Scouting is Growing in South East Scotland!

26 Oct 2024

Martin Elliot

Lead Volunteer for South East Scotland

As 2024 draws to a close (can you believe how fast it’s flown by?), I’ve been taking a moment to reflect and look back on some of the year’s highlights and how we’ve moved forward with our Regional Strategy. Over the coming months, I’ll be sharing more updates on our progress.

This year has seen us make major strides in expanding Scouting’s reach and impact across the region. From reopening historic groups to launching brand-new sections, it’s clear: Scouting is thriving, and it’s all thanks to the incredible dedication of all of you, our amazing Volunteers. You are all awesome. While reflecting, I want to spotlight one of our biggest achievements this year: the impressive growth in Scouting across the Region.

A Year of Growth: The Highlights

As an actuary in my day job, I always have to include some numbers. 2024 has been nothing short of epic for Scouting in South East Scotland. Here’s a quick snapshot:

Two new Scout Groups launched
15 sections opened or reopened, including:
- 6 Squirrel dreys
- 3 Beaver colonies
- 3 Cub packs
- 2 Scout troops
- 1 Explorer unit
More than 2,100 adult volunteers are now supporting our young people across the Region!

This level of growth is massive, and it wouldn’t be possible without our tireless volunteers. A special shout-out goes to our District Lead Volunteers, who despite juggling countless tasks have devoted time to focus on growth and development to help expand and strengthen Scouting in their communities. Your hard work, often unrecognised and behind the scenes, is what makes all of this possible. Thank you!

But numbers only tell part of the story. Recently, I have enjoyed the opportunity to engage with many of our new sections and groups.

Stories of Revival and Community Spirit

9th Braid Scout Group: Back in Action! Earlier this month, the reopening of the 9th Braid Scout Group at George Watson’s College started a new and exciting chapter in its long history. I had the honour of performing the first investitures, welcoming leaders Ben and Jamie into one of our oldest Scout Groups, having first formed back in 1908 (find out more in their extensive archive). They then had the joy of investing the members of their new Beaver Colony and Cub Pack. It’s been a labour of love to get this group back on its feet, and it’s paying off with over 25 young people now enjoying the opportunities that Scouting provides! Hats off to Ben and Jamie, with vital support from Chris and Lead Volunteer Greig as well as their Trustee Board.

7th Ehsan Midlothian Scout Group: The New Kid on the Block In August, the 7th Ehsan Scout Group invited families in Bonnyrigg to join them for an open day. I was delighted to join them for the day, which was a blast, with kids trying out activities and discovering what Scouting is all about. Big thanks to Richard Fairbairn, District Lead Volunteer for Midlothian, and Zahid, Group Lead Volunteer from the 8th Salaam Braid Group for bringing their energy and passion. Since then, both a Beaver colony and Cub pack have kicked off, and we can’t wait to see this group grow. Further thanks are due to Richard and his district team, as well as the new volunteers in the group for their enthusiasm in getting the new group established.

20th AlFonj Edinburgh NE Scout Group: A Community Hub One of the most inspiring stories this year has been the rise of the 20th AlFonj Scout Group in Niddrie/Craigmillar. Driven by the local Sudanese community’s desire for Scouting, the group, led by Group Lead Volunteer, Fawzia, has brought together volunteers to create a space for all sections—from Squirrels to Scouts. I, along with other members of the Regional Team, were privileged to host and run a Learning day and were blown away by the enthusiasm and energy that the volunteers have for Scouting and supporting the young people. It’s clear this group is going to be a pillar in their community.

As well as Fawzia and her team, my thanks to Bill Ramsay as Lead Volunteer for Edinburgh North East and the District team for the work that they have done to support the new group getting started.

These stories are just the tip of the iceberg. Even more new sections are set to launch in the coming months, bringing the joy of Scouting to even more young people across the region.

The Dream Team Behind the Growth

None of this would be possible without the efforts of our dedicated Scouting Support Staff, Nacho and Amy. In just six months, they’ve injected so much energy and creativity into our growth strategy, helping bring more volunteers into the movement. And let’s not forget Calum Harvie, Local Growth Officer at Scouts Scotland, whose support has been invaluable. Together, they’ve been instrumental in helping us reach new communities and offer Scouting to more young people than ever before.

