PATHFINDER

WELCOMEWelcome to the spring 2011 issue of Pathfinder, the magazine of The ScottishCouncil The Scout Association.

As promised in autumn 2010, this issue of Pathfinder has a particular youthfocus, as part of our on-going Youth Involvement work – you can read the lateston how this work is progressing in an interview with Youth InvolvementCo-ordinator Neil Mackenzie on p.4.

We have put together a team of five youth editors for this issue, who have beenbusy coming up with ideas and writing articles and case studies. Topics coveredin this issue range from role models and bullying to the Scottish YouthParliament. We also interview record-breaking long-distance cyclist MarkBeaumont as well as looking at the opportunities available at our NationalActivity Centres over the next few months. Now to meet our youth editors…

Thank you for taking the time to read this edition of Pathfinder. It has been apleasure for all the youth editors to work on this edition for our adult membersand we hope you enjoy the content that has been handpicked and written by us.

Youth Editors

Introducing our Youth Editors

Euan, 16, South MorningsideExplorer Scout Unit

Kerri, 15, 13th Fife ExplorerScout Unit

Gavin, 18, Scottish ScoutNetwork Council member

Poppy, 14, 13th Fife ExplorerScout Unit

John, 17, Young Leader for1st Kirkliston Cub Pack

CONTENTSScottish Headquarters News 2

A round-up of all the latest news, policy updates and developments fromScottish Scout Headquarters.

Youth Involvement – “Nothing About Us Without Us” 4

We find out the latest on the Youth Involvement agenda from Youth InvolvementCo-ordinator Neil Mackenzie.

Checklist for Youth Involvement 6

Check how much you are involving young people in Scouting by asking yourselfthese five questions posed by Gavin.

Ask Scottish Headquarters 7

Kerri helps deal with some burning questions asked of Scottish Headquarters.

Bullying – Let’s make a difference 8

Euan and Poppy look at bullying both in and out of Scouting, and what can be doneto combat it.

Trailblazer 10

Perth Explorer Scouts Rosemary and Drew quiz record-breaking round the worldcyclist Mark Beaumont on his incredible adventures.

When I Grow Up 12

Our Youth Editors and Neil Mackenzie tell us about their role models and why theyare inspired by them.

Activate! 13

A look at some of the great programme and training opportunities available at ourthree Scottish Scout National Activity Centres over the next few months.

A Helping Hand 14

Gavin considers special needs Scouting and how we can help to make our adventureaccessible to all.

Discovering the Scottish Youth Parliament 16

John provides insight into his work as part of the Scottish Youth Parliament, how itcan benefit Scouts and how to get involved.

As Ithers See Us 18

Adventure enthusiast and former Glasgow Cub Scout Faraz Shibli tells us about hisupcoming expedition across the Gobi Desert and his formative Scouting experiences.

Events Diary 20

Keep up to date with Scouting events for young people and adult volunteersacross Scotland.

1PATHFINDER

FEATUREYouth Involvement

Financial Year-end:Headache or Opportunity?- - --------- --- - - -What the Rules Require

For many Groups, Districts and Regions 31st Marchmarks the end of the financial year. As required by thePolicy Organisation and Rules (POR) of The ScoutAssociation, every such body must each year preparean Annual Report and Statement of Accounts, whichmust be independently examined or audited (NB: afull audit is only required if turnover exceeds£500,000). For a Scout Group, the Statement ofAccounts must account for all monies received orpaid on behalf of the Group, including all Sectionsand the Group Active Support Unit (if applicable).District Accounts should similarly include moniesreceived or paid for Explorer Scout Units / YoungLeaders’ Scheme and Scout Network.

An Annual General Meeting (AGM) must be heldwithin six months of the Financial Year-end. Signedcopies of the Annual Report and Accounts must beforwarded on to the District / Region / SHQ Treasurerwithin 14 days, following the holding of an AGM atwhich the annual report and accounts are consideredand approved.

If registered with OSCR as a Scottish Charity, an OSCRAnnual Return must be submitted to OSCR within 9months of the financial year-end.

Keep it Simple

To make life easier, SHQ has produced a number ofdocuments that are available on www.scouts-scotland.org.uk. A search for ‘Accounts’ will produce,amongst other things, a simple guide to the CharitiesAccounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 and whatthese mean for Scouting. Also available is a workedexample of an Annual Report and Statement ofAccounts along with a blank pro-forma that can bereadily adapted by most Scout bodies and will meetthe requirements of OSCR.

A good Treasurer is worth their weight in gold! It isworth the effort to find the right person. Havingsomeone appointed to keep on top of financial

transactions will relieve Leaders of the burden offinancial management and ensure that theproduction of end-year accounts becomes a relativelypain-free exercise.

Annual Report

The production of the Annual Report will benefit fromteam effort. This document provides an opportunity topromote and enthuse about your Scouting. It is notjust about money. It can help with recruitment of newyouth and adult members and tell a story of successto outsiders that might result in support for yourScouting in cash and kind. It will benefit from goodimages highlighting the fun, adventure andachievements of the year in question. Put yourself inthe place of someone who knows little about Scoutingin their locality. Does your Annual Report help to shedlight on what Scouting does and its impact on youngpeople and the community?

The AGM

One of the biggest challenges in holding a successfulAGM is getting people to turn up! Why would parentsand the wider community want come along to abusiness meeting? There needs to be something in itfor them. Involving young people in a creativeprogramme that illustrates what Scouting does,recognises achievement, and previews futureProgramme highlights might prove more interesting.The Scottish Scout Network Council held their 2010AGM in the open air in the middle of a packedweekend camping and activity programme…and hadtheir biggest ever AGM attendance. Could a GroupAGM be held during a camp or family barbecue? If itincluded awarding of badges and certificates wouldmore parents be attracted to attend?

Showcase Success

The Year-end is not just about accounts. It is anopportunity to reflect on and highlight all that yourGroup / District / Region has undertaken andachieved during the year. The Annual Report and theAGM can be celebrations rather than headaches andbe turned to good effect to grow Scouting! If you havea recipe for AGM success contact SHQ and share itwith others.

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SCOTTISHHEADQUARTERS NEWS- - - - - ------------- -- - - - ---- - -- - - - - -----

Help for Trustees andOffice Bearers- - ------- -- -- - - - -Often unsung, operating in the background, Scoutingcould not function effectively without Trustees andOffice Bearers. They need to be valued andsupported. Many will have come from outsideScouting, such as parents offering their services onExecutive Committees. It is important that theyunderstand the requirements of the role and are keptup to date.

To this end, SHQ is delivering a programme ofinformation and update seminars across the countryfor Trustees and Office Bearers in Groups, Districtsand Regions. Check out the dates on the www.scouts-scotland.org.uk.

PVG Scheme Launched

- - ------ --- --- - - -At the time of going to print we are inpreparation for the 28th February ‘Go-Live’date for the Protection of VulnerableGroups (PVG) Scheme and hoping for aseamless transition.

Arrangements have been made for theoverprinting of forms with appropriate ScoutAssociation information and a supply of these forms,along with guidance notes, should by now havereached each Appointments Secretary. Those who arefamiliar with the old Disclosure checking process willfind much that is familiar.

From 28th February 2011, any adult beingconsidered for a role that necessitates a criminalrecord check will require to become a PVG SchemeMember by completing the form Application to JoinPVG Scheme. The form is quite similar to the oldDisclosure form.

To ensure that a lengthy processing backlog does notarise with the introduction of the PVG Scheme,Disclosure Scotland is putting in place a phasedtransition to the new Scheme for all those who have aDisclosure Certificate for their current role. This willmean that those with a Disclosure that will be fiveyears old during the next 12 months will not be able totransfer immediately to the new Scheme. There will bea process of catch-up the following year, when they willbe required to apply for PVG Scheme Membership.

