In this edition:

• Featured photo
• Camping skills day - get back to basics and brush up on skills
• Small grants from Children in Need
• Project Africa update - find out how you and your Group can get involved

Featured Photo

The featured photo this fortnight - 130 young people from across Berkshire braved sub-zero temperatures for the weekend to pursue their dreams of being selected to to to the World Scout Jamboree 2011 in Sweden.

Camping Skills Days

There are a number of opportunities for volunteers to take part in a Skills Day, focussing on some of the practical camp skills which are valued so much by kids and adults alike. On 27th March a day will take place at Angel's Corner, Upper Bucklebury (West Berkshire), and on 24th April a day will take place at Dorneywood, Slough. Click the relevant date to find out more.

Small Grants from Children in Need

Funding of up to £10,000 a year for three years available to organisations working with young people. Children in Need is offering small grants of up to £10,000 a year for three years for third sector organisations working with children and young people. More...

Project Africa & Uganda 2011

Please visit the recently updated Project Africa web page for the latest details and downloads (including application form for Uganda 2011). Note that completed applications for Uganda 2011 need to be signed and returned by 31 May 2010 in order to guarantee group travel (flight) rates.

The web page also provides details and an application form for the Project Africa Open Camp to be held on 17-18 April 2010 as well as details of the next Project Africa Open Session to be held at 1st Twyford HQ on Wednesday 17 March at 20.00 hours. Attend either or both of these events to learn more about Project Africa.

A reminder the first phase of the web-based Global Awareness Programme will be launched at Easter followed by a second phase in September 2010. The following link will provide all you need to know at this stage about Project Africa: www.berkshirescouts.org.uk/projectafrica

 

Thinking about the months ahead? March 2010

8th - SE Berks District Executive Meeting (4th Bracknell HQ - 7.30pm (Note change of venue))
9th - County Executive Committee (Gravelly Training Centre, Gravelly Court, Grazeley)
10th - County DC Forum (Waterside Centre)
10th - Adult Training [Module 3b] - Tools for the Job (Sectional) (Maidenhead)     click to book
10th - Adult Training [Module 6] - Changes in Scouting (Maidenhead)     click to book
10th–11th - Reading Central District Forum
11th - Adult Training [Module 17] - Activities Outdoors (Gravelly)     click to book
12th–13th - Maidenhead Scout Cross Country Competition (Pinkneys Green)
14th - Adult Training [Module 25] - Assessing Learning (Gravelly)     click to book
15th - Maidenhead District Executive Committee
15th - SEBerks CHILD PROTECTION WORKSHOP (Revised date) (4th Bracknell HQ, Meadow Way, Priestwood, Bracknell. RG42 1UF)   click for details
16th - Maidenhead Beaver Leaders Meeting
16th - Adult Training [Module 3b] - Tools for the Job (Sectional) (1st Emmbrook)     click to book
16th - Adult Training [Module 6] - Changes in Scouting (1st Emmbrook)     click to book
17th - Maidenhead Cub Scout Leaders Meeting (Cookham)
17th - Reading Central District Forum
17th - Adult Training - Validation Session (1st Thatcham HQ)     click to book
17th - SE Berks. Beaver Leaders Meeting (1st Ascot HQ 7.30pm)
17th - Reading Central District Forum (Northcourt Avenue)
18th - County Programme Forum (Gravelly Court)
19th - SE Berks Scouts Wide Game (Swinley Forest, Bracknell)
20th - SEBerks. Distict Cub Quiz (Earleywood)
20th–21st - Adult Training - Harmonised Learning Block 2 - Programme and Leadership (1st Twyford HQ)     click to book
20th–21st - Hillwalking Training weekend   click for details
22nd - Maidenhead Fellowship Curling Evening
22nd - Adult Training - Validation Session (4th Bracknell)     click to book
23rd - Adult Training - Validation Session (Reading)     click to book
23rd - Reading Central and Pang Valley Young Leaders Module A (79th Reading Kentwood hill)   click for details
23rd - Reading Central Beaver Leaders' Meeting (Northcourt Avenue)
24th - Maidenhead Appointments Advisory Committee (URC West Street)
24th - Adult Training [Module 3b,6] - Tools for the Job (Sectional), Changes in Scouting (Earleywood)     click to book
24th - Reading Central and Pang Valley Young Leaders Module D (73rd Reading, Park Church, Palmer Park Avenue, Reading)   click for details
24th - Adult Training [Module 3b,6] - Tools for the Job (Sectional), Changes in Scouting (1st Thatcham HQ)     click to book
27th - Adult Training - Camping Skills Day (West)     click to book
31st - Adult Training - Validation Session (Mid Area)     click to book
 

