scouts and with the you’ve worked out what recent Programme refresh, with makes a young person an emphasis on young people tick, keep feeding them experiencing adventure, there’s never with inspiration and been a greater time to up your game ideas and watch them and take on something new and grow. There’s an exciting. At Scouts, adventure just army of Beaver, Cub, means stepping out of your comfort Scout, Explorer and zone and is di!erent for everyone. Network leaders all For some it might be playing an over the UK, each instrument on the stage; for others delivering quality it’s climbing to the top of the climbing experiences and wall. That feeling of excitement or adventures to over the unknown is only the start of half a million Share your stories a great adventure. Scouting is the young people. Tell us about your own adventures: perfect tool to give those experiences Now that is truly [email protected]. to young people. awesome!

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volunteer advice health food walk games theknowledge

I’m taking my Group camping for four nights. There’s so much [ [ advice out there – is there one From kit and camping queries to how to bring adventure to your Scout Group, our panel of good source experts is here to answer your questions I can refer to? Kerry Sullivan, Scout Leader

Samantha Should I buy How can I take Marks, National leather or fabric better photos in Development O!cer hiking boots? order to promote (Safeguarding), Marianne Dagger, Explorer says: As well as Scout Leader our Scout Group? resources like the Rajan Nadaraja, Media ‘Nights Away’ and the practical and Development Manager Steven Lewis, Scout planning advice that staff at UKHQ Shops Sales O!ce can offer, don’t forget that we can Justin Mullender, Manager, says: also offer advice on planning for Head of People are attracted the social and emotional aspects of Communications, to fabric boots going away. Having new experiences Strategy and thinking leather and adventures means leaders Planning at The boots are heavy need to prepare young people (and Scout Association, and stiff; this is not the case anymore. themselves) for the emotional impact, says: If you carry a It is worth taking a fresh look at as well as how they think about the smartphone, use it to take photos and leather boots – have a look at Scout interests and wellbeing of young video clips of your everyday Scouting Shops outdoor equipment section at people while away. We’re here to help and select the best images and clips shop.scouts.org.uk. Generally leather you make sure our yellow card can be that tell a good Scouting story. Share boots are known for ruggedness and put into practice at all times. them directly from your phone via greater weather protection due to social media, emailed to a Scout waterproofing treatments, whereas The sta! at UKHQ can provide website or newsletter, or directly to advice, support and guidance for the breathability of fabric boots journalists with a press release. Don’t your camping trip makes them most suitable for hot forget to take photos and video that and dry conditions. Many fabric boots promote our brand values: everyday incorporate breathable waterproof adventure and challenge, fun and membranes such as Gore-Tex™, friendship, positive impact. but the outer fabric still requires treating with a You can also help to promote waterproofing agent. Scouting positively by getting your subject to wear a Scout scarf, activity gear or an item of i.SCOUT clothing. For further ideas check out the tips at scouts.org.uk/videotips and scouts.org.uk/images.

The Scout Association SCOUTING 51 volunteer advice health food walk games theknowledge

How do I know whether my Make sure your HQ is insured for the right amount by having it Scout meeting place is insured valued every three years for the right value? Rhodri Jones, Group Scout Leader Ralph Doe, Unity (Scout Insurance Services), says: You should insure your building for the full cost of rebuilding it. You should have it valued every three years and produce an inventory. Unity (Scout Insurance Services) can help by providing a free buildings estimation service and personal site visits for complex cases. Call Unity on 0345 040 7703 or visit tinyurl.com/mheea45 for more information.

