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I am always amazed at how often people persevere when faced with what seem like insurmountable difficulties. In the past month I have witnessed several such examples in Scouting which I wanted to tell you about.

1st Neilson triumph

In mid-April, I was invited to the opening of a new Scout Hall in Neilston in Paisley and District. The original hall had been burned down by vandals 8 years before. Undaunted, the 1st Neilson Group leadership team, supported by the District and their many friends in the village, set about fundraising to build a new hall. 

8 years and £180000 later the Group had the pleasure of seeing their new hall finished and formally opened. I was so very impressed by the determination and perseverance of all involved to see the hall to completion.

I was also impressed by the tremendous support that the Group had had from grant giving bodies, charitable foundations, local businesses and the wider community. The Group can now start to focus on providing even better Scouting for young people in the village and the community has a superb resource which I have no doubt will find many willing users from outwith Scouting.

The challenge of achievement

At the Queen's Scout Parade and Service in Windsor a few weeks ago I was delighted to see so many Queen's Scouts from Scotland taking part in the parade before HM the Queen, HRH the Duke of Edinburgh and our Chief Scout, Bear Grylls. 

Despite the unfavourable weather, it was clear how proud our Queen's Scouts were in achieving our highest youth award. Many had faced serious challenges to complete the award, but they had persevered and now wear the QSA badge on their uniforms with deserved satisfaction.

I chatted to many of them in BP House the day before the parade and again after the service. The poor weather had clearly not dampened their spirits in any way. We need to encourage more of our young people to tackle our top awards in all Sections, but especially the QSA.

Low ropes challenge

Finally, this weekend past, I sneaked across the border to visit a Beaver Colony in East Sussex (with the permission of the Chief Commissioner of England). My 6 year old nephew is a Beaver and I wanted to find out why he enjoyed being a member of his Colony so much.

We went to the local Scout campsite at Broadstone Warren where the colony had planned to use the site caving complex. Unfortunately, the poor weather forced them to abandon that plan. 

Undaunted, the leaders arranged for them to use the site low ropes course and what a fun time was had by all.....including me! It was heartening to watch our youngest members tackle some challenging obstacles and overcome them by sticking to it and, where necessary, trying again.....albeit only inches above the ground. 

Seeds of adventure

I often wonder why some leaders in our older Sections feel threatened when our younger Sections try adventurous activities, which their members obviously enjoy, as long as they are pitched at the correct level.

Beavers can do low ropes courses, Cubs graduate to climbing and abseiling using small climbing walls, Scouts can tackle high ropes courses and taller climbing walls and Explorers and Network members can move on to the real thing.

Each step moves them on to a greater challenge, but the seeds of adventure have been sewn in Beavers and Cubs.

As the summer months approach.....hopefully with some good weather, let's get all our members out into the fresh air, and help them face some new challenges.

Graham Haddock

Chief Commissioner of Scotland

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Young people and leaders from across Greenock and District had a gem of a day celebrating the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee recently.

A special event was held at Everton Scout Camp in Inverkip on Saturday 21 April – which was also the Queen’s birthday.

Around 140 members from across all sections and groups gathered to witness a ‘royal oak’ being planted by the Lord Lieutenant of Renfrewshire Guy Clark.

The oak was brought on from a seed taken from Great Windsor Park. Other special guests included local MP Ian McKenzie, his wife Alison, and our Regional Commissioner Graeme Kinnear.

The young people were given the opportunity to gain their Environmental Partnership Award by taking part in activities including nest building, building bird boxes, tree repairs, bird feeders, making hanging baskets for the lodge and church, woodland log book, floral display at church area, clear up of woods, clear up of site, making Queen’s birthday cup cakes and Union Flag bunting. The RSPB were also in attendance. Some hanging baskets are being donated to Inverkip Primary School. Time was also found to enjoy the fun of the Zip Slide and the Crate Climb.

Our guests assisted in presenting some awards in the course of the afternoon including a Silver Acorn to John Blair of 6th, Queen Scout awards to brothers Matthew and Dominic Hurrell of 32nd, and young leader belt buckles to Lloyd Keogh of 85th and Jason Parker of 32nd Greenock & District.

Shirley presented three sets of wood beads to Sara McAllister and Craig Wilson of the 85th and to Martin Keane of the 32nd Greenock & District.

MP Ian McKenzie presented Belt Buckles to two young leaders – before having a go on the zip slide!

The final presentation was by the Lord Lieutenant Guy Clark who presented the Queen Scout Award to brothers Matthew and Dominic both members of the 32nd Greenock & District.

Jubilee Service at Paisley Abbey

The Jubilee was further marked by 12 Explorers from the Northface, Finnart, Darroch, Ardgowan and the newly formed Terra Nova who attended a service to mark the Queen’s Jubilee and Birthday, as well as Armed Forces Day at Paisley Abbey.

