10 Days to go until Gang Show 2024

10 Days to go until Gang Show 2024

Picture of Scott Walker

Scott Walker

Gang Show Marketing Lead

10 Days to Go Until the Edinburgh Gang Show 2024!

 

The excitement is building, and the countdown is officially on! In just ten days, the curtain will rise on the Edinburgh Gang Show 2024, bringing a burst of energy, colour, and entertainment to the historic Festival Theatre. Since August, more than 250 young performers—Cubs, Brownies, Scouts, Guides, Explorer Scouts, and Rangers—have been hard at work, supported by a dedicated team of over 100 volunteers. Together, they’ve been perfecting every dance step, line, and song to ensure this year’s show is nothing short of spectacular.

A Momentous Milestone

Recently, the cast took part in a vibrant photocall, marking yet another important milestone on their journey to opening night. For many, it was a moment of pure joy and excitement, a chance to don their respective uniforms with pride and see just how far they’ve come as a cast. This year’s Gang Show is all about bringing people together, and the buzz of anticipation during the photocall was infectious. It’s clear that everyone—from the youngest Cub to the seasoned Explorer—is thrilled to be a part of this much-loved tradition.

Why should you come and See the Show

The Edinburgh Gang Show is more than just a performance; it’s a celebration of creativity, teamwork, and community spirit. Year after year, it brings together young people from across Edinburgh, showcasing their talent, hard work, and dedication. For many of them, this show is a highlight of the year—a chance to shine on stage, make new friends, and create memories that will last a lifetime. But don’t just take our word for it. Watch our video to hear directly from some of our talented cast members about why this show means so much to them. 

An Urgent Appeal

We need your help! Due to a change in scheduling, our Thursday night performance is clashing with Halloween, which has affected ticket sales for that evening. It would be such a shame for our dedicated cast to perform to a smaller audience after all their hard work. If you can, please consider attending on Thursday night, or help us by spreading the word. Your support would mean the world to the young performers and volunteers who have poured their hearts into this show. Let’s make sure the theatre is filled with laughter, applause, and support on every single night.

Edinburgh Gang Show 2024 – Show Details


📅 Dates: Tuesday 29th October to Saturday 2nd November
🕖 Times: Evenings at 7:00 pm, plus a Saturday Matinee at 2:00 pm
📍 Location: Festival Theatre, Edinburgh
📞 Tickets: 0131 529 6000 (For group bookings of 8 or more, call 0131 529 6005)

BOOK ONLINE HERE

Get your tickets now and prepare to be dazzled by a show that promises to be a true celebration of Edinburgh’s young talent. Whether it’s your first Gang Show or a cherished tradition, we guarantee you’ll leave with a smile on your face and a song in your heart. See you there!

Our Gang Show Partners

Official Opening of new Longcraig facilities upgrades

Official Opening of new Longcraig facilities upgrades

Picture of Malcolm Leckie

Malcolm Leckie

Longcraig Lead

Longcraig Scout Centre: A New Era of Facilities and Sustainability

 

The Longcraig Scout Centre has entered a new chapter with the grand opening of its upgraded facilities on August 28th, 2024. This monumental project has set a new standard for the Centre, providing modern, accessible, and sustainable amenities that will serve generations of Scouts, leaders, and the wider community.

The event saw a fantastic turnout, with many key supporters, including Regional Trustees, ASU members, and representatives from various teams involved in the project. Special recognition goes to James Bowie, the factor from Dalmeny Estate, whose continued support and the positive relationship we have with Lady Rosebery allows the Region to provide young people with Skills for Life in a truly unique and breathtaking location. Hector Black, the architect behind the new designs from Covell Matthews, and the dedicated building team, firstly from Edinburgh Construction, then subsequently including Alan Smith and Michael Robertson from RW Bell and Sean Brown from Sean Brown Plumbing and Heating Ltd , who all made this vision a reality.

In the opening speech of the evening, John Cannon, Regional Chair, welcomed everyone to the official opening of the Centre and on behalf of the Trustees thanked the many people who were involved in the project. John also said, “together with the new amenity hub at Bonaly this project at Longcraig has been a significant financial investment from the Region and demonstrates the importance we place on our Centres in offering fantastic outdoor experiences for our young people now and into the future.”

