13th-18th April 2014

Easter Camp 2014

Click here for the 2014 Easter Camp mini-site.

20th-22nd September 2013

Parent & Child Camp 2013

Last weekend was the 46th annual Parent & Child camp at Earleywood. This year, the theme was UK - OK and over 300 people attended the camp and took part in variouos games based around the British Isles.

Sixth Bracknell had three teams this year; "Chaz & Daves", "Here's one I made earlier" and "Best of British".

Click here for photos.

Click here for video of the crew (and Skip) dancing round the maypole.

Monday 29th July 2013

Summer Camp 2013!!

Click here for the 2013 Summer Camp mini-site.

Saturday 18th May 2013

Last night was the Beaver sleepover at Earleywood.

Nala will be writing a review soon...

Click here for photos

Wednesday 15th May 2013

Last Friday, Bob Sims the founder of 6th Bracknell Scout Troop, sadly passed away. The Troop was founded in the early 50s and Bob was Scout Leader for many years, including when Skip joined the group as a Cub in the mid-60s.

Bob was also the church caretaker after retiring from the local bus company.

I'm sure you will join us in sending our condolences to Bob's family.

Monday 25th March 2013

Summer Term newsletter: please click here

Monday 18th March 2013

Well done to all the Cubs, Scouts and Explorers - we raised £70 for Comic Relief on Monday with our fancy dress/non-uniform and games night!

2012

Beaver Sleepover

Friday night saw the start of our spy themed Beaver sleepover, after arriving and setting up their beds the Beavers made a place mat for Saturday’s Christmas lunch. The Beavers then went outside to practice their observation skills to find hidden clues. The clues spelt the message that set them on their next activity to make a night light.

After enjoying hot chocolate and cake the night light making was a fantastic success and they gave us a light show in the dark. They then made a disguise kit so they could disguise a photo of themselves and see how adding a beard, hat or a pair of glasses could make them unrecognisable. By 8.30pm the Beavers were beginning to get tired and got ready for bed and had a bedtime story. By 10pm some had fallen asleep and the other had quietened down. The adult volunteers for the weekend, Alison Sinclair, Peter Fowle, Diane Biggins and Betty Scurry then sat down to colour in their place mat.

Saturday Morning saw an early start with one bedroom giggling and whispering at 5.10am. By 5.30am most of the Beavers were awake playing with games, jigsaws or colouring in. As soon as the adult volunteers had had their first coffee and packed their kit the Beavers got dressed and packed their kit. Hopefully the valuable lesson of keeping all their kit in their bag was learnt because they spent a long time sorting everything out. Once the bedrooms were tidy it was breakfast time. Alison had cereal and scrambled eggs on toast ready which went down a treat.

The first activity for the day was to hunt for spider webs; the Beavers got dressed up in hats, gloves and coats and went to find a spider web. It was soon time to return indoors to make a plaster cast of a footprint. This was achieved by making a print in some play dough and pouring in plaster of paris. Snack time was very popular and after a choice of fruit the Beavers tucked into a selection of cakes.

After a parade of disguises and trying to work out who was who Code breaking was next on the agenda and the Beavers tried four different types from Caesar’s code to writing backwards. Like true spies they learnt how to make invisible ink, work out what had been written on a piece of paper and how to take finger prints.

Just before lunchtime it was discovered the Christmas crackers had gone missing and clues had been laid around Earlywood for the Beavers to solve. All their newly learnt skills were put to the test as they raced around to solve the mystery. The Beavers solved the mystery just in time to save Christmas dinner.

Christmas dinner was wonderful and cooked by Alison, we had Melon to start with followed by turkey roast with stuffing, pigs in blankets, Yorkshire puddings and peas and carrots. Neapolitan Ice cream to finish.

Out into the fresh air after lunch where we were joined by another volunteer Simon Elsey who helped the Beaver light a small fire to toast marsh mallows on. A few games of hide and seek saw the Beavers wanting to go home so back indoors to warm up and say goodbye.

A huge ‘Thank you’ to the Volunteers for the sleepover, Alison Sinclair, Betty Scurry, Diane Biggins and Peter Fowle. Thank you also to Simon Elsey for helping with the fire lighting and Richard Creber for helping us tidy up. Also a big ‘Thank you’ to the Cub helper for the sleepover, Joshua.

Click here for photos.

Remembrance Parade

Meet in full uniform by 10am at the Bus station in Bracknell. We will then march to the War memorial for the wreath laying ceremony before marching with the Reading Pipe Band to the service. Parents are welcome to attend both the march and service. Light refreshments will be served upstairs in the British Legion Club afterwards, you can collect your child from here. Please let your leader know before you take your child. The event will be finished around 12.00noon.

Please remember that full uniform is your Beaver/Cub Jumper or Scout/Explorer shirt, necker, smart trousers/skirt and proper shoes - NO TRAINERS OR JEANS! Also, ensure you wear something warm underneath as coats are not allowed.

Photos from Chris Gunton: Photobox

Fireworks Night

Many thanks to the committee for organising the fireworks display last Monday. The weather was perfect - clear and dry - even if the ground was a bit muddy. The soup went down well, as did the sparklers and the Explorers made and burned a Guy on the campfire.

Parent & Child Camp 2012

The theme for the 45th Parent & Child Camp this year was Roald Dahl. 30 Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and their parents went to Earleywood and took part in the activities.

We split ourselves into four teams to take part in 10 activities

We came away with some of trophies listed below:

• Fantastic Mr. Fox Banquet - Winner - The Twits
• Fantastic Mr. Fox Mask - Second Place - The Snozzcumbers
• Trading Post - Second - 6th Bracknell

A big thanks to all who attended, and a special thanks to Chris Gunton who helped us transport all the equipment to and from Earleywood.

Click here for photos.

Photos from Chris Gunton: Photobox

Scouts/Explorers Bowling

For their last meeting of the term, the Scouts and Explorers went bowling.

Click here for photos.

Olympic Torch Visits the Beavers

Tonight the Beavers invited Riley’s dad, Robin, in to talk to them about when he carried the Olympic torch. Robin was nominated because of his work as a school Governor at a local school. The Beavers asked lots and lots of questions.

Click here for photos.

