A Parents guide to 6 weeks of fun in Summer Scouting

6 Weeks of Fun: Activities for Scouts in Ryedale, North Yorkshire During the School Holidays

The school holidays are a perfect time for Scouts to explore, learn, and have fun. Ryedale offers a plethora of activities that can keep Scouts engaged and help them earn various badges. From family hikes to creative projects, here’s a guide to making the most of the six-week break.

All you need to do is select the relevant activity for your Young Persons Scouting sections and it will provide all the criteria for the badge in question. Take note or photographs of your Young Person doing the activities in question and provide them to your Leaders when you return next term.

Week 1: Exploring Nature

Helmsley Castle & Rievaulx Abbey Loop

  • Start the holidays with a historical hike. This trail offers scenic views and a glimpse into the past.
  • Scouts can work on their Hiking Badge by documenting the hike and noting interesting flora and fauna (All Sections).

Dalby Forest Trails

Week 2: Camping Adventures

Camping in the wild

  • Plan a camping trip to a the wild. Set up tents, cook meals, and enjoy the great outdoors.

Survival Skills Workshop

  • Organize a survival skills workshop where Scouts learn basic survival techniques like building shelters and finding water.
  • This can contribute to their Survival Skills Badge (Squirrels / Beavers / Cubs / Scouts / Explorers).

Week 3: Creative Projects

Nature-Inspired Art

  • Encourage Scouts to create art using natural materials found during hikes.
  • This can help them earn their Artist or Creative Badge (Squirrels / Beavers / Cubs / Scouts / Explorers).

Photography Expedition

  • Take a photography expedition around Ryedale, capturing the beauty of the landscape.
  • Scouts can work towards their Photographer Badge by creating a photo journal of their findings (Squirrels / Beavers / Cubs / Scouts / Explorers).

Week 4: Community Engagement

Volunteering at Local Parks

  • Participate in community service by helping maintain local parks and trails.
  • This activity can help Scouts earn their Community Impact Badge (All Sections).

Environmental Conservation Projects

  • Engage in projects like tree planting or clean-up drives to promote environmental awareness.
  • Scouts can work towards their Environmental Conservation Badge (Squirrels / Beavers / Cubs / Scouts / Explorers).

Week 5: Adventure and Fun

Danby Lodge National Park Centre

  • Visit the Danby Lodge National Park Centre for interactive exhibits and outdoor activities.
  • Scouts can participate in educational programs that align with various badges.

Week 6: Skill Development

Crafting with Natural Materials

  • Organize a crafting session where Scouts use natural materials to create useful items.
  • This can help them earn their Craft Badge (Squirrels / Beavers / Cubs / Scouts / Explorers).

Cooking Outdoors

  • Teach Scouts how to cook simple meals outdoors using camp stoves or open fires.
  • This activity can contribute to their Chef Badge (Squirrels / Beavers / Cubs / Scouts / Explorers).

Conclusion

The six-week school holidays in Ryedale offer endless opportunities for Scouts to learn, explore, and have fun. By engaging in these activities, Scouts can earn various badges, develop new skills, and create lasting memories. Encourage your Scout to make the most of this time and enjoy the beauty and adventure that Ryedale has to offer.