Transforming Our Facilities

 

The new facilities are a game changer, not only for Longcraig, but the thousands of Young People who will enjoy the benefits for years to come. We have replaced outdated infrastructure with state-of-the-art amenities that cater to the needs of all our visitors. Key improvements include:

· Modern, Accessible Toilets and Changing Rooms: Designed to be warm, dry, and fully accessible, these new spaces are a significant upgrade from our previous offerings. The changing rooms feature flexible layouts, making them adaptable for individuals or groups, ensuring comfort for everyone who uses them.

· Enhanced Showers and Hot Water Supply: A major highlight of the upgrade is the improved shower facilities. Hot water is now available throughout the Centre, ensuring that even on the coldest days, our visitors can enjoy warm, reliable showers after a day of activity on the water.

· Sustainability-Focused Heating Systems: As part of our commitment to sustainability, the new facilities have been equipped with renewable energy-

powered heating systems. These systems not only help to optimise our energy consumption but also ensure that all areas of the Centre remain warm and comfortable, especially during the colder months.

· Accessible Layout and Design: Ensuring that all individuals, regardless of ability, can access the facilities was a priority. The design focuses on inclusivity and easy-to-navigate spaces to accommodate everyone.

These upgrades mean that Longcraig Scout Centre is now more equipped to support large groups, diverse events, and even year-round programs than ever before, ensuring our facilities are accessible, modern, and enjoyable for all users.

The Team Behind the Project

Such a large-scale transformation wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work and dedication of many individuals. Malcolm Leckie, the Centre Manager, and one of the project’s key leads, expressed deep gratitude to everyone involved, from Scouting volunteers to the professional teams who worked tirelessly on the design, build, and installation phases.

One of the standout contributors, among many, was Ian Harrower, whose determination and leadership helped to steer the project from concept to completion. His efforts behind the scenes—securing funding, organising teams, and overcoming the inevitable challenges, particularly during the COVID pandemic—have been vital. Ian’s quiet but steadfast leadership ensured that the project stayed on track, bringing this bold vision to life.

In the true Scouting spirit of co-operation, the Region’s fundraising team led by Janet Taylor included Peter Casebow, representing Bonaly, and Ian Harrower representing Longcraig, coordinated the fundraising efforts for the Bonaly Amenities Hub and the Facilities Upgrade at Longcraig, enabled the combined resources that helped secure the necessary funding for both projects. As a result, Sport Scotland were instrumental in making this project a reality with their generous financial support. Without their backing, along with the Region’s financial contributions, this endeavour would not have been possible.

Pushing the Boundaries of Sustainability

Sustainability has been a core focus of the project, ensuring that the Centre not only serves current generations but also helps protect the environment for future Scouts. The new facilities have incorporated several key renewable energy elements, reducing the Centre’s overall carbon footprint. Some of these include:

· Solar Power Generation: We have installed solar panels that now provide renewable energy to power much of the Centre’s operations. This has drastically

reduced our reliance on external energy sources and substantially lowered our overall electricity purchase costs.

· Eco-Friendly Heating Systems: By incorporating heat pumps and other energy-efficient solutions, we have optimised the heating provision in key areas of the Centre. This ensures warmth and comfort while keeping energy usage minimal.

· Water Conservation Initiatives: With the upgraded hot water supply, the Centre now uses water more efficiently, with measures in place to reduce waste and encourage conservation.

Those in attendance got to witness firsthand how these new sustainability initiatives are reshaping the Centre, setting it on a path toward Net Zero energy consumption. Not only do these updates help reduce our environmental impact, but they also improve the comfort and well-being of all who visit Longcraig.

80 Years of combined length of service Award

The opening event was topped off with Lead Volunteer for South East Scotland, Martin Elliot presenting not one, but two 40 years Length of Service Awards to two members of the Longcraig Active Support team Fraser and Fiona Simon. What a wonderful way to end the evening celebrations. Everyone at South East Scotland Scouts are so grateful for their tremendous support and dedication, not only to the centre but for their contribution to young people throughout the region.