Emma Saunders, Programme Team Leader, says: How can I bring Remember that adventure means something different to everyone and so adventure to my Group? gives the opportunity for a wide range of activities to Gary Osborn, Group Scout Leader be offered to members of all ages. You don’t have to take on Everest to provide adventure; you can offer an James Stuttard, Programme activity in a new way that can be equally adventurous. Development Project Lead, says: There are loads of resources available to support you, The revised programme is crammed with so head to Programmes Online (scouts.org.uk/pol). adventure because it’s what leaders and As part of the programme updates there are new young people said they enjoyed most about Scouting. Outdoors and Adventure Challenge Awards to achieve Some of the highlights in the new Activity Badges for along with a wider selection of Staged Activity Beavers include the Sport and Camp Craft Badges; the Badges and updated Activity Badges. A great way to Cubs have the fantastic Pioneering and Backwoods start these is to introduce young people at a basic Cooking Badges, and the Scouts and Explorers level to grow their skills and confidence, we know can enjoy the new Geocaching and Survival Skills that progression is key and so you can start with skill Badges. Not to mention the exciting range of Staged activities in the meeting place before getting outside Activity Badges now available. Fifty percent of the and being more adventurous. changed programme should be done outside, where Across the country there are hundreds of activity Scouting is at it’s best. An adventure doesn’t have to centres, campsites and Units, be an expensive trip. When we spoke to Cubs as part of as well as individuals who are equipped to support the programme review we were struck by how much this part of the programme. Find out who in your they enjoy the simple things – playing a game outside area can offer support or get ideas for new activities in the dark with torches was enjoyed just as much as at scouts.org.uk/a-z. As with all Scouting activities, crate stacking! Talk with your young people, and plan good planning, working with parent/carers and being an adventurous programme you’ll all enjoy. With 147 flexible and creative will help to support the inclusion new awards to chose from, it’s going to be a fun 2015! of all young people, regardless of ability.

Over to you… Do you have a query about Scouting, or experience you could share as a member of our reader panel? If the answer to either question is yes, email us at [email protected] with your questions and advice.

52 SCOUTING April/May 2015

theknowledge volunteer advice health walk food games

TOP TIPS !" TO HELP YOU GET FIT Are you struggling to keep up with your Scouts? Now you can boost your energy levels with our easy fitness tips from personal trainer Charlotte Ord

queezing exercise into your 1 Schedule it in 3 Rise and shine packed routine can be difficult, Whether you’re a gym bunny, runner, Not everyone is a fan of getting up but there are some really fitness-DVD follower, cyclist or walker, early, but going for a walk, run, cycle or effective and simple ways to booking time to exercise in your swim before work or before breakfast ensureS that physical activity becomes diary – just as you might an oridinary on camp is a fantastic way to start the a daily feature for you. The benefits of appointment – vastly increases the day. It also means that whatever the exercise extend beyond being able to chances of you actually doing it. rest of the day brings, your workout is keep up with young people. Regular Be realistic and remember that short, already in the bag and won’t be skipped exercise conditions your cardiovascular frequent bursts of exercise are generally if you feel too tired or when something system, boosts your strength and better for you than longer stints with more pressing comes along. endurance, keeps your bones strong, less regularity. helps you maintain a healthy weight, 4 Walk it out and protects you from a myriad of health 2 Remind yourself Going for a brisk walk during your lunch conditions and diseases. It also releases When you’re juggling daily life and break is an easy way to fit activity into mood-boosting endorphins, reduces Scouting, excercise can be easy to your day and is also fantastic for your stress levels, promotes better sleep, forget. There are some fantastic posture, particularly if you spend a lot prevents cognitive decline and increases phone apps available to remind you of time sitting down. Prolonged periods your confidence. But above all it inspires to complete health-boosting tasks of sitting can result in short, tight and others, including your Scouts, to lead throughout the day. For example, FITRA weakened muscles that frequently healthy, active lives, too. is a free app that’s individually tailored contribute to bad backs, head and neck Here are 10 top tips on how to make and offers motivation, guidance and pain, so get up and move as often as

Pictures: Thinkstock Pictures: exercise a part of your daily routine: support in all areas of your health. you can during the day.