The Explorers were there at the request of Lord Lieutenant of Renfrewshire, Mr Guy Clark.

The 12 were inspected by the Lord Lieutenant prior to the service, and were also joined by 12 Explorers from Paisley District, both District Commissioners and the Regional Commissioner.

Our Explorers also displayed their new District Neckies and special Diamond Jubilee Woggles, specially commissioned for the event.

Thanks to District Explorer Scout Commissioner Mark Sinnamon for pulling this event together, and to the 12 Explorers who turned out extremely smartly, resplendent in their kilts, representing Greenock and District with style!

You can visit the Greenock & District website for information and news. 

Submitted by Greenock & District Scouts

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The current membership figure represents an increase of 4% of our total membership, with the increase in youth membership growing by 4.2%. Beavers have grown by 5.7%, Cubs by 3.4%, Scouts by 3.7% and Explorer Scouts by 4.4%. Network membership has dropped slightly, but this figure is confounded by the number of adult leaders who are also members of the Scout Network.

Seven of our eight Regions have recorded an increase in membership, with this year’s prize going to SE Region where membership grew by 7.4%.

A sign of success

But enough number crunching. What does this growth actually represent and why is it important? Well firstly, it is a clear sign of success. This is the sixth year in a row that we have seen Scouting in Scotland grow. It means that we are doing more and achieving our mission to spread what we offer in Scouting to more young members….and willing adult volunteers. And it should make us feel good about ourselves and what we are all trying to do.

But what has accounted for this growth? Well that is harder to determine. There is no doubt that you are all working very hard in your own locality to grow our Movement.

As I have said before, Scouting does not happen at SHQ…..it happens in Groups, Districts and Regions. You have focussed on local development plans to grow the Groups and Sections that you have and to open new Groups and Sections where there are none….or where there have been none for many years.

Our credibility as valuable contributors to our local communities has never been higher. The recent Impact Study told us that parents, politicians, employers and other community groups value what we do.

Funding and development

Funding from SHQ might have helped too. Money from Cashback and other sources has been put to good use, supporting new Groups and Sections and developing the programme of established Groups and Sections. 

I hope that you all can take considerable pleasure in this year’s census figures. But these are only numbers.

What is important is what happens week in, week out in Scout, church and community halls across Scotland every day of the year. But let’s not rest on our laurels. Think of the many young people (and adults) that do not get to enjoy what we offer. Our mission must be to continue to grow and develop to bring them to our party. 

The future is bright….the future is Scouting!

Graham Haddock

Chief Commissioner of Scotland

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For those of you who missed it, here is a link to the video featuring Scottish Scotish Scouts as they discuss their experiences on visiting Malawi. More information is available on the Scouts Scotland website. 

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2nd Thurso Assistant Cub Scout Leader , Jason Ridgley (18) last week competed at the British Gas Swimming Championships (Olympic and Paralympic Trials) at the Aquatic Centre in London.

This was an amazing achievement considering that in September 2009 Jason had major spinal surgery which left him permanently with two steel rods the length of his spine in his back.  

Early Aptitude

Jason’s mum began taking him swimming when he was five years old, and very soon, Jason was taking part in local swimming competitions and galas with his club, Thurso ASC.

Swimming wasn’t just what Jason got up to as a child he also joined the Beaver’s at the age of 5. Jason said: “My friends went to Beavers and asked me to go along with them as they said it was fun playing games and doing different activities like going to the fire station, a local farm at lambing time, or the panto at Christmas.”  Jason then moved up to Cubs, progressed to Scouts and finally was an Explorer Scout.

An Extraordinary Challenge  

Jason was 13 when he first began showing signs of Scheuerman's Disease when his spine developed a small curve which got worse during the year and resulted in his parents seeking medical help which concluded that Jason would need surgery.  Jason remembered: “I found it difficult to run and walk long distances as the condition affected my breathing.  I was in constant pain for about 3 years but swimming was my lifeline even though training was hard.” 

Jason describes how he felt: “After I was diagnosed with Scheurerman's Disease I felt really upset and wanted to be by myself as I felt different and I kept trying to hide my back.  After the operation I felt taller (actually 7.5cm taller) and liked my "new back" as it was straight and I wasn't in pain anymore.”

Going from Strength to Strength

Jason had to wear a back brace for a year following the six hour operation but since then, Jason and his ‘new back’ have gone from strength to strength.

Jason’s mother, Mrs Ridgley tells us about his first competition after the operation which was in Inverness in January 2011: “We didn’t expect anything in the way of performance but he came away with three personal bests, which was a real boost for him.” Jason said: “Mum and dad said just go and swim and don't worry about the times. After such major surgery it was really exciting competing again.”