Important Notice

Tonight, we distributed a notice informing you of new meeting times for Beavers and Cubs. From September, the Beavers will meet from 4:45pm to 5:45pm, and Cubs will start at 6:00pm until 7:15pm. Scouts and Explorers are unchanged; 7:30pm to 9:00pm.

Click here to read the notice.

Beavers Light Fires

Last night saw the beavers lighting ‘cook’ fires at Earleywood Scout Camp, cooking hot dogs and s’mores. Everyone got a fire lit, even though the conditions were on the damp side. The Beavers were very well behaved and did most of the work themselves. Some beavers really enjoyed the fire lighting, some the eating, and some jumping in the muddy puddles.

Click here for photos.

BBQ At Earleywood

Thanks to all who turned up for the BBQ at Earleywood - and thanks to the committee members who organised the whole event.

Click here for photos.

Beavers Bug Hunt

On the 2nd of July the Beavers spent a very wet Monday at Lily Hill park tip toeing through the meadow searching for bugs, they found all manner of bugs, crickets , grasshoppers, frogs and froglets, leaf bugs and even butterflies. They saw common orchids but these were not as exciting as the things that move.

Click here for photos.

Dave Higgs Challenge

This weekend saw some of the Scouts taking part in the annual Dave Higgs Challenge. This is a competition in which teams of up to six Scouts pit their skills against each other in a series of bases, in order to win the Dave Higgs Trophy.

This year, we were one of five teams taking part, and started off with the chariot race, where the Scouts must construct a chariot from pioneering poles to carry a kayak round an obstacle course. Having won that event, we went on to the bases which consisted of things like Nerf shooting, the water relay, tarpaulin folding, a golf base, etc.

By the end of the bases, the scores were incredibly close and we were in third place, two points behind the leaders! Next came the dressing up relay, where each member must run down the course, putting on garments along the way, before taking them off again in the correct order on the way back. At the end of the relay, three teams were tied for first position, with us among them.

This meant a tie-break, so the three teams re-ran the dressing-up relay, and this time we finished second, giving us our best result ever in the competition!

Well done to our three Scouts - Adele, Harriet and Joe - who got very wet and had a great time.

Click here for photos.

Beavers Visit Jealotts Hill Farm

On the 18th June Beavers enjoyed a night at Jealotts Hill Farm with a tractor trailer ride, a tour of the milking parlour, learning about the different crops grown on the farm, how they encourage wild life and wild flowers, visiting the calves being fed and walking through lots of muddy puddles.

Click here for photos.

Beavers Wide Game

On the 11th June, Beavers took part in a wide game the young leader and scout helper had designed. The Beavers were stranded in a rain forest and had to look after a baby monkey while they tried to attract a rescue. It was a rainy rain forest type of evening. The Beavers had a river crossing, made a shelter for the baby monkey and created a SOS sign and flag out of leaves and branches. Other tasks included finding a jungle puzzle and making a comfortable nest for the baby monkey. They were rewarded with leaves for their baby monkey and happily all Beavers escaped from the rain forest.

Click here for photos.

Jubilee Camp 2012

Please click here to access the mini-site for our Jubilee Camp 2012

Mount Olympus Challenge

To mark the 2012 Olympics 1st Sunningdale set themselves the Herculean Challenge of climbing the height of Mount Olympus (2,917m) during the two days of this year's AGM & Parent and Child Camp, by scaling the heights of the Earleywood Climbing Tower (8m) ... a mere 365 times.

However such a Herculean attempt needed the help from other local Scout Groups and 6th Bracknell stepped up to the challenge. This afternoon saw 6th Bracknell Beavers scale 196 meters between them. Well done to everyone who participated.

Photos from Chris Gunton: Photobox

Beavers Visit Fire Station

On the 14th May the Beavers went to visit the Bracknell Fire Station. We were shown where the fire fighters sleep, eat and watch telly. We found out all about the clothes and equipment they wear in a fire and to put out fires. We saw the fireman’s pole they slide down but the Beavers were not allowed to use it. The Beavers climbed all over the Fire Engine and we even saw the emergency rations of biscuits they keep on the Fire Engine. A fantastic time was had by all.

Click here for photos.

St.George's Day Parade

Today, 6th Bracknell took part in the annual St. George's Day parade through the town. We walked from the library, past the bandstand and into St. Joeseph's Church.

Click here for photos of the rehersal for the St George play

Parade photos to follow soon...

2011

Cubs Christmas Dinner

Thank you to every one for my lovely gifts. We all had a fab time at the Downshire Arms for our Cubs Christmas meal. Well done to all the cubs, yet again they behaved very well. We all sang Christmas carols to end the evening. I will miss you all and hold lots of very fond memories in my heart. xxAkela.xx

Click here for photos.

Beaver Sleepover

Simba: Another very good Beaver Christmas sleepover; all the Beavers behaviour was very good; lots of wonderful craft and a very yummy Christmas dinner. Most of the Beavers had 2nd or 3rd helpings. A massive thank you to Alison Sinclair for cooking the dinner.

Akela: A most enjoyable weekend. Well done to all the Beavers for their good behaviour and fab manners. Cooking dinner for them all was a pleasure and the fact they had 2nds and 3rds was amazing. Well done. Happy Christmas to you all love Akela. x

Click here for photos.

Our Show

Tonight, the Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers performed sketches and songs on stage. The Beavers sang some songs; the cubs sang and performed a sketch; the Scouts had worked on sketches in patrols; and the Explorers performed some classic Scout skits.

Photos from Chris Gunton: Photobox

Remembrance Parade

We had a brilliant turnout from 6th Bracknell today for the remembrance day parade. Everybody was well turned out, and on their best behaviour.

We met up at the bus station and walked down to the war memorial, where Francesca and Oliver layed the wreath on behalf of South East Berkshire Scouts. After the two minutes silence, we moved off down through the town, onto the ring road to Holy Trinity Church for the service.

A big thank you to everyone who came along and well done!

Click here for photos. Thanks to John Maynard for the photos of Oliver and Francesca laying the wreath.

Photos from Chris Gunton: Photobox

Newsletter

12th November – Earleywood working day - 10.00am to 4.00pm.

