1st Aldershot Scouts enjoyed their first ever virtual camp as a group over the second May Bank Holiday weekend. By using the internet and sites such as Zoom and Facebook, the group met throughout the weekend to take part in fun, games and activities.
Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and leaders set up camp bases at home (most of them pitching tents in their gardens, but a few of them sleeping in unusual places such as on a trampoline or in the Guinea Pig den!). With the current Scouting adoptions, this earned the young people to gain a night away for their badges (camping at home).
On Saturday morning, the leader in charge (Captain Keeo) set up a flagpole in her back-garden and everyone gathered round their laptops and phones in their necker-chiefs to attend the flag-break and open camp. Everyone was excited and the young people discussed where they would be sleeping (full kit-bags were also packed).
Some tasks were set for them to compete throughout the day, which including a list with a number of items to take photos of for a selfie challenge. They were also given some Scout tracking signs to make a trail with (either whilst going out for a walk or in their garden).
On Saturday night, everyone partook in a Scout campfire (via the internet). Scouters were shown on Zoom how to build and light a fire and then invited to sing along with the leaders to some traditional camp-fire songs (including 'Ging Gang Goolie' and 'BP Spirit'. Lots of giggles were shared and everyone did their best to follow the actions and sing along (despite the time lags).
On Sunday, the group were tasked with making breakfast before partaking in more activities. The next meet-up began with a work-out involving rolling a dice to decide upon various exercises. The young people were also challenged to design a badge for the camp and to complete a virtual escape room (where the fastest time would win a prize).
It was great to see all the Scouts, Cubs, Beavers and leaders all together in one place (even if it was via computer) in what is usually a very special weekend for the group. The annual group camp has been running for many years and normally takes place in a field local to Tweseldown.
The three sections have been arranging regular remote meetings and sending out tasks and activities so the young people can carry on Scouting at home. If you are interested in learning more about First Aldershot Scouts please contact [email protected]. We are also on Twitter (@1stAldershot) and Instagram (firstaldershotscouts).