Competing with the Best

The 18 year old competed at the British Gas Swimming Championships at the Aquatic Centre in London last week. Jason said: “This was an awesome experience to be competing at such a high level in amongst Olympians and Paralympians. The only problem was I set off the security alarms at the Aquatic Centre every day!!!  The second part of the trials is in Sheffield at the beginning of April and I hope to improve my personal bests again and perhaps gain a qualification time.”  

When Jason isn’t training (10 hours a week), he is studying for an HNC in Engineering Systems at the University of the Highlands and Islands in Thurso.

“My future plans are to continue swimming and either try for an Engineering Apprenticeship or to go back to college to do an HND in Engineering.”

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In the past two weeks, I have been aware of Plans in Districts and Regions to progress their development plans.

SE and East Regions brought their respective teams together last weekend to work on plans to develop Scouting in their patches.

In addition, SE Region held a Development Day for leaders working in Groups the previous weekend. I was able to attend both Regional Development Days for a short while, but the Group Day had to make do with a video message from me –not a particularly pretty sight!

These events got me thinking……what exactly is development in a Scouting context? I get the impression that many adult members are not sure what development means.

It sometimes comes across as some mystic process that no-one understands and that no-one really has much of an idea of what to do when you want to ‘do some development’.

For me, in simplistic terms, development is everything we do to try to improve our organisation.

• Increasing our membership and reaching out to more young people who can enjoy what we have to offer is development.
• Opening Scout Groups in new (and old) locations is development.
• Restructuring the Region or District to better support grass roots Scouting is development. 
• Improving the quality of our adult training is development.
• Welcoming new members from different religious and ethnic groups is development.
• Thinking critically about what we do and how we do it is development.
• Increasing local community awareness of what we do is development.

I suppose this all sounds pretty straight forward when you think about it in the above terms, but where on earth do you start thinking about what needs ‘developed’….whether in a Section, Group, District or Region?

The obvious place to start is a review. I wrote about this in a recent issue of our Pathfinder magazine. We need to review what we are doing, why and how. Then we need to see what needs improvement. Then we need to do it! That in a nutshell is development.

I hope that every Group, District and Region has a development plan. This should not be a dusty document that sits in a cupboard for three years before you remember that it is there. This should be a live document that changes as things move forward.

Your priorities for development this year might be different next year.  I would encourage you to find your (dusty) development plan in the coming weeks and reflect on how much progress has been made.

Don’t try to fix everything at once. Steady progress in bite sized chunks is better than no progress at all.

If you think you need help in working on your development plan, your District or Regional Team, or our colleagues at SHQ can help. You just have to ask.

Graham Haddock

Chief Commissioner of Scotland

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Air m' onair,            

geallaidh mi gu dìcheallach,

gun dèan mi mo dhleastanas do Dhia agus don Bhanrigh, 

nì mi cobhair air daoine eile,

agus glèidhidh mi lagh nan Gillean Deiseil. 

The above was sent to us by a Scout leader who consulted with some Gaelic experts at the school he teaches at.

He notes that "There is no Gaelic equivalent for “Scout”, so we have approximated as best we could to what it would be in Gaelic – “Gillean Deiseil” – literally, the “prepared boys”, (which ties in with the scout motto). If you would prefer just to keep the English word, the last line would be:

agus glèidhidh mi lagh nan Scouts."

Where are the other blog posts?

If you have sent in stories for consideration for the blog, please bear with us. We've had a few technical difficulties over the past months, which we are attending to and which we hope to resolve soon. You will receive and email with your scheduled publish date in due course. 

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To celebrate over 100 years of Scouting in Paisley and District, the The Paisley and District Scout Council has gifted Renfrewshire Council with a statue of a bust of a Scout, which was recently unveiled at a civic reception in the town. Here, District Chairman Dan Harper tells the story of the project. 

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The late Prof. Roy Sinclair, former District Commissioner of Paisley and Area Commissioner of Renfrewshire, orginally had the idea of making a gift to the area that would appropriately celebrate our centenary.

He wanted the celebrations of the founding of  the Scout movement by Baden-Powell to be marked by a tangible gift to the Town, that  would commemorate the past and encourage ongoing interest and appeal for the future of the Scouting  movement by erecting a monument in Paisley.

Commemorating Scouting's Contribution

Roy Sinclair was the inspiration behind many of the activities during the 2007 Celebrations, including running an exhibition of  the past 100years of Scouting in the Paisley Museum illustrating the contribution Scouting had played in the Town's history which attracted many visitors.

Unfortunately Roy's health was in decline due to a serious illness and the last event he proudly attended was the Centenary Celebration Service held in Paisley Abbey.

Before his death  at the end of May in 2007, Roy contacted  Sandy Stoddart, the local sculptor and Royal Sculptor in Ordinary and asked if he would accept a commission  from the District to cast an appropriate bust to represent the “Iconic Scout”, which, Sandy being a former Scout himself readily accepted.

Finding an 'iconic Scout'

The search was then on to find a model for the proposed bust and a visit to Oldhall Scout Troop by Sandy and  District President Tom Nixon one Friday evening was fruitful.  