13th November – Remembrance Parade, Holy Trinity Church, Bracknell.

14th November – Executive Committee Meeting - 6:30pm

19th November – Christmas Fair Leaflet Drop - 10am onwards from church hall

26th November – Christmas Fair - 1pm to 4pm

4th December – Christingle Service - 1pm to 4pm

5th December – Our Show

9th-10th December – Beaver Sleepover

12th December – Last meeting before Christmas break

It is at this time we say a very sad goodbye to Akela and Simba who both after years of service to the group have both decided to stand down from their roles. As of January the Beaver section will be run by Sunflower, and the Cub section will be run by Bagheera. The leadership team across all sections have asked me to thank you for your continued support, and, wish you a very happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Guy Fawkes

As usual, for Guy Fawkes night, we had sparklers outside for all sections.

Click here for photos.

Halloween

This year for halloweeen, Techno made some horrible food for the Cubs and Scouts. We had to answer questions, and if we got it wrong, we had to pick one of the horrible foods to eat.

There were eyeballs in slime, used cotton buds with earwax, and wiggly worms!

Click here for photos.

Message from S & SE Berks Gang Show

Please read the message below from Peter Forbes, Deputy District Commissioner of South Berkshire District.

It is our policy that where possible the gang show costs (c.£17K p.a.) are paid for each year out of a combination of ticket sales and fund raising, with some funds set aside for future capital expenditure. An important commitment we have made is to find the means to extend the gang show building at Pinewood to allow for additional scenery and costumes. This will cost many thousands.

Last year, exceptionally we made a loss of several hundred pounds, a situation we can't repeat. Thanks to the work of some parents and supporters, steps are in train to raise money through grants and other sources.

One key opportunity (thanks to Jean Spurgeon for organising this) lies with the NatWest Community Force programme. Our application is on their website http://communityforce.natwest.com/project/3233 - please take a look.

Grants are awarded purely on the basis of the number of votes cast so we need as many people as possible to vote and get their friends and families to vote too – I suspect that the winners get 1000s if not tens of thousands of votes so we have to spread the word.

Parent & Child Camp 2011

The theme for Parent & Child Camp this year was Dr Who. 30 Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and their parents went to Earleywood and took part in the activities.

We Started off on Saturday morning with a fancy dress parade, where 6th Bracknell won the award for best group.

We split ourselves into three teams: "The Time Lords", "Amy's Pond Life" and "The Exterminators" to take part in 10 activities

We came away with plenty of trophies listed below:

• Fancy Dress Parade - Winner - 6th Bracknell
• Invasion of the Daleks - Winner - Amy's Pond Life
• K9 Production Line - Winner - Amy's Pond Life
• Judoon Jail Break - Winner - Time Lords
• Asteroid Hopping - Winner - Time Lords
• Dr Whom??? - Winner - Time Lords
• Dr Whom??? - Second - Exterminators
• Overall Winner of Themed Games - Amy's Pond Life
• Trading Post - Second - 6th Bracknell

A big thanks to all who attended, and a special thanks to Chris Gunton and Andy Lowe who helped us transport all the equipment to and from Earleywood.

Photos from Adrian Stahl: Picasa

Photos from Chris Gunton: Photobox

Video from Dave Long on YouTube: Part 1 and Part 2

Summer Camp 2011

Summer Camp is here again! This year we are at Longridge Activity Centre near Marlow.

As usual, during the camp week, we will endeavour to update the Summer Camp mini-site on a daily basis with information and pictures of the Cubs' and Scouts' activities.

Click here for the mini-site.

Dave Higgs Challenge

Once again this year we entered the Dave Higgs Challenge, which was held at 4th Bracknell HQ. Six scouts took part from our group against teams from 4 other groups in the district.

Events included the Nerf shooting, water obstacle course and bouldering, as well as the dressing-up relay.

Everyone had a great time in the glorious sun.

Click here for photos.

Chief Scout's Gold Award

For the first time in our group's history, this year one of our Scouts has achieved the Chief Scout's Gold Award. Joshua earned eight out of the nine challenge badges since he started Scouts in 2008.

Click here for photos.

Earleywood Hike and Camp

On Saturday, Techno, Gizmo and 12 scouts hiked 6.5 miles from the Methodist Church to Earleywood Campsite. We were joined by five cubs for an overnight camp, and then hiked back to the Methodist Church on Sunday.

Although it rained extreamly hard imediately before we started hiking, the rain stopped just before we left and we didn't see any more all weekend.

The hike took about 3 hrs each way, and everyone had a great time at Earleywood.

Click here for photos.

Cubs Sausage Sizzle

Click here for photos.

St. George's Day Parade and Service

As usual, we will be taking part in the St. George's Day Parade on Sunday 10th April. All units are requested to attend this important date in our Calendar, when the community can see just how well Scouting is flourishing in our District.

Parents are welcome to the service afterwards, but we regret they cannot walk alongside their child or children - please follow on behind the last section of the Parade.

We will be forming up in the area on Broadway near the steps to the library as 2.20pm. At 2.40pm the Parade will move off up Crossway, travel clockwise around the bandstand where the Salute will be taken, then turn to pass the right-hand side of the water clock and proceed to the area in front of Princess Square, where each Group must fall out and move off immediately up the slope to St Joseph's Church to avoid a bottleneck.

The service will commence at 3pm and will be finished by 3:45pm. There will not be a parade after the service - parents are requested to check with their section leaders before taking their children home.

A decision will be made at 2:20pm if the Parade has to be cancelled due to weather. In this event, we will all go straight into the church for the service.

Three Towers Hike

On Saturday, six Scouts will be taking part in the annual Three Towers Hike. The 25km (15 mile) hike starts in Pangbourne and wends its way through the beautiful Berkshire countryside, ending in East Isley.

We wish Becky, Molly, Luke, Aaron M, Callum and Emily the best of luck, and also thanks go to King Louie and Gizmo for co-ordinating the teams on the day.

(Message from Techno: I will be away for the next few weeks and so will post an update of their results when I return.)

Easter Eggs-travaganza

A big thank you to all who came along to the Easter Eggs-travaganza evening yesterday.

