Scouts/Cubs/Beavers
For information on Beavers/Cubs/Scouts/Explorer Scouts please contact:
Rob Butcher - Group Scout Leader Tel: 07901 774584 Email: robbutcher@btopenworld .com
JULY
Update from 3rd Sparkford Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers
BEAVERS - have had an exciting few weeks learning skills in the woods and preparing for their Viking Jamboree at Carymoor Environmental Centre. They spent a night under canvas on the wildlife reserve and did all sorts of Viking activities like going on a raid, creating runic medallions and stealing dragon eggs, as well as pond dipping, archery and making water filters! We are looking for adults to help with leading activities at Beavers on Tuesday nights.
CUBS - The Highlight of the summer has been the District Cub Camp. 18 Cubs went from Sparkford and joined hundreds of others for the weekend at Hornblotton. It was fantastic fun. The cubs took part in archery, rafting, climbing, caving and many more activities. The Cubs got to use our brand new tents – the result of our fundraising work.
SCOUTS - The Scouts have been very busy this month, they've been out on a bike ride, cooking at the woods and enjoyed an evening at Ham Hill. They also enjoyed a weekend of camping at the District JAWS camp taking part in water and land based activities, making new friends and most of all having lots of fun!
EXPLORERS – had an exciting visit to RNAS Yeovilton to the Royal Navy fire station where they learned about the fire tenders and equipment and experienced a high speed ride, and for fun they had the opportunity to spray a fire hose.
Update from 3rd Sparkford Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers
BEAVERS - have had an exciting few weeks learning skills in the woods and preparing for their Viking Jamboree at Carymoor Environmental Centre. They spent a night under canvas on the wildlife reserve and did all sorts of Viking activities like going on a raid, creating runic medallions and stealing dragon eggs, as well as pond dipping, archery and making water filters! We are looking for adults to help with leading activities at Beavers on Tuesday nights.
CUBS - The Highlight of the summer has been the District Cub Camp. 18 Cubs went from Sparkford and joined hundreds of others for the weekend at Hornblotton. It was fantastic fun. The cubs took part in archery, rafting, climbing, caving and many more activities. The Cubs got to use our brand new tents – the result of our fundraising work.
SCOUTS - The Scouts have been very busy this month, they've been out on a bike ride, cooking at the woods and enjoyed an evening at Ham Hill. They also enjoyed a weekend of camping at the District JAWS camp taking part in water and land based activities, making new friends and most of all having lots of fun!
EXPLORERS – had an exciting visit to RNAS Yeovilton to the Royal Navy fire station where they learned about the fire tenders and equipment and experienced a high speed ride, and for fun they had the opportunity to spray a fire hose.
JUNE
Update from 3rd Sparkford Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers
Beavers are gearing up for our Viking Camp at Carymoor as part of the UK wide 'Jamboree' event. We have been spending a lot of time in the woods learning camp craft, den building and camouflage. We are always looking for girls and boys aged 6/7 to come and join us. Email bsl@sparkfordscouts.org.uk for more information.
Cubs have been learning about camouflage. We learnt how to camouflage ourselves in Sparkford Woods with the kind help of Dom Goggs, an army officer from Corton Denham. We have also been making camouflage ‘ghillie’ suits to take with us to Cub Camp.
Scouts have been enjoying the lighter evenings kayaking, fishing and walking in Langport. They also had a bike maintenance session in preparation for their bike ride, getting out and about as much as we can.
Explorers have been thinking about charitable organisations which we could help with volunteering our time to ensure we are giving something to the community. We also had a great night learning how to light fires with basic material and preparing wild game to cook on the fire. It was an eye opening experience for all, but an important lesson for learning that meat doesn’t just come in plastic containers from the supermarket. Our thanks to Louie Lewis for giving his time and expertise for the evening.
Anyone who would like to get involved in our Scout group please contact our Group Scout Leader on gsl@sparkfordscouts.org.uk
Beavers are gearing up for our Viking Camp at Carymoor as part of the UK wide 'Jamboree' event. We have been spending a lot of time in the woods learning camp craft, den building and camouflage. We are always looking for girls and boys aged 6/7 to come and join us. Email bsl@sparkfordscouts.org.uk for more information.