Rory Hughes was eventually chosen,  and after many sittings in Sandy's studio at the University of the West of Scotland, the clay bust was ready to be sent for casting.

On completion of the bronze cast,  the first people to view the Bust in Sandy's studio, were Elen Sinclair (widow of Roy), Tom Nixon and Bill Duncan .  

Words could not describe the  feeling that day as they viewed the workmanship of  Sandy, who seemed to have captured what Roy's vision had been., the “Iconic Scout”.

Finding the right site

Bill Duncan, then took on the task along with Sandy, of finding an appropriate site for the bust , and after many lengthy discussions with the Town Planners, a site was found outside the Library and Museum. 

The money for the bust had been donated to the District and the only thing left to find money for was the plinth for the bust, which was  also designed by Sandy.

We applied for various grants and was successful in obtaining a suitable funding from the Renfrewshire Environmental Trust, thus completing the project.

The Bust was unveiled by Elen Sinclair while I officially handed it over to Provost Celia Lawson, who accepted the gift on behalf of Renfrewshire Council.

The Council hosted a Civic Reception to mark the occasion of the gift from The Paisley and District Scout Association with many members present. 

And now every time a member of the public visits the library or museum, they are reminded of the strong role that Scotuing has played in the Town's history. 

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Seven Explorer Scout Young Leaders from 21st Aberdeen (Cults) Scout Group spent an interesting week during their school holidays helping to teach conversational English in schools in Gomel, Belarus. 

The seven, who spent a week in Aberdeen's twin city, attended English classes in three schools; tried bricklaying and welding at a Technical College; visited a diamond factory; delivered toys to a children's centre and met the Chair of Gomel City Executive Committee.

All of the schools involved held a concert for the Scouts, including School No 10 which is pictured above with some of the Scottish Scouts who taught them.

Young Leader Training

You can read more about Young Leader training pn pages 19-20 in the Autumn 2011 issue of Pathfinder which is available online via Issu or the Scouts Scotland website. Additional copies can be requested from SHQ on shq@scouts-scotland.org.uk.

International Events Training

Scottish Headquarters is running a one-day training course on International Events Planning. You can sign up on the Scouts Scoland website where there is also more information and support for those interested in international Scout trips and events.

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In his monthly blog post, Chief Commissioner of Scotland Graham Haddock reflects on the great work that is being done by our volunteers across Scotland, and how we really need to make a point of recognising, thanking and commending those who give so freely of their time to support Scouting in Scotland. 

In recent weeks, I have been reflecting on the wide range of Scouting events and activities that take place across the country. It reflects so well on the commitment of our leaders that they give up their time so freely to make Scouting tick across Scotland.

Let me tell you about a few of the events and activities that I have had the good fortune to attend during the month of November:

Working Together 

On Saturday 5th, 1000 Scout Leaders and 1000 Guide Leaders attended the first joint service of thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey (taking the place of the Thinking Day service of the past). In such a historic venue, we celebrated many, many years of leader service in both organisations.

After the service, some 200 plus holders of the Silver Wolf, including a small group from Scotland, were treated to a celebratory lunch in another prestigious venue (picture above of myself and some of our Silver Wolf recipients). The night before the service, the UK Chief Commissioner Team met with the Chief Guide and her HQ team.

A very productive working dinner encouraged us to look to how we could work more closely together as brother and sister organisations. This is something that we should consider at every level of our two organisations.

While only a small number of Scottish leaders were able to attend Westminster, many more deserve recognition for the superb work that they do.

Honouring Good Service

We need to get better at thanking our leaders in whatever role they hold in our Movement. I am particularly keen to encourage nominations for good service awards for Section and Group Leaders….so start thinking if you know anyone in your Group or District who deserves such an award.

On Sunday 6th, 150 leaders attended a SW Regional Leaders day in Kilmarnock. In a packed programme, leaders were able to catch up on many issues and topics of importance and network – something that all leaders value. The Region recognized the service of Duncan Riddell as he retired from the role of Regional Commissioner with a well-deserved presentation.

On Monday 7th, I was truly delighted to be able to present almost 160 Chief Scouts Gold, Platinum and Diamond Awards and six Queen’s Scouts Awards.

Amazing Achievements 

One Cub Scout received a special award for having gained every single badge available in the Cub Scout Section – truly amazing! Glasgow City Chambers main hall was packed to the ceiling by proud parents and leaders as well as the award recipients. What a morale boosting evening!

After a short holiday, I returned to have the pleasure of attending Edinburgh Gang Show on 23rd November. It is many, many years since I attended the Edinburgh Show…..but it was well worth the wait.

The main cast of 110 supplemented by a junior cast of 150 raised the roof with song, dance and laughter. It was a modern, energetic and vibrant show, which showcased the talents and enthusiasm of our young members. It also demonstrated what quality work can be done when we work together with our sister organization Girlguiding Scotland.

