Opportunities for Younger Vale Residents
You may remember that in the last issue of Topics we looked into the archives. One of the headlines from 1966 was that our local Scout Troop were getting new uniforms. Now 60 years on we have thriving Beaver Cub and Scout packs. Our younger Vale residents have the opportunity to have fun and make friends in a safe environment. In a friendly inclusive atmosphere, the skills they can learn are as relevant today as they ever were. The movement has also kept up with modern life and some of the badges they can earn nowadays would have seemed the stuff of fiction when the Scouts were first meeting in the Holy Redeemer Church Hall.
All branches meet during school term time., still in Holy Redeemer Church Hall in Churchmore Road. Membership is open to everyone. Children with special needs are welcomed. The leaders of all sections are fully trained.
Beavers (aged 5 ¾ to 8 years) meet on a Monday 5.15pm to 6.15pm
Cubs (aged 7 ½ to 10 years) meet on a Monday 6.30pm to 8pm
Scouts (aged 10 to 14 years )Meet on a Thursday 7.30 to 9pm
At every level, those interested in joining are invited to attend for several weeks to see if it suits them. Only after this initial period will they be asked to buy uniform. There is also the opportunity to obtain some pre-loved items so it does not have to be an expensive outlay for families.
Typical meetings involve a brief opening session, followed by age appropriate learning opportunities and games. Indoor and outdoor crafts are undertaken. Anything from making greetings cards and cooking to navigation and the solar system might be on offer. They also learn about the wider world. It is as varied as learning about animal habitats or looking at world flags and travel. Games played range from Telephone Bingo or code breaking to Battleships and Hockey. There really is something for everyone.
Projects reach out to the local community, for example creating a new garden for a care Home. They have also raised funds to provide an iPad for a young patient in a cancer hospital.
Annual summer camp is still a highlight in the year. All age groups are eligible to attend. The adventures and activities on offer help towards earning more badges and more importantly, having fun. This might include riding, rafting, adventure play areas or a day out at the seaside. Cookery skills can be out into practice. All the food is freshly cooked from wholesome ingredients.
The next term will start along with school, once the summer holidays are over, in September. Why not come along and take advantage of these fantastic opportunities available in the heart of our Vale community.
Click here to learn more about the group and register your interest in joining: https://www.scouts.org.uk/groups/10013338?loc=tw2&page=72&slug=22nd-Streatham