UK Scouting Centenary 2007
2007 is the UK centenary of Scouting. The official Centenary 2007 website provides information about the celebrations that will take place throughout the year. Shavington will be celebrating too, and further details will appear here over the next few months. The following article appeared in January's edition of Shavington's "Village Voice" newsletter.
Q. What do the following famous people have in common?
Neil Armstrong, Alan Titchmarsh, Sir Paul McCartney, Stephen Spielberg, Ray Mears, Billy Connolly, Sir David Attenburgh, David Beckham, Chris Tarrant, Jeremy Paxman, Michael Owen and Jason Donovan?
A. They are all former members of the Scout Association!
Scouting celebrates its Centenary in 2007!
It is 100 years since Robert Baden Powell, fresh from his success in the Boer War, took a group of 20 boys to camp on Brownsea Island to begin their military-style training which he believed would foster "responsible citizenship". These were the first Boy Scouts, and his famous book "Scouting for Boys" was published shortly after. The rest, as the saying goes, is history.
Today, Scouting is an international organisation with members in well over 200 countries. It trains young people between the ages of 6 and 25 through a progressive programme of activities and awards. Its basic Principles and Values remain much the same today as they were then, but the organisation has developed and evolved over the years. It now offers unique opportunities for adventure whilst developing self-confidence and character, loyalty, respect for others, self-worth and leadership skills (to name but a few things) in a safe environment. And, it's also a lot of FUN! The main emphasis is still on outdoor activities and camping, but the range of activities now available has expanded to satisfy the needs of young people in the 21st century. Scouting is open to all, regardless of background, offering equal opportunities and developing talents, helping to prepare young people for adulthood.
Scouting is alive and well in Shavington - our own Group has been in existence for more than 78 years. We have active Beaver Scout, Cub Scout and Scout sections run by a small but committed team of adult Leaders and helpers who give their time voluntarily, and who are supported by an equally-dedicated fund-raising Committee.
During 2007 our Scouts will take part in local and District special events and challenges to commemorate and celebrate this milestone and create memories which will stand the test of time.