I promise to do my best
To be kind and helpful
And to love God.
Contact Us
Beavers
Cubs
Scouts
About Scouting
FAQ
Camps
Welcome to 1st St Sebastian's Scout Group!
The group consists of one Beaver Colony, one Cub Pack and one Scout Troop
We have about 70 members who meet weekly during term time at our Head Quarters at St Sebastian's, Crowthorne.
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(aged 6-8 years old) |
Mondays at 5pm-6pm | Leader: Sarah Birch Contact Lyn Gilbert 01344 780628
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(aged 8-101/2 years old) |
Mondays at 6.15pm-7.45pm | Leader: Mike Page Contact Lyn Gilbert 01344 780628
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(aged 101/2 -14 years old) |
Thursdays at 7.30pm-9.00pm | Leader: Ian Duncan Contact Ian Duncan
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Our Group Scout Leader is Andy Gorham. If you have any general questions or would like to volunteer to help in the group please email scouts@stsebastians.org.uk
St Sebastian’s Scout Group is supported by a group of parents and friends who are responsible for administration, fund-raising, property maintenance and the general smooth running of the Group. An effective Executive Committee means that the uniformed Leaders have more time to get on with the training and development of young people in Scouting.
We ALWAYS need volunteers so if you would like to get involved either with the committee or to volunteer for any of the following positions please speak to the Chairman. Email scouts@stsebastians.org.uk
Vacancies:
Beaver Leader and helpers
With thanks to our sponsors:
St Sebastian’s Church is an active supporter of young people in the community. St Sebastian’s Church sponsors the 1st St Sebastian’s Scout Group and we are grateful for the use of such an excellent meeting hall. The Scout Group is very supportive of church activities and attends key services during the year.
Vicar – The Reverend Andrew Marsden
Administrator - Amanda Lightfoot (01344 761050)
Beaver Scouts are young people usually aged between six and eight years old.
They belong to the first and youngest Section in the Scouting family.
Young people can join Beaver Scouts in the three months leading up to their sixth birthday.
They can move to the next Section, Cub Scouts, between eight and eight years six months.
Easily recognised by their distinctive turquoise sweatshirts, Beaver Scouts enjoy making friends, playing games, going on visits and helping others.
Programme Zones
Programme Zones split the whole programme into manageable
areas. Each Zone represents a different development area
in a young person’s life. There are five Programme Zones
in Beaver Scouting. They are:
The twelve methods
These Zones are delivered using 12 methods, which give the
programme variety and range. Sometimes one method will be
more suitable than another. On occasions you may use a
number of methods within the same activity. So you should
give your Beaver Scouts opportunities to:
Ways of
working
Underpinning the programmes you offer to the Beaver Scouts
are six ways of working which should be present in every
programme. You should give your Beaver Scouts
opportunities to:
I promise to do my best
To be kind and helpful
And to love God.
Be Prepared
How old are Cubs?
Cub Scouts are boys and girls aged between 8 to 10½ yrs.
What do they do?
They have fun! . . . They also
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play games | |
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gain badges | |
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go on outings and visits | |
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go camping and learn about the outdoors | |
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look after themselves | |
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look after their surroundings | |
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help others | |
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create things | |
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become Scouts |
What do they wear?
Cub Scouts wear a full uniform.
Scouting is a uniformed organisation and the uniform tells everyone that you are a Cub Scout.
For instance, people can tell what Pack you belong to by looking at the colour of your scarf.
The uniform consists of:
Cub Scout Promise
I promise that I will do my
best
to do my duty to my God and to The Queen
to help other people and to keep the Cub Scout Law
Cub Scout Law
Cub Scouts always do their
best
think of others before themselves
and do a good turn every day.
They learn about themselves and how to look after themselves, they get to know people from their local community.
They find out about life in other countries and explore through organised activities.
They care by helping those around them.
The Cub Scout programme and
activities are based on seven Programme Zones,
these are:
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Outdoor Scouting | |
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Fitness | |
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Discovering the World around You | |
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Creative | |
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Beliefs & Attitudes | |
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Caring and Community | |
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Global |
It is by participating in a Balanced Programme that the Cub Scout experiences Scouting.
The Balanced Programme provides opportunities for growth and development in six personal development areas.
These are:
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Body |
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Relationships |
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Mind |
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Community |
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Faith & Beliefs |
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Surroundings |
What badges do Cubs have?
Cub Scouts can gain a wide range of badges and awards.
Every Cub wears a set of badges to identify themselves.