We were thrilled at the turnout, and very pleased to see that even in these difficult times, you were still able to support your group. We were able to raise just over £160 in about an hour.

Finally, congratulations to the new (and old) committee members who arranged the event - it was great to see so many of you there to help. We all look forward to the next event!

March Hike #4

The last of our March Hikes was on Saturday, when we followed the 6.7 mile Warfield, 'The Northern Lanes' route. Explorer Aaron and Scouts Becky and Emily, along with Gizmo and King Louie, started out at 10am again in lovely weather, and finished at 1pm.

They each earned one hike towards their Hikes Away Staged Activity Badge.

Click here for photos.

March Hike #3

The third of our March Hikes was on Sunday, when we followed the 4.1 mile Wildmoor Heath, Broadmoor & The Devil's Highway route. Scouts Aaron, Luke, Molly and Callum, and Cub Francesca, Molly's dad Andy, and Flossie the dog started out at 2pm for a third time in glorious sunshine, and finished at around 4pm.

They each earned one hike towards their Hikes Away Staged Activity Badge.

Click here for photos.

March Hike #2

This Saturday, we had three scouts attend the second of our March hikes. Josh, Becky and Seán, along with Seán's dad Michael, Techno, Skip and Archie the dog, followed the 2.8 mile Winkfield Circular Walk. We started out at 11am once again in glorious sunshine, and finished at around 12:15pm.

They each earned one hike towards their Hikes Away Staged Activity Badge.

Click here for photos.

Pancake Night

The Cubs had a great time tonight, making pancakes. Each six mixed their own batter, and each cub cooked themselves a pancake. They were really yummy! Later we had a pancake tossing race, not using the pancakes they had made.

Click here for photos.

March Hike #1

On Sunday, five scouts attended the first of our March hikes. Josh, Callum, Emily, Luke and Seán, along with Seán's dad Michael, King Louie and Techno, followed the 2.5 mile Hill Farm Lane Circuit. We started out at just after 2pm in glorious sunshine, and finished at around 3:15pm.

They each earned one hike towards their Hikes Away Staged Activity Badge.

Click here for photos.

Hovercrafting

As a prize for the patrol competition, the Explorers and Becky Hayes went Hovercraft Racing with Skip and Techno and Ikki. The fastest time was recorded by Ikki with 2 minutes 50 seconds for a two lap race.

Here are the fastest times for each person:

• Ikki - 2:50
• Matt H - 3:09
• Techno - 3:14
• Skip - 3:34
• Aaron C - 3:37
• Sophie - 3:38
• Aaron M - 5:36
• Becky - 6:11

Click here for photos.

For videos, click Matt S, Sophie and Skip, Techno & Aaron C.

For HD videos, click Matt S, Sophie and Skip, Techno & Aaron C. These are large files (~50MB) and may take some time to load on slow connections.

Cubs meet the Fire Brigade

The Cubs had a visit from the Fire Brigade, and spent some time exploring the engine and looking at some of the cool gadgets.

Click here for photos.

Cubs Silver Award Ceremony

Saturday saw the official Chief Scout Silver Award presentation for seven members of our group. This is the highest award achievable by a Cub and Akela and Bagheera were very proud of each and every one of them: Emily Bird, Cameron Tapping, Luke Westwood, Seán Fleming (all now Scouts), Emily Jones, Adam Hawkes and Joe Hope.

Click here for photos.

2010

Scouts Custard Pie Quiz

On our last meeting of 2010, the Scouts decided to have a Custard Pie Quiz. Questions were asked and if they were answered correctly, the Scout could choose to place a pie in the face of a leader or a fellow contestant. If the answer was wrong, they got a pie in their own face!

Click here for photos.

Beaver Sleepover

Simba has sent this report about the sleepover:

Friday

The evening started with setting up the sleeping areas, all the Beavers were keen to help put their own beds up.

We then cut out Christmas shapes from the bread ready for an activity on Saturday. Once all the Beavers had arrived and done their bed and bread shape, we split them up into three groups ready to go on a treasure hunt. Each group had to find 8 CDs with a picture on. We then went back indoors and played some games and sang some camp fire songs while Akela made us some hot chocolate and cake. We then got ready for bed and had some Christmas stories. We were all in bed and asleep by 10pm.

Saturday

After a good night's sleep Grace was the first out of bed. The rest of the Beavers were all up and tidying away their beds shortly after her. We had a lovely breakfast of cereals and scrambled eggs and toast. Once all was tidied away we went out for another hunt and some games of hide and seek (the Beavers hid and Ikki went to find them.)

We then went in and started the craft activities - tree hangers, glass lanterns and Christmas cards.

Akela made a wicked Christmas dinner with melon for starters and Yule log for pudding. All the Beavers tried all the food they were given. A very big thank you to Akela.

We then went for another game or two of Beavers hide and Ikki seek before coming back and doing the rest of the crafts - colouring bats with a ball, stain glass windows and star mobile.

We all helped to tidy up the hall before playing some games and some races; we then got changed into our uniform ready for closing ceremony.

I would like to say well done to the Beavers, as I know for some this was the first time at staying away from home without families. You all behaved very well and made it a pleasure to do the sleepover with you all.

I would also like to thank Akela, Sunflower and Ikki for all their help because if it wasn’t for them helping me we would not be able to do these wonderful sleepovers so THANK YOU ALL.

Click here for photos.

Christingle Parade Service

Members from all sections and their families are invited to attend the Christingle Service on Sunday morning. We need to assemble by 10:15am for the start of the service at 10:30am. The service should take about an hour - please wear full uniform with smart trousers and shoes.

As in previous years, the Church is hoping to donate suitable baby items to the charity Homestart which is set up to support families with children under the age of five years. If you are able to help, we would be grateful if you could bring along any of the following items: baby wipes, baby shampoo, baby talcum powder, baby bath, cotton wool pads, Sudocrem, nappy sacks, teething rings.

Christmas Fete

Yes, it's that time of year again, and we would like to invite you to our church and Scouts joint Christmas fete.

There will be lots of great stalls, including a tombola, Bric-a-brac, toys, safe cracker, lolly-pop hoopla, guess the weight of the cake, pick a straw and others.

