Beaver colony update
With the warmer weather, the Beavers have been able to focus on outdoor badges this term. By making use of the King Edward recreation ground, they have completed an obstacle course as well as finding treasure at the end of a stick and stone trail. Furthermore, they have used cameras to record an A-Z nature trail. Some Beavers attended church parade and received very positive comments on how they behaved. For the final two sessions the Beavers can look forward to learning about the Green Cross code as well as water games. Towels at the ready!
Finally, the number of badges being earned by the Beavers has steadily been increasing, with one Beaver achieving their bronze award for completing all their challenge badges. Well done all.
Cub pack update
The Cubs began this term renewing their promise to the new King on St George’s day, celebrating the King’s coronation with games and a tea party. They have been working on their faith badge and animal carers badge. We took part in a litter pick in the Hook park and were amazed at the amount of rubbish that the Cubs were able to clear just from this one area!
During half term we took a group of Cubs to Hendon Air Museum where the Cubs spent time looking at various military aircraft and learning about how it has developed over the years. The highlight of the day was to have a front row view of an engine being fired up and feeling the force of it, even from afar! The Cubs thoroughly enjoyed their day out.
We have 11 Cubs coming to our summer camp at Bentley Copse in a couple of weeks where once again we will be joined by our friends from 1st Surbiton Walrus pack, a total of 26 Cubs camping in tents. There are many activities planned during the week from caving and go carting to making bugs and bug hotels. We hope that the Cubs enjoy their time away and look forward to sharing our adventures with you next term.
Scout troop update
We are really looking forward to getting the Scout troop back up and running. The troop will be run by Rosie, Jenny and Emily with the help of Karen behind the scenes! We have a great team and we’re looking forward to welcoming our first set of Scouts in September.
We are hoping to start the troop with 8 Scouts and I’m sure it will grow quickly; I’ve already had enquiries for new joiners. Meetings will be held on Wednesday evenings from 19.00 to 20.45 and we have lots of ideas for exciting activities that we can do, including our first investment (of everyone together) with a difference…you’ll have to watch this space if you want to know more! Our first meeting will be on Wednesday 20th September and we will be inviting the troop parents along to meet us, hear our plans and to talk about how scouts will run, uniform and how to help. I look forward to telling you about all our adventures in the next issue.
Chairman’s update
It’s clear to see from all the updates that it has been a busy term. I hope that all have enjoyed the amazing activities that have been conjured up by the leaders and their helpers.
Unfortunately, the Scout Group has not been immune to the cost of living crisis. As you all will be acutely aware insurance, rents and utility bills have gone up. I take no pleasure in having to communicate that we will be increasing our subs from £35 to £40 per term from September. We have tried very hard to keep the increase to the bare minimum. If you are struggling with subs then please contact your section leader to discuss what can be put in place to help.
Now for the bits that I do take pleasure in sharing. We welcome Jo to the role of helping Sue and Emily with the running of Beavers. With that I would also like to thank Jenny and Natalie, who have decided to step back from active roles, for their time, energy and efforts.
This year 2nd Hook will celebrate its 60th birthday. It seems like a great excuse for a social fundraiser, for which I need help in organising. If you are willing to help then please let me know.
This year’s AGM will be held on October 18th
Before I close out with details about awards, I would like to say a massive thank you to the section leaders for many hours that they invest into their respective sections. Without you the group wouldn’t be here. Thank you.
Finally, I am very pleased to share with you that Emily has been awarded the Jack Petchey award in recognition for the skills she’s gained whilst on her Young Leader journey. Well done Emily.