54 SCOUTING April/May 2015 theknowledge volunteer advice health walk food games

5 Take the active route day. The internet is also full of home pumping and your body moving! Simple swaps such as regularly taking and gym training programmes that are There are loads of new programme the stairs rather than the lift can proven to achieve great results and are materials and badges that include these dramatically increase the amount of time efficient. An example is my own activities, so why not give them a go? movement you get each day. You could training programmes at roarresults.com. also get off the train or bus a stop 10 You are what you eat early and walk the rest of your way to 8 Sleep We all know it’s hard to eat well when incorporate additional activity without There are times in life when good sleep you’re constantly on the go – particularly going out of your way. Why not try can be hard to come by, when you’re when you're working around Scout cycling, walking or even jogging to your on camp with 40 excited Scouts for meetings or when you’re on camp – but Scout meetings? Small changes can example, but getting a proper night’s try to support your exercise endeavours make big differences. sleep means that you’ll be fresher and with good nutrition. A clean, natural diet, free from processed foods, will help you feel energetic and enjoy everything ‘There are some really e!ective that Scouting, and life, has to offer! and simple ways to ensure that Tell us your tips If you have fitness advice that physical activity becomes a daily could help other leaders, share it by emailing scouting.magazine@ feature for you.’ scouts.org.uk.

6 Get support more energetic to lead your Group. There are lots of options available Sleep is also really important for muscle to help you feel supported and stay repair and regeneration after exercise motivated, from personal trainers to and helps to regulate your cortisol levels, reputable bootcamps and gym classes. which have a direct impact on your Having an exercise buddy to train body’s propensity to store excess fat. alongside can also help you stay on track. Why not join a class or a club with 9 Have fun some of your fellow leaders? That way, Doing exercises and activities that you can motivate and support each you really enjoy is one of the most other along the way. effective ways of ensuring that you stay consistent, so incorporating exercise into 7 Try some TV your Scouting is a great place to begin. Fitness DVDs are a great way of working Remember that being fit doesn’t have out at home and there are a number to mean doing traditional workouts; available that provide 10–15-minute you can dance, climb, swim, bike, box, workouts that you can fit in around your skip or do anything that gets your heart

Charlotte Ord Charlotte is the owner of the Charlotte Ord Academies in Godalming and Guildford, and was named UK Personal Trainer of the Year in 2010 and 2014. She works with a wide range of clients, from complete beginners to international athletes.

The Scout Association SCOUTING 55 theknowledge

TAKE A HIKE THE YORKSHIRE THREE PEAKS The perfect challenge for older Scouts and Explorers, this 24-mile walk makes for a truly memorable endurance test

Get a free copy of Trail! Call 0800 665457 and quote ‘BOOF’ or text ‘BOOF’ to 78070 and receive the next copy of the UK’s best-selling hillwalking magazine for free. Terms and conditions: Lines are open 9.30am-8.30pm Mon-Fri and 10am-1.30pm Sat. Calls are free from a BT landline. Calls from mobiles and other providers may This endurance hike o!ers vary. Offer available for UK addresses only and subject to availability. Offer closes breathtaking views aplenty 31/12/2015 and is limited to one copy per UK household. for the experienced walker