April 2010

5th–12th - SE Berks Scout Shop Closed
9th–11th - Working weekend Earleywood Scout Centre (tbc) (Earleywood Scout Centre, Bagshot Road. Sunningdale)   click for details
9th–10th - Three Towers Hike 2010   click for details
10th - SEBerks District Quiz Night (4th Bracknell Scout HQ, Meadow Way, Priestweood Bracknell. 7,30pm)   click for details
11th - County Team Meeting (1st Twyford)
14th - County Steering Group (Gravelly Court)
17th - Adult Training [Module 10] - First Aid (Gravelly)     click to book
19th - Maidenhead Fellowship Nature Evening
20th - Adult Training [Module 20] - Administration (Managers) (Gravelly)     click to book
21st - County Development Forum (Gravelly Court)   click for details
24th - Maidenhead Slough Windsor leaders Skill Day
24th - Adult Training - Camping Skills Day (Eastern Area)     click to book
24th - Adult Training [Module 1] - Essential Information (Reading)     click to book
24th - Adult Training [Module 3] - Tools for the Job (Sectional) (Reading)     click to book
24th - Adult Training [Module 6] - Changes in Scouting (Reading)     click to book
25th - Maidenhead St George's Day Event (Magnet)   click for details
25th - S E Berks. St George's Day Parade and Service, Bracknell (Bracknell Town Centre)
26th - Maidenhead District Executive Committee (Finance)
27th - Supporting Section Programmes across Berkshire Meeting
28th - Maidenhead Appointments Advisory Committee (URC West Street)
 

May 2010

4th - Maidenhead Scout Leaders Meeting
 

130 young people from across Berkshire braved sub-zero temperatures for the weekend to pursue their dreams of being selected to to to the World Scout Jamboree 2011 in Sweden. Biting back frosts of up to minus 5 celcius, Scouts and Explorers threw themselves into a range of team challenges and camping experiences under the careful stewardship of the Jamboree Unit Leaders. A great weekend was had by all - a selection of photos will be going online shortly. Taking place at Bear's Rails in Old Windsor, the selection weekend brought together Scouts and Explorer Scouts from all eleven Districts within Royal Berkshire; Through a series of challenges, tasks and activities, the participants were given the opportunity to reveal who they are and how they interract with other potential Unit members. In addition to the candidate members and the four Jamboree Unit leaders, the weekend brought in the assistance of an adult team from across the county including former Jamboree Unit leaders, in order to support the leader team in their selection process.

Prince Charles has spoken of his support for Scouting by revealing concerns for young people who are unable to join the Movement.

A Group who rebuilt their meeting place after an arson attack have reached the final of a community environment award.

Katherine Walpole age 16, an Explorer Scout from Sandhurst and a pupil at Ranelagh School in Bracknell, was presented with her Queen?s Scout award on stage at the South East Berkshire Gang Show after Wednesday night?s Show. The Queen?s Scout award is the highest award achievable by a Scout and it was presented to her by Hamish Stout, Berkshire?s County Commissioner. Some of the many activities that she undertook to gain the award were, planning and carrying out an 80K hike over 4 days in Lancashire and Yorkshire, working as a volunteer assistant helping disabled young people and being a Young Leader for her local Beaver Colony (1st Sandhurst). In 2007 Katherine represented Sandhurst, and was one of only 5 Scouts from South Berkshire District, at the World Scout Jamboree in Essex celebrating Scouting?s Centenary year. There were over 38,000 Scouts at the event representing 158 Countries. To recognise the achievement of this award Katherine has been invited to attend the St Georges Day Parade at Windsor Castle in April by the Queen.

This years South East Berks Gang Show was another huge success. It was on at the Wilde Theatre all last week culminating with two shows on Saturday. Around 100 kids were on stage each night playing to a full house. We were raising money for CLAPA, The Cleft Lip and Palate Association. Established in 1979, CLAPA is the only UK Charity providing relief and support for all those born with, or affected by cleft lip and pallet. CLAPA provides support beyond the walls of the hospital and ensures that in partnership with the health specialists, all the needs of those with, and affected by, cleft lip and pallet are catered for. A total of £800 was raised by the show and a cheque was presented by Shirley Burns, the show?s producer, to Sue Carroll, CLAPA?s representative.

