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Longcraig Update – February 2025

Longcraig Update – February 2025

7 Feb 2025

Picture of Ian Harrower

Ian Harrower

Longcraig Scout Centre

Looking forward to 2025

Our online booking system goes live in just a few weeks. So, if you or your section or your Group has any plans for a water activity event – either at Longcraig or elsewhere – that is anything out of the ordinary for a regular activity booking – get in touch!

By planning early, we welcome any suggestions for events or activities that we can support or indeed even run for you. This could be a special anniversary, or just a group day out by the seaside messing about in boats.

How to get in touch? getinvolved@longcraig.info

Longcraig Net Zero Project


The solar panels have continued to generate energy for us every day through the winter – although at a much-reduced rate as the days are much shorter. During the very cold spell in January, the output fell even lower – we think this was due to frost build up on the exterior of the panels on the roof, so we need to watch out for that. But already, at the end of January, we are noticing the difference, and we are gaining enough energy to keep all the background things operating, and to provide a little bit of warmth when we have people in at the Centre. The next few months will see a rapid growth in the energy generated – if you’d like a quick tour of what we’ve achieved, please give us a call to arrange a visit. In just a few days from now, our total energy generation (since last July) will surpass 5 Megawatt Hours – that’s enough to charge up a small Electric Vehicle 100 times!

Protecting our beach


Although the daylight over the winter has been short, and we’ve had several spells of very cold frosty weather, we have kept on with improvements to our shore defences as time permitted over the past months. So far, this work has been successful and is much improved upon how it was at the end of the summer. We’ve been very fortunate that the sea that sometimes takes away our shoreline sometimes also helps us repair it, with large lumps of timber washed up during some of the winter storms. We are currently planning how best to prepare and locate the big one (10 metres x 40ccm x 40cm) which will be placed just in front of our buildings and give us much needed storm protection for many years to come.

As always, we can still make good use of:

–        Heavy duty steel stakes (such as reinforcing bar)

–        Heavy duty pegs or pins (larger than tent pegs but same idea)

–        Topsoil

–        Grass or turf

Please just get in touch if you think you can help with any of these ingredients used in the baking of a strong shore defence!

Training Opportunities


Here are details of some firmed training opportunities early in the spring this year:

  • Paddleboard training /Assessment Day has now been arranged, this will be held as two One Day sessions over the weekend of 8/9 March 2025. The Assessor team from Lochgoilhead will be leading this event to support our own activities. The aim is to either assess for a permit or provide a suitable plan to each person to get one.

Beyond that, we can offer courses in:

  • Dinghy sailing
  • Kayaking
  • Powerboating
  • Raft Building
  • Marine VHF Radio

Which can lead to national qualifications if you wish to gain one of those, and/or to a Scouts Activity Permit which then enables you to lead activities with your own groups of young people.

Many aspects of seamanship such as: weather and meteorology; Tides and Currents: Basic navigation skills; knots, lashings and ropework.

We can also provide course for Badges for Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Explorers and Young leaders.

These can in some cases cover the entire syllabus of a particular badge, and in many cases can cover one or more elements of a wider scope badge.

There are many badge options relating to water activities – there’s even one for ‘helping out at activity centres’ which may be of interest!

We strongly recommend having a discussion with us about what you might like to cover, how we can support that, and how best we can plan it in for next year – or even the year after!

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

Volunteering?


Last year we welcomed a good number of new volunteers to help us operate the Centre and to help deliver the activities that young people want. As the demand for our activities grows and we constantly seek to expand what we can 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!

We’re still happy to hear from any potential volunteers whether your interest is on the water or off the water supporting the Centre.

Just get in touch for a chat, or come along to one of our Volunteer Drop In Sessions at Longcraig:

  • Tuesday 25th February at 7pm
  • Saturday 15th March at 1pm

We’ll take care of the rest!

Do please let us know if you would like to come along to any of these sessions. getinvolved@longcraig.info

Let’s Talk About Inclusion

7 Feb 2025

Let's Talk About Inclusion

Over the course of 2025, the Inclusion Team will be running some 'Let's talk about' sessions. These are designed to be informative and a place where you can bring all your questions and concerns. The first session will run on Monday 10th March 7.30pm, on Teams. Please register below.

We will be joined by Graham Coulson MBE, who will talk about inclusion in Scouting and then be available to answer your questions. Please join us, and if you are interested in being part of the Inclusion team please get in touch!

Alison
Inclusion Team Lead
alison.robertson@sesscouts.org.uk

Please state your primary role in Scouts, if none please insert n/a.
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Supporting Explorer Scout Young Leaders

Supporting Explorer Scout Young Leaders

7 Feb 2025

Picture of Allison Gamble

Allison Gamble

Lead for Young Leaders

Who Are Explorer Scout Young Leaders?


Explorer Scout Young Leaders are Explorers or Duke of Edinburgh volunteers who volunteer alongside adult leaders in Squirrel Dreys, Beaver Colonies, Cub Packs, or Scout Troops. They’re not just helpers; they’re role models, innovators, and crucial members of the leadership team.