Ready for the Future

With these remarkable upgrades in place, the Longcraig Scout Centre is ready to continue its mission of providing fun, training, and adventure for young people in the 21st century. The formal opening declaration of the new facilities was led by Ian Harrower, who had been closely involved from the earliest stages through to the completion of the project. His leadership, along with the efforts of so many dedicated individuals, has ensured that Longcraig is ready for the next chapter.

These new facilities, with their modern conveniences and eco-friendly innovations, represent a bright future for the Centre. We eagerly anticipate welcoming hundreds more Scouts and visitors in the coming years, knowing that Longcraig is better equipped than ever to offer them an unforgettable experience. 

None of this would have been possible without The Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES). We cannot Thank them enough.

We invite you to come and see these wonderful improvements firsthand. We look forward to continuing this exciting journey with all of you at Longcraig Scout Centre

Thank you to our project partners

Co-Warden & Activities Manager Vacancy

Co-Warden & Activities Manager Vacancy

Picture of Peter Casebow

Peter Casebow

Bonaly Lead

A bit about the role

We’re looking for someone join our team to both develop our activities and programme whilst acting as co-warden to ensure the centre runs smoothly. Developing our activities, programme and events is our key strategic focus and as such you will play a key role in the future success of Bonaly. Your co-warden looks after the site and facilities.

Based in a unique location in Scotland’s capital city and on the edge of the Pentland Hills Bonaly has just benefited from major investment and has:

· Two large camping fields that can accommodate up to 400 campers.
· Two residential buildings that can accommodate a total of 78 people, plus Ken’s Den a small ‘self contained village’ for 22 people.
· A range of Indoor and outdoor activities including a high ropes, low ropes, archery and self-led activities.

We believe that amazing things happen in the great outdoors and that nights away can have a powerful, positive impact on young people’s development- empowering them to make a positive contribution to society- and that’s exactly what Bonaly Scout Centre is here to provide. It is where we all strive to achieve our mission of helping young people to do their best by providing great adventures that create memories for life.

This role is a great chance to join our leadership team and help to ensure the smooth operations of our centre, you are a core part in delivering great customer service to our customers and making sure our volunteers are working to a high standard. There’s so much to learn at Bonaly and our structure can help you progress and develop into many different areas if you wish to do so.

Sound good? Read the application pack and then apply

Before making an application please ensure that you’ve read the Recruitment and selection policy and our application of our Equal Opportunities policy, we’d be grateful if you’d also complete the Recruitment Monitoring questions on the Application Form.

Closing date for applications: 11:59pm Friday 15 November 2024 

Interviews will be held on a date agreed

If you would like to discuss the role in more detail, please contact our Chair: peter.casebow@sesscouts.org.uk

Longcraig update – September 2024

Longcraig update – September 2024

Picture of Malcolm Leckie

Malcolm Leckie

Longcraig Lead

First it was PORPOISES – now   DOLPHINS  even  WHALES

Having reported in June about porpoises which were sighted near to Longcraig, there has been an abundance of marine life over the summer.

A dolphin (now known as Donny the Dolphin) has been sighted numerous times around the bridges, and for Scouts from 1st Craigalmond in Kirkliston, they enjoyed some 45 minutes with Donny the Dolphin playing around their sailing boat and around our safety boat, in the waters between Longcraig Pier and the Forth Bridge one Friday evening in August. Clearly keen to find some new young friends! It is believed there are possibly several of them swimming around the Firth of Forth, sightings have been reported from Cellardyke in Fife to Portobello near Edinburgh, and various locations around the bridges area.

There are also reports of sightings of a small whale (unknown variety) in the upper Firth of Forth at the end of August.         

An image of a bottlenose dolphin
Photo courtesy of iNaturalist

2024 Summer Months – July, August, even into September……

Well, they said these are the summer months!

And this year, there were sunny summer days – just now and again; there were dull and dreary days, just now and then; but noticeably especially in August, there were days on end with strong winds and gales. Quite unseasonal, but very disappointing for some Groups who had made bookings for activities at Longcraig which had to be cancelled as it was too windy.