A key difference of PVG from the old DisclosureScheme is that once an individual becomes a PVGScheme Member, their membership remains valid adinfinitum (unless cancelled). Thus an adult coming into Scouting, who has acquired PVG Scheme

membership elsewhere (e.g. through work or anothervoluntary organisation), will not have to reapply forScheme membership. Such individuals will be askedto complete an Existing PVG Scheme MemberApplication, which is an abbreviated form requesting aScheme Record Update. This will confirm to TheScout Association that the individual is a SchemeMember and will state if any information has beenadded to the Record since last disclosed. Theoverwhelming majority of Update Records will requireno further action. Since Existing Member applicationforms will not be needed for the launch date,Appointments Secretaries will be notified once theseare subsequently available from Gilwell Park.

It should be remembered that criminal recordchecking forms only one element of our adult vettingarrangements. All elements, including Referencesand Interview, are important in order to safeguardour members.

Supporting Scottish Scouting

- - ------ --- --- - -The Scottish Development Fund exists to support you- whether you are a Section, a Group, a District or aRegion we have money available that will assist youwith the on-going operation of Scouting.

There is so much that you can apply for and yet somany Groups have not used the fund at all. Now isthe time to think big, plan ahead and apply!

If you are not sure if your project is eligible, contactGraeme Luke at Scottish Headquarters (01383419073) who can offer advice and support to helpyou put together a winning application.

As well as the Scottish Development Fund, support isalso available through the CashBack for CommunitiesSmall Grants Scheme. The Scheme which recentlyhad its funding doubled to £1m, provides funding ofup to £2,000 to support the start-up and activityprogrammes of local volunteer-led youth groups thatare affiliated to the six operating partners. It isparticularly targeted at supporting the development ofyouth work activity for young people aged 10 to 19 inareas of deprivation.

For guidance andapplication forms forboth of these funds,visit www.scouts-scotland.org.uk.

3PATHFINDERScottishHeadquartersNews---------- -- ---- --- --- --- --- -- -- - - - - --- - - - -

As mentioned in the welcome page, this is alargely youth-shaped edition of Pathfinder. Toput this issue into context, Scott Walton, an 18year old Assistant Scout Leader who helpedpresent the Youth Manifesto at our AGM inNovember, caught up with Youth InvolvementImplementation Co-ordinator Neil Mackenzieto find out more about Youth Involvement andwhat it means for us all.

What does Youth Involvement actually mean?

Youth Involvement is simply the engagement of youngpeople in activities that enable them to shape andinfluence their futures, involving them in planningand organisation, while encouraging them toadvocate for themselves.

The concept of youth involvement has emerged inrecent years as a leading-edge, broad-basedapproach and best practice to meet the needs ofyoung people. It is a process that offers meaningfulparticipation for young people, providing opportunitiesfor youth to take responsibility and leadership whileworking in partnership with caring adults who value,respect and share power with them. This can besummarised by a young person who said, “Nothingabout us without us.”

What is the overall aim of the Youth InvolvementImplementation Group?

As a youth movement it is very important that we areseen to involve our young people in the decision-making processes that affect their position withinScouting. It is vital that we involve and engage ouryoung people so as to enable them to influence andshape the future of Scouting in Scotland.

The aim of the Youth Involvement ImplementationGroup is to develop and implement a broad range ofstrategies that will allow both adults and young peopleto engage in consultation with each other on mattersrelevant to the young people’s Scouting experience.The ultimate aim is to embed a culture of YouthInvolvement within Scottish Scouting, where allBeavers, Cubs, Scouts, Explorers and 18 – 25 yearolds within the Movement can voice their views andopinions on matters that affect them.

As adults within Scouting, we have a responsibilitytowards our young people. We must listen to andvalue the views and opinions expressed by our youngmembers. Scouting is a youth-shaped movementand we should be aiming to embrace a culture ofyouth involvement.

What is the background to the group?

During the first Youth Summit - which was held inNovember 2007 - the aspirations of the young peoplewere identified and a small working party wasdeveloped to explore the issue of widening youthinvolvement in decision-making at all levels ofScottish Scouting.

This group, led by Graham Haddock, presented 38recommendations to the Scottish Board, and theYouth Involvement Implementation Group was set upto implement each of these.

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Youth Involvement“Nothing about us without us”- - - - - ------------- -- - - - ---- - -- - - - -

The Youth Involvement Implementation Group hasstreamlined these recommendations into four keyareas: Representation, Youth Programme, AdultSupport and Communications. It is these strands thatwe are currently developing.

What is your role?

Eleanor Lyall, Chief Commissioner, appointed me tolead SHQ’s work on Youth Involvement, in the role ofYouth Involvement Co-ordinator.

My main responsibility is to oversee the work of theYouth Involvement Implementation Group. This groupcomprises of Graeme Luke, Programme andDevelopment Executive at SHQ, Chris Brammer wholeads Youth Programme, Ann Fotheringham wholeads Adult Support and Graeme Robertson wholeads Communications.

As well as leading the work of the group, I workalongside Graeme Luke to develop and lead theRepresentation strand.

What work is the group doing at the moment?

The group is in the process of working to developand implement the recommendations that werepresented to them after the initial consultation. Weare currently working on developing ideas across thefour key strands.

This work will look closely at how we can implementyouth involvement strategies throughout Scouting inScotland, which will provide an opportunity for youngpeople and adults to engage in youth involvementtogether.

As well as implementing the youth involvementagenda within Sections, Districts, Regions andnationally, we are also looking at how this will impactthe youth Programme, the training of young peopleand adults and the methods of communication usedto get the message across.

What are the plans for the future and timescales?

We will continue working towards the work plans wehave developed, and the initial timescale for our workto be completed is June 2012. We hope that by thistime we will be in a position to introduce andimplement our ideas. In some cases we hope thatthese will be piloted within Regions so we can monitorthe success of what we implement.

There are some very exciting things that we areworking on that will truly change the way ScottishScouting involves its young people.

Are you confident this group will achieve its aims inthis timescale?

The group is making good progress and significantwork has already been undertaken. Last year, 100young people from across the whole of Scotland metat Tulliallan for Youth Summit 2. This was a verysuccessful event where the young people produced avideo manifesto, highlighting the issues that they feltwere important to them. The Youth Manifesto can beviewed on www.scouts-scotland.org.uk.

The focus now is to further develop each of thestrands, identifying the links between them. At thispoint in time I’m very confident that we will be able tohave completed our work plans within this timescale.Further time will of course be required for fullimplementation, monitoring and evaluation.

How can either leaders or young people get involved orhelp with Youth Involvement?

It is particularly important that our adult leaders andcommissioners help to embed a youth involvementculture within the work that they do with youngpeople. Even within the youngest Sections, membersshould be consulted on matters that affect them. It ispart of a leader’s responsibility to ensure that someform of consultation is carried out in an appropriateway in order to ascertain the views of their Sectionmembers.

This can be achieved now through the organisation ofBeaver Log Chews, Cub Pack Leadership Forums andScout Forums (Taking the Lead). Factsheets on eachof these are available on www.scouts.org.uk. ExplorerScouts and Scout Network members should also beencouraged to take part in District Forums.

For our work to be successful it is vital that leaders areenthusiastic about youth involvement. This sharedenthusiasm with our young people will allow us toprovide the opportunities young people need to shapethe future of Scottish Scouting.

5PATHFINDERYouth Involvement---------- -- ---- --- --- --- --- -- -- - - - - --- - - - -

Are you asking your young people what theywant to do as part of their Programme?

One of the simplest ways of engaging with youngpeople really is as easy as it sounds…ask them whatthey want to do!

Don’t be afraid to let them pick activities that youthink may not be as fun or exciting as they expect. Besure to guide them and ensure they examine theirchoices, but do not explicitly put down any idea.

Be sure to gather feedback from young peopleafterwards. See how they felt about the activities theywere a part of.

Do you regularly hold a Beaver Log Chew, Packor Troop Forum?

These forums are meant to help you ascertain fromyour young people how they feel about their Scoutingand the Section they are in.

These can be used to gather feedback about theprogramme you offer or a specific activity.

Young people themselves may voice an opinion on adifferent topic that the group can now consider.

Are youth members in Explorers and Networkregularly involved with District Forums?

Young people should be given the opportunity to meetwith young people from other Units and Networks toexchange ideas and to organise District events fortheir Sections.

Do you let young people know that their opinionis being taken on and acted upon?

