Family Gala Day
Ukraine Day
Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain (AUGB) Scout Group In February we welcomed a group of young Ukrainians to Bonaly to give them a taste of the kinds of adventurous activities we get up to in Scouting. South East Scotland and Scouts Scotland are working together with the AUGB (Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain) in Edinburgh to establish a Scout group which meets the needs of local young Ukrainian people and their families, the majority of whom arrived in Scotland following the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The group of Scout and Explorer aged young people were shown around Bonaly by Co-Warden and Activity Manager Sean Crossan, before settling down to a seriously competitive archery session led by SES Support Officer Nacho Luna Borras and Scouts Scotland Local Growth Officer, Calum Harvie. Also attending were SES Scouting Support Officer Amy Irvine, along with Martin Elliot, Mike Treanor and John Cannon. After the conclusion of the archery session (a great way to learn how to count in Ukrainian, btw!), we warmed up in the Bonaly bothy and talked about Scouting and to discuss with the young people their hopes for the Group. There was great enthusiasm from the young people – a number had been involved in Scouting in Ukraine – and the team from Scouts Scotland and South East Scotland Region was delighted to answer the many thoughtful questions presented. Work to establish a Scout Group with the Ukrainian community continues to progress.
Regional Mindfulness Day – A Huge Success!
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who made the Regional Mindfulness Day on 8th March 2025 such an incredible experience! The day, held at the beautiful Bonaly Scout Centre, was filled with energy, learning, and meaningful connections. Our special thanks go out to the amazing professionals from PsychEd, Edinburgh University, whose mindfulness workshops and activities were informative, fun and inspiring. The outdoor activities were a real highlight — fun, hands-on, and deeply engaging. It was powerful to see our young people fully present and embracing the positive impact of being in nature. We’re also incredibly grateful to our Adult Scout volunteers, who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure everything ran smoothly. Your dedication helped make the day not only possible but unforgettable. And, of course, the grand finale around the campfire was nothing short of phenomenal. Songs, dances, laughter, and togetherness created the perfect ending to a meaningful day. Thank you again to everyone involved—participants, leaders, volunteers, and professionals. This event truly demonstrated the values of our Scout organisation and how outdoor activities can positively impact our lives. We can’t wait to do it all again next year!
Supporting Explorer Scout 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: Explorer Scout Young Leaders: Part of both an Explorer Unit and a Young Leader Unit. District Young Leaders: Dedicated to their role within the District Young Leader Unit, without being part of an Explorer Unit. 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!
A New Face at Bonaly
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
Regional Mindfulness Day 8th March 2025
Join us for an inspiring day dedicated to mindfulness and well-being! The South East Scotland Scouts Regional Mindfulness Day is open to Scouts and Explorers alike. It offers a unique opportunity to explore ourselves and nature to enhance mental health. Where and When? It will be held at Bonaly Scout Centre 9.30am to 4pm on Saturday 8th March 2025 What to Expect Workshops led by professionals from Edinburgh University. Gain insights and practical tips on subjects like, depression anxiety, mental health, social media, digital footprint, perfect image and more! Engaging outdoor activities. Discover how connecting with nature can boost your mental well-being. A special closing ceremony and campfire. End the day on a high note with a shared moment around the fire. Who Can Attend? Participants: 50 Scouts and 50 Explorers (100 participants in total). Leaders: Free entry for leaders accompanying the groups. Cost Entry Fee: £2.50 per participant. Don’t miss this chance to learn, grow, and connect with others while experiencing the transformative impact of mindfulness and nature. Reserve Your Spot Today! Leaders should register below, indicating the number of spaces you would like to reserve by 28th February. Spaces are limited to 100 participants, so book early to secure your place. We will confirm whether your booking has been successful no later than the end of January and provide further details including payment details. Regional Mindfulness Day Name(Required)Role(Required)Email(Required) District(Required)BordersBraidCraigalmondEast LothianEdinburgh North EastMidlothianPentlandOtherGroup/Unit(Required)Number of Scouts(Required)Please enter a number from 0 to 100.Number of Scouts you would like to register for the day – if none, state 0 Number of Explorers(Required)Please enter a number from 0 to 100.Number of Explorers you would like to register for the day – if none, state 0 Do you have any questions at this stage about the Regional Mindfulness Day?
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: Explorer Scout Young Leaders: Part of both an Explorer Unit and a Young Leader Unit. District Young Leaders: Dedicated to their role within the District Young Leader Unit, without being part of an Explorer Unit. Volunteer Young Leaders: These are members of the public or Girlguiding 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. Got questions about the Young Leader Programme? Reach out at youngleaders@sesscouts.org.uk and get all the information you need! 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!