If you’ve got a Young Person in your section from school years S2 to S6, make sure they’re registered with your District! This will ensure they have access to all the training, support, and opportunities they need to thrive as Young Leaders.

All Young Leaders aged 13.5 to 18, whether in Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs, or Scouts, should be members of a Young Leaders Unit, even if they don’t attend Explorers. There are three types of Young Leaders:

  1. Explorer Scout Young Leaders: Part of both an Explorer Unit and a Young Leader Unit.
  2. District Young Leaders: Dedicated to their role within the District Young Leader Unit, without being part of an Explorer Unit.
  3. Volunteer Young Leaders: These are members of the public or Girl Guiding who volunteer with Scouts, often as part of their Duke of Edinburgh or other Top Awards. While they aren’t members of the Scout Association, their contribution is invaluable.

 

Young Leaders and Top Awards: The Path to Success 

For Explorer Scout Young Leaders and District Young Leaders, the sky’s the limit! They can work towards Explorer Badges, Staged Badges, Duke of Edinburgh Awards, and the prestigious Top Awards – Platinum, Diamond, and King Scout Awards. Leaders are encouraged to talk with their Young Leaders about how the programmes they help deliver can also contribute to these achievements. It’s all about recognising their hard work, passion, and commitment.

The first Young Leader Activity Day was an undeniable success, and it’s clear that these budding leaders are ready to take on any challenge. They’re building skills, making memories, and forming friendships that will last a lifetime. Here’s to many more adventurous days like this – and to the Young Leaders who make Scouting so vibrant and exciting!

Young Leader Camp


During the Youth Forum, held at Bonaly during the Autumn Young Leaders Day, Young Leaders told us that a camp would be a fantastic event to hold next. With this in mind, we are planning a two-night camp for Young Leaders from across the region. This will take place at Bonaly from 14th – 16th March 2025. Arriving Friday evening at 7pm, setting up camp and getting ready for a brilliant weekend, Saturday will see them heading into town to take part in their very own Edinburgh Monumentopoly. Returning to camp for a Campfire and with the winners being announced on Saturday night they will then have a second night camping before heading home on Sunday morning. The event is open to all Young Leaders in South East Region, the event has been sent to the Young Leader teams through OSM, please check with them if you would like to attend. 

It would be fantastic to see as many of them joining in as possible with them being able to enjoy spending time with their friends and other Young Leaders from across the Region.

We are also looking for leaders and network members to support this event, either for the weekend or for Saturday if you can’t commit to the whole weekend. If you are available please email Allison.Gamble@sesscouts.org.uk  We are also looking for Young Leaders to help at the Regional Gala day in September, details will follow in due course. 

Got questions about the Young Leader Programme? Reach out at youngleaders@sesscouts.org.uk and get all the information you need!

Heading for the Summit

Heading for the Summit

7 Feb 2025

Picture of Martin Elliot

Martin Elliot

Lead Volunteer for South East Scotland

In January I joined a delegation of volunteers and staff from the Region and Scouts Scotland to attend the Summit25 National Scout Conference in Birmingham. 

Bringing together more than 700 volunteers from across the UK and overseas, the event celebrated what has been achieved with our Skills for Life Strategy as we enter its last year whilst also reflecting on what we have learned from the challenges that Scouting has faced.

The event also allowed us to ensure that the views and priorities of our Region feed into the next strategy which will take us from 2026 – 2034, whilst also challenging us to think about what Scouting may look like in 10 years time.

Our Next Chapter

As we embark on a new chapter in Scouting, it’s important to reflect on where we’ve been and where we’re headed. Scouting in South East Scotland has always been about empowering young people, fostering adventure, and building a strong sense of community. But as we look to the future, we must also embrace new opportunities, challenges, and ways of working to ensure that Scouting continues to thrive in an ever-changing world.

The needs of young people are evolving, and Scouting must evolve with them. Across South East Scotland, we are already seeing innovative approaches to Scouting activities, from incorporating new technologies into badge work to offering flexible meeting times that accommodate busy family schedules. These small but significant changes reflect our commitment to staying relevant and engaging to today’s youth.

Moving forward, we want to encourage groups to think creatively about how they deliver Scouting. Whether it’s exploring new outdoor spaces, integrating STEM activities into programmes, or partnering with local organisations to expand opportunities, there are countless ways we can ensure Scouting remains dynamic and exciting.

Growing our Movement

One of the key priorities for the future is growth. Scouting in Scotland has seen incredible expansion over the years, but there is always room for more young people to join the adventure. Our South East Scotland Region is full of untapped potential—communities where Scouting could make a significant difference. By working together, we can grow our numbers and extend the life-changing benefits of Scouting to even more young people.

Equally important is recruiting and supporting more adult volunteers. Leaders, assistants, and supporters are the backbone of Scouting, and ensuring they feel valued, trained, and equipped for success will be a major focus in the years ahead.