It is all well and good asking our youth members whatthey would like to do and what their opinions are oncertain topics, but if you are going to ask them thenyou need to be prepared to investigate, and carrythrough where possible, some of their requests.Nothing can be more demotivating than to work hardon an idea or opinion when asked and never receiveany feedback on it.

Do you pass on the views of young people tothose who are in a position to make a difference?

If you are not in a position to help young peoplerealise their ideas, are you simply saying that youcannot help; or are you putting them in contact withor passing on the idea to the Section Leader, ADC,DESC, ARC or SHQ Commissioner as applicable?

By helping to facilitate a young person engaging withadults that they would not normally be in contact with,you are helping them to get their point across in amore direct manner.

Not every one of these suggestions is applicable toevery situation, but it is the responsibility of everyadult in Scouting to actively engage our youthmembers to get their feedback, listen to their ideasand concerns and to do what they can to addressthese – we are a youth Movement after all!

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Checklistfor Youth Involvement- - - - - ------------- -- - - - ---- - -- - - - -

Here are 5 steps to checking how much you areengaging with your Young People.

1

2

3

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5

7PATHFINDERAskScottishHeadquarters---------- -- ---- --- --- --- --- -- -- - - - - --- - - - -

Ask Scottish Headquarters- - - - - -------- ----- -- - - - ---- - -- - - - -

Scottish Headquarters exists to support all themembers of Scouting across Scotland. Part for hissupport is through answering your everyday queriesand providing advice on a range of issues, fromfundraising and finance to policy and programme.

Below is a selection of the type of questions Scottish Headquartersoften receive from our members. If you have any questions to ask,ideas to highlight or suggestions to make, please contact ScottishHeadquarters by emailing admin@scouts-scotland.org.uk, calling01383 419 073 or writing to us at Scottish Headquarters (the fulladdress is on the back page).

My daughter is interested injoining Scouts and recently Itried to enlist her in my localScout Troop. However I wasinformed by the leader that theTroop was ‘only open to boys’.I had believed that Scouts wasnow open to both girls andboys. What can I do?

Paula, Glasgow

Yes, Paula, you are right. Since 2007 Scouting is fullyco-educational and Girls now have equal right to be amember of any Scout Troop as boys. If the Leader told youthat your daughter could not join purely based on her genderthen this information is inaccurate. We would suggest thatyou speak to the leader again but if he still refuses to let yourdaughter join and has vacancies within the Troop, then get intouch with us. Other Troops in the District may also havevacancies – your District Commissioner will be able to helpyou with more information.

This year we celebrate the 25thanniversary of Beavers. I am the leader ofa Beaver Colony and would really like tomark the event. Do you have any ideas orsuggestions of celebrations or events wecould try to mark this anniversary?

Carol, Edinburgh

Since Beavers began in 1986, perhaps you could try an80’s themed evening, filled with 80’s dress and music? Youcould also try an open night-style barbeque and inviteparents, family and friends along. You can also purchasecommemorative badges which can be worn on a Beaversuniform throughout 2011. These can be purchased inScouting shops and online at www.scoutshops.com orwww.glasgowscoutshop.com.

So far I have found Pathfinder magazine a very enjoyable,useful and interesting read and I have loved the issues so far.However, the magazine is only distributed to adults. I wouldlove if the young people from my Unit were able to benefitfrom it as well. Is there any way that young people and peoplenot involved in Scouting can access the same great articles?

Nick, Lerwick

Thank you Nick and we’re glad that you enjoy Pathfindermagazine. Thankfully, as well as being published anddistributed to our 6800 adult volunteers, an online versionof Pathfinder is available on www.scouts-scotland.org.uk foranyone who wishes to read it.

Don’t forget that Explorer and Network age Scouts can alsokeep up to date with the latest news for their Sections onthe official Scottish Explorer Scouts and Scottish ScoutNetwork Facebook pages.

I have heard about the Zodiac Award which I know is an awardopen to all Scouts in Scotland. I am quite interested in helpingmembers of my Scout Troop achieve this award. However, Idon’t know very much about it at all or what the necessaryrequirements are. Could you give me more informationregarding the Zodiac Award?

Peter, Inverness

Thanks Peter. The Zodiac Awards are a set of awards open toall Scouts and can be achieved at three levels – Bronze, Silverand Gold. To achieve each award you must complete a setnumber of camping challenges. There are thirty variouschallenges, for example to camp on an island, to camp above2000 feet, to camp at temperatures of 0 degrees or less or tocamp in a forest. The SHQ Commissioner also sets fourAnnual Challenges.

To achieve the Bronze Award a Scout must spend at least onenight a month for eight months under canvas, bivouac, orbothy, two of which must be from the list of challenges and theymust also complete at least one challenge from the SHQCommissioner’s List.

There is also the Zodiac Plus Award, which is opento Explorer Scouts and Scout Network. Thischallenges participants to camp in a differentlocation for each month of the year.

More information on the Zodiac Award can befound on www.scouts-scotland.org.uk.

As young people, we define bullying as ‘whensomeone is deliberately discriminatedagainst because the bully is unwilling toaccept that person for who or what they are’.

Bullying tends to occur when one person or groupdoes not agree with another’s looks, clothes, race,religion or sexuality and comes in many differentforms such as:

Physical

Verbal

Psychological

Recently, cyber-bullying has been on the rise due tothe increased use of the internet amongst youngpeople and their almost daily access to chat roomsand social networking sites.

Bullying is still a major problem for young people. It isthe second most common reason for young people inScotland contacting ChildLine, after familyrelationship problems.

School can be a particularly intimidating atmospherefor the youth of today as more and more people arelabelled. In modern society, young people are underincreasing pressure from their peers to conform towhat is deemed to be currently fashionable. Youthculture is now much more diverse and whereas in thepast people were bullied for their differences orphysical appearance, they often face prejudice todayfor being a part of the many sub-cultures which existamongst young people.

Many schools claim to deal with bullying in a severeand hands on manner. However, in the some cases,only individual incidents are dealt with and the root ofthe problem is left unresolved. According to ChildLine,half of primary school children and more than 1 in 4secondary school children said they had been bulliedwithin the last year.

Scouting, however, tends to be a significantly moreaccepting atmosphere as all members share the factthat they are a part of the Scout Movement. Scoutscan provide a sense of security for those who arebullied outside of Scouting and can act as a safeplace where young people can socialise and thrivewithout fear of being discriminated against. Scoutsalso acts as an extended family - rather than justsocialising with a select few friends, the whole Sectioncan come together and genuinely have fun.

Although Scouting does tend to foster an acceptingatmosphere, Leaders should be aware that many oftheir Scouts do experience the hardships of beingbullied outwith the weekly meeting. More should bedone to establish a trusting relationship betweenScout and Leader, in the hope that the Scout beginsto see the Leader as more of a trustworthy friendrather than an authoritative figure. This then gives theyoung person an outlet who they can confide in andreceive help from in times of need.

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BullyingLet’s make a difference- - - - - ------------- -- - - - ---- - -- - -----

How Leaders can help create a better atmosphereamongst their Scouts and also establish a betterrelationship with them:

• Mix groups around to give young people thechance to socialise with others and expand theirgroup of friends.

• Aside from the Scouting formalities, such as flagbreak, ensure that there is a supportive andunderstanding relationship between the Leaderand young people.

• Try to relate with the Scouts, perhaps by taking aninterest in their hobbies outwith Scouting andcreating an environment where they can talkabout concerns and permit them time to discusstheir lives.

• Make it clear to Scouts that all leaders areapproachable and should they have any problems,whether it is within the Section or not, they havesomeone to turn to.

• If a Scout shows a lack of self-confidence, orshyness, make a point to build on it.

• Do regular team-building activities in order tocreate a sense of unity within the group.

• Set a good example to the Scouts and make itclear to them that bullying is never acceptable, nomatter what the circumstances.

• Help ensure that their Group/Section has apublished anti-bullying code.

In conclusion, Leaders should be aware of all thepressures faced by young people today and if nothingelse, offer a sympathetic ear.