Please could you all look to donate items, new gifts, chocolate and good quality toys that we can use for our stalls. All funds from our stalls go back into the Scouts funds for equipment / fun for our children - so a great cause. Any volunteers for stalls or set-up / clear-up would be very welcome to help the day run smoothly. Please can you let Skip know if you can help so we can mark you against a stall and help with planning.

Update: We raised over £150 on Saturday, so a big thanks to all who helped out and also to those who spent their money with us.

Celebration of our Scouting Year!

At our annual AGM this year will be presenting some special scouting awards, so to make this evening more special we are also having some Cheese and Wine and would love to see you all there on the night.

Beavers and Cubs will start at their normal times. From 6:45, the children will help out with the meeting, which should be finished by 7:15 when refreshments will be available. Scouts will also need to be there before 6:45 to present their section report, and then will remain for the Scout meeting at the normal time.

Remembrance Parade

Thanks to all those Explorers, Scouts, Cubs and Beavers who turned out for the Remembrance Parade. After a bit of a mix up with the meeting arrangements, the parade was a great sight to see, and went off without any problems.

Parent & Child Camp 2010

Parent & Child Camp is upon us again!

Here is some information which can be downloaded using the following links. These are the Programme (click here) and information about Parking (click here). Please read this information as it is important.

The documents are in PDF format - to download the Adobe PDF reader, click .

Click here for photos.

Summer Camp 2010

Yes, it's that time of year again - the annual Sixth Bracknell Summer Camp!

This year, we are off to Walton Firs which is just off the A3 at Cobham. For more informatiin click here.

As usual, we will try to update the website with pictures and information about the activities we have been doing each day. Please don't panic if an update is a little late - we do have quite a lot to fit in!

Click here for the mini-site.

Fishing Competition

Some of our Scouts took part in a District fishing competition in June, where they were taught how to put a rod together, bait the hook and catch fish. It was a great success and everyone caught fish all through the sessions.

Click here for photos.

Water Activities Weekend

Last weekend, we went to Longridge Activity Center in Marlow for a weekend of water-based activities. We arrived on Friday evening and, after pitching our tents, we went climbing.

Saturday morning we all got into a bell boat, then after lunch we went kayaking. Finally, on Sunday morning we went Dragon Boating, before striking camp.

Click here for photos.

Doreen Sinclair

Last week, Doreen Sinclair sadly lost her fight with Cancer. The Sinclair family have been involved with 6th Bracknell Scouts since 1964 when Doreen, known as Raksha, took over as Akela. In 1977 she became GSL, finally retiring in 1984 after 20 years with the group.

Since that time, many members of the Sinclair family have been involved with 6th Bracknell Scouts and our thoughts and prayers are with them in this difficult time.

The funeral takes place on Monday 17th May, 10:30am at Easthampstead Crematorium.

Three Towers Hike

After several weeks of preparation, today was the Three Towers Hike - 25 Kms (15 miles) starting in Pangbourne and ending in East Ilsley. Becky, Ben and Matthew started at 8:08 after a full kit inspection and headed off towards the first checkpoint.

The next time I saw them was in Streatley at about 10am, half way between checkpoints 1 and 2. We had a text from them at 12 noon when they left checkpoint 3 which was the half-way point, then a phone call at about 13:00 from checkpoint 4.

Just after CP4, they stopped for some lunch, so were a bit delayed when we saw them at 14:00 between checkpoints 4 and 5. They finally arrived at checkpoint 5 just before 15:00 with just 3 miles left to go.

We met up with them again at 16:49 in East Ilsley, and walked with them to the final checkpoint where they were checked-in at 16:58 - 8 hours and 50 minutes for the full route.

Well done to all three, and thanks to the RAC and Bagheera for their help right at the end!

Click here for photos.

Hike to Earleywood

In preparation for the Three Towers Hike next weekend, six Scouts hiked from the Methodist Church to Earleywood Campsite in Ascot. The route we took was just over six miles, and we completed it in less than 2 hours. Well done to Becky, Ben, Josh, Kieran, Matthew and Molly.

Click here for photos.

Easter Eggs-travaganza - Update

Once again, we would like to thank everyone who helped out with, and came to the Easter Eggs-travaganza. This year we were able to raise over £160 which is a fantastic amount.

Easter Eggs-travaganza

Please remember next week is the Easter Eggs-travaganza! Beavers and Cubs start at the normal times with egg decorating competitions.

At 6:30 parents, friends and relations of all sections are welcome to come along to the Eggs-travaganza for the competition judging, games and a raffle. This will finish at 7:30, after which Scouts will start (almost) as normal.

See you there!

Water-Walkers

The patrol challenge prize for the last two terms was to go in the water-walkers at Coral Reef. Ten Scouts and Explorers were there and we had the flumes available too.

Click here for photos.

Backwoods Camp

Last weekend, 14 Scouts went on a backwoods camp at Earleywood. We cooked all our meals except one over open fires - and on Saturday night, we ate a chilli cooked in a haybox oven.

Even though the temperature at night was below freezing, everyone had a great time.

Click here for photos.

Ikki's 18th Birthday

This week, the Beavers helped Ikki celebrate his 18th birthday with a cake.

Click here for photos.

Beavers Food Bank Donation

The Beavers collected food tobe donated to the Kerith Food Bank for distribution to needy families in Bracknell.

Click here for photos.

South-East Berks Gang Show

Half-term saw the culmination of almost 6 months of rehearsals when the South-East Berks Gang Show was performed in the Wilde Theatre at South Hill Park. Two scouts (Callum and Josh) from 6th Bracknell took part in a fantastic show, which included songs, sketches and jokes.

Well done to everybody who took part, and also to the organisers and back stage crew without whom it couldn't have taken place.

Click here for some backstage pictures of our performers and here for more information about the gang show

Scouts learn First Aid

As part of the requirements for the upcomming Three Towers Hike, the Scouts have also been working on first aid over the last few weeks.

Click here and here for photos.

Beavers learn First Aid

The Beavers are doing their first aid badge and tonight, Sunflower took them through resuscitation and the recovery position. Ikki makes quite a good patient!

Click here for photos.

