WELCOMEWe are delighted to unveil the new branding for our three National Activity Centres,and introduce you to an exciting new Leadership Training Package we will be offeringat all of them. Skip to SHQ News on pages 2 and 3 to see the new look which we hopewill inspire you to take a fresh peek at these national assets.

We know that the best things in life are free, but for those times when you need tofinance a particular Group development goal, it helps to have a bit of money in thekitty. A Brief Guide to Development Grant Funding for Scottish Scouting on pages 6and 7 will guide you on what funding is available to Scouts in Scotland and how bestto go about securing it.

This year is the 10th anniversary of both the Explorer and Network Scout Sections. Tocelebrate, SHQ Explorer Scout Commissioner Anil Chundoo shares some tips on ExplorerScouting. A similar feature on Network Scouting will follow in the next issue of Pathfinder.

Our celebrity interview this month is with Scottish singer/songwriter Sandi Thom,whom many will remember from her 2006 number 1 hit “I Wish I Was a PunkRocker”. Sandi was in Scotland earlier this year to promote her new album, Flesh andBlood, and very generously performed a surprise private gig at the Blair AthollInternational Jamborette. Read her interview with Explorer Scouts Liam and Hannahon pages 8-9. We also have an inspiring account of Blair Atholl from another ExplorerScout, Victoria, on page 18.

Speaking of inspiration, we are proud of a number of our members who were chosenas torchbearers for the Olympic Torch Relay. We’ve tracked some of them down toshare a bit of their amazing experience with us on pages 20 and 21.

We hope you enjoy the special souvenir pull-out commemorating our Chief Scout BearGrylls’ recent trip to Scotland in the middle of this issue.

Finally, a special thank you to all our members who completed the recent membershipcommunications survey and congratulations to Elaine Weir who was the lucky winnerof a £50 gift voucher to Glasgow Scout Shop. We have noted the results of the surveyand are currently using the insights gained from this to inform a new communicationsstrategy for Scouts Scotland. We’ll keep you posted in future editions of Pathfinder.

That’s all from us, hope you enjoy this issue!

The Editor

The Scottish CouncilThe Scout Association

Fordell FirsHillend

DunfermlineKY11 7HQ

Tel: 01383 419073Fax: 01383 414892

shq@scouts-scotland.org.ukwww.scouts-scotland.org.uk

www.facebook.com/scottish.scouts

Scottish Charity No. SC017511

CONTENTSSHQ News 2

A round-up of the latest news, policy updates and forthcoming opportunities from SHQ.

Prepare to Lead 4

Introducing an exciting new leadership course aimed at young people, developed bystaff at our three National Activity Centres.

10 Years and counting... 5

SHQ Commissioner (Explorer Scouts) Anil Chundoo regales us with top tipsfor Explorer Scouting.

A brief guide to Development Grant Funding for Scottish Scouting 6

Everything you need to know about what funds are available and when toapply for them.

An Audience with Sandi Thom 8

The Scottish singer/songwriter is back with a new album and some interestingthoughts on where true inspiration comes from.

Special Souvenir Pull-out: Bear Grylls Visits Scotland 11

Pictures and a handwritten note from our Chief Scout’s recent whirlwindvisit to Scotland.

Vision 2018: Inspiring Scouting 16

What is your vision for the future of Scouting? In the first of a series of articles, weexplore the concept of Vision 2018 and what it means for local Scouting.

Notes from Blair Atholl Jamborette 18

Explorer Scout Victoria Holdstock gives us a participant’s view of the Blair AthollInternational Scout Jamborette.

Olympic Fever 20

These wonderful members were nominated by their communities for their inspiringservice as Scout volunteers, and got to carry the Olympic Torch as a result.

Events Diary 22

A list of Scouting Events for young people and adult volunteers across Scotland.

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SHQANDREGIONAL

COMMISSIONERS APPOINTED

- - --------- --- - - -We are delighted to announce appointments to a numberof roles within the Scottish Headquarters’ volunteerleadership team.

Adult Training

Gillian Caldwell (1) has been appointed as the new SHQCommissioner for Adult Training, bringing a wealth of bothprofessional and Scouting experience to the role. Currentlythe head teacher at Kilsyth Academy in Glasgow, Gillianhas held various senior appointments in Adult Training inClyde Region and is also a Group Scout Leader of some 18years’ standing.

Communication

Moray Macdonald (2) joins as SHQ Commissioner forCommunication. Moray is the Managing Director forScotland at Weber Shandwick, one of the world’s topcommunications consultancies, and has been involved inScouting both here and in New Zealand where he wrote theNew Zealand Scout Leader’s Handbook. Moray will be usinghis practical and strategic expertise to develop a newcommunications strategy for Scouts Scotland.

Beaver Section

Edward Gough (3) has been appointed as the new SHQCommissioner for Beaver Scouts, in succession to Eva Will.Edward’s initial experience as a leader was while workingwith the armed services in Germany. He has experienceworking with Beaver and Cub Scouts, and has held theappointment of DC. We have no doubt that he will prove tobe a valuable addition to the SHQ Programme Team.

Regional Commissioners

At a Regional level we also have a few new faces towelcome. Congratulations to Ann Fotheringham (4) whohas been appointed as Regional Commissioner for NorthEast Region following on from Ian Dow; and also to LennyJamieson (5) who has moved across from being the SHQAdvisor (International) to succeed Sandy Jack as theRegional Commissioner for Forth Region; as well as IsabelMcNab (6) who has taken over the reins from DorothyMcKinney as Regional Commissioner for South EastRegion.

SHQ needs you – vacant volunteer leadership roles

We are currently on the look-out for three SHQ levelvolunteer appointments:

• SHQ Safety Co-ordinator• SHQ Advisor (Special Needs)• SHQ Advisor (International)

If you are interested in finding out more or applying for any ofthese roles, please contact Scottish Headquarters.

A full list of current SHQ team members is available atwww.scouts-scotland.org.uk/scouting-in-scotland/shq-team

FUNDINGAPPLICATIONDEADLINES- - --------- --The Scottish Development Fundexists to help local Scoutingthrough start-up, training,development and Special Needs funding support. Deadlinesfor applications in 2012/2013 are:

• 1st November 2012 • 1st March 2013• 1st May 2013 • 1st September 2013

The CashBack for Communities SmallGrants Scheme makes start-up andprogramme grants available to localScouting. At the time of going to print, weare awaiting a final decision from the

Scottish Government on longer term continuation of theScheme, but anticipate a positive outcome. Our advice tomembers is to consider the Scheme to be going ahead asnormal, subject to any announcements on the ScoutsScotland website. Current deadlines for applications are:

• 1st December 2012 • 1st March 2013• 1st June 2013 • 1st September 2013

More details on both these funds are available on theSHQ website or by calling 01383 419 073. You can alsolearn more about what grant funding is available onpages 6 and 7.