More information:

www.nspcc.org.uk - 0808 800 5000

www.childline.org.uk - 0800 1111

www.respectme.org.uk - 0844 800 8600 (Scotland’santi-bullying service)

ParentLine Scotland - 0808 800 2222

9PATHFINDERBullying - Let’smakeadifference---------- -- ---- --- --- --- --- -- -- - - - - --- - - - -

What canLeadersdo?The Scout Association has a clear antibullying policy, which refers to the ethos ofthe United Nations Convention on theRights of the Child

The Scout Association is committed to thisethos and seeks to ensure, as far as isreasonably practicable, the prevention of allforms of bullying among Members. To thisend all Scouting activities should have inplace rigorous anti-bullying strategies.

Scouting anti-bullying resources:

The full anti-bullying policy can be found inChapter 2 of The Scout Association’s Policy,Organisation and Rules.

‘Let’s Stamp out Bullying Together’ guideand poster

Factsheet Emotional Health and Wellbeing(FS250064)

Factsheet Social Networking Sites andScouting (FS103011)

All available from www.scouts.org.uk.

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In 2008, Mark completed a 194 day round-the-worldcycle, and last year he cycled from Alaska to Ushuaia,the southernmost city in South America. Thesejourneys were captured in the BBC documentaries‘The Man Who Cycled the World’ and ‘The Man WhoCycled the Americas’. Local Explorer Scouts Drew andRosemary were lucky enough to catch up with him inin Perth recently.

Rosemary: When did you first get involved in cyclingand realise you had passion for adventure?

Mark Beaumont (MB): I spent a huge amount of timeoutdoors when I was young - camping, cycling,climbing, skiing. I was 11 years old when I firstdecided to go on a journey. I read in the paper abouta guy who cycled from John O’Groats to Land’s End. Ihad no idea how far that was or what was involved butit gave me the idea to try and do that. My mum anddad said ‘it’s a good idea but maybe you want to trysomething slightly smaller first?’ So my parents helpedme and we set about planning Dundee to Obanacross Scotland. That took me three days, I cycledacross Scotland with a friend and we raised a coupleof thousand pounds for three charities.

Off the back of that, I went back to my mum anddad and said ‘I still want to do John O’Groats toLand’s End’. I did that a few years later and it justgot bigger out of that. They weren’t all cycling, butthroughout my teenage years I was taking on biggerand bigger challenges.

Drew: Why did you decide to do the round the world cycle?

MB: I went to university for four years and absolutelyloved it but I always had this fire in my belly, a realdrive to take on some bigger dreams in the expeditionworld. I needed to make a living so I had this conflictbetween doing what I was supposed to do after Uni orrisking it all to get into big expeditions. I eventuallythought ‘what have I got to lose? Let’s give it a go andsee what happens’.

I wanted to start big and I couldn’t think of any biggerthan cycling round the world. It took over a year ofplanning, training and getting sponsors. It was a harddecision to make, but once I was committed to doingit, it was great fun trying to work out how to do it.

Drew: How mentally tough was it?

MB: The biggest part of any expedition is the mentalpart. I always say that if you can cycle 100 miles a dayfor a week, you can probably do it forever. That’salmost the easy bit. The hard bit is the psychology, it’sfiguring out how to keep yourself focused over thatperiod of time.

The first leg of the round the world cycle took me toIstanbul. I got halfway through that – I was in Poland –and for a couple of days I couldn’t get motivated andfigure out how to stay on target. Normally when you’reon a journey like that, you just think about the finish.At that point I realised that in half a year’s time I was

Trailblazer- - - - - ------------- -- - - - ---- - -- - -----

Scouting is all about adventure and challenge,and one man who knows more than most aboutboth of these is record-breaking Scottishcyclist Mark Beaumont.

11PATHFINDERTrailblazer---------- -- ---- --- --- --- --- -- -- - - - - --- - - - -

going to be doing exactly the same thing – it’s not as ifI could easily focus on the finish. So the mindset isthe biggest bit – how you break it down into very littletargets, how you keep going and keep enjoying it.

Rosemary: What was the best moment?

MB: When I took on the round the world trip, I had twofocuses – I wanted to break the world record and Iwanted to make a documentary about it. The sharing ofthe journey was quite important, and it’s the part whichhas allowed me to make a career out of this – makingdocumentaries, writing books and doing events.

The reality of cycling 100 miles every day, sitting on abike for 8 – 10 hours a day, it gets pretty mundane.The bit that I remember and enjoyed the most wasdefinitely the challenge of trying to capture the spirit ofthat journey and the different people I met along theway and trying to make the film. That was really theinteresting thing day in, day out

Drew: And the worst moment?

MB: I had one very bad day in Louisiana in the US. Acar came through a red light and I had no time to stopso I went straight over the bonnet, broke thewindscreen, the front end of the bike was buckled. Ididn’t break anything, but I needed to get the bikefixed as soon as possible.

I went to the nearest city, Lafayette, and while I waswaiting to get the bike fixed, I was mugged by a gang.So you can imagine – you get run over at lunchtimeand then you get mugged in the afternoon – it was apretty tough day to keep going through.

Rosemary: What advice would you give to young peopleinterested in cycling or adventurous activities?

MB: I think the hardest part of taking on anyadventure is not the personal ability to do it; it’s havingthe confidence to go through with it. I think a lot ofgood ideas never get to the starting line becausepeople don’t have the personal confidence. It’s soeasy for someone to say ‘that’s not a good idea’ andyou believe them and you bury your dream.

So if, when I was 11 years old, I went to my parentswith a map and said ‘I’m going to cycle from JohnO’Groats to Land’s End’ and they’d said ‘no that’s asilly idea’, I probably would’ve never cycled round theworld 12 years later.

So it’s about having the confidence to keep goingwhen people say you can’t do it. If anyone’s got ideaslike that, just had the confidence to keep going andactually do it.

Rosemary: What is your favourite place for adventurein Scotland?

MB: I grew up in Perthshire and I still live there. I’vehad the opportunity to move abroad to Europe andNorth America to train and work but I’ve chosen not tobecause I still think that Scotland’s one of the best

places in the world that I can base myself to do what Ido. There’s not much which I can’t find in Perthshirein terms of getting out and adventure.

Drew: We also talk about role models in this issue ofthe magazine. Did you have particular role modelswhen growing up?

MB: I always enjoyed watching documentaries, I grewup watching David Attenborough and wildlifedocumentaries. I also followed competitive cycling,people like Mario Cipollini and Lance Armstrong andothers. Guys at the top of their sport, achieving at thetop level. I always followed skiing passionately as well.So there were certainly people in both of those sportswho I looked up to. I never really had the opportunityto become an elite racer but it certainly gave me theidea to keep going with the sports in my own way.

Rosemary: How do you feel about being a role model?

MB: I still feel quite young myself! It’s never the reasonthat you get into these things, but the fact that otherpeople get the confidence to go and take on their ownideas because of it is absolutely fantastic. I don’t thinkpeople get specific information from me, I think theyget just get confidence that you can do these things.It’s great.

Drew: What are your plans for future adventures?

MB: I’m off on another BBC 1 expedition this summer.It’s very different, it’s not on the bike and it’s in a team.The last two journeys have been very much solo,except on the Americas, when I was in a team on themountains. It’s a very different challenge, but anotherworld first. I’ll be away from July to September thisyear so it’ll be on screen before Christmas.

Drew: Do you have a message for our young people andadult volunteers across Scotland?

MB: I think Scouts are brilliant because quite a lot ofgrowing up now is quite structured. Anything outwiththat gives young people personal ownership, wherethey make their own decisions and have confidence inwhat they’re doing, and where they gain skills outwiththose which you learn in a classroom is absolutelyfantastic and so, so important.

I know a lot of people get involved in volunteering, andI think that’s brilliant because none of this would bepossible without the support. I think anything you cando to publicise what Scouts are about now is greatbecause I think more people would be interested ingetting involved.

In this issue we have talked to cyclist Mark Beaumont, arole model to many, so we thought we’d take theopportunity to look a bit more at the issue of role models.

Role models are important as they give young people examples tolook up to and emulate, and because they show that it’s possible toachieve your goals and ambitions.

