Peter Casebow: Regional Centres Lead
I am delighted to announce that Peter Casebow will be joining the Regional Leadership Team as Regional Centres Lead with immediate effect. This role was established in January 2024 as part of the Transformation changes to bring the operational management of our Centres at Bonaly and Longcraig under the Regional Leadership team. It should be noted that the overall governance and long-term direction of the Centres remain a responsibility of the Trustee Board. To support the transition to this new structure, John Cannon has been carrying out this role, in addition to his role as Regional Chair, since its creation. John will now step down from this role, to allow Peter to lead the next stage in the development of our Centres along with the Chairs and Leadership teams at both Bonaly and Longcraig Scout Centres. As we begin work on the next Regional Strategy, our Centres will be a key component of that, and I am excited to work with Peter on this exciting next chapter for South East Scotland. Peter has done a tremendous job at Bonaly since he first became involved in March 2020, initially to lead a review of the Centre then to become Bonaly Chair in August 2020. In his time as Chair, Peter has overseen a change in staff and volunteer structures and many site and structural improvements including the introduction of the new Amenity Hub, Ken’s Den and a number of other projects to expand our activity and residential offerings for our many customers. For those who attended the Regional gala on 6/7 September this year, you saw for yourselves just how impactful and important Bonaly is to our Regional membership. Peter will shortly be leading the process to select a new Chair and Service Team Lead for Bonaly, as George Devine will also be stepping down from the Service Team role soon. Information on how people can express an interest in either of these roles will follow shortly. I’d just like to take this opportunity to thank John for his work in establishing and managing the Regional Centres Lead role along with his Regional Chair role over the past two years – driving forward key projects including the recruitment of a new leadership team at Longcraig, the improvement of facilities at both Centres and the Regional Gala – and I look forward to continuing to work with him as Chair to take forward the next stage of our Regional Strategy. I also want to thank Peter and George for their leadership of Bonaly through a period of significant change and hope that you will join me in congratulating Peter on his new role. Yours in Scouting, Martin Elliot Lead Volunteer
Adam Bennett: SES Communications Team Lead
I am pleased to announce that Adam Bennett has agree to take on the South East Scotland Communications Team Leader role. Adam joined Scouting at 14 and has been a leader for over 10 years. He has been involved at every level of Scouting, from Cubs and Explorers to serving on the Scouts Scotland Board. Outside of Scouting, Adam is the founder and Chief Executive of ProjectChange, a charity focused on empowering care experienced people. He is also a Trustee with Young Scot and a Commissioner on the Scottish Commission on Social Security. Adam is passionate about children’s rights, empowerment, and making sure marginalised voices are heard. Adam said “Scouting has shaped so much of my life, and I’m keen to make sure young people today get the same chance to lead, grow and be heard.” Adam is now pulling together a team to rethink everything—from our social feeds and website to our newsletter. It’s a clean slate to experiment, create, and build a comms engine that actually works. If you are interested in getting involved please email Adam at adam.bennett@sesscouts.org.uk Mike Treanor Volunteer Development Lead
Regional Family Gala
Regional Family Gala 2025 – What a Weekend! On the 6th and 7th of September, nearly 2,000 young people, families and volunteers from across South East Scotland Scouts came together at Bonaly Scout Centre for an unforgettable two-day celebration of Scouting. The Regional Family Gala 2025 was packed with adventure, laughter and energy from start to finish. With a huge range of activities on offer — including high ropes, archery, bushcraft, inflatables, grass sledging, laser tag, zip lines, escape rooms, crafts and the Gang Show — there was truly something for everyone. Visitors were also treated to a tasty selection of food from our vendors, including Wanderers Kneaded Pizza, Lazeez Street Food, Argentinian Foodies, Scott from the Little Parlour, and of course the Scout-run tuck shed. A Huge Team Effort Events like this don’t happen by themselves. A massive thank you goes to: The Bonaly Service Team, for keeping the site running smoothly The Longcraig Team, for bringing their expertise and energy The Gang Show cast and leaders, for their brilliant performance on Saturday Representatives from the SEEE, Network and the Inclusion team who were running the information stands Hellen and Robert who did a massive shift chasing up names and registration numbers, amending and changing tickets for attendees and then running the registration across the weekend. The Army, both at Bonaly and at Redford Barracks, for their invaluable logistical support Our Young Leaders and their leader team, who stepped up with enthusiasm All of the adult leaders and volunteers who worked tirelessly to deliver the programme and support families throughout the weekend And, above all, a very special thank you from the whole Region goes to Stewart, Ross, Dave, Fee and their team. Their planning, dedication and leadership over many months made the Gala possible — and their contribution cannot be overstated. Fantastic Feedback The feedback from families and participants has been nothing short of glowing: “My two enjoyed all the activities and the food options were really good. We’d definitely get tickets again if the Scouts run something similar at Bonaly in the future.” “Absolutely fabulous event today, well done to the organisers & all the volunteers who’ve worked so hard all day to make it such a success.” “We had an amazing time! The kids want to go back tomorrow too!” “Fantastic, fantastic, fantastic! And please pass on our thanks to everyone involved.” Many families who thought they’d only stay for a couple of hours ended up spending the whole day — a true sign of the event’s success! Looking Ahead In closing the Gala, Regional Lead Volunteer Martin Elliot said: “What we’ve achieved together has been nothing short of remarkable. The fantastic feedback we’ve received is a real testament to all of your efforts. It’s my aim to get us all together soon so we can properly acknowledge and celebrate your contribution.” The Regional Family Gala 2025 has shown the very best of Scouting in South East Scotland: teamwork, adventure, and community spirit. Thank you to everyone who played a part in making it such a success.