Why does ‘too windy’ mean we have to cancel some bookings? It’s all about Risk Assessments and therefore one of the things we have to do prior to every activity session on the water. ‘Too windy’ can mean different things for different age groups – what might be super good fun for competent sailors or paddlers can often be ‘just too scary’ for some of our younger sections, or for people who are not accustomed to being in boats, or perhaps in choppy water. And, sometimes, it depends a bit on what the tide is doing. Obviously, tide come in and tides go out (twice every day) but the effects of the tidal flows combined with wind strength and direction can sometimes mean that an activity has to be cancelled, where at other times similar conditions could have a different outcome. We try hard to predict a little bit in advance what the conditions are going to be for people, so we can advise on cancellations before people journey to Longcraig. We don’t cancel activities lightly, but we do take very careful consideration of the various risks that wind, tides, weather conditions, and even the experience of the participants create, and a consensus decision is reached to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all concerned – that’s Young People, Leaders, our own Instructors, even our boats and equipment – they can get damaged too if it’s too windy! 

If your activity booking has had to be cancelled, we will always work with you to try and reschedule or find another suitable date!

Journey to Net Zero – COMPLETED

What is Net Zero?

The term net zero means achieving a balance between the carbon emitted into the atmosphere, and the carbon removed from it. This balance – or net zero – will happen when the amount of carbon we add to the atmosphere is no more than the amount removed. (source: Energy Saving Trust)

Latest update:

The final phase of our Net Zero journey was the installation of replacement heating in our two training rooms, using Infra red heaters which can be programmed, or controlled on the sport with remote controls. This is what they look like:

Training Opportunities

We are trying to make arrangements to run a Paddleboard training /Assessment Day some time soon! The Assessor has not yet managed to come up with a date for this training course, but for anyone interested in finding out more, please get in touch and give us your details so we can let you know as arrangements firm up: getinvolved @longcraig.info

Safety Boat Training Course (leads to RYA Safety Boat Certificate) 5th and 6th October – 2 days course. Pre-requisite for this course is Powerboat level 2 and a reasonable amount of logged hours driving powerboats in varying conditions.

Powerboat Level 2 Course (one weekend) 2nd and 3rd November

This can be a follow up to a Powerboat 1 Course or it can be done directly. It is a necessary pre-qualification for anyone seeking to do the Safety Boat course (see above)

VHF Marine Radio Course (one day) Saturday 9th November.

This one day course leads to the RYA Short Range VHF Certificate, which is a requirement to operate a Maine Band radio used for communications at sea. These can be used for anything from large yachts, to dinghies, kayaks, even paddleboards and are now seen as just as important a safety measure as buoyancy aids or helmets. The course will be run entirely indoors. It’s also encouraged for anyone working with boats, whether at Longcraig or elsewhere.

For information on, or to register an interest in, any of these courses please contact us at getinvolved@longcraig.info

Volunteering?

As the demand for our activities grows and we constantly seek to expand what we are able to offer, we need more volunteers to help us implement our plans. We now have a super-duper warm up to date activity centre to welcome volunteers into!

Ther are two distinct types of volunteers that we can effectively make use of: 

TYPE 1:

These volunteers are the people who make the centre operate. We have spaces for:

Skilled water activity people who could lead activities on the water;

Semi-skilled people who have some skills but we can help develop those to a level where they can lead activities;

People with some skills to lead our shore-based activities (for bad weather days or to expand the operations of the centre)

Volunteers who can help in a number of ways ‘behind the scenes’ – with e.g.  finance, marketing, recruitment, maintenance, boat or building repairs

Please simply contact us at getinvolved@longcraig.info with your details.

We’ve set aside the following dates where we will hold an introduction session to welcome any potential new volunteers and explain further what wed o and how you can get involved:

Wednesday 4th September 7pm

Monday 7th October 7pm

We’ll take care of the rest!

Do you have any parents in your Group who might be interested in this? Please do let them know!!