Sustainability and Inclusivity

As Scouts, we have a duty to protect the planet and foster inclusivity within our communities. Sustainability is a key part of our future. By encouraging eco-friendly practices and engaging young people in environmental initiatives, we can do our part to combat climate change and promote stewardship of our natural world.

I have made no secret of the importance I place on inclusion – and going forward this will remain at the heart of everything we do. Scouting is for everyone, regardless of background, ability, or circumstance. Our Region is committed to breaking down barriers, ensuring that as many young people as possible have the chance to participate and thrive.

Building the Leaders of Tomorrow

Finally, as we look to the future, let’s remember that today’s young people are tomorrow’s leaders. Through Scouting, we’re not just teaching practical skills and fostering friendships—we’re helping to shape compassionate, resilient, and capable individuals who will make a positive impact on the world.

By providing opportunities for leadership, teamwork, and personal growth, we’re equipping young people with the tools they need to navigate an uncertain future with confidence and purpose.

A Shared Vision

The future of Scouting in South East Scotland is bright, but it depends on all of us. Together, we can build on our proud legacy, embrace change, and create an even stronger movement for generations to come.

Whether you’re a leader, volunteer, parent, or young person, your role in this journey is vital. Let’s work together to ensure that Scouting continues to inspire, challenge, and transform lives across our region.

Here’s to the next great adventure in Scouting!

A New Face at Bonaly

A New Face at Bonaly

6 Feb 2025

Picture of Peter Casebow

Peter Casebow

Chair, Bonaly Scout Centre

Welcome Sean Crossan as our new Co-Warden and Activity Manager

In Mid-January we were delighted to welcome Sean Crossan to join the team at Bonaly as our new Co-Warden and Activities Manager.

Sean has just completed a Masters at University of Edinburgh in Outdoor Education and has worked in the outdoors for seven years including spells as a site manager of an activity centre in Oxford, a ski instructor in Canada and an instructor in other international centres.

Peter Casebow, Chair, Bonaly Scout Centre said “It’s fantastic for Bonaly and the Region to have been able to recruit someone of Sean’s quality for this role. Sean’s role includes leading our team of Volunteer instructors as well as developing the programme and activities on offer at Bonaly and we’re really looking forward to working with Sean in the coming years.”

Sean replied “Bonaly is such a fantastic site and has the most dedicated team of Volunteers behind it. I can’t wait to get started and help everyone to make the most of what Bonaly and Scouting has to offer.”

Leaders Training Day -10th May

 

If you want to brush up your scouting skills or learn new ones why not come along to our free leaders day on 10th May which will focus on traditional scouting skills and campcraft, getting to know other leaders and running sessions with your groups.

The day will start at 9:30 and finish 16:30.

Sessions will include;

  • Camp Craft- Pitching a campsite, tool handling with a group & whittling
  • Fire Lighting- Methods on how to light a fire, Fire Safety with a group & running a fire session 
  • Shelter Building- Introduction to shelter building methods using all natural materials as well as tarps.
  • Knots 101 & Flintstone Cars- Introduction to basic knot tying and lashing, building a Flintstone car with other leaders using these skills!
  • Axe Throwing- Axe throwing on the range with Tomahawks and Angel Axes

 

To register your interest please email: sean.crossan@sesscouts.org.uk

Parties and Planning for SEEE

Parties and Planning for SEEE

6 Feb 2025

Picture of SEEE Team

SEEE Team

John Buchanan
South East Explorers Expeditions

SEEE Social

SEEE was delighted to host its first social meeting for the volunteers who help make expeditions possible for some 150 Explorer Scouts and Network members, with options this year for hillwalking and biking.

As well as providing an opportunity for the team to catch up and swap ideas for this year, Martin Elliot, Lead Volunteer, dropped in to present a number of Awards. We picture Neil Wotherspoon and Colin Gibson receiving Commendation Awards for all their work providing expeditions for those with individual needs, and Kyla, a recent King’s Scout Award recipient and expedition participant, giving Neil our new SEEE necker. Martin also presented an Award for 15 Years service Award to longstanding SEEE volunteer Janet Paterson, and we’d also like to recognise Val Bichener and Phil Young for recently received Service Awards.

Expeditions 2025

We are in the process of sending out information to set up the expeditions and training for Silver and Gold Hillwalking expeditions. Biking will follow shortly. The deadline for Bronzes to apply for an expedition is 2 February, and their training and expeditions will be arranged in Districts, where possible.

DofE in general

Those starting DofE and those moving up a level are reminded that they should register as explained on our page https://see-expeditions.org.uk/register-for-bronze-silver-or-gold-dofe/. Our website contains up-to-date information on expeditions, and general advice for all participants.

Adult helpers needed

We are currently recruiting adults to help with training at Bonaly in March, for Practice expeditions in May/June, and for Qualifying expeditions in August/September.  If you think you could help (and you do not need a permit) please complete this form: https://form.jotform.com/sesscouts/helping-hillwalking-expeditions-202 .  After submitting it, you will receive a link that allows you to modify it directly if things change.  You can also contact us on seee.team@sesscouts.org.uk. 

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