As adult members, you act as role models to young people inScouting. However the role models young people have outsideScouting are important to remember as well, as these help give usan insight into the values that inspire and motivate young people.

Below, each of our Youth Editors and Youth InvolvementCo-ordinator Neil Mackenzie tell us who their role model is, and whythey are inspired by them.

12 PATHFINDER

When I GrowUp-- - - - --- ------- - - - --- ------- - -

My role model is magician, artist, psychologistand showman Derren Brown. He does manythings that are considered ‘weird’ and wasunpopular at school. Despite studying Law hetold his parents he wanted to pursue a career inmagic. Derren Brown is never afraid to behimself and follow his own dreams and doesn’tlet himself be influenced by what other peoplethink or want of him. I think these are really goodvalues and have led to Derren Brown being theextraordinary man he is today, capable of breath-taking psychological and magical feats.

Kerri My role model in life is Billie Joe Armstrong, asinger/songwriter and the frontman of worldfamous punk band Green Day. I don’t just look upto him because he is rich and famous; I look upto him because he is a true rocker. He came fromnothing, growing up in one of the roughest areasof California, having an abusive step-father anddropping out of school at a young age. Throughall this, he managed to form a band that quicklybecame a household name around the world. Ialso admire him for the fact that although he isnow a multi-millionaire, a Grammy winner andthe owner of a record company, he still finds timeto be a father and a husband at home!

Euan

Masashi Kishimoto is my role model becausehe is the author of my favourite manga (a

type of Japanese comic book/graphic novel),Naruto. His manga was serialised in 1999 whenhe was just 25, which is truly amazing! I alsoadmire his incredible artwork and I aspire to

become as talented and artistic as himsomeday. He and his work are suchinspirations to me.

Poppy One of my biggest role models would have to beJack Dorsey, co-founder and developer of theSocial Network Twitter. Jack believes in makingthings simple, well made and unique –something which I aim to match in everything I

do, in Scouting and in the rest of the world!

Gavin

In the short time Nigel Owens has been aprofessional referee he has been awarded some

of the biggest accolades a referee can achieve. InMay 2007, Owens announced that he was gay.Owens says that it wasn’t easy coming out and hadeven contemplated suicide. He is a good example toany young person in Scouting, he shows us that even

though he is different he can still succeed in hisline of work.

Owens is a good example of inclusivity because heis still able to do what he does best but be himselfwithout being frowned upon by other people. Iwould urge more in the Scouting community toopenly accept the differences between members.

John My role model is not a famous person, but aman called Barnes Boffey, who is the Director ofCamp Lanakila, a summer camp in Vermont.

I met Barnes during my first year at camp andhe has been a true inspiration ever since. Hehas allowed me to realise the importance ofbeing true to myself. I am grateful to him for his

support and friendship as so much of what Ihave achieved in my life and within Scoutinghas been down to the example Barnes sets. Asa role model, he leads the way and sets theexample and as a Leader I realise that this issomething that we all must do.

Neil

13PATHFINDERActivate!---------- -- ---- --- --- --- --- -- -- - - - - --- - - - -

There are a number of day andresidential programme andtraining opportunities available atScottish Scouting’s three NationalActivity Centres this year. If youneed help with summer camps

this year, why not make the mostof these fantastic resources forScottish Scouting?Below are the details of what ishappening at the Centres overthe next few months.

Activate!-- - - - --- ---- ----

TheLochgoilheadCentre:

Lochgoilhead offers fully-catered andfully-programmed water and landactivities including sailing, kayaking,abseiling and high ropes course.

Independence Week:

Lochgoilhead is currently offering anactivity week for individuals aged 11– 16 during the Easter break (11th –15th April).

This is ideal for young people whowant an activity experience butwhose Group are not going away atEaster. It could also be the perfectanswer for working parents duringthe holiday period.

Two days will be spent doing Stage 1of the RYA Young Sailor Schemefollowed by two days doing the BCUPaddlePower Passport. Both of theseschemes will give an excellentintroduction to watersports. The finalday will be a multi-activity day spentdoing high ropes or climbing andabseiling. Evening activities will alsobe provided.

Arrival can be from Sunday eveningprior to the week, or on the Mondaymorning, and pick up is on theFriday evening. This is a Leaderlessweek and 24 hour supervision willbe provided by Lochgoilhead staff.The cost of this week is £245.00per person for members of TheScout Association.

More information and bookings:

Call The Lochgoilhead Centre on01301 703217 or emailinfo@lochgoilhead.org.uk.www.lochgoilhead.org.uk

Fordell FirsNational ActivityCentre:

This centrally-located centre providesboth indoor accommodation andcamping, with activities ranging fromthe new 3G King Swing (pictured) tothe Jacob’s Ladder and climbingtower as well as a selection of self-supervised activities.

Events:

Bell Boat course - 16th and 17thApril. These are four half-daycourses, with spaces available for 16people per course.

Campfire Leaders course - 30th April.This is a three hour course from 6pm- 9pm followed by a campfire.

Beaver Sleepover - 12th - 13thNovember. Space available for up to32 Beavers.

GNAS Archery course - 19th - 20thNovember and 26th - 27thNovember. This is a two weekendcourse for 12 people.

HSE First Aid course - 2nd - 4thDecember. This is a weekend coursefor 12 people.

More information and bookings:

Call Fordell Firs on 01383 412704 oremail warden@fordellfirs.org.uk.www.fordellfirs.org.uk

Meggernie

Outdoor Centre:

Meggernie offers self-cateredindoor accommodation orcamping. With a particular focuson environmental learning,activities on offer includeorienteering, TyroLyon Crossing(pictured), archery and more.

Events:

Parent and Cub Camp – 13th - 15thMay

Patrol Leaders Training course –3rd - 5th June

Beaver Day – 18th June

Midsummer Madness – 24th - 26thJuly. Aimed at the Explorer ScoutSection.

Have A Leaders Only Weekend(HALOW) - 30th September - 2ndOctober

Snowman Camp 2012 – 28th - 30thJanuary 2012. Aimed at the ScoutSection.

More information and bookings:

Call Meggernie on 01887 866231or emailwarden@meggernie.org.uk.www.meggernie.org.uk

Scouting aims to enable the personaldevelopment of all young people in ourMovement; personal development meanspromoting the physical, intellectual, socialand spiritual well-being of the individual,helping them achieve their full potential.

But what if the individual has an additional need or adisability that makes the challenges of Scouting just thatbit harder for them to cope with, and in some cases, foryou the Scouter to provide? How do you include them inyour Section? Do you take them in or do you have toturn them away from Scouting? Are you aware of thesupport available regarding special needs?

In Scouting, we have structures and support availableat all levels to support volunteers in providing aprogramme to young people with additional needs.Much of the support involves how to incorporate theseyoung people into your existing programme and howto tweak it to allow them to be fully involved.

Occasionally you may encounter young people withneeds more challenging than you feel you can copewith in your Section. In these instances, you shouldspeak to your Regional Special Needs Advisor inconjunction with the parent/guardian of the youngperson about support that can be offered to you oralternative Sections in the area that may be geared upto cope with their particular need. In some instances,it may be more appropriate for those with the mostprofound disabilities to join a Scout Group specificallyto cope with those young people with special needs.

You may not know that Clyde Region is home to thelargest Scout Group in the UK for young people withmultiple and profound physical disabilities. The youngpeople who are members of the 77th Glasgow(Disabled) Scout Group take part in an adventurous andfun programme similar to any other Group but have theadditional support they need in place such as volunteerhelpers, medical training and personal care so that theycan take part fully in all the activities on offer.

The 77th Scout Group provides adventure andpersonal development for young people aged 8 to 25with physical disabilities. They have a Cub Pack,Scout Troop, Explorer Unit and Scout Network, all ofwhich meet on Monday evenings in Glasgow.

The work of 77th Glasgow extends beyond runningSections for young people with disabilities; they alsowork to educate Scouts, Explorers, Networkers andLeaders about their work by running sessions for otherSections to allow them to empathise with those whohave additional needs, how to integrate them into theirSections and how they can help the 77th in their work.

Scouting should be open to all and we should not onlycreate an environment where young people withadditional needs are accommodated in Sections, but weshould be building an inclusive movement that allowsthese young people to flourish – not just take part.