TYPE 2 Volunteering:

We can also offer a different type of volunteering, which is to provide an opportunity for groups of adults, scouts or explorers to come along during the ‘closed’ season and give us the benefit of your volunteering – this could be just for one event, or it could be – say – once a month for a period of time. This can count to a number of outcomes, such as DofE volunteering, various scout badges and awards, or simply to lend a hand for a few hours. Things you might get involved in could be checking of buoyancy aids, fixing boats, painting, and decorating some parts of the centre which were not impacted by the recent building improvements, beach protection work, or behind the scenes stuff like preparing our land activity kits.

If you’re interested, please get in touch to make arrangements or discuss further.

Learning Update – September 2024

Learning Update – September 2024

Picture of Mike Treanor

Mike Treanor

Volunteer Development Lead

Validation of Completed Modules: Action Required by 30 September

As we approach the launch of the new Digital System it is vital that all members who have completed training that, where required, this is validated by the 30th September 2024 to ensure this training is carried over to the new system. If your training is not validated before the transition to the new system you will need to repeat the learning.

Getting Started

As we move towards transformation it is important that Getting Started for any new roles you may hold is completed. Only fully validated Getting Started modules will be transferred across from Compass to the new membership system. If you are unsure what you require to do to complete Getting Started either check your Compass record or speak to your Training Advisor, Line Manager or ADC(AT).

 

Modules 5-19
For leaders who have completed learning for section leader training (modules 5 to 19) it is also important that you work towards validating these modules prior to transformation

To have your modules (5-19) validated either

  1. Speak to your Training Advisor, Line Manager or ADC(AT) or
  2. Complete and submit the online validation forms available via this link

Getting Started Modules

All Volunteers

You’ll learn about our history and the fundamentals of Scouts, get an overview of how we keep people safe, and how we make sure everyone is welcome.

You’ll learn about your responsibilities for keeping young people and adults safe, what to do in an emergency and how to report incidents.

Doing things safely is fundamental to everything we do in Scouting. The Safety training ensures that you understand your responsibilities for keeping everyone in Scouts safe and how to assess and manage risk.

Find out more

You’ll learn how to keep young people and adults at risk safe, how to recognise abuse and how to report a concern.

You’ll also learn about our Safeguarding Policy and our Code of Practice, known as the Yellow Card.

Find out more

You’ll learn how the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) applies to your role, how to treat Personal Data and what are the Individuals’ rights.

You’ll also learn about requesting consent, and the measures taken locally to make sure we’re aligned with GDPR.

Find out more

Leaders, Assistant Leaders, Section Assistants

Every learning journey is different. Meet with your Training Adviser to create a Personal Learning Plan that takes into account the requirements for your volunteer role and your individual learning needs.

Find out more

You’ll learn about the roles in your section, and how we use activities and games at Scouts. 

You’ll also learn about Youth Shaped Scouting, and get some tips on promoting positive behaviour.

Find out more

Managers & Supporters (GSLs, DCs, ASU Managers, assistants and deputies of same)

Every learning journey is different. Meet with your Training Adviser to create a Personal Learning Plan that takes into account the requirements for your volunteer role and your individual learning needs.

Find out more

You’ll learn about your team’s roles and responsibilities, and how to deliver a quality programme.

You’ll also learn about the six areas of leadership and management, and get tips on time management and personal skills.

Find out more

Trustees (including office bearers)

The aim of this module is to provide the Charity or managing Trustees with information on their legal responsibilities and current regulations. You only need to complete this module if you have a role as a trustee.

Find out more

REQUIRED ACTION BY 30 SEPTEMBER 2024: If you have completed the modules marked with *, but not had them validated, please send the Certificate generated at the end of the module to your Training Adviser or Line Manager and ask them to validate the training on Compass.

If you have completed either version of Tools for the Role, please send the certificate to your Training Adviser and discuss with them what you will do / have done to meet the validation requirements.

The Personal Learning Plan for Leaders, Assistant Leaders, Managers and Supporters can be done in discussion with a Training Adviser – reach out to them to arrange a meeting to discuss.