ANNUAL GENERALMEETING -NOVEMBER 10th 2012- - --------- --- - - -Members are invited to attend the 102nd AGM of TheScottish Council The Scout Association at The High Schoolof Glasgow on Saturday 10th November 2012. Lunch willbe available from 12pm and the afternoon’s programme willrun from 1pm to 5pm.

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If you are a member of Scouting in Scotland, whether a leader,administrator, assistant, or general helper, this is your chance tohear the details of how Scouts Scotland is performing and also togive feedback and suggestions on what you would like to see infuture. Attendance to the AGM is free, but those wishing to attendlunch beforehand will be asked to pay a small fee.

Further details will be available on the Scouts Scotland website indue course. Please contact Scottish Headquarters if you do nothave access to online facilities and would like to receive thisinformation via post.

NEWLOOK FORNATIONALACTIVITY CENTRES

- - --------- --- - - -Our three National Activity Centres haveundergone a rebrand which members will noticebeing rolled out over the next two years. FordellFirs, Meggernie and Lochgoilhead National ScoutActivity Centres will now sit underneath the ScoutsScotland National Activity Centres brand, eachwith its own identity.

The brand, which incorporates an A frame withadventure activity silhouettes was created by ShawMarketing and Design to denote the outdoors

activities on offer at the Centres, with a strong visual link toScouting. The colour purple is used for the national brand toemphasise our Scottish identity while the following colours havebeen chosen to differentiate each Centre’s unique personality:

• Orange – get your adrenaline racing as you fly through the airor climb up the Tower at Fordell Firs National Activity Centre

• Green – give yourself a break and escape to breathtakingnatural surroundings where you can perfect your Scouting skillsin the great outdoors at Meggernie National Activity Centre

• Blue – indulge your inner adventurer with water and landbased adventure challenges that will have you coming back formore at Lochgoilhead National Activity Centre

We hope members will enjoy the new look and be encouraged togive our National Activity Centres a visit if they haven’t done so inrecent years.

SAVE THE DATE -ADC CONFERENCEMARCH 2013

- - --------- --- - - -Do you yearn for additional support and training in your role as anADC, DESC or DSNL? Would you like to spend a weekend sharingbest practice and socialising with your Scouting peers in a relaxedatmosphere? Then the Scouts Scotland ADC Conference 2013 isthe event for you!

Taking place in the beautiful surroundings of the Scottish PoliceCollege, Tulliallan from the 1st to 3rd of March 2013, this weekendresidential conference is aimed at equipping, supporting and re-energising ADCs, DESCs and DSNLs in their important roles.

This conference will add value to any other Adult Training you arealready completing, with a full programme, good food and time tounwind and get to know your volunteer counterparts from otherareas of Scotland.

Further information will be sent to all ADCs, DESCs and DSNLs indue course.

Prepare to Lead is a new Youth Leadership Coursedesigned and delivered by our three National ActivityCentres in Scotland. Open to both Scouts and non-Scouts, it focuses on developing teamwork andleadership and is ideal for:

• Explorer Scouts & Scout Network Members whowant to take more of a lead in their Units,Networks & local Scouting

• Young Leaders

• School Groups of Senior Phase Pupils

The course has been developed by staff from each ofthe three Centres, building on the Scout method oflearning through adventure. It includes someclassroom-based sessions where the participants willlearn about different team roles and leadership stylesthrough interactive challenges, as well as outdooractivities where they are will gain practical experiencein teamwork and leadership situations.

Designed to complement the learning that young peopleundertake through Curriculum for Excellence (CfE), thecourse is ideal for school groups of senior phase pupils.Each participant who successfully completes Prepare toLead is presented with a certificate detailing how thecourse relates specifically to CfE experiences andoutcomes, and is ideal for inclusion in the youngperson’s personal learning file or record

of achievement. It also allows them to strengthentheir personal statements and CVs by highlighting thatthey have completed a course in leadership – acapacity which potential employers and further andhigher education establishments are looking for morethan ever!

The course has been designed to complement theYoung Leaders’ Scheme, and covers the learningrequired for Module B: Taking the Lead.

Flexible Formats andOptions

The Prepare to Lead course can be delivered in anumber of different formats at any one of our NationalActivity Centres to suit your needs. Choose yourvenue, length of stay and catering options, and we willdo the rest.

For example, Lochgoilhead offers an ‘all-inclusive’package with all your meals and indooraccommodation included, plus adventurous activities.Fordell Firs can offer the course as a weekend or overa number of day visits which might be ideal for schoolgroups. With both camping and indoor accommodationis available, while catering and activities can be boltedon as well. Alternatively, Meggernie offers theopportunity to get away from it all with either self-catering or catered* packages with camping or indooraccommodation in the stunning surroundings of GlenLyon. The Centre is a great base for expeditions, andother outdoor activities are also available

For more information about Prepare to Lead, visitwww.scouts-scotland.org.uk/education/prepare-to-lead

To book the course for your group, contact any of theScouts Scotland National Activity Centres directly on:

• Fordell Firs - warden@fordellfirs.org.uk - 01383412704

• Meggernie - warden@meggernie.org.uk -01887 866231

• Lochgoilhead - info@lochgoilhead.org.uk -01301 703217

*catering at Fordell Firs and Meggernie for Prepare to Lead

by prior arrangement only and is subject to availability.

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Prepare to Lead- - - - - ------------- --

NewCourseFromOurNationalActivityCentres

Our National Activity Centres have launched a newleadership course for young people aged 14 to 25

that will be available at Fordell Firs, Lochgoilhead &Meggernie. Here, former Education Links Officer

Ross Donald explains the benefits.

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This year marks the tenth anniversary of Explorer Scouting andThe Scout Network. In the first of two articles celebrating theseSections, SHQ Commissioner (Explorer Scouts) Anil Chundooshares some fun tips for Explorer Scouting.

Attend a World ScoutJamboree…

while you’re young!

Explorer Scouts are in theprivileged position of being withinthe eligible age range forattending a World ScoutJamboree as a participant. Sincethese events run every four years,an individual will only ever getone opportunity to join ajamboree as a participant under18. If you miss this chance youcan always go as an adult as partof the International Service Teamor a Unit Leadership Team.

Get involved

Make your voice heard andtake part in directing andshaping your Unit, yourProgramme and yourexperience as an ExplorerScout. ESLs will welcome yourideas and input, after allExplorer Scouting is for YOU.

Achieve a top award

Whether it’s a Chief Scout’sPlatinum or Diamond award, orjoining Scouting’s elite as aQueen’s Scout, the knowledge,experience and commitmentthat you can demonstrate

though these awards isinvaluable for buildingconfidence, forming life-longfriendships and helping youstand out in today’s highlycompetitive job market.

