Scouts in conversation…
Scouts from Scout’s perspective…
In this blog, Connie talks to her friend Skye about some of their experiences as part of the 4th Stafford Scouts…
We joined the 4th Stafford Beavers when we were 6 years old and have now been a part of the 4th Stafford Scout family for over 6 years. Our experience of Beavers and Cubs was a bit different to normal because of the online meetings during COVID, but that didn’t stop us from meeting up every Friday evening (until our Gang Show Dress Rehearsal last week, but more of that later…).
In scouts, we’ve had the opportunity to take part in loads of activities and adventures including caving, kayaking, climbing, coasteering (my favourite), archery and axe throwing (Skye’s favourite) and lots and lots of camping. Our meeting nights have included running our own parliament, learning to pioneer and build our own camping structures and lots of map reading across Cannock Chase. We’ve also been able to volunteer to help at local events such as railway exhibitions and supermarket bag packing and take part in parades for St George’s Day and Remembrance Sunday.
We have been on camps all across the country including week-long camps in the Lake District and the Isle of Wight and even carrying all of our equipment on kayaks to camp on a small remote island.
Lord Stafford Cup
In 2024 we won the Lord Stafford Cup. This is a yearly camping competition where scouts from across the District compete to camp independently for a weekend – we pitch our own tents, manage our own fire and cook all of our own meals. Winning the cup was an amazing experience that tested our skills and independence as we overcame the challenges put in front of us (and even better, we were treated to KFC for winning!).
Gang Show
The Gang Show is held every two years and is an opportunity for scouts from all around the district to come together and perform a variety show. This is a great opportunity for making friends who have a similar interest in scouting. We were part of the 25th anniversary Gang Show in 2023 as ‘scubs’ (just left cubs and just starting scouts) and have recently completed the 5 performances of the 2025 Gang Show.
None of these experiences would be possible without our amazing team of leaders who have given us the opportunity to make life-long friends, develop confidence and learn skills for life.