Visit to Longshot Lane Recycling Centre

Tonight, the Cubs visited the Longshot Lane Recycling Centre. It was an interesting and informative evening - the Cubs greatly enjoyed decorating the reusable shopping bags they were given. Akela and Bagheera were delighted by the Cubs' good behaviour - they were a credit to Sixth Bracknell.

Click here for photos.

Scouts Build Snowmen

Each week the Scouts have a Patrol Challenge to earn points for their patrols. At the end of each term, the winning patrol will receive a prize.
This week, the Scouts took advantage of the snow for their Patrol Challenge, and built snowmen in the Church hall grounds. Well done to the Eagles who won this challenge.

Click here for photos.

Cubs' Junk Eating Monsters

In readiness for their visit to the recycling centre, the Cubs made junk eating monsters with recycling that they had brought in. This went towards their Artist badge which several of them were awarded that evening.

Click here for photos.

Happy New Year

Happy New Year to all members and their families.

Tonight is our first meeting of 2010 and we will be meeting in the Church as normal. Beavers begin at 6pm and end at 7pm, Cubs start at 5:45pm and end at 7:15pm and Scout/Explorers begin at 7:30pm and end at 9:00pm.

The leadership team have been working hard over the Christmas break to put together an exciting program for this term, look forward to seeing you all and can't wait to get started!

2009

Scout Christmas Party

The scouts had their annual fancy dress Christmas Party tonight. Congratulations to Kieran who won the prize for best outfit.

They played lots of games and ended the night with pizza.

Click here for photos.

Beaver Sleepover

Friday and Saturday was the Beaver Christmas sleepover at Earleywood with 10 beavers attending.
The Beavers arrived at Earleywood for 6pm and set up their sleeping areas. We did some colouring activities and made Christmas cards and the Beavers all behaved brilliantly. Soon it was time for bed, after Francesca Waters read the story "The Night Before Christmas".

A nice early start to Saturday morning saw the first Beaver awake at 5:30am (George Creber) and after a nice cooked breakfast and tidying away the sleeping area the fun and activities started with a a scavenger hunt around the camp site.
Then it was back to the hall and the beaver made crackers, stained glass windows and there was lots of Christmas colouring to be done. After that we played some games; musical opposites, musical chairs, milk, pink knickers and sleeping lions. Then we did some threading cards before the beavers enjoyed a lovely Christmas dinner.

The afternoon brought a few games of hide and seek in the woods before making ginger bread houses and having the closing ceremony.

I would like to say a very big thank you to Akela for coming and doing all the cooking. The Christmas dinner was the best according to Oliver Maynard!
And I could not have done the sleep over if it wasn't for the help of Ikki and Sunflower.

On behalf of myself and the Beavers thank you again Akela, Ikki and Sunflower.

Simba x

Click here for photos.

Cubs Christmas Meal

The Cubs went for their annual Christmas meal at the Downshire Arms Beefeater tonight. The whole pack were there and they all had a great time.

Click here for photos.

Chief Scout's Silver Award Update

On 5th December, Rosie attended a special award ceremony for all Cubs who achieved their Chief Scout's Silver Award in the district.

Click here for photos.

Christmas Fair

Thank you to all members and parents who turned up to help out with the Christmas Fair this year. We had a fantastic turn out - so many young volenteers that we didn't have jobs for all of them!

Best of all, we managed to do better than last year and raised over £250, including the now customary Hawkes workplace cake sale which took £75 alone! Those BA engineers must be looking quite portly by now!

Annual General Meeting

This year's AGM will take place on 16th November at 6.45pm. Beavers and Cubs will start at their normal times, and will end after the AGM. Scouts are requested to arrive at 6.15 to help set up and their meeting will continue after the AGMas normal.

Chief Scout's Silver Award

Sixth Bracknell are pleased to award Rosie Creber with her Chief Scout's Silver Award. In December, she will be officially awarded at a special ceremony at Earleywood Campsite.

Click here for a photo.

Maintenance Camp

Once again, 6th Bracknell were involved in the Earleywood maintenance weekend. We arrived on Friday night and were joined on Saturday morning by members from 4th Bracknell, 1st South Ascot and 1st Binfield.

A good time was had by (almost) everybody and some good work was carried out. The next maintenance weekend is in February so you'd better start building your strength now!

Apologies

The website has been a bit bare lately - this is due to the fact that Techno has been moving house. Now he has finally got everything sorted out (including broadband!) he can start to update stuff again.

So for all those who have been waiting for them, here are the photos from Parent and Child Camp in September...

Harvest Festival Church Parade

All Sections: don't forget about Church Parade this Sunday - 10am at the Methodist Church. All members should be in full uniform - no jeans!

42nd Parent and Child Camp

Last weekend, 150 Beavers, Cubs and Scouts decended on Earleywood for the annual Parent & Child camp. Once again it was a great success, and once again 6th Bracknell came away having won the trading post competition!

For photos, click here

Summer Camp

It's that time of year again! We're off to Phasels Wood for our annual summer camp. Seven days of fun and excitement - and that's just the parents!

Click here for the 2009 Summer Camp mini-site which has important information, and we will also be trying to update it with pictures and news throughout the week.

Cubs 6-a-side football competition

On Sunday, Sixth Bracknell Cubs took part in the District 6-a-side football competition. Well done to Adam, Emily, Jonathan, Luke, Rhys and Kieran who were awarded the Best Team Players trophy.

Click here for pictures.

Notice

• Monday 13th July - At Earleywood

  This weeks meeting for all sections will be held at Earleywood camp-site. Beavers & Cubs will meet at 5.45pm and finish at 7.00pm. Scouts and Explorers will meet from 7.30pm and finish at 9.15pm

  Click here for directions to Earleywood camp site.

  Note: This is the last Beaver meeting before the summer break.

• Monday 20th July - Parents Meeting re: Summer Camp

  7.00pm at the Methodist Church Hall on Shepherds Lane. If your child is going to summer camp this year, please make every effort to attend this meeting.

  Balance due for summer camp

  This is the last meeting before the summer break

• Monday 7th September - All sections return

• Monday 14th September - Parents Meeting re: Parent & Child Camp

  7.00pm at the Methodist Church Hall on Shepherds Lane.