Camp out

Make the most of theoutdoors and the adventure ofScouting. Explorer Scoutingoffers some fantastic themedcamps across Scotland and theUK, attended by Explorers fromall areas of the country.

Experience the international

International experiences inScouting are unique andnumerous. At Explorer age moreof these opportunities willbecome available throughexpeditions and camps. Takethe chance to live and work withpeople from other countries andcultures – you won’t regret it.

Explorer Belt

Billed as the ‘perfectantidote to the package holiday’the Explorer Belt Awardpresents an opportunity forgroups of up to 4 Scouts to visita foreign country over 10 days.Travelling through the country

and learning about its history, itspeople and its culture is a greatway to travel and earn avaluable award.

Become a Young Leader

Want to learn someleadership skills and boost yourfuture CV? The Young Leaders’Training Scheme may be rightup your street! YLs are valuablemembers of a SectionLeadership Team and canbridge the gap between olderLeaders and Section members.The modular training schemewill equip you for this fun andvaluable experience. Speak toyour District Explorer ScoutCommissioner for moreinformation.

Go back to your roots

Visit members of yourformer or local Scout Section,tell them all about ExplorerScouts, and encourage them tojoin when they are old enoughto move on. You can play ahuge part in helping others tocontinue their Scoutingexperience.

Challenge Yourself

Don’t be afraid to stepoutside your comfort zone!Explorers is a safe environment to

take on a challenge. If you needsupport, the Leaders and otherExplorers in your Unit will behappy to help. Not all challengesinvolve ropes or heights,challenges come from all parts ofyour life and Explorer Scoutingcan help you through these.

Join a Network

You’ve had a great timeas an Explorer Scout – so what’snext? Join a Scout Network,that’s what! When reaching 18,moving on from Explorer Scoutsmay be the least of your worriesif you’re starting a new job,going on to further education ormoving away from home. Butyou needn’t stop Scoutingaltogether and having friendswith a common interest duringthis time of life can be veryhelpful. Scout Networks can befound all over the country andoffer a great way to continueyour top awards or just anopportunity to spend some timewith like-minded people.Contact SHQ Commissioner(Scout Network) Paul Crolla atscoutnetwork@scouts-scotland.org.uk if you needsome help in finding a ScoutNetwork Unit near you.

Plan & programme

Make sure that you planahead – take account ofholiday and exam periods andbe prepared for staggerednumbers.

Communicate

Find out how yourExplorers communicate anduse it. Do try to keep up–Facebook and texting arefavourites…. at the moment!

Involve

What do your Explorerswant ? … Just ask! Remember:“nothing about us without us”

Share skills

Get help from otherleaders that have experience,knowledge and qualificationsthat you don’t… and shareyour own.

Get out

Plan to be away from yourusual meeting place with visits,trips and camps on a regularbasis – this added variety willkeep your Explorers interested.

Help others

Get involved in your localcommunity or try some charitywork… excellent for awards andbadges, but also good for helpingyour Explorers develop their ownworldviews and new interests.

Awards

Encourage and promoteThe Scout Association’s topawards.

Partner

Sign up to partnershipagreements with Scout Groupsthat feed into your Unit… allparties will benefit in the long run.

Explore

Learn new ways to dothings by visiting other ExplorerUnits and sharing goodpractice with colleagues.

Relax

Make time for relaxingand chatting within yourprogramme – Explorers enjoy abit of down time to catch up onthe gossip.

10 Years andcounting. . .- - - - - ------------- --10THINGSEVERYEXPLORERSHOULDDO

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A brief guide to DevelopmentGrant Funding for Scottish Scouting

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Hard times - buthelp is availableIt is not necessarily the case that growth anddevelopment in Scouting costs money. We are, afterall, a volunteer movement, and a price can’t be put onthe value of what you and thousands like you do tobring our Programme to our youth members.

Some things do cost money, however, and at alltimes, but particularly in the harsh financial climateof the day, this can seem hard to come by. I knowthat a huge amount of fundraising goes on, but weare also fortunate in Scotland in having access tosignificant grant funding to support the growth anddevelopment of Scouting where it really matters -in Sections, Groups and Districts. Here is asummary of what is available:

ScottishDevelopmentFundThe Scottish Development Fund exists to providefinancial support to projects that will extend,develop and enhance the quality of Scoutingprovided to young people and adults across

Scotland. Applications can be made under fourcategories - Start-up Grants, Small Grants, StandardGrants and Special Needs Grants. In particular,Standard Grants and Start-up Grants may beparticularly helpful to new Sections and Groups andthose recruiting from areas of deprivation or need.

CashBack forCommunitiesSmall Grants SchemeThis scheme can offer a Start-up Grant of up to£1000 or a Programme Grant of up to £2000. With acore target age of 10 to 19, it is specifically targeted atScout Troops, Explorer Scout Units and Scout Network

Units which have notpreviously had access toexternal funding, andparticularly in areas ofdeprivation or need.Though Scouts Scotlandcontinues to distribute aconsiderable amount of funding under the CashBackscheme, anecdotal evidence suggests that manyGroups who fulfill the criteria have never applied, eventhough they might be most likely to benefit.

SHQSpecialNeedsFundThe Special Needs Fund exists to provide financialassistance to projects and activities that will support,extend and improve the quality of Scouting provided toyoung people with additional needs in Scotland. Thereare no restrictions to the type of project or activity forwhich funding may be provided. However, priority willbe given to applications focusing on: SectionInternational Experiences, camping, activity andgames equipment specifically required for memberswith Special Needs, costs of additional volunteersupport (e.g. carers or nursing help) required for aSpecial Needs member to take part in Scoutingactivities, training of leaders in Special Needs matters,and adaptations to premises to provide a user friendlyenvironment for Special Needs members.

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How to apply for funding from the Scottish

Development Fund and CashBack Schemes

Detailed information about the Scottish Development

Fund and the CashBack forCommunities Scheme

can be found, along with application forms, by

accessing the Scouts Scotland website and following

the link to Development, then Funding.

How to apply for funding from the

SHQ Special Needs Fund

Applications are invited on an ongoing basis. All

applicants will be asked to explain how the project

or activity will benefit youngpeople with Special

Needs in Scotland. Full funding will not normally be

granted and applicants should state how the

balance of the funding will be achieved.

In this harsh financial climate it is more important than ever to makesure your Scout Group, Explorer Unit, Scout Network, District, or

Region is accessing every bit of financial support available, writesDepute Chief Commissioner (Region Support) Chris Brammer.

TheScoutAssociationDevelopmentGrantsBoardThe Development Grants Board (DGB) at UKHeadquarters has a remit to receive applications and

provide grants for the development oflocal Scouting. Grants are available tosupport a number of different needs,including development planningevents, start-up grants for areas ofsocial deprivation and support formembers in financial hardship. Asingle body (the DGB) is responsiblefor administering a number ofdifferent grant schemes, with theintention of making the applicationprocess as streamlined as possible.