In This Edition:

• Featured Photo
• Three Towers Hike - a few spaces remaining
• Free ingredients from your milkman
• Visit Wales - opportunity for a free family holiday
• Sainsbury's Active Kids has opened for 2010
• Your Programme, Your Voice - let the team at Gilwell Park know how you get on with the current programme
• Chief Commissioner and Deputy Chief Commissioner of England have been announced
• Join the Penguins hill walking in mid Wales
• Thinking about the months ahead? . . .

Featured Photo

The featured photo this fortnight - Over 30 adults and young people got a taste of Scouting at the hugely sucessful taster session for the new Beaver Colony in Arborfield earlier in February.

Three Towers Hike - Few Spaces Remaining

It’s now just under seven weeks until this year's Three Towers Hike on 10th April. Thank you to everyone who has registered teams online for this year's event and submitted their entry fee payments. Teams that have paid will be allocated a team number and start time. Up until 1st march we may shuffle these around. After 1st March, your check-in time, team number and start time is fixed. To find out more and get involved, visit www.hike.org.uk

Free Ingredients

The Dail Mail is providing a promotional code to get £5 of groceries from your milkman - great for a cooking evening! You need to be 18 or over but several leaders togther could get enough for a party or even a sleepover. More information available here, and don't forget to send in your pictures to Scouts in Action!

Visit Wales Champions Proper Holidays

Visit Wales believe that holidays have changed. They believe that time-off doesn't mean flocking to the Costa Del Same As Everybody Else anymore that fun can't be organized from clipboards that countries should be explored rather than ignored from a lilo. In their latest campaign, Visit Wales want to show holiday-makers that time-off doesn't have to be spent this way.







They're looking for families who've had disappointing holidays. From the ridiculous to the underwhelming, Visit Wales wants to hear it all. And then they'll choose one family and send them on holiday to Wales, in April of this year. With Visit Wales footing the bill.







Once there, they'll give their chosen family a proper holiday. One that packs in the stuff that Wales does best. Activities: coasteering; caving; beaches; foodie feed-ups. And accommodation that might take in a boutique hotel or a build-it-yourself shelter. If you have children aged between 8-16 and are ready to get stuck into a different kind of holiday, then please contact tom.latter@wk.com for more information.

Sainsbury's Active Kids

Sainsbury’s Active Kids 2010 has kicked off so get collecting your vouchers now!  There are loads of products available, including the all NEW Scouts’ Big Adventure Ingredients Card. Vouchers are available until 8th June, so make sure you don’t miss out. For more information or to register your Group visit www.sainsburys.co.uk/activekids

Your Programme, Your Voice

Your Programme, Your Voice is an online questionnaire for section leaders which is run about three times a year. It is designed to provide quantitative feedback from section leaders on the balanced programme and other issues surrounding its delivery.







The results from the questionnaire allow the Programme Team at Gilwell Park to identify areas of the programme where further support and advice might be helpful to the movement.

Chief Commissioner and Deputy Chief Commissioner of England

The identities of the new Chief Commissioner and Deputy Chief Commissioner of England have been revealed. The appointments, which will take affect from 1 March, serve to ensure that Scouting in England is, in the words of UK Chief Commissioner Wayne Bulpitt, ‘properly supported with a good benefit of management and leadership skills’. More...

The Penguins invite you to join them on the hills...

Penguins ESU in Reading invite you to join them on an Easter weekend in great scenery and company. Opportunities for lots of fresh air and exercise in the mountains of North Wales, walking, scrambling and climbing. As on previous events we're opening this up to like minded Explorers and Leaders from across Berkshire. Those of you who have been before will know of the sort of things that we do & if you've missed out before, our Facebook albums may tell some of the tales you missed! Further details here (Word document).

Thinking about the months ahead? February 2010

23rd - Reading Central and Pang Valley Young Leaders Module G and I (73rd Reading, Park Church, Palmer Park Avenue, Reading)   click for details







23rd–24th - Maidenhead Appointments Advisory Committee (URC West Street)







23rd–24th - Maidenhead Explorer Leaders meeting (21st)







24th - Adult Training [Module 7] - Valuing Diversity (Gravelly)     click to book







26th–27th - Maidenhead Beaveree







27th - Adult Training [Module 11] - Administration (Section) (1st Twyford HQ)     click to book







27th - Adult Training [Module 12] - Balanced Programme (1st Twyford HQ)     click to book







27th - Adult Training [Module 1] - Essential Information (1st Datchet)     click to book







27th - Adult Training [Module 3] - Tools for the Job (Sectional) (1st Datchet)     click to book







27th - Adult Training [Module 6] - Changes in Scouting (1st Datchet)     click to book







