The Cub winter weekend on Arran

Over the last weekend in October 16 Cubs and Leaders from the 7th Paisley & District (JNI) took part in the annual winter weekend on the Island of Arran, staying in the north of the Island in the Lochranza Youth Hostel.

The group headed over on the ferry from Ardrossan, a whole new experience for many of the Cubs, then headed up north to start their adventures.
Friday night was based indoors with the Cubs learning new skills by making from scratch their own pizzas for their supper, prior to getting into the Halloween spirit by making masks.

Saturday morning was up and away early heading south to Whiting Bay for a high level forest walk with views across to the Holy Isle, the Cubs learnt new map reading skills and also about the local history when visiting the Giant’s Graves, Neolithic graves from thousands of years ago, as well as taking in the Glenashdale Falls. Returning to Brodick it was down to the serious business of pitch & putt along the front of the town. Heading back to Lochranza the Cubs stopped at a beach to watch 2 seals come in very close and play in the water and then further north there was a herd of deer looking into the minibus right at the side of the road.

Dinner was beckoning and back to the Youth Hostel saw the Cubs make ceramic lanterns before collapsing in front of the television. For the final day the Cubs took part in a pebble skimming competition at the side of Lochranza Castle before heading down for a session in the Auchrannie swimming pool, and then just enough time to catch the ferry home. The activities and new skills learnt all went towards the Cubs’ Silver Chief Scouts Award, which is the highest award a Cub can earn.

The weekend was organised and lead by Joanne McLean and the 2 assistants, Joanne joined Scouting only 18 months ago following an advert on social media. Over the last 18 months Joanne has been fully trained in Scouting covering new Scouting skills, first aid plus a wealth of programme planning. This weekend was the culmination of Joanne’s indoor residential training which was a tremendous success particularly given that less than 2 years ago Joanne had no experience of working with children. If you think you can step up to the adventure seeking movement then contact us today (infor@paisleyanddistrict.org.uk)
Commenting on the weakened, Camp organiser and Assistant Cub Scout Leader, Joanne McLean, said:

“I am very proud of the weekend of adventure in Arran. Seeing the excitement on the faces of the 8-10year old girls and boys is what Scouting is all about.

“Ditching i-pads and Tv’s for the beautiful outdoors is a great way for young people to learn the skills that will set them up for life. Our young people certainly got their own taste for life changing adventure last weekend.
“For my part, I am pleased the camp was a success and I am already thinking about the next adventure we can take the girls and boys within JNI on.”