Dave Higgs Challenge

This year's Dave Higgs Challenge was held at the 4th Bracknell HQ and consisted of 3 parts; a Chariot Race; 15 minutes on each of 7 bases; and a dressing-up relay race. Six teams took part - one each from 1st Sunningdale, 1st South Ascot, 6th Bracknell, 2nd Bracknell and 2 teams from 4th Bracknell.

Click here for pictures and to see video of the chariot race, click here.

Treasure Hunt

12 Teams took part, with a total of 19 Adults and 26 Children.

The results:

1. Carter family - 40 points (2hrs 5 mins)
2. Maynard family - 39 Points (2hrs 2 mins)
3. Creeber Family - 38 points
4. Cake Monsters (Hawkes family) - 35 points
5. Team Nadia - 32 points
6. Andrews Family - 30 points
7. Tappings - 29 points
8. Westwood family - 26 points
9. Lewis Gang - 20 points
10. The Revs - 13 points
11. The Lowes +1 - 12 points
12. Buists Bunch - 11 points (3hr 10 mins)

There are prizes for the first two place and these will be available for collection on Monday evening. Thank you all for taking part - we hope you had an enjoyable time. Thanks also to those of you who donated cakes etc. for the refreshments.

Click here for the answers.

Skip

Explorers Tank Day

Last term, the explorers won the inter-patrol challenge, and Scout Josh Waters scored the highest individual score. Their prize was a tank experience day at Party Tank outside Guildford (www.partytank.com). Click here for pictures and video from inside and outside.

Here are some reports from the explorers...

On Saturday 2nd May, The explorer unit and Josh W went to Guildford for the tank day experience. We did several activities starting with paint balling which was really good. We took it in turns to shoot a number of targets. After that we used BB guns to shoot targets which was also good, then we finished the table stations with archery, which was equally as good. Many of us got the target and is we didn't it would fly over the back.

After the table stations we got to go in a tank and a land rover which was so much fun! We played chicken in them, where the tank and the land rover would drive at each other until one would turn away from the other. When we were in the land rover, the land rover would drive up the side of a raised bit of ground and was tilted!

Overall, it was really good and we enjoyed it and would love to go again! Scouts you really missed out!

Nadia (Explorer)

We went to Guildford today for our tank ride as a prize for winning the patrol competition. It was a lot of fun and I really enjoyed it. To begin, we met Simon, our instructor for the day. From the beginning you could tell we were going to have a great day, Simon gave us a free trial session of the paint balling and archery as well as our expected tank ride and BB gun shooting. Paint balling was to start, (I think Nadia's a hired hitman), there was a shooting range you stood at, shooting lots of objects at different distances (smaller objects at the front and larger objects at the back). There was also a skull at the back of the range which was a popular, yet difficult, target. After paint balling we moved on to shooting BB guns. We used shotguns on a similar range as the paint balling. Things just kept getting better. We went from shooting guns to shooting bows and arrows. We had 2 rounds of 5 arrows, in the 1st round I got 2 bull’s-eyes. After which we had a short break for lunch.

As the greatest end to the best day we rode in a tank and played chicken with a jeep... who will win? Ha ha ha. Riding in the tank was great, although you couldn't see out of the tank, it added to the excitement and the adrenaline. I can't wait until we win next time so we can do it again. Ha ha ha.

Matt S (Explorer)

Treasure Hunt

Only four weeks to go before the Bank Holiday Treasure Hunt!!

There will be a series of clues placed along a circuit which starts and finishes at the Methodist Church. Each clue has a point value - the winners are the team with the most points ... not necessarily the fastest finishers!

Come along from 1pm onwards - £1 for adults, 50p for children - all proceeds will be going towards camping/climbing equipment.

St George's Day Parade And Service

Many thanks to all those who turned up this afternoon for the parade and service. We had a good turn-out from all four sections - look out for photos soon.

St George's Day Parade And Service

I expect all section members will take part in this important date in our District calendar.

There will be a parade before the service. We will form up in the area between McDonalds and Bentalls at 2.20pm. At 2.40pm the parade will move off up the high street, with the salute being made at the bandstand.

The service is to be held at St Joseph's Church (entrance from Princess Square), will commence at 3.00pm and finish by 3.45pm.

Parents and family are invited to watch the parade and to take part in the service.

Please ensure that all non-uniformed participants walk behind the last section on parade and not alongside their group as it spoils the parade.

The collection this year will be going to the Thames Valley Air Ambulance.

All uniformed members must attend in full smart uniform - trousers must be dark - no jeans or cords.

Thank you for your co-operation.

Skip - GSL 6th Bracknell

Chocolate Eggs-travaganza

Our second annual Chocolate Eggs-travaganza took place tonight. Amongst the activities were skittles, coin toss, chocolate fountain, tombola and more.

Congratulations to Jonathan Selmes and Molly Buist who won the Beaver and Cub egg decorating competition. Thanks to all who took part, we raised over £150 on the night!

South-East Berks Gang Show

Half-term saw the culmination of almost 6 months of rehearsals when the South-East Berks Gang Show was performed in the Wilde Theatre at South Hill Park. One Cub (Callum) and one Scout (Josh) from 6th Bracknell took part in a fantastic show, which included monsters, ducks, penguins and even a (almost) full-size bi-plane assembled on stage!

Well done to everybody who took part, and also to the organisers and back stage crew without whom it couldn't have taken place.

Click here for some backstage pictures of our performers and here for more information about the gang show

My Faith Activity Badge

On 9th February the cubs started work on their "My Faith" Activity Badge. Reverend Robin invited us into the chapel & talked to us about it's history & about Methodism. The cubs were very interested & keen to answer questions & to ask some of their own.

Click here for pictures.

Akela's Birthday

Tomorrow (10th), Akela is 40! Please join us in wishing her a happy birthday!

At the meeting last night, we presented her with a cake. Click here for pictures.

Beavers Make A Volcano

Tonight, the Beavers made a volcano. After half-term, they will be painting it and then watch this space for the eruption!

Click here for pictures

New Cub

This week we welcomed another new Cub into our Pack. Sonya was invested by Skip and we hope she enjoys her time with the group.

Click here for pictures

New Cubs

This week we welcomed two new Cubs into our Pack. Adam and Molly were both invested by Skip and we hope they will enjoy their time with the group.