28th - Project Africa Open Day (Boyne Hill Scout HQ)   click for details







28th–1st - Maidenhead District GSL/ADC forum

March 2010

1st - SE Berks Cub Leaders Meeting (Shepherds House PH 7.30pm)







1st - Adult Training - Validation Session (Maidenhead)     click to book







1st–2nd - Maidenhead Scout Leaders Meeting







1st - SEBerks District Fellowship Meeting







2nd - County Development Forum (Gravelly Court)   click for details







5th - SE Berks. GSL's Meeting (4th Bracknell 7.30pm)   click for details







5th–7th - Jamboree Participant Selection Weekend







6th - Adult Training [Module 8] - Skills of Leadership (Central)     click to book







6th - Adult Training [Module 9] - Working with Adults (Central)     click to book







6th - Adult Training [Module 18] - Practical Skills (Central)     click to book







6th–7th - Maidenhead Cub Flag Competition







8th - SE Berks District Executive Meeting (4th Bracknell HQ - 7.30pm (Note change of venue))







9th - County Executive Committee (Gravelly Training Centre, Gravelly Court, Grazeley)







10th - County DC Forum (Waterside Centre)







10th - Adult Training [Module 3b] - Tools for the Job (Sectional) (Maidenhead)     click to book







10th - Adult Training [Module 6] - Changes in Scouting (Maidenhead)     click to book







10th–11th - Reading Central District Forum







11th - Adult Training [Module 17] - Activities Outdoors (Gravelly)     click to book







12th–13th - Maidenhead Scout Cross Country Competition (Pinkneys Green)







14th - Adult Training [Module 25] - Assessing Learning (Gravelly)     click to book







15th - Maidenhead District Executive Committee







15th - SEBerks CHILD PROTECTION WORKSHOP (Revised date) (4th Bracknell HQ, Meadow Way, Priestwood, Bracknell. RG42 1UF)   click for details







16th - Maidenhead Beaver Leaders Meeting







16th - Adult Training [Module 3b] - Tools for the Job (Sectional) (1st Emmbrook)     click to book







16th - Adult Training [Module 6] - Changes in Scouting (1st Emmbrook)     click to book







17th - Maidenhead Cub Scout Leaders Meeting (Cookham)







17th - Reading Central District Forum







17th - Adult Training - Validation Session (1st Thatcham HQ)     click to book







17th - SE Berks. Beaver Leaders Meeting (1st Ascot HQ 7.30pm)







17th - Reading Central District Forum (Northcourt Avenue)







18th - County Programme Forum (Gravelly Court)







19th - SE Berks Scouts Wide Game (Swinley Forest, Bracknell)







20th - SEBerks. Distict Cub Quiz (Earleywood)







20th–21st - Adult Training - Harmonised Learning Block 2 - Programme and Leadership (1st Twyford HQ)     click to book







20th–21st - Hillwalking Training weekend   click for details







22nd - Maidenhead Fellowship Curling Evening







22nd - Adult Training - Validation Session (4th Bracknell)     click to book







23rd - Adult Training - Validation Session (Reading)     click to book







23rd - Reading Central and Pang Valley Young Leaders Module A (79th Reading Kentwood hill)   click for details







23rd - Reading Central Beaver Leaders' Meeting (Northcourt Avenue)







24th - Maidenhead Appointments Advisory Committee (URC West Street)







24th - Adult Training [Module 3b,6] - Tools for the Job (Sectional), Changes in Scouting (Earleywood)     click to book







24th - Reading Central and Pang Valley Young Leaders Module D (73rd Reading, Park Church, Palmer Park Avenue, Reading)   click for details







24th - Adult Training [Module 3b,6] - Tools for the Job (Sectional), Changes in Scouting (1st Thatcham HQ)     click to book







27th - Adult Training - Camping Skills Day (West)     click to book







31st - Adult Training - Validation Session (Mid Area)     click to book

April 2010

5th–12th - SE Berks Scout Shop Closed

Scouts around the world are celebrating Founder’s Day, the birthday of Scouting’s founder Robert Baden-Powell, by doing what they do best: outdoor activities and supporting their communities.

Over 30 adults and young people got a taste of Scouting at the hugely sucessful taster session for the new Beaver Colony in Arborfield earlier in February. The young people enjoyed a fun packed session run by local leaders and supported by members of wider Scouting while their parents and relatives found out more about the fun of Scouting and how they could be involved in getting the project off the ground. The response from the adults was as enthusiastic as that of the young people and should see the new section on a firm footing for the future. Thanks must go to the Coombes school for their continued support and letting us take over the hall and class room for the evening as well as the team of voluteers who put together a great evening for adults and young people alike. The whole event is another example of the continued appeal of Scouting and the value of working with other organisations.