56 SCOUTING April/May 2015 volunteer advice health walk games food The Yorkshire Three Peaks

A long test of mettle and a feast for The route traces the historic but nowhere near as steep as it looks the eyes, the Yorkshire Three Peaks Ribblehead viaduct. The viaduct is and the path up it is very good, making Challenge is a continuous journey 32m/104ft high and 402m/1,320ft long, the going a tad easier for tired legs. over moor and summit. It’s a walk of and is made up of 24 arches and is one Ingleborough summit is littered with three climaxes, namely the Dales high of the great civil engineering feats in numerous archaeological remains in points of Ingleborough, Whernside and Yorkshire. The route passes beneath on the form of a fort, cairns and walls – Pen-y-ghent. A thorough workout for the Dales high way onto the north- and it’s well worth a look around if you navigation and stamina, aiming for the eastern flank of Whernside. The ascent have both the time and energy. The 12-hour goal is a great notch on anyone’s of Whernside is mostly well-graded. (E) summit is marked by a big cairn with an life list of challenges. Like Pen-y-ghent, the summit is crossed adjacent trig point and cross shelter. (G) by a wall, which aids navigation. Near It is surprisingly easy to become The route the summit trig point is a substantial disoriented on Ingleborough’s flat The climb up Pen-y-ghent builds slowly curved shelter. The route crosses the summit, even in good conditions, so and is a perfect warm-up for the miles summit and descends steeply (though make sure you take a bearing to clear ahead, so take your time and find your not by the old, direct path to the left it in the right direction and avoid rhythm gently. (A) a couple of hundred metres beyond frustrating errors. The extensive The Brackenbottom Path joins the the summit; this is badly eroded and is moorland and limestone pavement Pennine Way at a shoulder overlooking Fawcett Moor, (B) after which the gradient steepens and a series of ‘A long test of mettle and a feast craggy steps are encountered, which may require hands for balance. for the eyes, this is a continuous The summit of Pen-y-ghent is crossed by a drystone wall, which aids journey over moor and summit.’ navigation and offers some shelter on windy days. The route follows the generally avoided) between Brunstcar of Sulber offers possibly the greatest Pennine Way a short distance off Pen-y- and Broadrake to the B6255. (F) opportunity for navigational error ghent then leaves it after the first steep The Old Hill Inn in Chapel-le-Dale on the Three Peaks walk. There is section. A new engineered path aids the has been the downfall of many a Three a bewildering crossroads of paths, crossing of Horton Moor, which in the Peaker. Its welcoming refreshments bridleways and sheep trods, and if you past has suffered badly from erosion can easily seduce tired walkers into a pick the wrong one you could easily and is very boggy. (C) longer stay: you have been warned! The end up way off route with a lot of extra A new footpath diversion and shelved approach across the limestone walking to do when you least need footbridge carry the Three Peaks route of Southerscales Scars leads easily onto it. The correct alignment is along the around the north side of the farm at the northern flanks of Ingleborough. feature of Sulber Nick (H); but again Nether Lodge. This action was taken Don’t be put off by its awesome sight take a bearing if you are in any doubt, to avoid disturbing farm activities. – from this side Ingleborough is steep, as it is not that clear from the start. The last section up the Ribble Valley to Ribblehead is unavoidably by road. Map OS Explorer Sheet OL2 On weekdays traffic is moderate but Scouting classification Terrain Two with some routes containing on weekends it can be very busy with Specialist Terrain. Navigation requires particular attention, the fast traffic – bikers use this route ground can be boggy and there are steep sections that may require as an unofficial circuit. Ribblehead the use of hands. is also used as a start for the Three Distance 24 miles Peaks walk. There is parking if you Total ascent 1500m get here early enough, and frequent Start and finish Horton in Ribblesdale SD807725 train services. The Station Inn is very

Picture: Tom Bailey/Trail Magazine; Words:Simon Ingram/Trail Magazine Ingram/Trail Words:Simon Magazine; Bailey/Trail Tom Picture: walker-friendly, offering food, drink and Turn the page to see the route… accommodation. (D)

The Scout Association SCOUTING 57 theknowledge volunteer advice health walk games food

More info For terrain definitions and activity advice and

©Crown copyright 2015 Ordnance Survey. Media 042/15 guidance go to scouts.org.uk/a-z. If this activity doesn’t match your young people’s age, maturity and ability, your County team may be able to suggest an alternative.

E

D C

F

G H Start and finish B

A

58 SCOUTING April/May 2015 Badge

Perfect partners Scouts can look forward to some exciting new resources thanks to Victorinox

The Scout Association is working in the opportunity to learn about responsible partnership with global brand Victorinox, ownership when using a knife in Scouting. makers of the iconic Swiss Army Knife Now available to download is a new and suppliers of essential tools for millions resource that been developed with of adventurers and pioneers around Victorinox and Scout Leader bushcraft the world. experts. It aims to give Scouts all the Swiss Army Knives and Scouting go information and guidance they need when hand in hand, and are essential tools in working towards their Scout Survival every Scout’s survival kit. Victorinox is Skills Badge; including knife safety, how proud to be sponsoring the Scout Survival to build a fire and shelter from natural Skills Badge, which educates Scouts in how resources, administering emergency to be prepared for emergencies during first aid and signalling for assistance in a life’s everyday adventures. Discovering the survival situation. Two resource packs will outdoors in a safe way is an ethos shared be launched online each month until June, by The Scout Association and Victorinox. covering eight key topics. The final part of The partnership aims to emphasise the badge requires Scouts to create their and educate young people on the own survival kit, as well as plan and take importance of knife safety, giving them part in an overnight survival expedition.

