Scouting for girls and boys

Aweek ago today I was part way through leading an exciting camp for girl and boy scouts.

The programme was rammed with many activities which had a twist to challenge the group of 10 to 14-year-olds.

Overall the event was a success and everyone went home exhausted but in high spirits.

The troop camped in the grounds of Oakwood Preparatory School, West Sussex. We couldn’t have asked for a better week either.

The weather was bright and not too hot for the young people.

There were a few drops of rain which was just what was needed to cool everyone down and clear the air.

Archery, axe and knife work, camp fires, tomahawk-throwing, cooking and much more were just some of the things that kept the youngsters active.

For many it was their first experience of camping and being away from home for a lengthy period.

Inevitably we had a couple of homesickness issues although they were soon resolved once they got stuck in to another activity.

One main reason I love volunteering and offering an enjoyable programme to the scouts is because of what someone once did for me.

I had never realised how valuable camping was for me until I had left and was older.

Now the week has drawn to a close it is time for many people to reflect on their memories of their week away.

As I plough my way through the hundreds of pictures taken throughout the seven days, I have been struck by the enjoyment people had.

Having fun in what you do is so important.

An afternoon of my camping programme had families and close friends of the children we took away joining us on site for a barbecue, games and a camp fire. Considering we were closer to Portsmouth than we have been before, it was very well attended.

The reception of their experience at the camp was incredibly positive and many walked away thankful for the efforts given by the adult volunteers.

It was a humbling experience to see all the hard work pay off.

I’m aware I’ve written about Scouting on several occasions, but if you’re on the look-out to do something collectively as a family then Scouts is one suggestion.

The movement strives to make an impact on the lives of those engaged with it.

So what are you waiting for, why not check it out?