The 1st Crowland Scout Group

The group caters for all young people aged between 6-14 years old. Beaver Scouts for the 6 to 8 year olds, Cub Scouts for 8 to 10½ year olds, and from 10½ to 14 age group are the Scouts. However, Scouting doesn’t stop there - from 14 onwards, young people can move onto Explorer Scouts and then to the Scout Network elsewhere in the district. They can even take on leadership roles.

The group strives to deliver a balanced programme of activities through 6 different program zones: Beliefs & Attitudes, Community, Fitness, Creative, Global and Outdoor & Adventure. Through these activities they help to develop young people in 6 key areas – Body, Mind, Faith & Belief, Relationships, Community and Surroundings.

Scouting today is not just for boys; it is committed to an equal opportunities policy and is open to all young people regardless of origin, nationality, race, creed, physical or mental ability, gender, political or religious belief or sexual status.

Based at the Scout Hut in Snowden Fields, Crowland, the group has been involved in a number of activities over the past year. The Cub pack has taken part in a wide variety of activities. They were taught some basic first aid skills and also learned about safety in and around the home.

Their creative talents were also put to work making bat-boxes and posters promoting scouting - these were displayed at the Crowland Show in June. Into the summer and the group had lots of fun pond dipping, aided and supported by the Crowland Wildlife Group. They also tried their hands at taboganning [sledging] and climbing at Tallington Lakes - numerous activities with a lot of fun.

The Scout Troup had a very successful camp earlier in the year. It was a skills-based weekend where they learned all aspects of camping such as fire lighting, wood chopping, cooking over an open fire and navigation, all while keeping their own camps tidy and organised at all times.

The young Beavers were also busy with a variety of arts and crafts, and exploring and discovering the world around them. But the emphasis for all the groups was to have FUN!

Crowland resident Jeff Beardwell has been involved with the group for just over a year as a leader in the Cub Pack. "I have thoroughly enjoyed myself, and found the time spent with the young people very rewarding," said Jeff.

"Adult help is essential to run a Scout group, and without helpers who are able to give their time voluntarily, the group would not exist."

He goes on to say that the group is now looking for volunteers. There are many ways adults can get involved: as a leader-helper in any of the three sections, or as a member of the Group Executive Committee, helping with fundraising ideas. No previous skills or experience are necessary. Relevant training will be provided.

If anyone would like to volunteer, or requires further information, you can contact Jeff by email at jeffbeardwell (at) btinternet (dot) com or send him a private message (username “Baloo”) on the Crowland-Links Forums. You can also post in the "Village Green" forum (login to post).