They have a Membership
Badge to show they are in Scouting, a District and County
Badge along with a group Name Tape to show which Scout
Group they come from.
Every now and then there
are special events that allow you to wear a special
badge for a short period of time.
These normally stay on your uniform for around a year.
When the time comes to remove the badge you can add it to your collection.
Many Cubs keep a collection
of badges and may even add them to a ‘camp blanket’
which makes a good talking piece when you wear it around
the campfire.
The Scout Section is for young people, usually aged between 10½ and 14 years.
A young person can come in to the Troop at 10 and may stay until they are 15 years old.
The Scout Troop is the third and final Section in the Scout Group.
Scouts are encouraged to take part in a wide range of activities as part of their programme.
“Participation” rather than meeting set standards is the key approach and for the Scout who wants to be recognised for his or her achievements there are a number of Challenges Awards and Activity Badges.
Scouts take part in a balanced programme that helps them to find out about the world in which they live, encourages them to know their own abilities and the importance of keeping fit and helps develop their creative talents.
It also provides opportunities to explore their own values and personal attitudes
Being outdoors is important and half the Programme is given over to taking part in both the traditional Scouting skills, such as camping, survival and cooking as well as the wide range of adventurous activities, anything from abseiling to yachting.
The international aspect gives Scouting a special appeal and many Scouts now travel abroad during their time in the Section.
In 2002/3 25,000 Scouts from around the World attended the World Jamboree in Thailand. Even more are expected to attend the World Jamboree in The United Kingdom in 2007.
We also had the European Jamboree in 2005, Eurojam for Scouts and Explorer Scouts between the ages of 11 and 18 from different parts of Europe, to share a unique experience.
Scouting is about being with friends, as part of a team, participating fully in the adventure and opportunities of life.
In Scouting, “programme” has the widest possible interpretation. Programme is not just all the activities that Scouts can take part in. It includes almost anything from archery to youth hostelling. It is also how we do those activities, known as the method, and why we do them, known as the purpose.
This means that when Leaders plan an activity for their Scouts, they need to consider both how the activity will be done, why they are doing it and how it fits into the Balanced Programme.
The second word to consider is “balanced”. The Programme is designed to help young people to grow and develop so at it’s heart are six “personal development areas” (see below).
For Scouting to achieve its purpose, Scouts need to grow and develop in each of these areas, through a Balanced Programme that offers the widest variety of activities and methods.
The Scout Leaders, working with their Scouts, are responsible for planning and delivering a Balanced Programme.
Programme Zones
Programme Zones split the whole programme into manageable
areas. Each Zone represents a different development area
in a young person’s life. There are six Programme Zones in
the Scout Section. They are:
The Ten Methods
These Zones are delivered using 10 methods, which give the
programme variety and range. Sometimes one method will be
more suitable than another. On occasions you may use a
number of methods within the same activity. So you should
give your Scouts opportunities to take part in:
Ways of working
Good Scouting is taking place when the following can be
seen in all that is taking place in the Programme.
The six Personal
Development Areas (PDAs)
Scouting, like the other four Section is based around the
six fundamental Personal Development Areas (PDAs) of
Scouting. These are:
From an experimental camp for 20 boys on Brownsea Island, Poole Harbour, Dorset in 1907, the Scout Movement now has an estimated 25 million Members in over 210 countries. And the number is still growing.
What has made Scouting the world’s largest voluntary Movement for boys and girls? Why has it acted like a magnet, generation after generation, to children of all classes, races, languages and religions?
The answers lie in Scouting’s appeal to a young person’s normal desires, for fun and adventure and the way in which it provides for them through attractive and interesting activity programmes. It gives youthful energy a natural outlet and harnesses it to good purpose. It provides opportunities for developing in young people the qualities that make good citizens—honour, self-discipline, dependability, respect for others and self reliance. Scouting aims to prepare boys, girls, young men and women to take a constructive place in society and does so, not by preaching at them but by making the whole thing into a great game in which it is fun to take part. That, more than anything else, is the secret of its appeal.
However, in any game, there have to be rules. The rules of the Game of Scouting are embodied in the Scout Promise and the Scout Law.
Scouting recognises that a boy or girl can follow an ideal and they have the opportunity of doing so of their own free will when, on becoming a Scout, they make this Promise:
“On my honour, I promise that I will do my best. To do my duty to God and to the Queen, To help other people and to keep the Scout Law”.
The Scout Law is a simple statement of a code of conduct, which is the basis of good citizenship.