What ScottishHeadquarterscando tohelpStaff members and volunteers at SHQ are very keen tooffer advice and practical help to all Sections, Groupsand Districts who might benefit from financial support.Advice and help by email or over the telephone isreadily available, and Programme and Developmentstaff are very willing to travel into Districts to offerface-to-face help and support.

However, we cannot offer help if we don’t know wherethe help is needed. We would very much like toreceive more applications at Scottish Headquarters,particularly from Sections, Groups and Districts whichhave previously never applied and who have not beenrecipients of grant funding in the past. So if you havea particular project in mind, or you simply want to findout more and discuss how grant funding might be ofhelp, then get in touch.

WhatyourRegionmightdo tohelpDevelopment is everyone's responsibility, but the eightScouting Regions in Scotland have been specificallytasked with delivering development support toDistricts, Groups and Sections. The RegionalCommissioner and the Assistant RegionalCommissioner (Development) in each Region shouldbe able to help identify development priorities in yourDistrict, and offer help, advice and support. Theyshould be in a position to help you to understand thevarious funds available, and may know of other localgrant aid which could be forthcoming.

Please note that at time of going to print, we areawaiting a final decision from the ScottishGovernment on the longer term continuation of theCashBack for Communities Small Grants Scheme,but do anticipate a positive outcome. Our advice tomembers is to consider the Scheme to be goingahead as normal, subject to any announcements onthe Scouts Scotland website.

7PATHFINDERDevelopment Grant Funding---------- -- ---- --- --- --- --- -- -- - - - - --- - - - -

How to apply for funding from the

Development Grants Board

Detailed information about grants

available from the DGB can be found by

accessing The Scout Association's website

(www.scouts.org.uk) and following the link

to Fundraising, then Grantsfrom Head

Office, then Development Grants Board in

the Member Resources section.

Many applications are received every yearand though not all are successful, manyare. There are a number of reasons whymany Sections and Groups don’t apply:

• A lack of awareness of the fundsavailable- "we don't know what we canapply for" – hopefully this article willhelp a little;

• A perceived lack of eligibility- "webelieve we won’t be successful if weapply" – anecdotally, those most likely tosucceed may be the least likely to apply;

• A lack of understanding of theapplication process – this is designedto be straightforward, and help isavailable;

• Some may find the application processchallenging in itself- "what do we writeon the application form?" – again, helpis available;

• An inability to demonstrate accuratefinancial record keeping in the Group orDistrict – this is a particular challengewhich might need prompt action.

Some or all of these may mean that anapplication is either never submitted, or isunsuccessful, despite a Section, Group orDistrict meeting all eligibility criteria on thegrounds of need.

How to deal with commonchallenges in applying for funding

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

“I am not sure whethermy Section, Group orDistrict is eligible for

grant funding.”

All I can say is… just ask!

KeyDates:-- - - ---- ---- - --• Scottish Development Fund Deadlines:

1st February, 1st May, 1st September, 1stNovember every year.

• CashBack for Communities Fund Deadlines:1st March, 1st June, 1st September,1st December every year.

• SHQ Special Needs Fund: Applications arewelcomed on ongoing basis

• UK Headquarters DGB: Applications arewelcomed on ongoing basis

Sandi Thom, a singer/songwriterfrom Banff, Aberdeenshire, rose tofame with her debut single, ‘I Wish IWas A Punk Rocker (With Flowers InMy Hair)’, wowing the nation andselling almost 40,000 copies duringits first week, with huge internationalsuccess as well. With her new albumjust finished, Explorer Scouts LiamGordon and Hannah Falconer recentlymet with Sandi to discuss her inspiringexperiences, and this is their report.

Since ‘I Wish I Was A Punk Rocker’, Sandi has

relocated to California and has released several

albums including ‘The Pink & The Lily’ (2008)

and ‘Merchants and Thieves’ (2010). Sandi

described her experiences after Punk Rocker as

‘wild’. She said that she was able to see places

she hadn’t seen and meet people she would never

have met. She feels it was a great way to appear

on the music scene.

Sandi has recently completed work on her newalbum, ‘Flesh and Blood’, which at time of writingwas due to be released on August 27th 2012.

Experience CountsSpeaking to us via Skype from her home in California,Sandi said that this album is different to her otheralbums because it is all about her. She also feels thatthis album is her ‘coming of age’ album.

“I made this without the people who were involved inthe last couple of albums, so it was an entirely newexperience for me to make an album with newmusicians and a new producer. This is really the firstrecord I feel I have full ownership of, because all theother albums I’ve made were never 100% me.”

Speaking of her runaway success with “I Wish I Was APunk Rocker”, and what she has come to learn aboutherself and the music industry, Sandi said that everyexperience we have contributes to who we are.

“I’m at least six years older than when I wrote my firstalbum so I think in that time my life has changed and sohas my music. Everything is a reflection of either what’sgoing on in my world or in the world at the time so I don’tset out to better the previous record but hope that it does.”

“Everybody wants to make a record that reaches out toeveryone in the world and whose music is timeless and willforever be. So if I’ve done that with this album then I’mpretty happy.”

AnAudienceWithSandi Thom-- - - - --- ----------

9PATHFINDERAn Audience with Sandi Thom

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Finding Your VoiceOne of the songs in the new album is a duet withBuffy Sainte-Marie, a Native American Folk singer,which is a cover of her song ‘Big Ones Get Away’. Onher website (www.sandithom.com) Sandi states thatthis song is the reason she first became asinger/songwriter.

“Because [Buffy Saint-Marie] is a Native AmericanIndian she wrote the song about their plight and howthey were mistreated by colonial Americans. For methe song really connected to the fact that when I was

a little girl I didn’t reallyknow how to speak topeople, I realised thatbeing a singer gave you avoice and she kind ofshowed that to me.”

Another song in the newalbum is called ‘Lay YourBurden Down’ and wasan emotional song forSandi to sing. Sandiexplains that themessage behind thissong is that life is tooshort to live in the past:“Without letting go, I willnever know, the lovethat’s real.” She tells usthat her mother alwayssaid to her that “thepast is a foreign landand we don’t speakthe language.” Sandibelieves that the onlyreason songs last for

decades is because of the emotionpeople put into them at the time.

“I think that an audience can definitely tell if you’rebeing emotionally honest and I think that’s one of thereasons why music sells. If you can connect with theperson who’s singing the song and really feelsomething deep down inside, then it’s quite apowerful thing.”

This has rung true in a number of unique experiencesfor the singer, who recounted that someone once senther a message on Facebook explaining that they werea paramedic and that once they were working on aheart attack victim when one of her songs, ‘UngratefulHeart’, came on their ambulance’s radio, and it hadactually slowed the woman’s heart down and helpedto save her.

“It’s incredible what kind of effect music can have on ahuman being, you know, that’s really why I do what I do.”