My month finished with a very productive business meeting with our Regional Commissioners. We have a lot to be pleased about in Scottish Scouting, but we can also improve so much with a little more focused work in a number of areas.

Festive Season Wishes

As Christmas approaches, can I wish all the best for the festive season. I hope you have time together with your families to celebrate the joy of Christmas, enjoy the food and good company and take some time to rest up from Scouting in order that your batteries get recharged for whatever 2012 holds.

Graham Haddock

Chief Commissioner of Scotland

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If you're contemplating an international trip for your Scout group in 2012, this report from Keith Mulraney describes a wonderful Scouting experience they had over the summer at the Kandersteg International Scout Centre. You can also sign up for International Events Training at the bottom.

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Our group of five leaders and ten scouts, flew to Basle and onto Kandersteg by coach.

The accommodation was excellent, staying in the Kander Lodge with breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The staff were friendly and helpful and provided excellent meals during our stay.

Meeting International Scouts

There were numerous activities to choose from, which gave everyone the opportunity to meet other scouts and have fun i.e pioneering, sports day and the Kander Challenge.

The International evening and the Campfire were thoroughly enjoyed by our group, as they could swap things, talk to other scouts and let their hair down.
 
We did an overnight hike to the Ueschinen Hut, with stunning views, sharing with two other groups and a herd of
cattle!

Goats as Leaders - sans the Wood Badge!

In the morning we were led down the mountain by a herd of goats. What an experience!

We then had a swimming session and barbecue in the village with an early rise for a trip to Interlaken. En route to Interlaken we visited the stunning Trummelbach Falls, ten glacier waterfalls illuminated.

In Interlaken we got the opportunity to chill out, do some shopping and enjoy some lovely chocolate, mmmmmm!
 
Our trip to Oescinensee Lake was awesome. We walked into the village, cable car up and everyone went on the toboggan run, numerous times, great fun. A short walk from there to the lake, as you get the first glimpse of the lake in its setting, it just blows you away!

It was an action-packed week with early starts, late nights, singing, dancing, laughter and tears, and that was just the adults!
 
In the end, all the hard work, bag packing, organising and coordinating to make the trip possible was a great team effort for a scouting experience to remember.

International Events Planning Training

Scottish Headquarters is running a one-day training course for those interested in  learning how to plan, organise and run international events. Sign up here.

Also don't forget that Scottish Headquarters has an appointed International Advisor and team, including a Travel Medical Advisor, to assist you with any aspects of preparing for international Scout trips and events.

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Gary Stronach, ADC Scouts Caithness, recently submitted this blog post about the Caithness District Scout Pipe Band’s more notable gigs – in front of royalty!

The Caithness Scout Pipe Band has been in existence for a number of years, starting its life as the 2nd Thurso Scout Group's own Pipe Band but with diminishing numbers over the years and competition from other organisations it was expanded to become a District Band.
 
On Saturday 6th August 2011 they provided the music at the Castle of Mey Highland Games for which HRH Prince Charles is the Patron and for whom they played several tunes for his arrival & departure.

The Pipe Major, his assistant instructors and all the Scouts involved with the band have been practising hard all year for their Royal debut and are the pride of their District.

All the hard work has paid off handsomely - they have been invited back to repeat the performance for His Royal Highness Next Year!

Caithness Scout Pipe Band

The inspiration for the Caithness Scout Pipe Band came originally from John Ritchie. He had been a founder of the 2nd Thurso scout group in 1958 and it was always his wish to start a scout pipe band. He put his idea into action in 1972 looking for volunteers to learn the chanter. This was the point at which I, Gordon Tait, became involved and I have maintained an unbroken connection with the band ever since, becoming Pipe Major and leading tuition, following completion of my university degree in 1985.

The band originally started out within the one scout group, but the local scout organisation is very well integrated and it is now open to all scouts within the area, broadening its name to Caithness Scout Pipe Band. The present squad all started learning within the last three years, and have done well to reach the standard required to perform for Prince Charles at the Castle of Mey.

Don't miss the new website

Caithness District have also recenty launched their own website where you can Like and comment on their news and updates for the area. You can visit thier websit at www.scoutscaithness.org.uk.

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Here's a fun story from Charles Lowe of the 21st Aberdeen (Cults) Scout Group. Recently their Scout camp boasted an astonishing feature on the attendant list . . .a total of 18 brothers all in one place. 

The 18 brothers in camp was the highest ever recorded number of brothers in camp at any one time. One set of brothers had their sister camping as well. 

The brothers were part of 47 Scouts who enjoyed various activities including canoeing, sailing and cooking during the week's camp.  

6  Scouts gained the Chief Scout's Award and 2 completed the Duke of Edinburgh's Silver Award.

The picture above shows the 9 elder brothers (back row) with their younger brothers in front.  The sister of 2 of the brothers is 3rd from left, her elder brother behind and younger brother in front. 