SpecialNeedsGrantsThe Scottish Headquarters Special Needs Fundprovides financial assistance to projects and activitiesthat will support, extend and improve the quality ofScouting provided to young people with additionalneeds in Scotland. Priority is given to applicationsfocusing on:

• Section programme events and Camps

• Section international experiences

• camping, activity and games equipment specificallyrequired for members with special needs

• costs of additional volunteer support (e.g. carersor nursing help) required for a special needsmember to take part in Scouting activities,however excluding salaries or wage costs

• training of leaders in special needs matters

• adaptations to premises to provide a user friendlyenvironment for special needs members

More information on the funding is available onwww.scouts-scotland.org.uk.

If you need more information on support for memberswith additional needs please contact either JohnKitson, SHQ Adviser (Special Needs) atspecialneeds@scouts-scotland.org.uk or your RegionalSpecial Needs Adviser.

14 PATHFINDER

A HelpingHand

-- - - - --- ------------- -- -

Programme Idea -DisabilityAwarenessNight

Activities- - - ------------- -- - - - ---- -- - - -Visual impairment:

• noise trail - a number of different noises along aroute that the ‘visually impaired’ person has to follow.

• feely trail - a string trail with bags suspendedcontaining objects to identify by touch, orsubstances to identify by smelling.

• a route round a building for a person with ‘visualimpairment’ and a guide, including hazards suchas steps, or narrow passages.

• tasks such as packing a rucksack, making asandwich, lighting a candle.

• tasks such as pioneering, pitching a tent, given to amixed group of ‘visually impaired’ and sighted people.

Colour blindness:

• photocopy (in black and white) maps, nationalflags and ask members to identify features.

Hearing impairment:

• use ear muffs, ear plugs, headphones to simulatedegrees of hearing impairment; give instructionsfor a task.

• use a TV or video with the sound turned low; askquestions about what happened.

• practice some simple signs; try to hold aconversation.

Impaired mobility:

• a route round the building, with participants inwheelchairs, using walking frames or sticks; with aleg immobilised using a splint.

• practice lifting someone from a wheelchair onto achair or bench and back again.

• fold a wheelchair or buggy to go into a car boot.

Learning difficulty:

• give instructions for a practical task in a numberof ways - talking only, giving all instructions atonce; talking, giving instructions in stages;talking and demonstrating together, giving allinstructions at once; talking and demonstratingtogether, in stages.

Impairment of speech:

• ask participants to speak, whilst holding a spoon(or similar) between their teeth; ask them to readsentences printed in a foreign language.

Variety of disabilities:

• prepare a ‘confidence course’, participants goround the course in pairs, one with a specifieddisability, the other as helper.

• prepare a set of cards, each with a disabilitywritten on it; have available various items to suitthe tasks which will be set, e.g. blind (fill a cupwith water); one handed (unscrew a bottle top).

• Participants take turns to choose a card, whichthey return to the leader of the activity withoutlooking at it. The activity leader gives theparticipant a task to perform (using all faculties).When the task has been completed, the player istold the disability and has to repeat the task,adopting the disabling condition.

Games- - - ------------- -- - - - ---- -- - - -Visual impairment:

• Who do you know? For use in a group where themembers are familiar with one another. Oneplayer leaves the room and is blindfolded; otherssit in a circle. The blindfolded player is broughtback in and must identify other players by voiceonly, or by touch.

• What is it? Equipment: A selection of articles,substances, which can be identified by any or allof touch, taste, smell and sound. Players attemptto identify the objects without looking; themethod of presentation will determine if playersshould be blindfolded.

Variety of disabilities:

• Circle ball: Equipment: A large light ball. Playersare in a circle; each one is given a disablingcondition such as being unable to walk or havingthe use of one hand only. The ball is passedaround and across the circle.

15PATHFINDERAHelpingHand---------- -- ---- --- --- --- --- -- -- - - - - --- - - - -

The Scottish Youth Parliament (SYP) hasbeen growing for the past 11 years;establishing itself as a key tool for youthpolitical engagement, and as expertconversationalists between young people anddecision makers. Their fundamental missionis to listen to and understand what issues areimportant to young people; then campaign tomake Scotland a better place for not onlyyoung people but everyone.

It has a capacity of two Members of the Scottish YouthParliament (MSYPs) per Scottish Parliamentaryconstituency and a further 50 from National Voluntaryorganisations to ensure young people’s views areheard from across Scotland, fairly and inclusively.These members take part in their local youth forums,and represent their peers at SYP events and externalevents to ensure their voices are heard.

The SYP has engaged with thousands of young peopleseeking their views and response to a variety of topicalissues, campaigns and social issues over its lifetime.Most recently on issues such as lowering the votingage to 16, the minimum age to purchase alcohol;education tuition fees and even human rightsconcerns over the use of the controversial MosquitoDevice. The results of their latest consultation ‘Picturethe Change’ will be announced this March and beused to influence Scottish Policy making.

- - - ------- ------ -- - - -17 year old John Beaton, Explorer Scout Young Leaderand MSYP for Edinburgh West, shares his experiencesof being a MSYP, why he thinks it’s important forScouts and young people to get involved and how to goabout it:

I first got involved with the SYP back in 2009, whenI was 15 because I decided I wanted to make adifference to the quality of life young people had. I

16 PATHFINDER

DiscoveringTheScottishYouthParliament- - - ------------- -- - - - --- ------------- -- -

wanted to get involved in standing up for what youngpeople believe in and help young people’s voices beheard. I took the decision to stand for election in myconstituency of Edinburgh West in 2009 and wonshortly after! A year later I became the Convenor ofthe Sport and Leisure committee which allowed meto focus my work as an MSYP to a specific areawhich I am personally really interested in.

What the SYP has allowed me to do is meet lots oflike minded passionate young people; make newfriends, and be challenged by new people too.Everyone at the SYP is into the fact they want tomake a difference; and are really passionate aboutthe issues, but sometimes we do have differentviews on them, and the debates can get prettyheated. You could say it’s taught me be a betterlistener, and improved my communications skills,because you don’t want to stand up in front ofhundreds of people without having a good point tomake; it’s even more important you get the rightmessage across when other young people haveelected you to speak up on their behalf! But it’s agood challenge and I definitely think it’s a good wayto get up and represent my constituents; nerveracking at times it’s also quite an adrenaline rush!

The activities of a MSYP change from day-to-day. Itkind of depends on the main issues in yourconstituency during that week and what yourposition within the SYP is. For example the Chairmay go and meet with MSPs or even the FirstMinister, but a Constituency MSYP could go andspeak to young people at Schools, Festivals andevents to basically find out what issues arebothering them the most, and discuss what can wedo about it. You might be out campaigning,consulting, or taking part in specific projects, butthey keep it pretty varied and I really enjoy takingpart in the decisions that get made.

We also get to decide what issues should be thefocus of the organisation, and what campaigns theorganisation runs. In the past we’ve ran campaignson lowering the voting age to 16, tackling thenegative perceptions of young people with acampaign called ‘Being Young is Not a Crime’, andmost recently have completed a huge consultationfor the SYP’s manifesto called ‘Picture the Change’.As an MSYP we all had to try and speak to as manyyoung people as we could so that their views arerepresented right when we come to presenting thosemanifesto results to decision makers.

The SYP is all about speaking up, and being activein the decision making which affects you. I thinkthe SYP helps connect the dots between youngpeople and decision makers, as sometimes youngpeople can feel left out, especially if they are unableto vote. I definitely feel my own views are morevalued, along with the views of the young people Irepresent.

I would urge all young people to get involved withSYP whether it’s as an MSYP, a voter, a campaigneror as a consultee! You don’t have to have abackground in politics, it’s not party-political, and itisn’t a training ground for politicians. It’s moreabout what you think and making change happen.

- - - ------------- -- - - -

More information:

If you’re aged 14-25 you can get involved in the SYPelections this March by voting for your localrepresentative by heading towww.syp.org.uk/elections and checking your localauthority page from within the site. Or sign up to takepart in consultations at www.syp.org.uk/sign-up, followthem on Facebook and Twitter for the latest in SYPdiscussions and consultations.