Growing for the Future

Explorer Scout Young Leaders are key to our growth as they provide vital support to our sections and also the skills that they learn as Young Leaders help prepare them to lead our Sections and Groups in the future.

Despite being heavily jetlagged I was delighted to join 62 of our Young Leaders recently for a dedicated day at Bonaly where they took part in a wide range of activities and shared ideas which will help shape Scouting in the Region. I would like to thank Allison Gamble and her team of volunteers as well as the team at Bonaly for putting on an amazing day.

It was also appropriate that part of the funding for the day came from money raised in memory of Ken Thomson, for whom Growth and Learning were strong passions throughout his long Scouting involvement.

A Busy Weekend of Scouting Adventures!

With so much growth and amazing development from our Adult Volunteers, it’s been a whirlwind year, but a fulfilling one! Here’s a quick peek at the variety of activities I got up to in arecent weekend as the Lead Volunteer in such a vibrant, engaged and active region:

Friday – I kicked things off at the newly reopened 9th Braid Scout Group, meeting with the Trustee Board and chatting about upcoming improvements to the volunteer experience.

Saturday – I was in awe at the Scottish Parliament, where our very own Iain Turpie and Luke Simpson stood proud as part of the Guard of Honour for His Majesty the King’s address, marking 25 years of the Parliament. What a moment!

After that, I joined forces with Girlguiding Scotland for their Annual Gathering, where we discussed how we can continue working together to bring even more opportunities to young people across Edinburgh. With our collaboration at Edinburgh PRIDE earlier in the year and the Gang Show next week (Book tickets here if you haven’t already) I’m excited at how we can build on this in the coming months and year ahead.

Sunday – One of my favourite things: providing learning opportunities for our volunteers! Our Achieving Growth event saw volunteers from across Scouts Scotland come together to share ideas and plan the future of Scouting. The energy was electric, and the future looks bright!

Looking Ahead

As we continue to work towards our vision—“preparing more young people in South East Scotland with skills for life, supported by amazing volunteers delivering an inspiring programme”—I’m beyond excited for what’s next. To every volunteer, leader, and supporter out there: THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING YOU DO. You are the heartbeat of this incredible region and our movement.

Here’s to even more adventures, more growth, and more memories in the years to come. Onwards and upwards!

Learning Update – October 2024

26 Oct 2024

Mike Treanor

Volunteer Development Lead

Getting Started

With Transformation coming in November, it is important that anyone on a pre-provisional or provisional appointment, completes and has validated the current Getting Started modules (GDPR, Safety, Safeguarding, Module 1 and Modules 3 or 4). Validation of these modules will go towards completion of Growing Roots in the new system but must be validated in advance of the Compass Freeze on 7^th November.

Growing Roots

The replacement for Getting Started in the new system will be Growing Roots. Within 30 days of starting to volunteer with Scouts, new volunteers must complete:

Safe Scouting

Within 6 months of commencing, all new volunteers will need to complete:

Who we are and what we do.
Data protection for Scouts.
Creating Inclusion.

Plus depending on your role, one of the following:

Delivering a great programme (Section Team Leaders and Members)
Leading Scout Volunteers (Lead Volunteers and Team Leaders, except Section Team Leaders)
Being a Trustee in Scouts (new Trustees)

Information on how current volunteers training maps into the new scheme can be found here follow this link to our website for more info.

First Response

Volunteers who work directly with young people will also need to complete First Response training within one year of starting. SES are providing a number of First Response Courses – details can be found here South East Scotland Scouts Training Team Events – 20 Upcoming Activities and Tickets | Eventbrite

Modules 10a and 10b Validation

Volunteers who have validated First Response Modules 10a and 10b using an external qualification (i.e. not Scout first response training) may be contacted by the SES First Response Training team over the coming weeks to establish which first aid certificate they used for validation (unfortunately in most cases Compass does not hold this information). Depending on the first aid certificate used, volunteers may be asked to complete a small amount of additional learning to cover all areas of the Scouts first response syllabus. It would be helpful if you are contacted by the SES First Response Training Team in this regard that you respond to the actions requested.

Compass Freeze

Please note that prior to moving from Compass to the new membership/learning system there will be a period of time (7th to 21^st November) when training records are frozen. Only fully validated training will be moved from Compass to the new system. Any modules where volunteers have completed learning but not had this learning validated will not be moved across to the new system.