New Scouts and Explorer

This week we welcomed six new Scouts and one Explorer into our Troop. Philip, Nick, Alex, Jamie, Sam, Dan and Scott were all invested by Skip and we hope they will enjoy their time with the group.

Click here for pictures

2008

Scouts Christmas Party

The Scouts had their Christmas Party tonight - a fancy dress affair with prizes for the best costume. Fun and games ensued followed by copious amounts of pizza.

Well done to Scott and Matt H as joint winners of the fancy dress competition and to everyone else who made an effort

Also, well done to Baloo who managed to make it after the Cubs meal, and still had room for pizza!

Click Click here for pictures.

Cubs Christmas Meal

15 cubs attended the Christmas meal at The Downshire Arms. The boys were all dressed smartly and the girls were very pretty in their party dresses. We all told jokes from our Christmas crackers, wore silly hats and enjoyed the three course meal. All cubs were very well behaved and had a wonderful time. Well done to you all. A big thank you to our waitress who attended to our every need.

Good luck to all the cubs that are going up to Scouts in January, you have all been a pleasure to have in the Cub pack. x

Akela, Bagheera and Baloo.

Click Click here for pictures.

Beavers Christmas Party

The Beavers all went bowling for their Christmas Party tonight. More to follow...

Skip's Birthday

Today, Skip is the big 5-0! Please join us in wishing him a happy birthday!

At the meeting last night, we presented him with a cake. Click here for pictures.

Christmas Fair

A big thank you to everyone who came along to the Christmas Fair. It was easily one of the most successful events recently, and we managed to raise over £200! Excellent work and many thanks to all the Scouts, Explorers (and one Beaver) and parents who helped with running the stalls, and also to those who came along to support us by spending money!

Click here for pictures.

AGM

We held our annual general meeting tonight which was well attended. The committee members were all re-elected, along with a new committee member, Mr Nigel Carter.

Please click the "contact us" link above to see details of how to contact the committee, and click here for pictures of the AGM.

Earleywood Maintenance Camp

This weekend some of our Explorers, PLs, APLs attended the maintenance weekend at Earleywood campsite. Jobs included cutting and thinning the undergrowth (mainly Holly) and clearing the guttering and roofs of the buildings.

Click here for pictures.

New Beavers

This week we welcomed six new Beavers into our colony. Harrison, Robert, Francesca, Ruby, Joshua and Luke were all invested by Skip and we hope they will enjoy their time with the group.

Click here for pictures

District Parent & Child Camp

Last weekend, we attended the 41st District Parent & Child at Earleywood. The theme this year was medieval. Although the weather wasn't the best, we all had a great time, and more importantly we won the Trading Post Award again!

Our results:

• Ye Olde Trading Post: First Place
• Ye Olde Castle Construction: First Place
• Crew Challenge (Catapult): Winner
• River Crossing: Winner - SuperAzz
• King's Messengers: Winner - Sofa Kings
• King's Bath: Winner - Sofa Kings
• Knock Down Knight: Winner - SuperAzz
• Medieval Games: Winner - SuperAzz
• Table Layout: Second Place

Click here for pictures

Donation from Waitrose

This week we are very grateful to have received a generous donation of £1120 from Waitrose towards climbing equipment.

Summer Camp 2008 Update

We now have all the photos on the site, as well as two accounts of the week from one cub and one scout.

Please click here the camp mini-site.

Summer Camp 2008

This year, the summer camp is being held at Chalfont Heights. We have access to a broadband connection, which means that Skip and Akela are going to do their best to send updates and photos from the camp.

Please click here the camp mini-site for all the information, news and photos we receive from them.

Rocket Making

The Scouts used soft-drink bottles to build their own rockets. They took the rockets to the park where they fueled them (using water) and launched them (using a foot-pump). Congratulations to Kieran Griffiths for the best decorated rocket, and Joshua Waters for the furthest flight.

Click here for pictures.

Beavers And Cubs District Six-A-Side Football

The Beavers and cubs took part in the district six-a-side football. All Beavers and Cubs tried very hard and played well. The cubs won the first game, drew the second game and lost the last two games. The cubs won the good sportsmanship trophy. The Beavers drew one game and lost three. With the sun shinning, lots of parent support all the Cubs and Beavers had a brilliant time. We would like to thank Mr Matthews, Mr Ray and Mr Westwood for their coaching skills and jollying the cubs and beavers along.

Akela and Simba

Click here for pictures.

Beavers attend their first 'camp'

The Beaver colony went on a sleepover at Earleywood last weekend. Here's what Simba had to say:

I would just like to say how great the Beaver sleepover was on Friday 27th June. We had great weather and the Beavers' behaviour was outstanding.
They all had a great time on the climbing wall with nearly all the Beavers attempting to climb the wall (unlike their leader who could not).
All the Beavers enjoyed the freedom of walking around in the woods and helping to build a campfire.
I would like to thank Akela and Skip for their help in making this sleepover happen. I will certainly be doing another sleepover in the future!

Thanks for a great time 6th Bracknell Beavers.

Simba
(Beaver Leader)

Click here for pictures. Click here for Manveen's report of the sleepover.

Visit from the Police

Cubs had visit from the CPOs (Community Police Officer) Wendy, Matt and Tony. Matt came in the police van. All cubs were able to go in the van and let off the sirens, as well as try on the police uniforms. A great time was had by all. A visit to Bracknell police station is being arranged by Wendy for next term.

Click here for pictures.

Moving Up

Ben, Cayleigh, Jamie and Joshua have all moved up from Cubs to Scouts and are were invested tonight along with David who has returned to the group. Also, Steph moved up from Scouts to Explorers. We wish them well. Click here for pictures.

South East Berkshire Olympic Sporting Event

6th Bracknell Cubs took part in the sporting event held at the Bracknell Sports Centre athletics track. Although we didn't win anything specific, all the kids had a great time. Click here for pictures.

Welcome

Welcome to the new 6th Bracknell web site.

We have four sections in our group with ages ranging from 6 to 18 years.

We meet every Monday evening during term time, at the Methodist Church on Shepherds Lane, Bracknell.