Sandi’s music clearly ‘reaches out’ to people and themessage behind her songs is certainly inspirational.

Sandi said that for anyone wanting to become a singerthey must first understand that it is extremely difficultand that what you see on the face of it all is not half ofwhat goes on behind the scenes. She said “if youwant something in life you should go for it. But if youare very, very good then one day you will be noticedbecause people can’t ignore quality.”

Inspiration starts at homeSo what inspires Sandi Thom and has influenced herin the development of her career? It seems that eventhough she is an international singing star, familycomes first. Sandi said that her mum is a hugeinfluence on her, and that she admires her mother forhow she has always been very determined.

“Other artists inspire me, definitely, in the way thatthey not only make music but the way they run theirmusic as a business. My boyfriend [American bluesrock guitarist and singer Joe Bonamassa] inspires meas his success story is so unique and it’s completelythrough determination. People that are closest to meare actually the ones that inspire me the most.”

And what does Sandi think of Scouting? Sandi told usthat her brother was a Scout and she was a Brownie.Whilst interviewing Sandi she often mentioned howher determination was one of her most definingqualities. This is also a well-known value of Scouting,and her story of determination should be aninspiration to many aspiring Scouts out there.

Sandi very kindly played an exclusive acoustic set atthe Blair Atholl International Scout Jamborette thissummer, sharing her music with Scouts from all overthe world. You can read more about Blair AthollJamborette on pages 18 and 19.

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She has supported George Michael, TheProclaimers and Snow Patrol.

A Children in Need auction winner paid£17,000 for Sandi to play in their living room.

She has performed a duet with first ministerAlex Salmond.

She once performed on top of the BT Towerin London.

If she could be anyone for the day she'd bethe Queen.

aboutSandiThom:

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Exciting Activities to supportScouting Badge programmes

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INSPIRING – CHALLENGING – FUN!

Imagineering models constructed from kits using simple tools –focusing on science, technology and skills.

For information and costs: Bob Young e: risdy@btinternet.com www.imagineering.org.uk

Kits available from Imagineering Scout Package include

Aero-Glide Magnetic Compass Telescope Morse Key & Buzzer

Packs includeInstructor Notes Building Instructions Worksheets

The Chief Scout Bear Grylls is famous for achieving someimpressive feats in his life, but for many Scottish Scouts

they will most fondly remember the day that he dropped inon their Scout camp. During 18th and 19th May 2012,

Bear visited 11 different Scout events all over Scotland,seeing nearly 10,000 Scouts! Here, we share highlights ofthe weekend as a pull-out souvenir. Written and conceived

by Network Scout Members Isla Todd and Louise Reilly.

Bear inthe Air

18th & 19th May

South West Region: The ChiefScout’s weekend began in Ayr where

Bear landed by helicopter in Rozelle Park,surprising 1500 Scouts who wereenjoying a Regional Fun Day. Here heenjoyed meeting members and takingpart in a few of the activities on offer.

West Region: The next stop wasLapwing Lodge in Paisley where

adventure activities were going on forkids of all ages, from Beaver to NetworkScouts. Explorer Scouts Liam Watsonand Linzi MacCallum were chosen toescort Bear around the different bases.

Lochgoilhead National ActivityCentre: The next stop was the

beautiful shores of Lochgoilhead whereBear went for quick tour on the lochbefore visiting the Centre where he metthe Argyll District Cubs who werecompeting in the Annual John LogieChallenge trophy. Well done to thewinners, 26th Argyll (Sandbank)!

Highlands & Islands Region: Bearonce again took to the air to travel

to the Highlands of Scotland where aRegional camp was taking place on thebanks of Loch Ness. All ages fromCubs through to Network and beyondtravelled from as far as Orkney andLochaber to take part in the ‘Elements’themed camp. Bear tested them ontheir knowledge of Scouting and wasimpressed when even the Cub Scoutsknew the answer!

North East Region: Bear made aquick stop in Turiff where a

District camp was taking place. He metand spoke with members who weretaking part in everyday camp activitiesbefore he continued onto Templar’sPark. Here, after visiting and chatting tothe Scouts, Bear left signs of his visit bysigning the guest book and leaving hishandprint on the graffiti wall.

East Region: Next, Bear droppedin on a multi-District Scout Patrol

competition and a Cub Scout camphappening at Tannadice Scout ActivityCentre, just south of Aberdeen. Hechatted to Scouts who were working onbushcraft skills.

Fordell Firs National ActivityCentre: Fordell Firs was the ninth

stop for Bear Grylls where a campingcompetition was taking place withsurvival skills being the activity ofchoice for the weekend. Bear wowedthe crowds by having a go on theKing Swing.

Forth Region: A ‘BearwoodBonzana’ was in full swing at Forth

Region's Barrwood campsite whereover 3000 Scouts gathered to challengeBear to a space hopper race or have ago at the obstacle course.

South East Region: Bear finishedoff his visit to Scotland by

dropping in on Longcraigs ScoutCentre. There he took to the waters ofthe Firth of Forth under a clear bluesky for a quick spin in the powerboat.When he got back to dry land, hechatted with members about howmuch he had enjoyed his trip toScotland and thanked them forinviting him.

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Clyde Region: From there Bearjourneyed to Auchengillan Outdoor

Centre where a District campingcompetition was taking place. He wasmet by Explorer Scouts Callum Stuartand Victoria Holdstock who showedhim around the bases where 300Scouts were being tested on differentskills required for camping.

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Rozelle Park, Ayr

Regional Fun Day with 1500 Scoutstaking part in variety of fun activitybases such as space hopper races.

Lapwing Lodge, near Paisley

Adventure activities day for Scouts of all agesenjoying all that Lapwing has to offer such asarchery and the high ropes course.

Auchengillan Outdoor Centre,near Glasgow

District camping competitionwith 300 Scouts testing skillssuch as first aid, orienteeringand backwoods cooking.

Lochgoilhead NationalScout Activity Centre,Argyll

District camp with manyadventurous activitiesand the exciting annualJohn Logie ChallengeTrophy for Cub Scouts.Well done to 26th Argyll(Sandbank)!

Loch Ness, near Inverness

Regional camp themed ‘The Elements’ for1,000 Scouts from all over the Highlandsand Islands taking part in variety of Scoutgames and team activities. Bear also metwith some Explorer Scouts who took part inthe B&Q Scout Community Week.

Bear inthe Air

18th& 19th

MayScotland

The Haughs Showground,near Turriff:

Scouting event featuringteam activities for youngerSections.

Templar’s Park, Aberdeen:

A Scout Skills Camp where Bear alsoenjoyed the famous Templar’s Campfire.

Jock Neish Scout Centre, near Tannadice

Jam-packed multi-District Scout PatrolCompetition plus a Cub Scout Camp.