South East Explorer Expeditions (SEEE)
At SEEE, we are now entering the last weeks of our main expedition season. The process for Silver and Gold was: Training at Bonaly in March Online training and First Aid training Practice expeditions in May/June – 3 Silvers and 3 Gold Hillwalking expeditions, and 1 Silver and 1 Gold Offroad Biking Qualifying expeditions in August/September – 3 Silver and 3 Gold Hillwalking and 1 Silver and 1 Gold Offroad Biking The Explorers (and six Networkers) have put in a lot of effort and have done very well so far. Our excellent leaders have come up with two new routes in the Hills: Cairngorms and Aberfeldy. There were also two new routes for Biking with Silver starting in the Borders and finishing in England, and the Gold a coast-to-coast route from Troon to Galloway. The first group on the Cairngorms route, from near Aviemore via Linn of Dee to the Spittal of Glenshee, really enjoyed being out in some of Scotland’s wildest country, and coped well with thunderstorms on the first day and a heatwave later. Their assessor commented that their campcraft skills were excellent, including ‘leave no trace’. This is what we would expect of Scouts, but it is still good to hear! The Gold biking group followed a stunningly beautiful route over 200km with a mix of coastal, hill and forest trails culminating in a beach-side camp, with the assessor commenting that they were an exceptionally strong group with great teamwork, had great fun and demonstrated excellent group biking skills. Canoeing followed its specialist training programme and had two Qualifying teams of Silvers on Loch Tay and two teams of Golds on Lough Erne in Northern Ireland. However, we have an urgent need for more organisational support. Most things can be done at home on a computer, at times that suit you. We also need someone to look after our not inconsiderable amount of kit to make sure it ends up in the right place. If you, or anyone you know, would be interested in becoming involved with our team, please get in touch by email seee.team@sesscouts.org.uk to discuss. Remember, this does not need to be someone with a particular role, and could be a good way to get to know the world of Scouting. David Newton and John Buchanan for SEEE
Jacob Wood at the World Scout Moot
This summer, I had the amazing opportunity to attend the World Scout Moot held in Portugal as part of Path 87, as part of the UK Contingent. The Moot brought together thousands of Scouts and leaders from across the world for a week of adventure, friendship, and learning. Travelling on Path 87 gave me the chance to meet people from many different countries, share experiences, and take part in activities that challenged me in new ways – from outdoor adventures to cultural exchanges and discussions about Scouting’s impact on our communities. Being part of the Moot was a truly unforgettable experience. It was inspiring to see how Scouting brings people together, no matter where they come from. I’ve returned home with new skills, memories, and friendships that will last a lifetime – and I’m excited to bring that energy back into my Scouting here. .
First Response
First Response learning needs to be undertaken by adult volunteers in the following roles: Group Lead Volunteers Section Team Members (including those who were previously Sectional Assistants) Section Team Leaders 14-24 Team Leaders Volunteers in other roles can undertake first response if they wish There are three main ways to complete First Response: Attend a f2f First Response Course (usually 9.30am to 4.30pm) – we have a range of courses available at weekend or midweek between now and the end of the year in various locations across the Region – you can register here South East Scotland Scouts Training Team Events – 12 Upcoming Activities and Tickets | Eventbrite Undertake First Response via the Blended Model where you do some online learning (3 hours), attend an online confirmation session (2.5 hours), and then attend a f2f practical session (30 mins). Details of the Blended model can be found here and you can register for the online learning here First Response e-learning 2025 Undertake an External First Response Course e.g. FAW or BASP and or present your Professional Qualifications as evidence as having the appropriate First Response Skills. You will need to send your course certificate or details of your professional qualifications to firstresponse@sesscouts.org.uk A Regional First Response Trainer will then validate your learning/experience and confirm whether it meets Scouting requirements or whether you need to do some additional learning e.g. Child CPR, knowledge of sepsis, meningitis etc.