Last weekend saw over four hundred Scouts take part in the 31st annual Southern 50 Challenge, a hike over the Chiltern Hills through Buckinghamshire and the surrounding counties.

Attached is a photo showing 4 Scouts from 99th Reading, the winning team at the recent Loddon District Cooking Competition, held at Twyford HQ.

The Scout Association is deeply saddened to confirm the death of Stephen Young, a trustee of Kent Scout County.

Project Africa News

Project Africa Open Sessions

Plans for Project Africa are progressing well and the organising team are receiving registrations of interest and also invitations to make local presentations.

The organising team will be available on the following dates to provide information about Project Africa. The repeated session is open to all those interested in the Global Awareness Programme and/or the community projects in Uganda in 2011.

Project Africa Open Sessions:

Sunday 28 February (14.00-16.00)

Boyne Hill Scout HQ, Altwood School, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4PU

Wednesday 17 March (20.00-22.00)

1st Tywford Scout HQ, Loddon Hall Road, Twyford, RG10 9JA

To help with refreshments, etc, rsvp with numbers to:

projectafrica@berkshirescouts.org.uk

Project Africa Open Camp

The organising team are running an Open Camp (with an Africa theme) which is open to any young person (minimum age of 14 years at July 2011). The Camp is for all young people and Leaders thinking about taking part in the community projects in Uganda 2011. Come along and enjoy the camp . . . there is no commitment to travelling to Uganda at this point in time!

The camp will take place during the weekend 17-18 April

Contact projectafrica@berkshirescouts.org.uk for further details

For further information on Project Africa:

http://www.berkshirescouts.org.uk/projectafrica

 

Thinking about the months ahead? February 2010

15th–20th - SEBerks Gang Show (Wilde Theatre, Bracknell )

20th - Maidenhead Cub Scout Leaders Skittles Evening

23rd - Reading Central and Pang Valley Young Leaders Module G and I (73rd Reading, Park Church, Palmer Park Avenue, Reading)   click for details

23rd–24th - Maidenhead Appointments Advisory Committee (URC West Street)

23rd–24th - Maidenhead Explorer Leaders meeting (21st)

24th - County Development Forum (Gravelly Court)   click for details

24th - Adult Training [Module 7] - Valuing Diversity (Gravelly)     click to book

26th–27th - Maidenhead Beaveree

27th - Adult Training [Module 11] - Administration (Section) (1st Twyford HQ)     click to book

27th - Adult Training [Module 12] - Balanced Programme (1st Twyford HQ)     click to book

27th - Adult Training [Module 1] - Essential Information (1st Datchet)     click to book

27th - Adult Training [Module 3] - Tools for the Job (Sectional) (1st Datchet)     click to book

27th - Adult Training [Module 6] - Changes in Scouting (1st Datchet)     click to book

28th - Project Africa Open Day (Boyne Hill Scout HQ)   click for details

28th–1st - Maidenhead District GSL/ADC forum

March 2010

1st - Adult Training - Validation Session (Maidenhead)     click to book

1st–2nd - Maidenhead Scout Leaders Meeting

1st - SEBerks District Fellowship Meeting

5th - SE Berks. GSL's Meeting (4th Bracknell)   click for details

5th–7th - Jamboree Participant Selection Weekend

6th - Adult Training [Module 8] - Skills of Leadership (Central)     click to book

6th - Adult Training [Module 9] - Working with Adults (Central)     click to book

6th - Adult Training [Module 18] - Practical Skills (Central)     click to book

6th–7th - Maidenhead Cub Flag Competition

8th - SEBerks Cub Leaders Meeting

9th - County Executive Committee (Gravelly Training Centre, Gravelly Court, Grazeley)

9th–10th - County DC Forum (Waterside Centre)

10th - Adult Training [Module 3b] - Tools for the Job (Sectional) (Maidenhead)     click to book

10th - Adult Training [Module 6] - Changes in Scouting (Maidenhead)     click to book

10th–11th - Reading Central District Forum

11th - Adult Training [Module 17] - Activities Outdoors (Gravelly)     click to book

12th–13th - Maidenhead Scout Cross Country Competition (Pinkneys Green)

14th - Adult Training [Module 25] - Assessing Learning (Gravelly)     click to book

15th - Maidenhead District Executive Committee

15th - SEBerks CHILD PROTECTION WORKSHOP (Revised date) (4th Bracknell HQ, Meadow Way, Priestwood, Bracknell. RG42 1UF)   click for details