If you are a Scout Leader please feel free to contactParticipation and Training Manager Neil Burn for moreinformation on the Scottish Youth Parliament and howyour Scouts could get involved - neil.b@syp.org.uk,0131 313 2488.

Facebook www.facebook.com/OfficialSYP

Twitter www.twitter.com/OfficialSYP

17PATHFINDERDiscovering the ScottishYouthParliament---------- -- ---- --- --- --- --- -- -- - - - - --- - - - -

In this edition we caught up with travel andadventure enthusiast Faraz Shibli. The ex-Cub Scout from Glasgow, who is planning tospend two months crossing the 1000 miles ofthe Gobi Desert this summer, gives us thelowdown on the expedition, his first taste ofadventure through Scouting and his views onScouting today.

Can you tell us a bit about the expedition you’reinvolved in this summer?

I plan to cross the entire 1,000 miles of the MongolianGobi Desert by foot with an international expeditionteam. We set off on 24th May for around two months,during which we’ll be living and camping in thedesert. Temperatures could reach 50°C, there’ll bevery few chances to wash and I’m only packing twopairs of clothes. Things could get pretty smelly! We’llwalk alongside a train of Bactrian camels to help uscarry equipment and we may well run into a fewwolves, wild dogs, scorpions and spiders along theway. If we’re really lucky, we might catch a glimpse ofone of the endangered species that live in the desert –like the Gobi bear.

What are you hoping to achieve?

One of my teammates is a photographer andfilmmaker and we’ll be shooting a documentary aboutthe desert, the nomads who live there and theexpedition journey. The backdrop to our documentarywill be an amazing landscape that’s much more variedthan many other deserts. Towering mountains. Hugesand dunes. Rocky flats that look like the surface ofMars. In the Gobi Desert, all of these can be found –and filmed!

We’re also linking up with schools worldwide, helpingthem to teach their pupils about Mongolia, its peopleand the environment. We want pupils to really feel apart of the expedition so, apart from what they learn inthe classroom, they’ll also be able to communicatewith us in the desert and follow our live progressonline. We’ve got schools from Canada to Ugandasigned up – but no Scottish schools so far! Schoolscan register for free via the expedition website atwww.gobi2011.com.

Finally, the expedition is in aid of a Mongolian kids’educational charity called Edurelief. They help poorerMongolian families to buy school textbooks so theirkids aren’t forced to drop out of school. You candonate to Edurelief via the expedition website andeven own a mile, meaning that your name will befeatured on the website when we pass that mile andprinted on a banner we’ll be waving at the finish!

18 PATHFINDER

...AS ITHERSSEE US

---------- -- - - - ---

Can you tell us a bit about your backgroundin Scouting?

I was born in Glasgow and grew up in Milngavie. Ijoined the 20th Glasgow (1st Milngavie) Cub Scoutswhen I was at primary school and quickly becamevery involved. I went every week and became hookedafter earning my first badge. When I was about 10years old, my family moved to England and I joinedthe 1st Ashtead Scouts in Surrey. It was with themthat I went on my first summer camp, which was oneof the first times I’d been away from home for any reallength of time.

Regrettably, I stopped Scouting a few years later. Iconcentrated my efforts on hockey, which I playedinitially at Western and later at various clubs inEngland. I have nothing but fond memories ofScouting and, if I had a time machine, I’d go backand stick at it for longer! I took a lot away from mytime at Cubs and Scouts.

Why did you join Scouting initially?

My parents had often taken me camping as a boy. Asa family, we spent a lot of time in a tent in theHighlands, northern England, France and Belgium. I’dlearnt to sail and ski in Scotland and I’d had a taste ofthe outdoors from an early age. Also, lots of my closefriends at primary school had joined the 20th Glasgow(1st Milngavie) Cub Scouts. My initial decision to joinwas as much a social thing as anything else.

What did you most enjoy about Scouting?

The day-to-day things. 5-a-side football in the ScoutHall. Earning badges and feeling a real sense ofreward somewhere outside of the classroom. Beingamongst friends and the camaraderie that comes withbeing a part of the Pack.

The pinnacle of it all was going on a summer camp asa Scout. I remember finally having that feeling ofindependence that I’d craved as a kid!

Are there any particular skills you picked up inScouting which have helped you in your travel andadventure experiences?

What’s helped the most is having a solid base fromwhich to start. If you’re planning to head somewhererelatively isolated, taking the first step is a lot easier inthe knowledge that you’re able to build a shelter, starta fire and navigate effectively if needs be.

I can’t remember each and every thing I picked up atthe time but the resourcefulness you learn issomething you don’t forget. Sadly, many people don’thave the confidence to get out and explore the moreremote parts of the UK let alone get off the beatenpath in far-flung countries. Scouting helps to buildthat confidence.

What other ways do you feel you benefittedfrom Scouting?

At both Cubs and Scouts, I learnt to respect natureand the environment. That can translate into clearingup after yourself when leaving a campsite, avoidingtravelling by car where possible and turning off lightswhen they’re not in use. In other words: learning tocare about the world in which we live.

Have you ever considered volunteering in Scouting?

I hadn’t until you asked! I probably didn’t consider itbecause I felt barely old enough to be out of mynecker and woggle but, having just turned 25, Isuppose I’m old enough! Getting involved in Scoutingagain is definitely something I’d like to do.

What would make you want to volunteer in Scouting?

I’m in the early stages of my career as a barrister inLondon at the moment and my spare time is largelytaken up with training to cross the Gobi Desert. Sotime is an issue for me. But I notice the Scouts nowrun an Active Support programme that allowsvolunteers to commit on a more flexible basis, soperhaps it won’t be too far in the future that I find away to get back involved.

How can people keep up to date with your progress onthe expedition?

You can follow the team’s progress by visitingwww.gobi2011.com, searching for ‘Gobi 2011Expedition’ on Facebook and following @gobi2011 onTwitter.

You can follow my personal progress by visitingwww.shibliadventure.com, searching for ‘ShibliAdventure’ on Facebook and following@ShibliAdventure on Twitter.

19PATHFINDER...As Ithers SeeUs---------- -- ---- --- --- --- --- -- -- - - - - --- - - - -

Scottish Scout Regatta 23rd – 25th September The Lochgoilhead Centre Scouts, Explorers, ScoutNetwork, Leaders

info@lochgoilhead.org.uk

01301 703217

The Blacks of GreenockAdventure Challenge2011

23rd – 25th September TBC Scouts admin@scouts-scotland.org.uk

01383 419 073

Young Leaders' SchemeAdult Training Workshop

25th – 27th March Dunolly House, Aberfeldy ESL (YL), DESCs, DESLs admin@scouts-scotland.org.uk

01383 419 073

Independence Week(see p.13)

11th – 15th April The Lochgoilhead Centre 11 – 16 year olds info@lochgoilhead.org.uk

01301 703217

National Scout Serviceand St George’s DayParade

1st May Windsor Queen’s Scouts (ExplorerScouts and ScoutNetwork)

www.scouts.org.uk/windsor

Parent and Cub Camp 13th – 15th May Meggernie OutdoorCentre

Cubs and Parents warden@meggernie.org.uk

01887 866231

Scottish Awards Day 14th May St Mary’s Cathedral,Edinburgh

Recipients of St George’sDay Awards, ExplorerBelts and Queen’s ScoutAwards

admin@scouts-scotland.org.uk

01383 419 073

Patrol Leader andAssistant Patrol Leadertraining weekend

3rd – 5th June Meggernie OutdoorCentre

Patrol Leaders andAssistant Patrol Leaders

warden@meggernie.org.uk

01887 866231

The Blacks of GreenockNational CampingCompetition Final

10th – 11th September Meggernie OutdoorCentre

Scouts admin@scouts-scotland.org.uk

01383 419 073

Beaver Day

18th June Meggernie OutdoorCentre

Beavers warden@meggernie.org.uk

01887 866231

Blacks of GreenockNational CampingCompetition ZonalQualifiers

18th – 19th June Various Scouts admin@scouts-scotland.org.uk

01383 419 073

Midsummer Madness 24th - 26th July Meggernie OutdoorCentre

Explorers warden@meggernie.org.uk

01887 866231

Acceler8 27th August Fordell Firs All adult members admin@scouts-scotland /01383 419 073