More info Victorinox sponsors the Scout Survival Skills Badge. Resources are downloadable from scouts.org.uk/victorinox. Also check out facebook.com/victorinoxuk, @Victorinox on Twitter and Instagram.com/victorinox for ideas, competitions and to share your survival skills activity. A range of Victorinox Swiss Army Knives are available at scouts.org.uk/shop.

The Scout Association SCOUTING 59 theknowledge FUN and GAMES SCOUTING CROSSWORD APRIL/MAY Across Down 6 Maybe Reg showed bushes lining 1 Small crustacean held by Bush country lanes? (9) Rim platoon (6) 9 Amusement with US soldiers’ 2 Possibly no term for one who mushrooms etc (5) advises and guides a junior 10 Indigenous people of Greenland colleague (6) and other northerly regions (5) 3 Which may be given via the 11 A Beaver Activity Badge – one of Scouts Campfire Circle (9) Alice’s? (9) 4 One after another, rebuilding 12 ____ sunglasses cut out glare (8) NT ruin (2,4) 13 Outdoor meal is partly telescopic 5 Young animal and fierce junior – nice! (6) scout? (5,3) 15 Hi-tech navigational device – 7 Isle of Man town forged USA doctor’s? (3) gold (7) 16 Scouting activity: erecting 8 Rescue – and hold on to your boards and posts round cash! (4) boundary? (7) 9 Financial backing has an 17 In brief I believed a small lie (3) entertaining start (7) 18 Odd story about Guide finally 14 Like, eg the swallow moving getting this shellfish (6) between Africa and Britain (9) 20 Ready to respond, as Scouts 15 Benevolence, kindliness of gold will be (8) owl I trained (8) 24 Forestry skills, possibly of 16 Outer layer clothing items – word/act (9) swindles! (7) 25 Some carpenters go in (5) 17 Might need to administer this if 26 Emblems such as the Scouts dart is going adrift! (5,3) fleur de lis (5) 19 Wash bag item – no pegs, 27 Scouting Movement member sadly (6) adapted rigid luge (4,5) 21 Solemn promise – to put leader of pack on shelf (6) Crossword by Eddie James 22 Brownsea Island is in this county (6) For the solutions to last issue’s puzzles, head 23 Close group of entertaining to scouts.org.uk/magazine. Scouts on the stage? (4) THE YEAR OF THE SCOUT We’ve raided the archives to bring you a selection of vintage issues of The Scout magazine, but can you guess from which year these issues originate? Remember, they’re all from the same year… Send in your answer to scouting. [email protected] and we’ll send you a high resolution PDF of one of the covers for your Scout HQ.

60 SCOUTING April/May 2015 volunteer advice health walk games food INTERNATIONAL JAMBOREE TEASER As Japan 2015 draws ever closer, we have yet another batch of our Jamboree badges to keep you guessing 1 2

3 4 WIN !" tickets to Alton Towers! Treat your Scouts to a day out they will never forget at Alton Towers Resort! With over 50 rides and attractions there is something for everyone to enjoy, from pure adrenaline-pumping rollercoasters such as the world’s first 14 looping rollercoaster, The Smiler, to gentle thrills such as Ice Age The 4D Experience and Sharkbait Reef by SEA LIFE.

