On April 4, Beavers and Cubs from 5th Barry Sea Scouts enjoyed their first session of 2016 on the water!
The boys and girls, aged between six and 10, years took part in various activities including kayaking, paddling and even going out on the power boats.
The excitement on the youngsters’ faces was contagious, with many parents and family members around to watch and enjoy the fun their youngsters were able to do as members of Scouting in Barry.
For some of the younger children, it was their first time out on the water, but with the dedicated volunteer Scout leaders and young leaders like Celyan Osbourne and Becca Nicholson, they were instantly put at ease and enjoyed the new challenge.
The 5th Barry Scouts, and many of the other Scout groups in Barry, regularly use the Barry Scout boat base housed at Barry Community Water Activity Centre, which enables hundreds of youngsters from Barry Scouts to gain experience, build their self-confidence and ultimately have fun.
Celyan Osbourne and Becca Nicholson both help out at 5th Barry Beavers as young leaders. Through Scouting they have gained a wealth of knowledge and experience, including external qualifications in sailing, kayaking and powerboating.
Becca (age 16) loves helping out with the youngsters on the water: “The atmosphere is fab, everyone’s so friendly and I love the responsibility we have while leading them on the water.”
Celyan (age 15) helps out at 5th Barry – as: “The Beavers are so great! They are always excited about the activities, and who can blame them when we get to take them kayaking! I really enjoy teaching the boys and girls boat safety and getting them to learn how to enjoy the water.”
Creating opportunities like these for young people to develop social skills and independence, and form friendships, is central to Scouting philosophy and has la ong term positive impact on young people lives.
Scouting is shaped by young people in partnership with adults and we are always looking for new volunteers; if you fancy a go, why not join the adventure with Scouting in Barry: go to www.scouts.org.uk/join.
KATE MARSHALL
Barry Scout district