Fordell Firs National Scout Activity Centre, near Dunfermline

District camping competition and survival skills weekend wherethe Chief Scout also had a go on the King Swing!

Barrwood ScoutCampsite, near Denny

Bearwood Bonanza – aRegional Fun Day withover 3,000 Scouts andfun activities such as anobstacle course.

Longcraigs Scout Centre,South Queensferry

Regional powerboatregatta with just under100 Scouts and adelicious lookingbarbeque!

?

16 PATHFINDER

Lookingback2007 was a good year for Scouting. It’s hard to believethat it is five years since we celebrated our centenary –and I think we have reason to believe that we reallyturned a corner that year. After a long period ofdecline, our numbers increased during 2007 – and wehave continued to grow ever since. More people –young people and adults - are joining now than at anytime in the last 50 years and there is a buzz about ourMovement which makes it a really exciting place to be.

I don’t believe this is an accident. Whilst the hardwork has been carried out by all those working to growScouting at our grass roots – in the Districts, Groups

and Sections – since 2001 we have all been workingtowards a vision for Scouting in 2012 based on arenewed Programme, Adult Training Scheme andimage. And it’s working!

Looking forwardOf course, Scouting in 2012 is not the final version.We have to keep moving in order to remain as vibrantand relevant as we are just now. The world keepschanging, and so must we. So what I wish to do isask you a simple question – what do you thinkScouting in your patch should look like in 2018?

In other words, do you have a vision for Scoutingin 2018?

Many of you will know that we’ve already been askingthat question, and we now have a renewed vision forScouting beyond 2012. This Vision Towards 2018 hascome about following discussion with young peopleand adults at all levels in the UK Scout Association,and articulates an exciting picture of what is possible– and hopefully, though it may not feel like it now,what is probable.

What itmeansVision n. a vivid concept or mental picture; a pleasingimaginative plan for, or anticipation of, future events(Chambers Dictionary).

I’d like to encourage everyone in Scottish Scoutingto consider what the words in this vision statement

Vision2018:Inspiring Scouting

-- - - - --- ------------- -- -Looking into the future - what is your vision for Scouting in 2018? In

the first of a series of articles, we explore the concept of Vision 2018and what it means for local Scouting. Here, Depute Chief Commissioner

(Region Support) Chris Brammer helps us lay the ground work.

‘’There's nothinglike 'Being

Prepared' isthere, for what

might seempossible, even ifit may not seem

probable.’’B-P

VisionTowards2018

Scouting in 2018 will:

• Make a positive impact in our communities

• Prepare young people to be active citizens

• Embrace and contribute to social change

Scouting in 2018 will be:

• Shaped by young people in partnership with adults

• Enjoyed by more young people and moreadult volunteers

• As diverse as the communities in which we live

Members of Scouting in 2018 will feel:

• Empowered

• Valued

• Proud

17PATHFINDER

mean, and ask themselves what they can do to make ita reality:

• Scouting is rooted in our local communities, but do wealways engage with our communities as we should,and make a positive contribution to them?

• Our Programme is exciting and “Everyday Adventure”is at its core – but we are also very much a “values-driven” Movement and our Programme shouldembody the fundamentals of friendship and peace,teamwork and good citizenship.

• How do we extend our reach to more young people(and adults) who might benefit from our Programme?

• Are we all prepared to meet the needs of young peoplein the 21st century, with all the pressures this brings?

• How can we involve more young people in real decisionmaking in Scouting – not just engage in tokenism – tomake our “Youth Involvement” vision a reality?

• Do we attract and embrace all young people andadults from whatever background?

• Are all our members truly proud to say “I am a Scout!”?Do we make everyone feel valued for their contribution;however much (or little) they have to offer Scouting?

Making it happenI know that all over Scotland many people have beentalking about what they can do to drive our Movement onto the next level. Every Region and District has beenencouraged to have a development plan to grow andimprove Scouting, and these should be shaped by ourVision Towards 2018.

I’d like to encourage every Group and everySection to do likewise. Scouting grows fromits grass roots upwards and we can onlymake our vision a reality by making sure thatevery member at every level does somethingto make it come true.

Of course, a plan written on a piece of paperis worthless unless those charged withcarrying it through get on and deliver – but developmentplanning is a process to help identify what needs to bedone and who might do it.

There are lots of resources available to you now to helpwith development planning, and if you are not sure whereto get started you may wish to contact your AssistantRegional Commissioner (Development) for help.Volunteers and Programme and Development staff at SHQare also very keen to help, so please do get in touch.

‘’Plans areworthless, butplanning iseverything.’’General Dwight DEisenhower

Here you can see an example ofhow some Scout Groups haveembraced development planning inSouth East Region:

South East Region Group Development Day,February 2012

During the Regional Development Project,I have so far worked with seven ScoutGroups to create individual GroupDevelopment Plans. Based on thisexperience it was decided to try a newformat in the second year of the projectand so we brought together another sevenGroups from across the

Region for a one-day facilitated workshopon creating a Group Development Plan.

Also in attendance were members of theRegional Team, SHQ Programme andDevelopment Executive Graeme Luke, andthe Development staff from Clyde Regionwho were all involved in the day by givingpractical support of the Groups attendingand sharing best practice. ChiefCommissioner of Scotland GrahamHaddock also shared some encouragingremarks via a video he recordedspecifically for the day, and HaymarketActive Support Unit provided excellentcatering which many remarked about.

During the day, the Regional Media Teamsought to gather people’s impressions ofthe day and I also garnered feedback atthe end. Here are a few of the comments

that were shared:“My enthusiasm increased just bybeing here today and we haverealised how much the Group hasalready achieved despite the

setbacks we’ve experienced recently. Wenow know that we are heading in the rightdirection.”

“Overall this day was the start of something.An interactive workshop with nodistractions was a blessing and muchneeded.”

“It was great to meet other Groups face-to-face from outside our District and so wehave been able to network, exchange ideasand swap contact details.”

“It was great to take home a plan and notjust some training – and I reallyappreciated that Scott didn’t talk much, i.e.it was interactive and not a lecture!”

“Wish I’d done this sooner!”

“I really appreciated the time to sit with the‘team’ and to work through the issues in ourGroup. The day gave us an opportunity toraise issues that may have usually goneunnoticed.”

CASE STUDY-- - - ---- --

“I valued the immediateresponse to problems fromthe facilitators – great to

have them there.”Scott Burton Local Development Officer,

South East Region

Vision2018

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

The Blair Atholl International Scout Patrol Jamborette, touse its correct title, was started in 1946 by Jack Stewart,then The Scout Association’s International Commissionerfor Scotland. Jack felt that while the World Jamboreesserved a very important purpose in international Scouting,a smaller gathering of Scouts would allow for closercontact and friendships that would be more likely to lastacross the globe – and he was right.