Scout Group benefits to the Alton Towers Resort include exclusive prices of £28 per adult and £24 5 6 per child plus one free leader for every five paying primary school-aged children and every 10 paying secondary school-aged children. A fir. For your chance to win, simply answer the following question:

Q: How many loops does The Smiler have? A: 13 B: 14 C: 15

Send your answer with your name and address to: Scouting Magazine, The Scout Association, 7 8 Gilwell Park, Chingford, London E4 7QW or email your answer to scouting. magazine@ scouts.org.uk. What type of tree will keep you warm? warm? you keep will tree of type What Terms and conditions 1 The prize is for up to 20 free tickets to the Alton Towers Theme Park. The prize is non-transferable and there is no cash alternative available. 2 Tickets will be valid from 1 June to 8 November 2015. 3 All other chargeable items are not included in the prize. SIDE SPLITTER SIDE

The Scout Association SCOUTING 61 theknowledge volunteer advice health walk games food

Reader recipe Cinnamon campfire apples

Bolton Scout Leader Sarah Cavanagh shares one of her Troop’s favourite recipes, perfect for cooking on the campfire after a long day of exploring

Ingredients Serves 12 ! Cooking apples 12 ! Tinfoil ! Sugar 12 tsps ! Cinnamon 6 tsp

About the chef Method Sarah is a Scout Leader Wrap each apple in a can bake, leave for another unwrap the apples and keep from 16th Bolton ! piece of tinfoil. five minutes, then carefully the tinfoil. Remove the skin Scouts. Her Group remove from the campfire from the apples and roll the loves this sugary If using a campfire, and allow to cool slightly. peeled apples in the sugar recipe – you can see " move back large and cinnamon mixture. why. She says they burning embers to expose Place the sugar and are usually so keen hot coals, and lay the apples $ cinnamon in a large Re-wrap and replace to get munching, directly on the coals. bowl and mix well. & on coals until the they don’t bother sugar and cinnamon have with step 6 at all! Roll over after five Being careful not to caramelised, or skip this step # minutes so both sides % burn your fingers, and enjoy straight away! 62 SCOUTING April/May 2015

LAST WORD

Want more? 100 Family Adventures by Tim, THE MEEK Kerry, Amy and Ella Meek (Frances Lincoln, £14.99). Read more about the Meek FAMILY family at scouts.org.uk and check Tim, Kerry, Amy and Ella rejected the daily grind out their micro adventures at dotrythisathome.com. and set o! on a full-time adventure…

Tell us how 100 Family ‘Our girls were in Cubs and Scouts – Do Amy and Ella miss school? Adventures came to be they loved it and now we get to take Amy (age 11): ‘You find your Tim: ‘As the girls got older, we started that Scouting spirit and do it full-time. weaknesses when you’re outdoors to think about making the most of our I think kids should feel cold, tired and and overcome them and expand your time, so we thought we’d have a year hungry now and again – it makes you comfort zone. It makes you feel alive. of doing adventures. We didn’t have more resilient. I don’t think you really get that from disposable income so a lot of them were ‘Scouts is great because it is being sat inside school or playing on free. We started with 52 ideas – one a about getting the kids outdoors and a computer game at home.’ week – but we decided to turn this into encouraging them to do things on their Ella (age 9): ‘You learn to look after a list of 100 to keep us motivated. We own – trying any new experiences.’ yourself and be independent when told the local press about us sleeping in you’re outdoors. You enjoy it so much a tree tent for our hundredth adventure. Why is being outdoors that you want to do it again and you An article was written and we got a bit important? learn even more. At school it’s more of publicity. We then wrote the book Kerry: ‘When the kids joined the Scouts about safety and in the outdoors you together as a family.’ they were immediately going outdoors get to do more – you learn and doing things. At the time we were things that will help And now you’re continuing the swamped with work but dedicated time you later on adventure full-time… to going outdoors at the weekends. in life.’ Kerry: ‘It was a case of escaping the rut. We all feel so much better when we’ve We were just slotting into a routine that been outdoors; we’re happier and we didn’t feel natural. Initially, when the feel invigorated. The health benefits girls were younger, we just tried doing are extraordinary – both ‘Now we get things differently, so instead of going the mentally and physically.’ to take that normal route to school, we’d leave 20 minutes earlier and go a different way.’ Scouting spirit Tim: ‘The barriers were our house, our jobs and school. We got rid and do it of the barriers and reinvented ourselves as teachers full-time.’ and learners through adventure. In September we left to travel around the UK in a caravan. Picture: David White David Picture:

66 SCOUTING April/May 2015