16th - Maidenhead Beaver Leaders Meeting

16th - Adult Training [Module 3b] - Tools for the Job (Sectional) (1st Emmbrook)     click to book

16th - Adult Training [Module 6] - Changes in Scouting (1st Emmbrook)     click to book

17th - Maidenhead Cub Scout Leaders Meeting (Cookham)

17th - Reading Central District Forum

17th - Adult Training - Validation Session (1st Thatcham HQ)     click to book

17th - Reading Central District Forum (Northcourt Avenue)

18th - County Programme Forum (Gravelly Court)

20th - SEBerks. Distict Cub Quiz (Earleywood)

20th–21st - Adult Training - Harmonised Learning Block 2 - Programme and Leadership (1st Twyford HQ)     click to book

22nd - Maidenhead Fellowship Curling Evening

22nd - Adult Training - Validation Session (4th Bracknell)     click to book

23rd - Adult Training - Validation Session (Reading)     click to book

23rd - Reading Central Beaver Leaders' Meeting (Northcourt Avenue)

24th - Maidenhead Appointments Advisory Committee (URC West Street)

24th - Adult Training [Module 3b,6] - Tools for the Job (Sectional), Changes in Scouting (Earleywood)     click to book

24th - Reading Central and Pang Valley Young Leaders Module D (73rd Reading, Park Church, Palmer Park Avenue, Reading)   click for details

24th - Adult Training [Module 3b,6] - Tools for the Job (Sectional), Changes in Scouting (1st Thatcham HQ)     click to book

27th - Adult Training - Camping Skills Day (West)     click to book

31st - Adult Training - Validation Session (Mid Area)     click to book

April 2010

9th–10th - Three Towers Hike 2010   click for details

Alain, a qualified coach from Reading Fencing Club, agreed to help out and teach our new Scout group some fencing! We started with the basics, moved on to round robin fencing and finished with a game of Roundheads and Cavaliers; a bit of a free for all. Though it was a little unfair, the Scouts were given two weapons! We all had a great evening and the Scouts were clamouring for more in our troop forum the very next week!

As providing reliable shelter for hundreds of thousands of Haitians becomes the priority, Scouts have been on hand pitching tents with disaster relief charity ShelterBox

In This Edition:

• Featured Photo
• Great success from the Programme Support Forum - when's the next one?
• The search is on for a new County Secretary
• Get involved with the Three Towers Hike in April
• Check the upcoming diary dates

Featured Photo

The featured photo this fortnight - success at the Programme Support Forum, working towards providing even better support for even better scouting.

Programme Support Forum

Last week's hugely successful Programme Support Forum was attended by a great number of volunteers from across Berkshire. They discussed a number of upcoming plans including the transition to InTouch and the most effective way to support Groups and Units deliver even better scouting. A huge thank you to all those who attended, making the event such a success.

The next Programme Support Forum is on Tuesday 27th April; everyone is welcome to please put the date in your diary and look out for more details! Contact Lorraine Bolam for more details.

County Secretary Search

Our current County Secretary, Tony Fulford, has ensured the smooth and effective administration of Berkshire Scouts for many years but has now decided that it is time to move on and spend more time pursuing his other interests. As a result, the County Scout Council will need to elect a new Secretary at their AGM on 29th June. 

For more information click here.

Three Towers Hike

The Three Towers Hike takes place on Saturday, 10 April 2010. This is a team-based Scout-organised Hiking Competition aimed at Scouts, Explorers and adults, with four different events of different routes, ranging from 25km for Scouts up to 70km for Adults.

Teams planning to enter this year's event should now submit an entry via the hike's website, www.hike.org.uk , at which details of the rules, route, results and registration can be found.

