Pioneering Group Event in East Hendred
At the end of the summer, the Oxfordshire Pioneering Group visited East Hendred and ran a full day of bridge building activities for the local Cubs and Scouts. The youngsters practised their knots and lashings on full sized poles, in the full knowledge that they were going to be relying upon these, when they came to cross over the bridges. It focuses the mind on tying them right!
The Cubs and Scouts learnt how to build a strong base (A-frame or tripod) and then connect these with the bridge span and handrails. They even constructed a functioning drawbridge. Most of the requirements for the Pioneering Badge were easily covered.
Many thanks to the Cuckhamsley leaders who came along to lend a hand, to the Pioneering team volunteers, who shared their skills, and to the local landowner for use of the field.
The Oxfordshire Guides Pioneering Team are based just outside Headington, in Oxfordshire, with all of their poles, ropes and equipment. You may have seen their work before, as they regularly build the large bridge at the County Awards Day, Youlbury. Any Scouting Leaders wishing to learn more about pioneering are very welcome to get in touch, and come along to help out at their events.
If any other group is interested in a full sized Pioneering session, then they can contact John Williams at oxfordpioneeringteam@hotmail.co.uk for further details.
Further photos can be seen in the Gallery.