No validation of the existing modules linked to Getting Started/Growing Roots can be carried out during the Compass freeze, In addition, it will not be possible to add validations relating to the current modules to the new system. The learner will need to complete the relevant Growing Roots module e.g. if you have completed Module 3 (Tools for the Role – Section Leaders) but not had this validated before the change freeze, you will need to do the new Delivering a Great Programme module in Growing Roots.

Where modules have been completed which are not part of Getting Started/Growing Roots e.g. Growing the Section Module 13, Introduction to Residential Experiences Module 16, if the validation is not done before the Change Freeze, there will be an opportunity to add this learning manually to your learning profile post the change freeze and to subsequently validate this learning.

It is important that all existing Section Assistants (who will become Team Members in their sections) are fully briefed by their Groups that when the new system goes live they’ll need to complete three items of learning – Delivering a Great Programme; Creating Inclusion and First Response (over the next 2 years).

More details can be found here

Please contact your Training Advisor, line manager or ADC (Adult Training) for help with validation.

Go Live Key Information

As part of our Regional Go Live Support, we have created an GoLive Hub in which you can get the latest critical information with everything coming up over the next few weeks during this critical phase of transformation. I would encourage you all to check these pages out as they will be updated with any and all important announcements and information. Below is a summary of some of the key dates and tasks.

Visit our GoLive Hub here

Add any new volunteers or roles to Compass by 24 October
Any permit applications will need to be completed by 24 October
Check your email address is correct, and accessible. There are
restrictions, for guidance check this video

If you are doing a nights away between 7 & 25 November,
NANs will need to be submitted by 30 October at the latest.
All learning, including Safety & Safeguarding must be completed,
validated and recorded on Compass by 6 November

You will need to register for the new system once you receive the
email from UK Scouts indicating the system is live for you.
If you do not receive an email by 25 November you will need
to let your GLV know so they can follow up.
You will need to access the new system as you will need to:
• check/update your personal details
• access learning courses
• submit paperwork for activities and camps
e.g. permit requests, risk assessments, NANs etc
Watch this Short video about the new digital system.

You can ask your Group Lead Volunteer for help
You can email South East Scotland go live team on:
transformation@sesscouts.org.uk

Adventures, Farewells, and Spooky Thrills: Bonaly’s October Round-Up

21 Oct 2024

Peter Casebow

Chair, Bonaly Scout Centre

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!

Longcraig Update – October 2024

21 Oct 2024

Ian Harrower

Longcraig Scout Centre

Looking forward to 2025

As 2024 draws to a close we appreciate that a small number of Groups were disappointed this year, due to having a few activity bookings cancelled as we did not have enough of the right kind of volunteers available on the day, or because the weather conditions were such that it was not safe to proceed.

Although our 2025 booking system doesn’t kick in until early next year, we’d like to give anyone affected by these disappointments the early bird first choice of an activity slot for next year ahead of time. If your Group falls into either of these categories please get in touch to discuss what options are available for you: please contact bookings@longcraig.info in the first instance and we’ll help you from there.

LONGCRAIG – NET ZERO – how it all works

Last month, we announced the fantastic news that the Net Zero project at Longcraig, installed earlier this year, had gone live and was producing enough electricity to enable the Centre to operate.

This month, as promised, we’ve got more detail about the systems we installed and how they all work. Read on!

Main objectives

The principal purpose of installing the renewables was twofold:

To present a ‘greener’ appearance to the Centre and how it operates
B) to reduce our annual bill for utilities (mainly electricity) following the exorbitant cost increases inflicted over the past couple of years.

This is how it all strings together –

Main power generation – Solar PV. The proposed panels were selected to combine a comfortable fit, without crowding, on the available roof space. Initial rough calculations estimated the roof could support around 16kW capacity, the supplier’s selected proposal settled at 15.84kW., based upon an installation of 36 panels each 440W. Generation capacity clearly follows both a daily predicted curve (assuming good sun conditions) and also seasonal variations which can be computed based upon location, roof angle, surrounding shade/shadow and other geographical factors.

Energy Storage:

Electrical energy – Batteries: we selected 4 x 5kWh batteries totalling 20kWh which closely emulates the 21kWh expected theoretical consumption. The batteries have a maximum linking capacity of 5, so we retained the option to fit one further one in the future.