Thinking about the months ahead? February 2010

9th - Adult Training [Module 3a] - Tools for the Job (Sectional) (1st Emmbrook)     click to book
10th - Adult Training [Module 3a] - Tools for the Job (Sectional) (Earleywood)     click to book
10th - Adult Training [Module 3a] - Tools for the Job (Sectional) (Maidenhead)     click to book
10th - Adult Training [Module 3a] - Tools for the Job (Sectional) (1st Thatcham HQ)     click to book
11th - Adult Training [Module 4] - Tools for the Job (Managers) (Gravelly)     click to book
12th–13th - Southern 50 Challenge (Chiltern Hills)   click for details
15th–20th - SEBerks Gang Show (Wilde Theatre, Bracknell )
20th - Maidenhead Cub Scout Leaders Skittles Evening
23rd - Reading Central and Pang Valley Young Leaders Module G and I (73rd Reading, Park Church, Palmer Park Avenue, Reading)   click for details
23rd–24th - Maidenhead Appointments Advisory Committee (URC West Street)
23rd–24th - Maidenhead Explorer Leaders meeting (21st)
24th - County Development Forum (Gravelly Court)   click for details
24th - Adult Training [Module 7] - Valuing Diversity (Gravelly)     click to book
25th - Adult Training [Module 22] - Section Support (Gravelly)     click to book
26th–27th - Maidenhead Beaveree
27th - Adult Training [Module 11] - Administration (Section) (1st Twyford HQ)     click to book
27th - Adult Training [Module 12] - Balanced Programme (1st Twyford HQ)     click to book
27th - Adult Training [Module 1] - Essential Information (Eastern Area)     click to book
27th - Adult Training [Module 3] - Tools for the Job (Sectional) (Eastern Area)     click to book
27th - Adult Training [Module 6] - Changes in Scouting (Eastern Area)     click to book
28th - Project Africa Open Day (Boyne Hill Scout HQ)   click for details
28th–1st - Maidenhead District GSL/ADC forum
 

March 2010

1st - Adult Training - Validation Session (Maidenhead)     click to book
1st–2nd - Maidenhead Scout Leaders Meeting
1st - SEBerks District Fellowship Meeting
5th - SE Berks. GSL's Meeting (4th Bracknell)   click for details
5th–7th - Jamboree Participant Selection Weekend
6th - Adult Training [Module 8] - Skills of Leadership (Central)     click to book
6th - Adult Training [Module 9] - Working with Adults (Central)     click to book
6th - Adult Training [Module 18] - Practical Skills (Central)     click to book
6th–7th - Maidenhead Cub Flag Competition
8th - SEBerks Cub Leaders Meeting
9th - County Executive Committee (Gravelly Training Centre, Gravelly Court, Grazeley)
9th–10th - County DC Forum (Waterside Centre)
10th - Adult Training [Module 3b] - Tools for the Job (Sectional) (Maidenhead)     click to book
10th - Adult Training [Module 6] - Changes in Scouting (Maidenhead)     click to book
10th–11th - Reading Central District Forum
11th - Adult Training [Module 17] - Activities Outdoors (Gravelly)     click to book
12th–13th - Maidenhead Scout Cross Country Competition (Pinkneys Green)
14th - Adult Training [Module 25] - Assessing Learning (Gravelly)     click to book
15th - Maidenhead District Executive Committee
15th - SEBerks CHILD PROTECTION WORKSHOP (Revised date) (4th Bracknell HQ, Meadow Way, Priestwood, Bracknell. RG42 1UF)   click for details
16th - Maidenhead Beaver Leaders Meeting
16th - Adult Training [Module 3b] - Tools for the Job (Sectional) (1st Emmbrook)     click to book
16th - Adult Training [Module 6] - Changes in Scouting (1st Emmbrook)     click to book
17th - Maidenhead Cub Scout Leaders Meeting (Cookham)
17th - Reading Central District Forum
17th - Adult Training - Validation Session (1st Thatcham HQ)     click to book
17th - Reading Central District Forum (Northcourt Avenue)
18th - County Programme Forum (Gravelly Court)
20th - SEBerks. Distict Cub Quiz (Earleywood)
20th–21st - Adult Training - Harmonised Learning Block 2 - Programme and Leadership (1st Twyford HQ)     click to book
22nd - Maidenhead Fellowship Curling Evening
22nd - Adult Training - Validation Session (4th Bracknell)     click to book
23rd - Adult Training - Validation Session (Reading)     click to book
23rd - Reading Central Beaver Leaders' Meeting (Northcourt Avenue)
24th - Maidenhead Appointments Advisory Committee (URC West Street)
24th - Adult Training [Module 3b,6] - Tools for the Job (Sectional), Changes in Scouting (Earleywood)     click to book
24th - Reading Central and Pang Valley Young Leaders Module D (73rd Reading, Park Church, Palmer Park Avenue, Reading)   click for details
24th - Adult Training [Module 3b,6] - Tools for the Job (Sectional), Changes in Scouting (1st Thatcham HQ)     click to book
27th - Adult Training - Camping Skills Day (West)     click to book
31st - Adult Training - Validation Session (Mid Area)     click to book
 

Last week's hugely successful Programme Support Forum was attended by a great number of volunteers from across Berkshire. They discussed a number of upcoming plans including the transition to InTouch and the most effective way to support Groups and Units deliver even better scouting. A huge thank you to all those who attended, making the event such a success. The next Programme Support Forum is on Tuesday 27th April; everyone is welcome to please put the date in your diary and look out for more details! Contact Lorraine Bolam for more details.