The Jamborette is set up with a structure that makesfriendship impossible to avoid. Within the main campthere are six subcamps (MacDonald, MacLean, Morrison,Murray, Robertson and Stewart). Within each subcampthere are twelve Scottish patrols, each paired with anoverseas patrol. These Scottish-plus-Overseascombinations each form a single working unit for thetwelve day duration of the camp.

Having fun with all of the 144 Scouts on your subcampis the main priority and we are always up for a laugh.A friendly rivalry exists between the subcamps,further uniting Scouts within each as we battle toprove ours is the best, be that by winning thegreatly valued Camp Chief’s Pennant for the bestinspection, or by successfully bombarding theothers with water balloons! Leaders on thesubcamps are called Aunts and Uncles and thesense of home and family within the subcampsmeans that everyone has a place, and no one isever left out.

Another feature of the Blair Atholl Jamboretteare the 45 brilliant activities, ensuring there

is something for everyone. Canyoning, mountain biking,extreme survival, krafts (at Blair Atholl, C is replaced withK. Why? – come next time and find out!), archery, fencing,martial arts, Pitlochry visits . . . the list goes on! There arealso very popular evening activities such as themed discos(Heroes and Villains was one this year), regular campfires,and Blair Fest, a night of entertainment which this yearincluded a surprise performance from Scottishsinger/songwriter Sandi Thom.

In my opinion, there is much to be gained from attendingBlair Atholl Jamborette, but the most important outcomesare the valuable skills learned and the internationalfriendships formed for life.

NEWSKILLS

At Blair Atholl Jamborette, a huge choice of daily activitiesor experiences means that we can learn new skills whilehaving fun. With a chance to try different activitiesthroughout the camp, plus various drop-in sessions in theevenings, there are plenty of opportunities to discover anew passion or hobby such as fencing, or electronics – forexample, iBuild, where this year Scouts were able to buildtheir own iPod docking stations.

We also get to improve our general Scout and camp craftskills simply by sleeping in tents, cooking over an openfire, building a large pioneer dining shelter and maintaininga decent woodpile for the twelve days of the Jamborette.

CONFIDENCEANDTEAMWORK

However, the new skills are only a very small part of thewhole experience. While the Aunts and Uncles onsubcamp and the rest of the staff who run activities play avery important role in the overall running of daily life at theJamborette, each patrol is, for the most part, left tofunction on its own. We Scouts are responsible fororganising a wood pile for the fire twice a day to cookmeals and boiling water for washing up to help towards aclean patrol site and the chance to win the SubcampPennant or even Camp Chief Pennant at inspection.

In this way, Blair Atholl gives us teenagers a uniqueopportunity to carry out tasks and choose activities for thedays using our own judgement, and to live, work andsocialise in a multi-cultural, international, fully-functioningcommunity, complete with a Post Office, the ‘Bank ofScoutland’, Scout Shop, Computer Tent, Mini Hospital(First Aid tent) and Tuck Shop.

Another exciting thing about Blair Atholl is learning tocommunicate despite language barriers. Scottish Scoutscould be paired with a country like Russia, where even thealphabet is entirely different. But resourceful as ever,

Notes FromBlair AthollJamborette- - - - --- ------------- -- -

Blair Atholl Jamborette is a two week internationalScout Patrol Camp which unites over 1000 Scouts from around theworld every two years in Blair Atholl, Scotland. Written by ExplorerScout Victoria Holdstock, this article gives an insight into a young

person’s perspective on attending the event.

18 PATHFINDER

we always find a way ofcommunicating, and the lackof a common language haslittle effect on the teamwork orfriendships being formed between thenationalities. Quite often though, none of thisreally matters, as the majority of OverseasScouts who come speak excellent English,some so well they end up correcting someScottish Scouts’ grammar!

INTERNATIONALFRIENDSHIP

As I’ve said, I think the most valuable andrewarding feature of Blair Atholl Jamborette isthe international friendships made for life. Theatmosphere of the site is one in whichfriendships form without any effort at all.

Blair Atholl gives the opportunity to makefriends that you would never otherwise havea chance to meet, in an atmosphere that isunrivalled by any other camp worldwide. Iattended Blair Atholl in 2010 as well, and Iam still in touch from friends in America,Canada, Germany, Austria, Switzerland,Gibraltar, and of course, Scotland that I metthen. I am sure this time will be no different.Even better, one of my closest friends fromlast time, a Canadian called Adam, hascome back again this year – somethingbrilliant that I never expected on signing uptwo years ago.

Along the same lines, Blair Atholl Jamborettegives a unique insight into and appreciationfor other cultures from around the globe,helping Scouts understand more of the worldaround us. This is an altogether invaluableexperience which offers a view of the worldin just twelve days, something very fewpeople are privileged to encounter.

BLAIRATHOLLJAMBORETTE2012

Since 1946 more than 50 countries havebeen represented at Blair Atholl Jamborette,and this year, nineteen of those were present:Austria, Brazil, Canada, England, Finland,Gibraltar, Hong Kong, Ireland, Japan,Northern Ireland, Norway, Russia, Scotland,South Africa, Spain, Sweden, TheNetherlands, USA and Wales.

For Scottish leaders, theJamborette began on Saturday 14thJuly, building the marquees and thelayout of the camp ready for the arrivalof Scottish Scouts on Monday 16th July,when we began setting up the tents,dining shelters, wood piles (basically, ourpatrol sites and the subcamps) inpreparation for the arrival of the OverseasScouts on Tuesday 17th. The Tuesday wasa day for settling in and getting to know ourOverseas guests, and finalising setup of thecamp.

On Wednesday activities began, with asession in the morning and then theafternoon, the first taste of what was to followover the next ten days. Feedback was verypositive, with everyone appearing to haveenjoyed the water sports, or Blair AKToR, orKrafts, or team sports. Fires were started inthe evening to cook dinner, and aftereverything was sorted, all Scouts were free toenjoy the Disco from the Krypt.

This format remained more or less the samefor the rest of camp, with evening activitiesincluding a music festival, internationalshowcase, and a ceilidh. One exception wasVisitor’s Day when families of the ScottishScouts were allowed to visit the Country Fareand spend our special ‘Atholls’ currency topurchase food and trinkets from all thedifferent nationalities’ stalls. That eveningthere was a whole-camp campfire, and onSunday a very special Scouts’ Own where wereflected on our experiences so far.

The final full day of camp started with thetraditional “muck up” inspection, whereeach subcamp did something ridiculoussuch as running around camp in sleepingbags. The final campfire was a sad event,realising that we will not see many of theclose friends that we made over the previoustwelve days, but we do know that the goodmemories would always live on.

Peter Bratcher (1) was the firstScottish Scout to run with theOlympic Torch on 8 June. TheCub Scout Leader of the 62ndFife (Crossford) Scout Group was“over the moon” when he heard hewas going to run in Ayr with theOlympic Flame. “I’ve been a CubScout Leader for over ten years and it’snice to be recognised.” Peter wasnominated by colleagues through theLloyds TSB, an official partner of theLondon Olympic Games, which began ascheme in 2011 where it asked people to

nominate someone who they thought had made adifference in their community.

