1st Orwell Scouts

1st Orwell Scouts were back with a bang this autumn and wasted no time heading out on their first camping weekend for over eighteen months. Base camp was set up on the outskirts of Thetford Forest and whilst some of the younger scouts were delivered directly to the campsite, a group of five of the older, more experienced scouts undertook an expedition, making their own way to camp using a train and then hiking cross country on foot. Whilst at camp, the scouts constructed their own assault course and, of course, cooked some great food. A great time was had by all, and it was fabulous to be back in the outdoors, working together and enjoying the natural environment. To be back doing these kinds of group outdoor activities again has put a real spring in the section leaders’ steps. October saw the scouts take part in the world’s biggest online scout event, the JOTI - a jamboree on the internet. This annual event allows the scouts to learn about others from around the world and gives them the opportunity to take part in online activities that promote friendship and global citizenship. Activities included webinars, global campfires, talent shows, fun challenges and more. The cubs, meanwhile, were out on the Moor in Melbourn, developing their pioneering skills which included making their own rope and practicing their knots. As the nights drew in, the cubs moved back to their usual meeting place at the Primary School. This hasn’t meant they’ve been confined to the indoors though, and following a session where they carefully planned a two-course meal, they took to the outdoors in the dark to prepare (and eat!) it. They have also practiced their firelighting skills, all in preparation for an upcoming camp which we will be able to say more about in the next edition! For those sessions that have been indoors, the cubs have been embracing a newly introduced badge on money skills. To learn more about saving, the cubs had to make the hard decision of accepting one chocolate at the beginning of the session, waiting to the end for two or waiting until the following week’s session for three. Needless to say, there were very few takers for the three chocolate option! A sunny Sunday in early October saw a team of four cubs head down to Borehamwood for the Hertfordshire County cub cyclo-cross event. The day was made up of three main events, an off-road relay team

event (made up of four rounds), an individual time trial event and an individual agility competition. There were eighteen teams there on the day and competition was tough, but fun. Teamwork was definitely the agenda of the day. In the team event, 1st Orwell did really well to secure fourth place, with individual performances improving significantly over each round. We were also very pleased that one of our team, Jacob Murphy, took home the trophies for both the time trial and agility events. All of those involved with 1st Orwell Scout Group are fiercely proud of the efforts and commitment of both the children and the leaders. For cubs, the highest level of achievement is to gain the Chief Scout Silver Award and in October we were pleased to welcome the District Commissioner, Carole Rhind, to present Silver Award badges and certificates to three of our cubs (now scouts). On the same evening we were also proud to see the efforts and dedication of cub leader Andrew Dominey and our assistant leader Hughlene Conradie recognised, as they were presented with their wood badges, signifying the completion of their leader training. Our heartfelt congratulations to all. 1st Orwell Beavers, Cubs and Scouts meet on Friday evenings in Melbourn. The Group is currently full, but please contact admissions@1storwellscouts.org.uk to add your child to our waiting list.

We are very keen to hear from any adults interested in becoming leaders as this will allow us to accept more children and reduce our waiting list. As a Beaver/Cub/Scout assistant leader you could inspire our young people to grow in ability and confidence through a huge variety of activities and challenges, which is incredibly enjoyable and rewarding; why not give something new a go! Please contact GSL@1storwellscouts.org.uk if you are interested in finding out more. Becky Murphy

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