Cubs have been learning about camouflage. We learnt how to camouflage ourselves in Sparkford Woods with the kind help of Dom Goggs, an army officer from Corton Denham. We have also been making camouflage ‘ghillie’ suits to take with us to Cub Camp.
Scouts have been enjoying the lighter evenings kayaking, fishing and walking in Langport. They also had a bike maintenance session in preparation for their bike ride, getting out and about as much as we can.
Explorers have been thinking about charitable organisations which we could help with volunteering our time to ensure we are giving something to the community. We also had a great night learning how to light fires with basic material and preparing wild game to cook on the fire. It was an eye opening experience for all, but an important lesson for learning that meat doesn’t just come in plastic containers from the supermarket. Our thanks to Louie Lewis for giving his time and expertise for the evening.
Anyone who would like to get involved in our Scout group please contact our Group Scout Leader on gsl@sparkfordscouts.org.uk
May 2018
Update from 3rd Sparkford Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers
Beavers this term are looking forward to a summer full of outdoor and indoor activities, they have already been to the woods to learn how to build a camp fire safely, held their own Sparkford Beaver Commonwealth Games in the park, and last week took part in some fun Health and Fitness activities to get into shape for the Summer, making their own fruity snacks! We are looking forward to our first overnight Camp at Carymoor in June as part of the Beaver 'Damboree'.
Cubs have been using their orienteering skills to find the birdboxes which they made in the winter, and were hidden around Sparkford. They have also been preparing for cub camp by learning how to put up a tent. Thank you to Sparkford Cricket Club for letting us use their field for pitching the tent.
The Scouts have an action packed programme this term and are already looking forward to the summer camp. They have been increasing their knife and axe skills and have been kayaking, fishing and walking in Langport. They also took part in the district football competition.
The Explorers have undertaken a navigation exercise which has involved locating picture cards at different points in the surrounding countryside. Although fun, this exercise demonstrated the importance of working in a team and also how important accurate navigation is!
March 2018
.Update from 3rd Sparkford Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers.
Beavers have been exceptionally busy over the winter earning badges, showing off their musical skills and learning new ones, and we did some great experiments with eggs, which got quite messy! We are looking forward to our Polar Sleepover this weekend, and finally using all the milk jugs we have been saving to build an igloo!
Cubs have been learning to map read and navigate in preparation for a big cub hiking competition at the end of term. We have also been making bird boxes to put up around Sparkford, and undertaking First Aid training.
Scouts have been working on their mechanics badge, including a visit to Yeovilton Airbase. They also really showed off their creative skills at the 'Great Scout Bake Off' and although there was a very high standard of cakes, Edward was chosen as 'Scout Star Baker'. They visited Ready2Climb where three of our new Scouts were invested and have also been doing some map reading and completed a very cold night hike. With a camp on Dartmoor and more exciting activities planned after half term it is proving to be an action packed term.
Explorers have been undertaking activities including navigation training, which will culminate in a hike and one night camp on Exmoor at the end of April.
Anyone interested in joining any of our groups should email sparkfordscoutgroup@gmail.com
For any enquiries or ideas please contact Helen Wooldridge – helen@cuddledry.com
.Update from 3rd Sparkford Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers.
Beavers have been exceptionally busy over the winter earning badges, showing off their musical skills and learning new ones, and we did some great experiments with eggs, which got quite messy! We are looking forward to our Polar Sleepover this weekend, and finally using all the milk jugs we have been saving to build an igloo!
Cubs have been learning to map read and navigate in preparation for a big cub hiking competition at the end of term. We have also been making bird boxes to put up around Sparkford, and undertaking First Aid training.
Scouts have been working on their mechanics badge, including a visit to Yeovilton Airbase. They also really showed off their creative skills at the 'Great Scout Bake Off' and although there was a very high standard of cakes, Edward was chosen as 'Scout Star Baker'. They visited Ready2Climb where three of our new Scouts were invested and have also been doing some map reading and completed a very cold night hike. With a camp on Dartmoor and more exciting activities planned after half term it is proving to be an action packed term.
Explorers have been undertaking activities including navigation training, which will culminate in a hike and one night camp on Exmoor at the end of April.
