SCOUT leaders and helpers from Redditch took part in an ‘adult skills exchange’ day in Astwood Bank last Sunday, February 17.
Redditch District Scouts organised the day for their Beaver, Cub and Scout leaders to help them develop their basic practical Scouting skills in outdoor pursuits.
The day saw some 20 participants at Nash’s Acre, behind Astwood Bank Scout and Guide headquarters in Manor House Lane.
Leaders were invited to come and go on the day at their leisure, learning skills such as map and compass work, tying knots and pioneering as well as fire lighting and cooking.
Redditch District Scout chairman, Peter Nash, said Scout leaders take part in what is called ‘basic training’, which includes important aspects of being with young people such as health and safety and safeguarding.
But he added that leaders should also be given more opportunities to learn the more practical skills that Scouts are well known for so they are able to pass these on to their Scouts.
“Scouting is all about teaching life skills to youngsters – the things they don’t learn at school or maybe even at home,” he said.
“We are developing a programme of practical skills training which we hope will help other Scout Districts develop their own.
“We believe as a District Redditch is currently at the forefront of this type of organised skills training.”
