Beavers

In a wonderful display of community spirit and environmental stewardship, over 80 members of Flitwick Scout Group gathered in March to plant a hedge around their meeting place. The initiative was made possible by Central Beds Council and the UK shared prosperity and Rural England prosperity community grant fund who provided a grant to carry out the work. 

 

Scouts of all ages participated in the event, from the youngest Squirrel Scouts (ages 4-5) to the older Scouts (ages 10.5-14). The young environmentalists were guided by their leaders and volunteers as they dug holes, planted saplings, and learned about the vital role hedgerows play in supporting wildlife. Flitwick Town Council ran a litter pick in the same field at the same time which some of the young people took part in after planting their section of hedge. 

 

Jane Lee, Team Member (Falcons Cubs) said "The engagement from our local community was brilliant with over 80 Young People helping to plant our new hedge.  The grant from CBC means that we’ve been able to securely fence off the space next to our hut and add a hedge to improve the visual impact and biodiversity. "

 

The new hedge is expected to become a thriving habitat for a variety of species, enhancing the biodiversity around the groups meeting place. This project also aligns with the Scouts’ values of conservation and community service, offering the children practical skills in environmental care.

 

Parents and community members also lent a hand, making the event a true community effort. The hedge planting has not only improved the local green space but has also strengthened the bonds between the Scouts and their community. 

 

Councillor Mary Walsh, Chair of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund Local Partnership Group, said: “It was great to see so many people getting involved and supporting their local scouting group. The hedge planting event is just one of a series of planned improvements enabled by the grant funding which has already been used to install a new security fence. Plans are also underway to replace the doors and install a disabled access ramp to improve inclusivity and accessibility for all members of the community. These improvements will not only benefit the 250-strong scouting community but also anyone who uses the hall regularly and allows everyone to participate in scouting activities.”

Flitwick Scout Group has been buzzing with activity throughout the summer term, ending with their exhilarating summer camp. The young members, from the Squirrel Scouts to the Scouts, have been engaged in a plethora of thrilling and educational activities that have left them with unforgettable experiences and valuable skills.

 

The Squirrel Scouts, aged 4 and 5, achieved remarkable milestones during the summer term. These little adventurers embarked on a treasure hunt at Manor Park, honing their observation and teamwork skills. Over the term they constructed bee hotels, mini rafts and their own Corronation Crowns, ending the term with a mini summer fayre.

 

Two Squirrel Scouts, Sebastian Baldwin and James O’Brien, have now earnt all of the Squirrel activity badges on offer, the first two at the group to get all twelve since Squirrels launched. Sebastian said “I liked the experiment one the best!”

 

The Beaver Scouts, aged 6 and 7, took their exploration underground with caving expeditions that taught them about teamwork, communication, and resilience. They also mastered the art of fire lighting, a crucial survival skill that will stay with them for life.

 

As for the Cub Scouts, aged 8 to 10 and a half, they made a positive impact on the environment by crafting seed bombs for International Bee Day, promoting pollinator-friendly habitats. The Cubs further delved into nature by learning fire lighting techniques and engaging in backwoods cooking, enhancing their outdoor skills.

 

The Scouts, aged 10 and a half to 14, honed their culinary expertise through cooking exercises, embraced the thrill of cycling, and refined their fire lighting abilities, demonstrating their aptitude for self-sufficiency and resourcefulness.

 

The pinnacle of their summer adventures was the exhilarating summer camp held at Thriftwood, Essex. Cubs and Scouts came together for a memorable journey packed with exciting challenges. From hiking through scenic countryside to mastering the art of pioneering and campfire cooking, their teamwork and resilience were put to the test. The camp's activities, including fishing, Postmans Walk, Vertical Assault, Kayaking, Crate Stacking, Jacob's Ladder, Zip Line, Rafting, Cave Bus, Abseiling, and Water Roller, provided a diverse range of experiences that fostered personal

growth and a sense of adventure. Christine Stacy, parent to one of the Cubs, said “Thank you so much to the leaders for the last few days, Daniel has had an amazing time and hasn’t stopped talking about it!”

 

Flitwick Scout Group's commitment to providing a holistic learning environment that nurtures essential life skills and values is evident in their remarkable summer term and camp. As the sun sets on this season of adventure, the memories and lessons learned will undoubtedly linger in the hearts and minds of these young Scouts for years to come.