Anyone interested in joining any of our groups should email sparkfordscoutgroup@gmail.com
For any enquiries or ideas please contact Helen Wooldridge – helen@cuddledry.com
Getting festive, survival skills and community
Beavers - On our first meeting of term we were very proud to present two of our Beavers with their Chief Scout's Bronze Award. They are the first in the Colony to ever complete the Award and they and all the other Beavers have been extremely busy and worked hard! This half term we have an exciting programme of music, a talent show, junk modelling and a trip to Pets at Home to look forward to. We will also be planning for our Viking Beaver Sleepover later in the term!
Cubs – The cub group continues to strengthen their ties with their cub friends in South Africa, and were delighted to have a visit from their cub leader just before Christmas, and they are looking forward to an eventful term with lots of exciting activities planned!
Scouts - This term we have welcomed some new Scouts who have moved up from Cubs. We have only been back a week but have reviewed and updated our code of conduct and started work towards the hobbies badge. We have an exciting programme planned including the 'Great British Bake Off' so watch this space to find out who is our 'Scout Star Baker'!
NEW! Explorers - With a new programme for the first quarter of 2018, Explorers are set to kick off an exciting new programme including: an international theme night where we will look a country and its culture, religion, geography and festivals. We will also aim to cook parents the international dish of the chosen country!! A navigation night in preparation for a hike on a south west moor. A drugs awareness talk from Avon & Somerset Police, and some exciting indoor climbing in preparation for outdoor rock climbing in the spring/summer. If you know someone aged 14-18 who fancies some fun and adventure, please contact us by emailing sparkfordscoutgroup@gmail.com
Anyone interested in joining any of our groups should email sparkfordscoutgroup@gmail.com
For any enquiries or ideas please contact Helen Wooldridge – helen@cuddledry.com
Beavers - On our first meeting of term we were very proud to present two of our Beavers with their Chief Scout's Bronze Award. They are the first in the Colony to ever complete the Award and they and all the other Beavers have been extremely busy and worked hard! This half term we have an exciting programme of music, a talent show, junk modelling and a trip to Pets at Home to look forward to. We will also be planning for our Viking Beaver Sleepover later in the term!
Cubs – The cub group continues to strengthen their ties with their cub friends in South Africa, and were delighted to have a visit from their cub leader just before Christmas, and they are looking forward to an eventful term with lots of exciting activities planned!
Scouts - This term we have welcomed some new Scouts who have moved up from Cubs. We have only been back a week but have reviewed and updated our code of conduct and started work towards the hobbies badge. We have an exciting programme planned including the 'Great British Bake Off' so watch this space to find out who is our 'Scout Star Baker'!
NEW! Explorers - With a new programme for the first quarter of 2018, Explorers are set to kick off an exciting new programme including: an international theme night where we will look a country and its culture, religion, geography and festivals. We will also aim to cook parents the international dish of the chosen country!! A navigation night in preparation for a hike on a south west moor. A drugs awareness talk from Avon & Somerset Police, and some exciting indoor climbing in preparation for outdoor rock climbing in the spring/summer. If you know someone aged 14-18 who fancies some fun and adventure, please contact us by emailing sparkfordscoutgroup@gmail.com
Anyone interested in joining any of our groups should email sparkfordscoutgroup@gmail.com
For any enquiries or ideas please contact Helen Wooldridge – helen@cuddledry.com
2017
June
Vote for us and get your shopping cheaper!
Our local Scout group is working hard to raise funds for a new minibus – no easy task! We have put in a bid to the Co-op community fund to help. You can vote for our project by logging in to your membership account if you are a Co-Op member, or for just £1 and a few easy clicks you can join here www.coop.co.uk/membership and not only vote for us – SPARKFORD SCOUT GROUP (please do!) but also get money off your own shopping at Co-op! THANK YOU for helping us J
Our Beavers have been having a lovely time in the woods over the last few weeks, they have learnt to cook on a camp stove and on a camp fire, and this week went tree-shaking to see what mini beasts we could find and earn their Explorer badge. We had a great hike from West Camel to Queen Camel and started to learn how to read a map. We have also been making cards and gifts for Father's Day. The Beavers are very excited about their upcoming Sleepover, this could be their first time away overnight for some, but we are going to have lots of fun!
