Summer Camp
At the start of August, Longford Scouts embarked on an unforgettable week-long summer camp near Grassington, where they camped on a farmer’s field beside a river. Camped in their patrols, the Scouts cooked all week on open fires, fostering independence and teamwork. The idyllic countryside setting provided the perfect backdrop for adventure, as the Scouts embraced the outdoors and bonded over shared challenges and achievements.
Throughout the week, the Scouts participated in a range of exciting activities, including archery, axe throwing, and hiking. One of the highlights was caving, which took place at the end of the week, where professionally qualified instructors guided them safely underground for an exhilarating experience. The group also spent time kayaking on the river, with everyone relishing the opportunity to explore the water while improving their paddling skills.
In addition to the organised activities, the Scouts also built shelters in the nearby woods, with a couple of brave members opting to sleep overnight in their handmade creations. The camp was a fantastic test of resilience, teamwork, and bushcraft skills, with everyone contributing to the success of the week. It was a memorable experience, bringing the group closer together and giving them plenty of stories to share back home.
Programme Planning
The Scouts have been busy planning their upcoming term by reflecting on what they enjoyed, what didn’t work, and what they want to try again. During the session, Scouts discussed their favourite activities from last term, highlighting outdoor adventures, campfire nights, and pioneering skills as standout moments. They also addressed activities that didn’t resonate as much, offering constructive feedback on what could be improved. This planning process not only shaped the term's programme but also contributed to their Teamwork Badgework, as the Scouts collaborated to ensure everyone’s voice was heard. Through this, they’ve help to craft a programme that promises exciting new experiences while revisiting popular activities.
Code of Conduct
The Scouts have taken an exciting step forward by drafting their very own Code of Conduct, aimed at establishing clear behavioural expectations for all its members. The new rules, written by the Scouts themselves, reflect their commitment to fostering a respectful, safe, and positive environment during meetings, camps, and all activities.
By working together, the group developed a comprehensive set of rules that focus on respect for others, taking responsibility for personal actions, and encouraging inclusivity within the Scout community.
Tatton Camp
What was expected to be a dreary, rain-soaked weekend turned into a sun-drenched adventure for the Longford Scouts and Explorers during their annual camping trip at Tatton Park. The mid-June campout, originally clouded by the forecast of persistent rain, saw clear skies and dry conditions that made for an unforgettable weekend.
Saturday was a highlight for the young adventurers, who took to the water with enthusiasm and vigor. The Scouts and Explorers spent the day earning their paddlesports and time on water badges, demonstrating impressive skills in a variety of aquatic activities.
For the Scouts, the day was filled with raft-building and kayaking. While some of the makeshift rafts displayed remarkable buoyancy and engineering, others provided a humorous spectacle as they disintegrated upon contact with the water. Nevertheless, the resilient Scouts took these challenges in stride, relishing the learning experience and the laughter that came with it.
Meanwhile, the Explorers honed their abilities in Canadian canoes and kayaks. Their day was marked by skillful paddling and teamwork, as they navigated the waters with growing confidence and proficiency.
The excitement on the water was complemented by a scenic hike to Knutsford. The picturesque journey led the young campers to a beloved local sweet shop, where they indulged in a variety of treats. The hike provided a perfect balance to the aquatic activities, offering time for camaraderie and exploration.
Giant Seat Camp
In May the Scouts eager to embark on a weekend filled with outdoor challenges and unforgettable memories, arrived with excitement in the air at Giant Seat Scout Camp. They immediately pitched their own tents, preparing for an exciting weekend.
The Scouts immediately began their first task after setting up their campsite: collecting wood. They scoured the surroundings in search of twigs, branches, and logs to use as fuel for their fires, channeling their inner survivalists. Through assurance and cooperation, they amassed a liberal stock of kindling, preparing themselves for a definitive trial of their fire-lighting abilities. The Scouts skillfully lit their fires as dawn broke, illuminating the campsite with a warm glow. They cooked hearty breakfasts and savored the distinctive flavors of outdoor cooking around these crackling flames, which became the center of their camp.
Exciting target sports continued the adventure. Under the supervision of experienced instructors, the Scouts practiced their aim by participating in archery, shooting, and axe throwing. They gathered around their fires once more to make a delicious chinese for dinner as dusk fell over Giant Seat Camp. As they skillfully combined the ingredients to create a feast that would please everyone, the air was filled with the aroma of spices. Chuckling and stories were shared around the gleaming fires, making the experience much more significant.
There was more to the weekend spent outdoors at Giant Seat Camp than just that; The Scouts were given the chance to push themselves and learn new skills. Their hearts were full of joy and appreciation as they packed up their tents and said goodbye to the camp. They left with fond memories of the fires they started, the delicious meals they cooked, and the target sports they won—evidence of their perseverance, cooperation, and unwavering Scout spirit.