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Graham Haddock reports from the recent Annual General Meeting of The Scottish Council The Scout Association and shares an interesting reply in answer to the question "What if B.P had Facebook?" 

Dear Friends,

I am pleased to report that I have just survived my first Annual General Meeting and Council in Conference as Chief Commissioner. I even managed to get Scottish Scouting jumping to my tune! (You will need to ask someone who attended what I mean.) 

What if B.P had Facebook? 

This year, our AGM was run alongside a workshop for our Group Scout Leaders...a key role in Scouting in Scotland. I was most impressed by the level of engagement of all attendees during the Council in Conference. 

After a light-hearted review of the past year of Scouting in Scotland, in answer to the question “What if B.P had Facebook?” (see video above, and many thanks to Barry Hewitt for putting this together for us), two topics of considerable importance were discussed and debated.

Safe Scouting is Good Scouting

Alex Minajew, UK Commissioner for Programme and Chair of the Safety in Scouting Working Group led an important session on establishing a ‘Culture of Safety’ in all that we do in Scouting.

Alex presented some sobering facts and figures, the most surprising of which was that the the increase in the number of safety issues that HQ gets to know about is exceeding the rate at which our Movement is growing. This has to be a concern for us all.

As Alex stated on several occasions "Safe Scouting is good Scouting and good Scouting is safe Scouting". This has to be a message that we must all take to heart.

Recognising achievement  

The second session was led by Ross Donald, our Education Links Officer at SHQ. Ross made us focus on what we do as an organisation to recognise achievement, both for our young members and for our adults.

We need to get better at recognising such achievement using the awards that our young members work for and by looking carefully at our adult friends and colleagues and recommeding them for Good Service awards.

I am particulalry keen to see more leaders who work in Sections and Groups recognised for the superb work that they do, week in, week out.

Group Scout Leaders as a key role in Scouting

And what of the GSL’s workshop? Over 65 GSL’s from around the country started working on the Friday night though to the Sunday at lunchtime.

They explored key issues which challenge them in their roles and identified some possible solutions to these problems.

They also explored the six areas of Leadership and Managment that have been identified as critical to success in that role. I hope they had some fun doing this work.

Can I put on record my personal thanks for the hard work that all attending put into the workshop and to the staff and volunteer group that delivered such a quality experience. It is just a pity that only 60% of our Groups currently have a GSL in post. This is something that we have to work on. 

A spring in our step

Our Honorary President, Sir Garth Morrison spoke to me at the end of the AGM. In his view, Scottish Scouting has a ‘spring in its step’ at the moment. I agree. He feels that we are in good heart as a Movement in Scotland....and I agree.

It is up to us all to make sure that we keep that ‘spring’ and treasure our ‘good heart’ and spread the word of the good work that we all do for our young members.

Best wishes,

Graham Haddock,

Chief Commissioner of Scotland

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Eleanor Lyall wrote in with this special thank you to all members of Scottish Scouting after her Farewell Lunch to all members of Scottish Scouting. 

I would like to sincerely thank everyone who contributed to the marvellous gifts I received on my retirement as Chief Commissioner of Scotland  and trust you will accept this rather impersonal way of expressing my heartfelt thanks.

I was able to personally thank those who were present at Perth in September but I would like to pass on my grateful thanks to those of you unable to be at the lunch.  

I have been so overwhelmed by your generosity.   Thank you also for the flowers, cards and letters received from so many.  The rewards I have had over the years in being involved in Scouting in Scotland has been more than enough as I will always cherish the memories and friendships made over the years.  I do hope I will be able to continue the contact as I continue to be involved in a small way.

Much Love and Best Wishes for the Future,

Eleanor Lyall

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On Saturday 18th of June, the world premiere of the film “Til We Meet Again” took place at the Glasgow Film Theatre, Rose Street, Glasgow, starring the 1st Quarriers Village Scout Group of Greenock & District. Here Scout Leader Martin Buchan tells us more. 

See the full gallery on Posterous

An Interesting Learning Experience

For many months, Quarrier’s Charity has been working with the Beaver Scouts, Cubs, Scouts, Explorers, Network Scouts and Leaders from Quarrier’s Village, along with local school pupils who have joined the group as part of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme. Every person involved has done historical research, investigation, drama workshops and presentations.

The culmination of this work has resulted in an exhibition at Scotland Street Museum which opened at the end of June (and runs until October) and of course the film, which tells the story of William Quarrier’s vocation to save Victorian children from destitution, alongside the story of Annie Blue, a former Quarrier’s child, based on her diary from 1895. 

Scouts in the Mix

Every member of the Scout group has made a contribution to the film, from assisting the director/producer, acting coaching, photography, cinematography, catering, archive research and acting alongside professionals such as John Davidson and Jim McPhee (who has played James Potter in two of the Harry Potter films).  