The BBC have launched a campaign to get us off the sofa and out having an adventure, and The Scout Association is getting involved.

A Perthshire Scout is one of eight young people selected for a BBC series which follows them as they learn how to be rangers on an African game reserve.

Featured Photo

The featured photo this fortnight - Jack Harley-Walsh, a scout in South Ascot, shared his special brand of magic with over 120 GSLs and similar roles from across Berkshire.

GSLs' Day A Huge Success

A fantastically successful day for over 120 GSLs and similar roles took place on Saturday. A jam-packed timetable saw opportunities for workshops on a wide range of topics, information points from key people and groups to find out more, and a chance to network with others to share ideas.

A huge thank you to all who took part and made the day such a success. Resources will be posted online on 30th January at www.berkshirescouts.org.uk/gslday 

Supporting Section Programmes

Wednesday 3rd February: The first exciting step in supporting section programmes across Berkshire. The topics of these meetings will be driven by those who turn up; the focus is on providing practical support to section programmes. If you have questions, please get in touch with Lorraine Bolam, Deputy County Commissioner (Programme)

Thinking about the months ahead? January 2010

26th–27th - Maidenhead Appointments Advisory Committee (URC West Street)
27th - Adult Training [Module 1] - Essential Information (Earleywood)     click to book
27th - Adult Training [Module 1] - Essential Information (1st Thatcham HQ)     click to book
28th - SEBerks District Executive Meeting (rescheduled date)
28th - Adult Training [Module 5] - Fundamental Values (Gravelly)     click to book
30th–31st - Adult Training [Module 16] - Nights Away (79th Reading, Armour Hill)     click to book
31st - County Steering Group (Gravelly Court)
 

February 2010

1st - Adult Training - Validation Session (Maidenhead)     click to book
1st–2nd - County Steering Group (Gravelly Court)
2nd–3rd - Maidenhead Scout Leaders Meeting
3rd - District Scout leaders Meeting (rescheduled date) (Scout HQ Cooper Hill)
3rd - Supporting Section Programmes across Berkshire Meeting (Holiday Inn, 500 Basingstoke rd., Reading RG2 0SL)   click for details
4th–5th - Maidenhead Child Protection Workshop (URC)
6th - Adult Training [Module 24] - Managing Adults (Gravelly)     click to book
6th - Adult Training [Module 26] - Supporting Adults (Gravelly)     click to book
9th - Adult Training [Module 3a] - Tools for the Job (Sectional) (1st Emmbrook)     click to book
10th - Adult Training [Module 3a] - Tools for the Job (Sectional) (Earleywood)     click to book
10th - Adult Training [Module 3a] - Tools for the Job (Sectional) (Maidenhead)     click to book
10th - Adult Training [Module 3a] - Tools for the Job (Sectional) (1st Thatcham HQ)     click to book
11th - Adult Training [Module 4] - Tools for the Job (Managers) (Gravelly)     click to book
12th–13th - Southern 50 Challenge (Chiltern Hills)   click for details
13th - Adult Training [Module 10] - First Aid (Gravelly)     click to book
15th–20th - SEBerks Gang Show (Wilde Theatre, Bracknell )
20th - Maidenhead Cub Scout Leaders Skittles Evening
23rd–24th - Maidenhead Appointments Advisory Committee (URC West Street)
23rd–24th - Maidenhead Explorer Leaders meeting (21st)
24th - County Development Forum (Gravelly Court)   click for details
24th - Adult Training [Module 7] - Valuing Diversity (Gravelly)     click to book
25th - Adult Training [Module 22] - Section Support (Gravelly)     click to book
26th–27th - Maidenhead Beaveree
27th - Adult Training [Module 11] - Administration (Section) (1st Twyford HQ)     click to book
27th - Adult Training [Module 12] - Balanced Programme (1st Twyford HQ)     click to book
27th - Adult Training [Module 1] - Essential Information (Eastern Area)     click to book
27th - Adult Training [Module 3] - Tools for the Job (Sectional) (Eastern Area)     click to book
27th - Adult Training [Module 6] - Changes in Scouting (Eastern Area)     click to book
28th - Project Africa Open Day (Boyne Hill Scout HQ)   click for details
28th–1st - Maidenhead District GSL/ADC forum
 

March 2010

1st - Adult Training - Validation Session (Maidenhead)     click to book