Adventures, Farewells, and Spooky Thrills: Bonaly’s October Round-Up
Mark Campbell Bids Farewell, But Not Goodbye After an incredible five-year journey, Mark Campbell is stepping down from his role at Bonaly Scout Centre. But don’t worry—he’s not going too far! Mark will remain part of the Active Support Unit, so you’ll still spot him around the site, sharing his passion for adventure. Mark has been a guiding light for Bonaly, leading us through the challenges of the pandemic and implementing a brand-new operating model. His efforts to build and train our volunteer instruction team have been nothing short of spectacular. From crafting engaging programmes to bringing the best out of our volunteers, Mark’s contributions have left a lasting legacy. It’s only fitting that Mark’s final day will be spent running one of Bonaly’s most popular events: the Survival Camp. This thrilling experience, now a cornerstone of our activities, is a testament to his dedication and vision. We wish Mark all the best in his new adventure at Garvald, West Linton, and look forward to seeing him continue to inspire at Bonaly! Celebrating Our Recent Adventures Cubs Nature Awareness Camp A huge shout-out to all the Cubs who braved the great outdoors at Bonaly’s Nature Awareness Camp last month! From exploring food webs to investigating rivers and woodland, the Cubs embraced every moment. They got hands-on, caring for trees, creating nature crafts, and bonding over campfire songs and a thrilling night hike. We couldn’t have done it without the amazing support of The Green Team and our dedicated volunteers. Your hard work ensures these young Scouts leave with memories and skills that will last a lifetime! THANK YOU! Beavers Adventure Day The Beavers brought their energy and enthusiasm to Bonaly this month for an action-packed Adventure Day! They tackled the climbing wall, built dens, zoomed down the grass sledges, tried their hand at archery, and created natural sculptures—just to name a few! Each activity was designed to help them earn their ‘My Adventure Challenge Award,’ and it’s safe to say they all rose to the challenge. Get Ready for the Grand Finale: Explorers Halloween Survival Camp! As the year draws to a close, we’re gearing up for one last epic adventure: the Explorers Halloween Survival Camp on 26th–27th October! Explorers will face the ultimate spooky survival challenge, sleeping under the stars without tents, cooking over open fires, and putting their survival skills to the test. Will they conquer the eerie Halloween weekend? There’s only one way to find out! Join the Adventure in 2025! Want to make sure you don’t miss out on all the excitement next year? Our 2025 events are already in the works, and they promise even more thrills and unforgettable moments to create lasting memories. If you’d like to be added to our mailing list, drop us an email at events@bonaly.org.uk. From all of us at Bonaly, THANK YOU for being part of our adventures. Here’s to new challenges, new friendships, and endless fun in the great outdoors!
Young Leader Day: A Thrilling New Adventure for Future Scout Leaders!
On the 5th of October 2024, an exciting new chapter began for young leaders across the region as they came together for the inaugural Young Leader Activity Day. With 62 passionate Young Leaders representing all seven districts and supported by 23 dedicated adult leaders, it was a day packed with energy, excitement, and plenty of opportunities to learn, grow, and make memories. The adventure began at 10 am, with a warm welcome to everyone. After a brief introduction to the activities planned for the day, the Young Leaders were grouped and sent off to their first activity bases. By mixing up the groups, they had the chance to make new friends, share stories, and learn about what other Young Leaders were doing in their sections. This wasn’t just about skills; it was about building connections across the region. Action, Adventure and Fun at Every Turn! Throughout the day, the Young Leaders rotated through six thrilling activity bases. Whether it was testing their aim at Archery, working together to solve puzzles in Escape, balancing skill and teamwork on the Mohawk Walk, or throwing themselves into the creative challenges of Pioneering, there was something for everyone. They even had the chance to feel the rush of hitting a bullseye in Axe Throwing! In between the action, there was also time for important conversations. The Young Leaders Forum allowed them to discuss their experiences, share ideas, and ask questions. Leaders were on hand to answer queries about the Young Leader Scheme, offering advice on how to navigate modules and missions, and providing guidance on how to achieve the coveted Top Awards. Today has been a fantastic opportunity for our young leaders across South East Scotland to build friendships and share ideas with each other. The feedback they’ve given us as a Youth Team through the young leader forum has been invaluable and will significantly shape how we develop the young leaders scheme in the region George Brightman Youth Lead for South East Scotland Click Here A Day to Remember: Camfire and Celebrations As the sun dipped below the hills, the Young Leaders gathered for dinner, but the day’s excitement was far from over. The real magic began at the campfire, where they were joined by Explorers, Cubs, Scouts, and Brownies who were also spending the weekend at Bonaly. There, under a starlit sky, they sang, laughed, and cheered. The atmosphere was electric as leaders and Young Leaders alike took turns leading their favourite songs, creating an unforgettable harmony of voices. It was also a moment to celebrate achievements. Some Young Leaders were honoured with Top Awards, recognising their hard work and dedication. It was the perfect end to a day filled with adventure, camaraderie, and joy. What the Young Leaders Had to Say Great way to connect with new people, and reconnect with friends from other scouting events. EmilyYoung Leader – Scottish Borders The Regional Young Leader Activity Day was an amazing way to take a break from being at my section and having fun with others that are sharing my experiences HaydenYoung Leader – Braid Really great time, would go again AaronYoung Leader – East Lothian There was a lot of exciting learning opportunities with a great chance to find new friends and develop existing target practice skills through the activities put on Carla & OllieYoung Leaders – Midlothian I really enjoyed meeting other young leaders and catching up with friends I hadn’t seen HeidiYoung Leader – Pentland The activities were great fun and the people there were really enjoyable to be around. I would definitely recommend in the future WilliamYoung Leader – Braid Absolute banging, would recommend anyone to go. CameronYoung Leaders – Scottish Borders Previous Next 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: Explorer Scout Young Leaders: Part of both an Explorer Unit and a Young Leader Unit. District Young Leaders: Dedicated to their role within the District Young Leader Unit, without being part of an Explorer Unit. 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. Got questions about the Young Leader Programme? Reach out at youngleaders@sesscouts.org.uk and get all the information you need! 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! Official District Photographs
Co-Warden & Activities Manager Vacancy
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 Read the Application Pack for the Co-Warden & Activities Manager role 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 Apply now for the position of Co-Warden & Activities Manager If you would like to discuss the role in more detail, please contact our Chair: peter.casebow@sesscouts.org.uk