This short film is the first known dramatisation of the man, William Quarrier, on the 140^th anniversary of the opening of his first home for orphan children. 

The film was written and produced by Michael Lewis who has worked with Quarrier’s charity for ten years, and the director was Seth Gardener from Red Snappa Productions. 

A Special Scout Premiere 

On the 22nd June, Quarriers and the 1st Quarriers Village Scout Group hosted a screening of the film for parents and family members. The evening was a huge success made even more special as we were joined by Jill Jones, Headteacher of Kilmacolm Primary School, Paul Moore, Chief Executive of Quarriers, and Graham Haddock, the newly appointed Chief Commissioner of Scotland for The Scout Association who was most impressed by the project. 

At the moment, an educational topic pack based on the film and exhibition is being produced to complement the Primary Six Curriculum in Scotland as this has already been requested by several schools. 

The 1^st Quarrier’s Village  Scout Group would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to Quarriers, especially Michael Lewis, who shared his project with us. It has been a unique experience and one which the Beavers, Cubs and Scouts took very much to their hearts.

Watch the film 'Till We Meet Again

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The 18^th Paisley Coats Memorial (Foxbar) Scout Group spent their summer camp visiting the 1st Kinloss Air Scouts and completing thier  Aeronautics Badges. The Group enjoyed some high-flying times and many new Scouting friendships were made, as Assistant Scout Leader Terri Ferris reports. 

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A Long Journey

After arranging to meet at 10am, we headed off on our 200 mile journey.  It was a long drive but it was fun as plans were made and jokes were told.  Sadly our arrival at the North East Coastline was celebrated with rain. 

After it passed the campsite was set up and off we went to Findhorn for a Chippy and a tour of the village by a friendly local.  That night our group practised their campfire songs as the following day we planned to put the local Scout group to shame, and for me, it was personal.

Saturday morning was early to start with 8am for breakfast  which was a shock to the system for those enjoying the school holidays by sleeping in.  Then off we went to the airfield where leaders showed more nerves then the Scouts. 

Scouts in the Air

The group was split into two groups so we could take off in different planes on different runways to allow for a quicker turn-around.  Everyone really enjoyed the flying which was good seeing as, while it wasn’t the only thing we had planned for the camp, it was the main reason for travelling the distance. 

After lunch eight Scouts and Leaders tried the RAF low ropes course.  The instructor did mention at the end that the Scouts worked as a team better than some of his people attempting the course. 

For the third time that day we ate at the Airmen’s Mess and it was music to our ears when we were told we could go up for pudding a second time.  The RAF sure knows how to feed people! 

At six we were joined by the Kinloss Air Scouts.  After a couple of wide games, all the Scouts versus the Leaders, we reached the moment I’d been waiting for – the campfire. 

I needn’t have worried.  The Kinloss Scouts were not big campfire song people, but that all changed as by the end of it they were all singing along and doing the actions like pros.  

Survival Equipment Section

Sunday, again was too early for some but worth it as the morning was spent with the Survival Equipment Section who showed the Scouts how to make an A-frame and a Lean-to bivouac. 

That afternoon the Scouts worked on making their own A-frame Bivouac’s that they had the option of sleeping out in that night if they wanted to gain part of their Outdoor Plus Challenge Badge. 

That evening we all went on the Moray Gig Bien Trouvé, whose crew specialise in taking youth groups out into Findhorn Bay and teaching them teamwork through learning Seamanship Skills.  Unfortunately the weather conditions meant we were unable to put the sails up. 

This meant we had to row, which due to the age and size of some of the Scouts was difficult.  However, most agreed the hard work was worth it when the driver of the RIB support boat took them for a quick spin around the bay.

Recognising Achievement

Much to the disgust of the Scouts, Monday had an earlier start then the previous days (06.00 Hrs).  This was because it was time to pack up and clean the campsite. 

However, before we left, Wing Commander Walsh was kind enough to award all the Paisley Scouts with the Aeronautics Badge which they had earned over the course of the camp. 

He also presented one Paisley Scout (Rebecca Brennan) with her Chief Scout Gold Award. 

Needless to say the drive back was quieter then the journey to the camp as Scouts and Leaders alike slept. 

Finally we got back to the hall to give the Scouts back to their families with some great stories.

Thanks for the Memories

Many thanks go to the 1^st Kinloss Air Scouts & leaders for the camping invite and organisation.   Mega thanks to the officers and Personnel at RAF Kinloss for their help, assistance and support. 

A big thank you also to the Moray Gig volunteers.  And finally, mega, mega thanks to the members, Pilots and instructors of the Moray Flying Club for the flights and lessons.

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This post was submitted by Greenock & District District Explorer Scout Commissioner Mark Sinnamon about a recent Patrol Weekend. Six Patrols of Explorer Scouts from across the district challenged themselves to "Do Their Best" pushing themselves individually and as a patrols to complete what was the toughest challenge yet. Read on for more details. . 