Availability of Modules

Availability of Modules

We are working hard to provide more courses over the coming weeks and they will be promoted across the region

As an alternative, you can undertake First Response via the Blended Model details which can be found here which requires you to do:

  • 1 x 2.5hour e-learning (done by yourself)
  • 1 x 3 hour trainer led session led by Scouts Scotland or SES
  • 1 x 20 min f2f practical led by SES

Another potential alternative to achieving First Response is to using an external first aid qualifications – details can be found here

Edinburgh Gang Show update & PRIZE DRAW!

Edinburgh Gang Show update & PRIZE DRAW!

Picture of Scott Walker

Scott Walker

Gang Show Marketing Lead

Curtain up…light the lights!

Are you looking for an exciting programme night that gives your young people a great night out that supports other young people from our Region? Then book now for the Edinburgh Gang Show 2024!

This year’s show will take place at the Festival Theatre from Tuesday, 29 October, to Saturday 2 November. Over the next 8 weeks our talented cast will take part in weekly rehearsals, showing great commitment and enthusiasm as they learn their lines, practice dance moves and have great fun, all whilst developing Skills For Life. Put the dates in your programme now!

Appearing in the Main Gang this year are Scouts and Explorer Scouts from the following groups:

  • Braid: 25th, 44th, 75th Albatross ESU, Greenbank ESU, Meadows ESU, SMESU
  • Craigalmond: 10th, 16th, 21st, 23rd, 30th, 87th, 102nd, 150th, Douglas Brown ESU, Grace Allan ESU  
  • East Lothian-Waggonway ESU
  • Edinburgh North East (7th, 11th, 104th)
  • Midlothian, 49th
  • Pentland: 19th, 108th, 51st, Bore Stane ESU, Edge ESU, Links ESU

We’ll let you know in the next newsletter all the Cub Scout Packs that are represented in the Junior Gang 2024!

Since 1960, hundreds of Scouts and Guides from across Edinburgh have enjoyed performing in the Edinburgh Gang Show. The event involves more than 250 young people onstage and is supported by more than 100 adult volunteers.

We hope you can be part of our audience, which consistently reaches upwards of 5,000 people each year. If you have been one of these audience members in the past, we hugely appreciate your support and hope to see you again for 2024. 

If you have never been or have not seen the show for a long time, why not come along this year? For more information about our story, visit our website, Edinburgh Gang Show | We’ve Got A Lot To Be Thankful For!

This year’s event is an excellent opportunity for members of your group to see firsthand the excitement and the impact of the work that goes into the Gang Show, which may inspire them to be part of the team for next year.

We hope your Group will be able to support our cast by coming along to the Festival Theatre. Tickets are on sale now and can be bought directly from Capital Theatres. Group Discount: 1 free ticket for every 8 tickets purchased. Edinburgh Gang Show 2024 (capitaltheatres.com) Call 0131 529 6005 to reserve tickets and pay later.

See you at the Festival Theatre?

Edinburgh Gang Show 2024

Festival Theatre

Tue 29 Oct – Sat 2 Nov

Evenings 7pm | Sat Mat 2pm

Tickets from £15

0131 529 6000 (Groups 8+ 0131 529 6005)

Edinburgh Gang Show 2024 (capitaltheatres.com)

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Enter a PRIZE DRAW to win an amazing prize if you bring your group or unit to the Edinburgh Gang Show 2024.

WHAT?

  • 1st Prize: £250 to use towards a booking at Bonaly Scout Centre or Longcraig Scout Centre.
  • 2nd Prize: £150 to use towards activities at Bonaly Scout Centre.
  • 3rd Prize: An hour, for a group of up to 5 people, at Longcraig Scout Centre power boating on the Forth. Instructor-led with the option for participants to drive.

HOW?

WHEN?

  • Entries must be submitted by 5pm Saturday, November 2, 2024. An acknowledgement will be sent to all registered entries to confirm submission.
  • The draw will be made on Saturday, November 2nd, after the final performance.

WHO?

  • Open to all sections/groups/units registered with South East Scotland Scouts and Girlguiding Edinburgh.

MORE INFO?

  • Winning groups will be notified week commencing 4 November 2024 by email with instructions on how to claim the prizes.
  • Booking with Bonaly or Longcraig must be used by 30th September 2025.

Further information – Scott Walker – scott.walker@sesscouts.org.uk