Volunteer with South East Explorer Expeditions (SEEE)
Ready for a new adventure? Join the SEEE Core Team! We are looking for new Team Members — people who want to help young people in South East Scotland achieve more than they ever thought possible. You’ll be a behind-the-scenes catalyst, making life-changing expeditions—hillwalking, canoeing, biking and more—happen for 250+ young people each year. Who Should Apply? Parents, students, professionals, retirees—anyone interested in supporting youth. People who want to be purposeful behind the scenes or those willing to spread the word to friends and networks. Apply now! https://sesscouts.org.uk/…/seee-team-member-south-east…/
Edinburgh Gang Show 2025
Cubs, Scouts, Explorers, Network and Team Members … get ready for an epic experience at the Festival Theatre with the Edinburgh Gang Show 2025. This isn’t just any theatre show — it’s a high-energy, laugh-out-loud, sing-your-heart-out spectacular starring our very own young people. Expect dazzling dance routines, hilarious sketches, and toe-tapping musical numbers that’ll have you cheering from your seat. Planning your programme – pop the dates 4th to 8th November into your plan and we guarantee a fun night. This year we have Scouts and Explorers participating from: Braid – 4th, 25th, 44th, 75th, 103rd, 162nd, Albatross ESU, Greenbank ESU, SMESU. Craigalmond – 10th, 16th, 21st, 23rd, 30th, 102nd, 150th, Graeme Allan ESU, Douglas Brown ESU, Granton ESU. Edinburgh North East – 7th, 11th, 64th,104th, Links ESU. Midlothian – 49th Pentland – 19th, 107th, 108th, 172nd, Bore Stane ESU, Edge ESU, Pentland YL, Wildfire ESU In the next newsletter we’ll give a shout out to all the Cub Packs participating. Why you should come: Support your friends as they shine on stage. Be part of the electric atmosphere in the amazing Festival Theatre. Get inspired to join the cast next year! It’s the perfect group night out for your section – just book tickets, turn up and enjoy the show. Group bookings available! Reserve now and pay later – just call 0131 529 6005+ Edinburgh Gang Show 2025 4 – 8 November 2025 Tickets from £16 and on sale now – Edinburgh Gang Show 2025 – Capital Theatres
Network News September 2025
We will be running an information evening focussed on top awards for the 14-24 age range. We will be covering recent changes to the Platinum, Diamond and KSA, the new KSA sign off process and discussing available regional support for the awards. While the session is open to anyone interested in the awards, it is particularly aimed at leaders working with Explorers, Network, or supporting those who do. The session will be repeated twice and can be joined on Thursday 18 September or Tuesday 23 September, both at 8pm on Teams. Link for the 18th: https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_Yjc3YmE4ODYtYmEzMC00NDZhLTg1ZmYtMjI2NTBhMTM0OWYz%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%224e7719aa-7161-463d-a2ed-22e598aae889%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%22e9d36694-e3bd-40be-8db3-fe141adbda1d%22%7d Link for the 23rd: https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ZTMzYjAyMGYtNTdhOS00ODQ5LTgxZDItYThiN2FjZGQ2OTIz%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%224e7719aa-7161-463d-a2ed-22e598aae889%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%22e9d36694-e3bd-40be-8db3-fe141adbda1d%22%7d Any questions please message: laura.haley@sesscouts.org.uk
JOHN CRUICKSHANK VC AE
John Cruickshank, who died recently, was the last surviving holder of the Victoria Cross from the Second World War. He was also one of the six founder members of the Scout troop at Greenbank Parish Church, Edinburgh. Scouting at Greenbank goes back to 1933. The “Fourth” has been thriving ever since – under slightly different names, currently 4th Braid. John Cruickshank was born in 1920 in Aberdeen and moved to Greenbank with his family in 1929, pioneering the Scout troop in January 1933 when he was 12. Looking back in 2023 for the troop’s 90th anniversary, John said “I was glad to have been a Scout and enjoy the benefits of the movement”. Flight Lieutenant Cruickshank won the Victoria Cross in 1944. Piloting a Catalina flying boat with the RAF’s Coastal Command from Sullom Voe in Shetland, his crew found and attacked a surfaced German U-boat, flying through flak from its anti-aircraft gun. On his first pass, his plane’s depth charges did not release, so Cruickshank brought the aircraft back round for a second pass and this time straddled the U-boat with his charges, sinking it with all hands. The German flak had however been deadly accurate, killing the Catalina’s navigator and injuring four including both pilots (Cruickshank himself in 72 places). Flying through the night, it took the damaged Catalina five and a half hours to return to Sullom Voe. Cruickshank’s injuries were such that he never flew in command of an aircraft again. After the war he returned to his pre-war job of banking, working in India and Pakistan with Grindlays Bank before retiring in 1976. He died in August 2025.