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It was third time lucky for some after what was the most action packed weekend yet. Six Patrols of Explorer Scouts from across the District challenged themselves to "Do Their Best" pushing themselves individually and as a patrols to complete what was the toughest challenge yet.  

Mystery Challenge Begins in Inverclyde 

This year’s mystery challenge began at train stations throughout Inverclyde. The teams found ticket masters handing them sealed envelopes full of challenges. The first was to get themselves to Glasgow, Balloch and then to Bridge of Orchy and to pitch in a forested campsite. 

As the sun came up the patrols realised what it was to "Be Prepared". The mystery theme of this year's Mark Muir Challenge was revealed - a kayak expedition across various Lochs on Rannoch Moor including Loch Ba and a 2km Portage to reach a secluded bothy.

Hike and Bike 

Next morning explorer scouts showed what they were worth by hiking and mountain biking back to Glencoe. Kit was even transported using an old trek cart. Various bases including making a Romanian Backwoods stove and some difficult navigation exercises honed the skills of all those involved.

This experience has created some highly trained outdoor Explorer Scouts within Greenock & District who proved to themselves what they can a achieve and are rightful proud of what they accomplished.

Highest Ever Awards Count 

Altogether all Explorers managed to gain their Mark Muir Challenge badge, with eight, the highest number of prestigious Gold standard badges ever awarded. Winners were the 85th Ardgowan Unit with the 32nd North Face taking 2nd place. 

We are looking forward to next years spin on what is an ever-changing activity!

Thanks to all involved and especially to Karen and Nicky for visiting us on Sunday to present the awards.

Well Done.

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In his monthly blog post, Chief Commissioner Graham Haddock reflects on the visits he has made to various Scout Groups and shares some pictures of his recent experience on Fordell Firs' King Swing. 

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Dear Friends,

It's been two months since starting my new role as Chief Commissioner of Scotland. It has become very clear, very quickly that one of the most enjoyable aspects of the role is getting to meet enthusiastic people who are as passionate about our Movement as I am. In the past month I have been privileged to visit one Regional AGM, two District AGM's and two Scout Groups in four of our eight Regions. AGM's can be tedious things but at each one, I have been impressed with the efficiency of the business part of the meeting and the energy and enthusiasm of many young people recounting their experiences during the summer at the World Scout Jamboree in Sweden and in Malawi.

Visiting the two Groups (51st Balerno and 40th Fife) has been a great personal morale booster. In each case, Scouting was in great heart with large numbers of young people enjoying an action-packed and vibrant programme of fun and activity, supported by capable and energetic leaders, lay supporters and parents.

If this last month's experiences are repeated in the coming months, I am going to enjoy my new role. If you want to invite me to your District, Region or Group event, please allow me plenty of notice (and I am talking months, not days or weeks). If I can't manage personally, I will try to arrange for Kenny or Chris, one of my two Deputes to take my place. Their diaries are just as packed as mine however, and plenty of notice helps. 

I hope the new Scouting session has started well for you all. I hope to meet many, many Group Scout Leaders at the GSL Workshop being run at Tulliallan during the weekend 28-30th October. If you are not a GSL, you can still attend our AGM and Council in Conference on the Saturday afternoon that weekend at the same venue. Please sign up for these evets at SHQ as soon as possible.

Best wishes,

Graham

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Saturday 11th & Sunday 12th June saw some of our Jamboree unit (South Scotland Unit) take part in the Greenock & District Beaver & Cub Days at Everton, providing a 'Join in Jamboree' experience to almost 600 young people.

This event was partly led by members of the unit in preparation for their trip overseas to the World Scout Jamboree in Sweden during July and August 2011.   

Our CST member Andy Robson was also on hand to talk to the Unit about the Pacific Islands and do some cooking. Former Jamboree unit leader/ assistants were also on hand to talk to about the experience that awaited them. Final items of kit etc. were also distributed.

The unit then provided a programme of music, Swedish meat balls and haggis tasting, dance, face painting (Swedish flag & Saltire), international flags and at the end of the event ran the camp fire.

This event is my view was a true example of young participation at the sharp end. The Jamboree young people constructed and delivered a programme of cultural activity to other young people in both a fun and active way. 

This truly balanced programme of activity with a real purpose was enjoyed by parties, the 500 Beavers & Cubs of Greenock & District, and the 22 members of South Scotland World Scout Jamboree Unit. 

Andrew, aged 15yrs said ' This has been a great event, we are now ready to go to Sweden' and  Linzi aged 16 yrs said ' Our unit has now really bonded well, the 'join in' event gave us all a feel of International Scouting.” 

The pictures above are from various activities on the day. You can find out more about Greenock & District Scouts on their website at www.greenockanddistrictscouts.org/.   

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