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 -10^th May

If you want to brush up your scouting skills or learn new ones why not come along to our free leaders day on 10^th 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

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!