Ian Caird also ran on the 8 June with theOlympic Flame, although he ran throughKilmarnock near Glasgow. Ian Caird is anAssistant Scout Leader for the 12thAyrshire Scout Group, and also doesother voluntary work.

“It didn’t fully hit me until I was there running with thecrowds cheering and the Torch in my hand. It broughtthe Olympics a lot closer to home as Scotland’s quiteremoved from it all. I was gobsmacked as it was aonce in a lifetime opportunity.”

Chris Pinnell (2) is not only a Scout Leader of some 36years, but is also a Training Advisor supportingleaders through the Adult Training Scheme inGordon District. Chris was nominated through hisemployers at Atkins Global, an Official Provider ofthe London 2012 Olympic Games. Chris felt‘honoured and privileged’ that he had been chosen,and even took things one step further, as afterrunning with the Torch, he spent the next two weeksgoing round to schools and Scout Groups givinginspirational talks. Chris also attended Blair AthollInternational Jamborette in July where he and threeother Scout torchbearers joined the final campfirewith over 1000 Scouts.

Scott Richards (3) ran in Berwick upon Tweed with theOlympic Torch on 14 June for his work as an AssistantScout Leader.

“I got off the bus and the crowd immediately startedtaking photos of me with the Torch. My wife andfamily had made up a banner saying ‘Scobes, youlight my fire’ as ‘Scobes’ is my nickname. I waslaughing so hard at the banner that I almost missedthe mayor of Berwick waving! I felt I was representingthe community by running, and it was wonderful. Ithink that the Olympics and Scouting have the same

ideals of friendship, unity and community.”

Colin Macgregor (4) was nominated for hiswork as a Scout Leader by Iomart plc,

also through the Lloyds TSBnomination programme. Colin

ran with the Olympic Torch inNewburgh on 12 June. Onbeing nominated he said,

“I am humbled by thethought that I had been

nominated – I know there areplenty of people out there whodo as much and many who do

more than me in their localcommunity who have not

been nominated. In mywork as a volunteerI aim to helpyoung peoplebecome bettercitizens – ageneration of outwardlooking adults wantingto give of themselvesfor their community andtheir world, able to live inthe global village as a

20 PATHFINDER

This year’s most talked about event is the London 2012 Olympics.And with over half a million Scouts in the UK it’s no surprise thatsome of us were involved in the famous lead up to the Olympics, by

carrying the Olympic Torch. Here, Isla Toddcatches up with some of the Scottish

Scouts who helped carry the Flamearound Scotland.

OlympicFever

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1

2

3

4

confident and able person. I love beinginvolved in Scouting and I am sure Iget as much out of it as the Scoutsdo. It gives me the opportunity todo things that I would not eventry otherwise. I love workingwith young people and I

think that keeps you young atheart – it is great when you know

you have made a positive differenceto someone’s life.”

Charles Reith (5) ranthrough Newburgh on12 June. “On theday I was tryingto make sure

nothing went wrong.It was a nice weeturn out, whichmade it morepersonal for myself.I was nominatedthrough work at Lloyds TSBwho actually tricked me. Theysaid they were making changes in thework place and had camera crews around,and when they finally told me I had beennominated to run with the Torch for mywork with the 24th Glasgow Scouts, I wastotally shocked. Totally gobsmacked, and myreaction was filmed on camera!”

Kevin Mitchell (6) is also part of 62nd Fife(Crossford) Scout Group, the same as Peter Bratcher(Scout runner number one above). However, Kevin wasnominated by some of his old Venture Scouts for hiswork in the Scottish Scouts Seven Summits Expeditions(SSSE) as well as volunteering with the Mountain RescueTeam. The Scottish Scouts Seven Summits Expeditionswas an idea to have put a Scout on the seven highestpeaks around the world.

“I was really honoured and proud to have beennominated and gotten through to run with the OlympicTorch. I found it really humbling to meet the other peoplerunning in the same area and hear their stories.

For more information about the Scottish Scouts SevenSummits Expeditions, visitwww.greenockanddistrictscouts.org/our-carrie-climbs-everest

Nineteen year old John Beaton (7) was the youngest Scoutin Scotland to run with the Torch through HopetounHouse on the 13 June. In addition to his historic run withthe Torch, Jon also volunteered as a Games Maker inLondon during August. John said, "The atmosphere waselectric and it was great to see a number of faces I knewfrom Scottish Scouting there to support me. It was a dayto truly remember and I hope I did Scottish Scouting

proud andrepresented theOrganisation to the highest standards."

Erika Pryde (8) from Dalkeith tells us her story: “I wastold I had been nominated by my son and his girlfriend.”Erika is the Assistant District Commissioner forMidlothian, and a Scout Leader of two Scout Troops. Shealso volunteers in the local church, and organizes a localarea pantomime, a summer holiday club, as well assomehow finding time for yearly Christmas fundraising.

“I thought it was ridiculous they had nominated me.Other people had done more or overcome biggerproblems. I didn’t think there was any way I would getchosen so I put it to the back of my mind. When I got theemail I was overawed. I didn’t feel I deserved it. But itwas still fantastic, brilliant and amazing. My Scouts werethere when I was running through Loanhead, and one ofthem was playing the bagpipes. Some of the Scouts wereeven running alongside the street parallel to me. Peoplefrom my church, and work colleagues were also there. Itwas all pretty impressive.”

These stories are just a few of the 100 Scouts from acrossthe United Kingdom who got the honour of carrying theOlympic Torch this year. Congratulations to all ourmembers who have taken part in the Olympics asvolunteers or Torchbearers – we are proud of you!

Olympic Fever

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

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National CampingCompetition Final

15th – 16th September2012

Fordell Firs NationalActivity Centre

Scouts George Walkerscoutsection@scouts-scotland.org.uk

Glens Challenge 21st – 23rd September2012

Jock Neish Centre,Tannadice, near Forfar

Scouts George Walkerscoutsection@scouts-scotland.org.uk

Scout Network Caper 28th – 30th September2012

Avondyke ScoutTraining Centre,Stonehouse

Scout Network William McFarlanessnc@scouts-scotland.org.uk

Scottish Scout Regatta 29th – 30th September2013

Lochgoilhead NationalActivity Centre

Scouts Neil Bairdneilb@lochgoilhead.org.uk

BASP 2-dayEmergency First AidCourse

November 2012& March 2013

(Dates TBC)

Meggernie NationalActivity Centre

Volunteers/ Staff Judith Potterwarden@meggernie.org.uk

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Cally Rally 19th – 21st October2012

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Halloween Camp 26th – 28th October2012

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

23PATHFINDER

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