Six young people from across the Region recently attended the Scouts Speak Up course run by Scottish Headquarters at Fordell Firs.
Explorers Owen, Murray, Finlay and Kirsty joined ARC Youth Involvement Adam Bennett and Regional Photographer Josie O’Donnell attended the course to learn about talking about Scouting to the media, and to develop their presentation skills.
3 course participants testing their television interview skills
Owen, who is an Explorer at Meadows ESU and attended the course told us “I found the course really enjoyable and engaging and it gave me the opportunity to work with so many other people who are just as interested in promoting Scouting as I am. I’m hoping to use my new skills to promote Scouting through media interviews and I’m looking forward to using them to reach out and encourage more people to get involved with Scouting!”
The course trains young people in media skills including interviews with journalists, and appearing on radio and television. Participants also work on their presentation skills, and put together a short presentation during the course to show what they have learned.
One of the 2017 Scouts Speak Up mentor groups
Participants are split into small groups and looked after by a mentor who is experienced in communication and presentation skills. ARC Communications Brian Morrison regularly attends the course, and is responsible for helping support and develop the young people after the training.
“We had another fantastic turnout this year from the Region – it’s great to see young people develop their presentation skills and build confidence in their abilities. The skills they learn are useful outside Scouting too – they can help during job and University interviews, or during presentations at school or in college. I’m really proud of all of the participants, and I’m delighted to have seven new young people join the Regional Comms Team.”
If anyone you know would be interested in attending similar training in the future, please get in touch with Brian at communications@sesscouts.org.uk.