Thermal energy – Hot water tank: power can be sent directly to the hot water exchange tank which contains around 300litres of water, which then transfers heat through coils to the domestic hot water outputs. Control of the energy applied to the tank is further enhanced by a Solar Boost unit which actively directs power when it is required or when there is surplus energy available.

Direct feed – the PV energy drives directly to any building consumption required during generation hours.

Heating – hot water:

As part of the facilities upgrade, the incoming water supply was separated as it entered the building. One pipe goes directly to the kitchen, the other serves the cold water tank and thence the toilets and hot water system.

The main hot water tank is described above, and supplies hot water on demand for showers, wash hand basins throughout the customer facilities.

A separate 30 litre hot water storage device was installed in the kitchen, adjacent to the sinks, which provides almost instant hot water on demand. Whilst not an integral part of the renewables project, this enhancement avoids the need for the kitchen taps to ‘waste’ hot water from the old tank location, amounting to some 30 metres of piping each time the tap is opened. Rough calculations indicate a saving of up to £350 a year based upon energy prices in 2022 through this element alone.

Space heating – customer facilities: This is provided by way of an Air to Air Heat Pump, one external pump unit providing heat to 5 separate outlets covering the two main changing rooms, two toilet and shower areas, and the staff facility. The pump unit can generate just under 11kW of heat output, and is powered by the PV generated electricity at a maximum rate of 2.8kW. (an efficiency factor of 3.92) Each of the 5 outlets can be independently controlled for: temperature; fan speed’ horizontal and vertical air flow direction. Heat up time from cold is around 10 – 15 minutes.

Space heating – other areas: Providing Heat Pump heating to the kitchen, workshop and two upstairs training rooms was not going to be possible without installing a complete second Heat Pump installation. Because of the much more sporadic nature of the heat demand of each of the four spaces, it was decided to adopt a much lower cost, but more fuel hungry when in use, installation of Infra Red Heat bars in each room. Once again, each is independently controllable for temperature, and they can be adjusted to optimise the heat output to the areas where people are most likely to benefit. These heaters are quick to heat up, only warm the people in the rooms, and don’t clutter the floors!

All of the heating is controllable by phone Apps, which can also set timers, over-rides, and instant adjustment through the WiFi within the Centre.

So, what’s the benefits?

Our shower areas and changing rooms are now warm! BUT, the warmth also helps dry them out, so they are much less damp and musty; the floors are easier to sweep out and when mopped they dry off in a short time.
There is plenty of hot water to service all our showers, and it doesn’t run out when the first 6 people have had their showers!
Better hot water supplies in our kitchen (for washing dishes!)
Controllable warmth in the two training/meeting rooms on the upper floor, replacing our very old oil filled radiators and an even olde portable gas heater.
We’ve yet to trial it fully, but we’ll have renewable power through the winter months which means we can provide heated spaces and hot water to support winter activities. More importantly, we hope that we will be able to keep the critical parts of the building free from frost so we don’t have to drain down the water.
Significantly reduced electricity bill especially during the summer months when there is longer daylight. Not quite Zero, but very close, and effectively Zero on most days unless it is really dull all day.

What did we have before?

In summary:

adequate power generation on the premises to fulfil our needs for hot water and for power to run the Centre.
Energy Storage so we can use the energy when we need it, not just when the sun is shining!
Much reduced overhead of electricity supplies, means more money available to support activities, training and operational needs.

None of this would have been possible without the Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES).

We cannot Thank them enough.

https://localenergy.scot/funding/

Training Opportunities

VHF Marine Radio Course (one day) Saturday 9^th

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.

Powerboat Level 2 Course (one weekend) 16^th to 17th 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)

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.

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

Volunteering Opprtunities

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:

Tuesday 12^th November 7pm

Saturday 14^th December 1pm

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:

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.

Young Leader Day: A Thrilling New Adventure for Future Scout Leaders!

20 Oct 2024

Allison Gamble

Lead for Young 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.

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

Really great time, would go again

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

I really enjoyed meeting other young leaders and catching up with friends I hadn’t seen

The activities were great fun and the people there were really enjoyable to be around. I would definitely recommend in the future

Absolute banging, would recommend anyone to go.

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

10 Days to go until Gang Show 2024

19 Oct 2024

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

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