Scottish Hill Challenge 26th – 28th August Meggernie OutdoorCentre

Scout Network warden@meggernie.org.uk

01887 866231

20 PATHFINDER

EVENTSDIARY

-- - - - ------------- -- - - - ---- - - - - ----EVENT DATE VENUE AUDIENCE CONTACT

HALOW (Have A LeadersOnly Weekend)

30th September -2nd October

Meggernie OutdoorCentre

Leaders warden@meggernie.org.uk

01887 866231

Scout Leader skillstraining weekend

2011 – TBC Meggernie OutdoorCentre

Leaders within the ScoutSection

warden@meggernie.org.uk

01887 866231

Caledonian Rally 21st – 23rd October Dochgarroch, nearInverness

Members aged 13 - 17 admin@scouts-scotland.org.uk

01383 419 073

Haunted Weeked 28th – 30th October Meggernie OutdoorCentre

Explorers warden@meggernie.org.uk

01887 866231

Step Up 29th – 30th October Tulliallan Police College Group Scout Leaders admin@scouts-scotland /01383 419 073

Annual General Meetingof The Scottish CouncilThe Scout Association

5th November TBC Members of the ScottishCouncil and all other(Associate) Members ofthe Association

admin@scouts-scotland.org.uk

01383 419 073

Beaver Sleepover 12th – 13th November Fordell Firs Beavers warden@fordellfirs.org.uk

01383 412704

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10 miles north of Blairgowrie set in ½ acre ofbeautiful Perthshire countryside Blackwater Hall is an ideal location for Scouts, Guidesand all organisations who wish to participate inoutdoor activities including skiing, hill walking

The hall offers sleeping accommodation for a

accommodation and the main hall in camp

Facilities include a very large well equipped

and shower and toilet facilities with disabled

For further details contact Mrs Pam Cameron:Tel: 01250 882269

Blackwater Public Hall15 Miles west of Edinburgh, The Craigs is set in 23 acres of natural woodland on the edge of the Bathgate Hills. There is a choice of 2 indoor accommodation buildings, sleeping either 38 or 19, as well as 8 mature campsites and our ‘Indian Village’ with its three tipis sleeping up to 30.On site, there is a new adventure play area and a traversing wall, plus orienteering and nature trails. Bathgate, only 10 minutes away, offers a Sports Complex, swimming pool and excellent public transport links to Edinburgh.For the more adventurous, canal canoeing can be organised and Beecraigs Country Park is nearby. Beecraigs has wide range of outdoors activities ranging from archery to rock climbing - all within 10 minutes.

Do you want to know more? Visit our websiteWWW.THECRAIGSSITE.INFO

or contact the Bookings Manager on 01506 633 689

www.bonaly.org.uk

Easy Access

Harlequin CoachesPut more outings in your Scouting with Harlequin Coaches. Whether your outings are home or abroad, near or far, let us quote for all your travel requirements.

49 seat luxury coaches, fitted with seatbelts, TV, Video, Toilet, Fridge, etc.

For reasonable prices please contactIan Adam:

Home: 01506 437 101Mobile: 07710 562 470

Email: adamharlequin@aol.com

Auchengillan Outdoor CentreBlanefield, Glasgow, G63 9BA

Tel: 01360770256www.auchengillan.com

Fantastic discounted rates for Scout Groups,

just ask for details.

Extensive camping areas &

range of indoor accommodation

Auchengillan is Owned and Operated by Clyde Regional Scout Council

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A 100 acre wild woodland campsite in use since 1922. 10 minutes from Stirling, 45 minutes from Edinburgh and Glasgow.

On site activities include:- Beaver play area - Obstacle course- Nature trail- ‘Sir Ian Bolton’ Barn - wet weather activity area

Barrwood Scout Campsite

with disabled facilities- Bouldering wall- Wayfaring course- Caving complex- Rafting on 1 acre reservoir

More information, fees and booking form on

www.barrwood.org.uk

Douglaswood is a few miles north east of Dundee in the Angus countryside.

We have a choice of 2 indoor accomodation centres which sleep up to 34 & 24 each, as well as 11 campsites of various sizes across the site.There are several on-site activities like mountain biking, an interesting nature trail to follow or you could

available nearby so whether it’s skate boarding or water sports, there’s plenty to do.

Take a look at our website for more information and to make a booking

www.douglaswood.org.ukor email us - bookings@douglaswood.org.uk

Come and stay - you’ll have a great time

Two camp sites in woodland on the shores of Loch Venachar and a cabin with cooking facilities. Set in the Trossachs National Park some 4 miles west of Callander where thereare all the support facilities needed.

Canoeing, Bell boating, cycling, swimmingand hillwalking on the doorstep.

For information booklet with full details andbooking forms please contact:

Mrs J Payne, 12 Wallace Road, Dunblane FK15 9JA.

Tel: 01786 822669

Email: june@junepayne.co.uk

Stirling and Trossachs District

Invertrossachs Camp Site

Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Explorer Scouts,Rainbows, Brownies and Guide uniformand merchandise.Camping, outdoors and expeditionequipment up to Duke of EdinburghStandard.Gifts for Scouting and Guiding membersas well as outdoor enthusiasts.

Opening Times: Monday to Wednesday 7pm - 9pmFriday 10am - 6pm Saturday 10am - 4pm

27 Townhall Street, Inverkeithing, Fife KY11 1LXTelephone: 01383 428933www.akelasden.co.uk

email: akelasden@tiscali.co.uk

KEEGAN & PENNYKID(INSURANCE BROKERS) LTD

in conjunction with Royal & Sun Alliance(scheme developed in consultation with SHQ)

Equipment InsuranceAn all risks new-for-old policy on all Scout equipment. Covers your

equipment while in use, in store and in transit. Automatic cover anywhere in the world.

Building InsuranceBuildings insured on a full re-instatement basis. Competitive

Premiums (minimum £50 plus IPT). Underwritten by Royal & Sun Alliance

Minibus Insurance (arranged by MBP)Competitive minibus insurance. 24 hour claims and emergencyhelpline including Homestart, Roadside Assistance and onward

transportation for driverand passengers.

Underwritten by QBE Insurance (Europe) Limited (QIE)

For full details please contact

Keegan & Pennykid (Insurance Brokers) Ltd50 Queen Street, Edinburgh EH2 3NS

Tel: (0131) 225 6005 Fax: (0131) 226 3811E-Mail: mail@keegan-pennykid.comWebsite: www.keegan-pennykid.com

Member of the British Insurance Brokers’ Association

Keegan & Pennykid (Insurance Brokers) Ltd and Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance plcare authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. MiniBusPlus Ltd t/a MBP

is part of QBE European Operations, a division of the QBE Insurance Group authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

**calls to this number will cost 10p per minute from a BT landline, charges may vary with other network providers*1 free leader with 5 paying for primary and 1 free leader with 10 paying for secondary.

Take your Scouts on an immersive marine adventure, bringing them face to face with

amazing creatures, including our Green Sea Turtle Cammy. As an inspiring visit to

remember, your group will leave empowered to make a difference to the underwater world.

As pioneers of marine animal rescue, breeding and protection, SEA LIFE will help your Scouts achieve their Animal Carer Activity Badge, giving them ahands-on learning experience. Activity packs for before, during and after your visit can be downloaded from our website

Educational resources to support learning are also available for download

Discounted rates of just £5 per

child for pre-booked groups of 10+. Plus free leader places*

Call 0871 222 6944** www.sealife.co.uk

**calls to this number will cost 10p per minute from a BT landline, charges may vary with other network providers*1 free leader with 5 paying for primary and 1 free leader with 10 paying for secondary.

PATHFINDER

The Scottish CouncilThe Scout Association

Fordell FirsHillendDunfermlineKY11 7HQ

Tel: 01383 419073Fax: 01383 414892Email: shq@scouts-scotland.org.ukWeb: www.scouts-scotland.org.ukScottish Charity No. SC017511