1. A Scout is to be trusted.
2. A Scout is loyal.
3. A Scout is friendly and considerate.
4. A Scout belongs to the world-wide family of Scouts.
5. A Scout has courage in all difficulties
6. A Scout makes good use of time and is careful of possessions and property.
7. A Scout has self-respect and respect for others.
This law is not a series of “Thou shalt nots” but a definition in positive terms, of what makes for civilised behaviour. When they become a Scout, a boy or girl promises to do their best to live to these standards and the whole system of Scout training is designed to help them to do so!
An important part of the Scout method is the Patrol System. Boys and girls in a Troop are divided into small units—Patrols—of six to eight members under a Patrol Leader chosen from amongst them. A Patrol Leader is given considerable responsibility for training members of their Patrol. They also have a share in running the Troop through a Patrol Leaders’ Council, where the Troop’s progress is discussed and activities planned. The Patrol System develops leadership and initiative, trustworthiness in members towards each other and loyalty in the Patrol towards its Leaders.
The System applies throughout the Movement. In the Scout Section (10.5 –14 yrs) it’s the ‘Patrol’, for Cub Scouts (8 -10.5 yrs) the ‘Six’, for Beavers (6-8 yrs) the colony and in the Explorer Scouts (14-18) it’s the Unit itself.
Boys and girls learn by doing and Scouting offers activities to capture the imagination of any child and make it a virtual certainty that all will find something in which to participate, develop skill and gain in self-assurance.
As far as possible, these activities take place outdoors as in camping, pioneering, hiking and nature study. In recent years, more ambitious pursuits such as canoeing, sailing, gliding, parascending, caving, mountaineering and skiing have attracted increasing numbers.
Then there are activities for those with skills in their hands—anything from model making to amateur radio and car mechanics. For those interested in the arts, there is the chance to make music or take part in stage shows.
Lastly, there is the matter of service to others. Scouts of all ages are encouraged to help the old, the infirm, the deprived and others in need.
They may initiate or join others in community service such as in life saving or first aid.
Put it all together and it makes up the game of Scouting in which boys and girls come to appreciate the value of co-operation and companionship. Develop initiative and learn to look after themselves as responsible individuals.
When can my child join?
Beavers is for children between the ages of 6 and 8; Cubs is for ages 8 to 10.5 and Scouts for ages 10.5 to 14. Transfers in and out of groups take place between school terms wherever possible and subject to agreement by the leaders of each of the organisations.
How does my child join?
A waiting list is maintained by the Group Executive Committee but priority for places in the Cub pack is given to existing Beavers and to those moving into the area who are already in Cubs. Similarly with Beavers and Scouts. When a Beaver place becomes available for your child you will be contacted by a member of the Executive Committee. If you wish to take up the place your child will attend for about 5 trials sessions before he or she is invested, at which point a uniform will be required. Once in the Group the route through Cubs to Scouts is automatic.
Please note that leaders are not responsible for children outside meeting times. Please check that the leader is there before you depart !
Meetings usually start in the week before the start of term and end on the last Monday or Thursday of term. There are no meetings during school holidays, nor at half tem. There is usually a meeting on the May Day bank holiday. Please check wit a leader if in doubt
How much does it cost?
There is a £10 fee to join the group but no fee to transfer from Beavers to Cubs or Cubs to Scouts. This one-time payment covers such items as the group scarf and handbook. Regular subscriptions are payable (preferably by bank standing order) at the beginning of each term or annually in advance. Additional charges may be levied by the section leaders for special events or to cover extraordinary costs. Per term subscriptions are: Scouts £23.00, Cubs £20.50 and Beavers £18.00
Important Note:
Please consider paying the subscription through gift aid as
this increases group funds at no extra cost to parents.
Details are available from the Treasurer, Chairman or
Section Leaders.
What uniform does my child need?
On 22nd February 2001, the 144th anniversary of founder, Lord Baden Powell’s birth, redesigned and more fashionable uniforms were introduced. The first major change in 34 years.
Beavers – Long sleeved, turquoise sweatshirt and Group scarf.
Cubs – Dark green sweatshirt and Group scarf, Grey shorts or trousers with black shoes. Girls may wear a skirt or culottes as an alternative to shorts or trousers.
Scouts – Teal green smart shirt and navy blue Scout activity trousers (lots of pockets!) and Group scarf. Girls may alternatively wear skirts or culottes.
The 1st St Sebastian’s Group Scarf is red with dark blue edging.
Where do I purchase the uniforms?
Uniforms can be obtained from Scout shops or specialist uniform suppliers. A Group Scarf will be provided when the Beaver, Cub or Scout is invested. All badges are provided and should be sewn onto the uniform in the positions indicated by the relevant Section Leader. (The badge positions are also shown in the Scouting Manual).
Scout Shops
Bracknell
Coopers Hill Youth & Community Centre
(behind Bracknell station)
Open: 7:30 – 9:00pm Mondays (term time)
Contact: Margaret Kemp Tel: 01344-423144
Camberley
270 London Road, Camberley
Open: 7:30 – 9:00pm Thursday (term time)
10:00 am – 12:00 noon Saturdays (term time)
Contact: Alf Shipman Tel: 01276-23420
PLEASE NOTE that if you purchase from a Scout Shop tell them that your child will attend 1st St Sebastian’s Scout Group and some of the profits will be returned to Group funds.
Are there any activities outside of the regular meetings?
Many activities take place in addition to the weekly meetings. These are often organised at a District or County level. Cubs and Scouts are strongly encouraged to participate in these activities, which include camping and other outdoor pursuits. There are only a few extra activities organised at a District or County level for Beavers.
What is expected of a Beavers, Cubs and Scouts?
Boys and girls are expected to learn the Scout Promise and Motto, to have fun and make friends with children from other schools and Scout Groups. St Sebastian’s Scout Group is Church Aided and closely affiliated with the Church. Attendance of Beavers, Cubs and Scouts at special church services two or three times a year is expected.
If a child is unable or unwilling to attend a weekly meeting, please let the leaders know, whatever the reason…don’t just not turn up. If a child does not attend for 3 weeks without notifying the leaders then it will be assumed that their place will no longer be required and will automatically be given to someone else on the waiting list.
What is the role of a Parent or Guardian?
Your son or daughter may come home from a pack meeting and say, “I need a picture of a panda for next weeks meeting!” Your child expects that you will be interested and they will get far more out of Scouting if you are prepared to offer your support to them. There are many ways in which you can help, for example
Offering a skill or hobby to train or test the Cubs and Scouts for awards and badges
Helping prepare refreshments for a Group or Pack event
Helping with transporting Scouts and equipment to camps and outings.
Supporting the Scout Group’s social and fund raising events and Annual General Meeting
Joining the Group Executive Committee to help them raise funds and manage the Group.
We always need volunteers to help support the Group. You can help at the weekly meetings by joining the Parent Rota and there are many other ways to get involved as well as join in the fun with your child at one of the many camps or outdoor activities.
How do I register my interest in helping out?
Firstly the law requires you to complete a Disclosure Application Form, which can be obtained from the Chairman, Secretary or any Leader. Every parent or guardian should complete a form when their child joins the Group. Completed forms should be returned to the Group Chairman or Section Leader for forwarding on. Once verified via the Scout Association HQ you can get involved right away. Just let the respective Leaders know how much time you are able to commit and also let them know of any special skills, hobbies or talents that you may have, which you may be able to share with the children. Also please let the Chairman know if you are willing to assist the Group Council with fund raising activities or other events.
Communication
Two-way communication is Essential to ensure good Leader and parent/guardian relations. Good relations at this level definitely benefit the youngsters. Beavers, Cubs and Scouts are provided with a termly programme of events and are also given regular notes to remind them of upcoming events. A newsletter is produced from time to time to keep parents informed about activities. Parents are very welcome to visit during meetings and offers of assistance are always especially appreciated.
If you or your child has a question please ask!
Ask any Cub or Scout what they like best about St. Sebastian’s and most will reply “camping or Pack holidays”. Most youngsters love being out of doors and the camps and Pack holidays are very special - certainly very different from school trips! It is a chance to try some special activities that cannot be done at the regular weekly meetings.
St. Sebastian’s Scout Group has purchased quality equipment which means your child will have the opportunity to camp in a tent at some of the best scout camp sites in the UK - Chalfont Heights and Earlywood, Ascot to name a couple. The Leaders are specially trained before they are allowed to take youngsters away on a camp or Pack Holiday. They take on the responsibility to look after the Cubs and Scouts with the utmost care and dedication. The Leaders will often need to take along extra adult help to assist with catering or equipment. This extra help may be Scouts, Venture Scouts, Instructors (for special activities such as abseiling, canoeing, etc.) or parents/guardians to help with general supervision (there’s always things to wash and wood to chop for the camp fire). It’s your chance to be a kid again!