The Cubs have been busy getting ready for a District wide Cub camp, where they will be staying with around 200 other cubs – learning how to be organised with equipment and teamworking. We have also been getting to know Sparkford by doing an alphabet scavenger hunt.
Before half term the Scouts did a first aid session to freshen up on their basic first aid skills and had great fun doing some role play, bandaging each other and learning what to do in an emergency situation. With the lighter nights and warmer weather we've been kayaking and hiking at Langport and it's brilliant to see the Scouts skill and confidence growing on the water. We also had a weekend visit to Dorset Water Park with West Coker Scouts which was great fun.
WE ARE LOOKING FOR NEW LEADERS FOR SCOUTS AND CUBS – this could be as casual helpers or full leaders - anyone interested in joining or helping please email sparkfordscoutgroup@gmail.com
For any other enquiries or ideas please contact Helen Wooldridge – helen@cuddledry.com
Our local Scout group is working hard to raise funds for a new minibus – no easy task! We have put in a bid to the Co-op community fund to help. You can vote for our project by logging in to your membership account if you are a Co-Op member, or for just £1 and a few easy clicks you can join here www.coop.co.uk/membership and not only vote for us – SPARKFORD SCOUT GROUP (please do!) but also get money off your own shopping at Co-op! THANK YOU for helping us J
Our Beavers have been having a lovely time in the woods over the last few weeks, they have learnt to cook on a camp stove and on a camp fire, and this week went tree-shaking to see what mini beasts we could find and earn their Explorer badge. We had a great hike from West Camel to Queen Camel and started to learn how to read a map. We have also been making cards and gifts for Father's Day. The Beavers are very excited about their upcoming Sleepover, this could be their first time away overnight for some, but we are going to have lots of fun!
The Cubs have been busy getting ready for a District wide Cub camp, where they will be staying with around 200 other cubs – learning how to be organised with equipment and teamworking. We have also been getting to know Sparkford by doing an alphabet scavenger hunt.
Before half term the Scouts did a first aid session to freshen up on their basic first aid skills and had great fun doing some role play, bandaging each other and learning what to do in an emergency situation. With the lighter nights and warmer weather we've been kayaking and hiking at Langport and it's brilliant to see the Scouts skill and confidence growing on the water. We also had a weekend visit to Dorset Water Park with West Coker Scouts which was great fun.
WE ARE LOOKING FOR NEW LEADERS FOR SCOUTS AND CUBS – this could be as casual helpers or full leaders - anyone interested in joining or helping please email sparkfordscoutgroup@gmail.com
For any other enquiries or ideas please contact Helen Wooldridge – helen@cuddledry.com
Vote for us and get your shopping cheaper!
Our local Scout group is working hard to raise funds for a new minibus – no easy task! We have put in a bid to the Co-op community fund to help. You can vote for our project by logging in to your membership account if you are a Co-Op member, or for just £1 and a few easy clicks you can join here www.coop.co.uk/membership and not only vote for us – SPARKFORD SCOUT GROUP (please do!) but also get money off your own shopping at Co-op! THANK YOU for helping us J
Our Beavers have been having a lovely time in the woods over the last few weeks, they have learnt to cook on a camp stove and on a camp fire, and this week went tree-shaking to see what mini beasts we could find and earn their Explorer badge. We had a great hike from West Camel to Queen Camel and started to learn how to read a map. We have also been making cards and gifts for Father's Day. The Beavers are very excited about their upcoming Sleepover, this could be their first time away overnight for some, but we are going to have lots of fun!
The Cubs have been busy getting ready for a District wide Cub camp, where they will be staying with around 200 other cubs – learning how to be organised with equipment and teamworking. We have also been getting to know Sparkford by doing an alphabet scavenger hunt.
Before half term the Scouts did a first aid session to freshen up on their basic first aid skills and had great fun doing some role play, bandaging each other and learning what to do in an emergency situation. With the lighter nights and warmer weather we've been kayaking and hiking at Langport and it's brilliant to see the Scouts skill and confidence growing on the water. We also had a weekend visit to Dorset Water Park with West Coker Scouts which was great fun.
WE ARE LOOKING FOR NEW LEADERS FOR SCOUTS AND CUBS – this could be as casual helpers or full leaders - anyone interested in joining or helping please email sparkfordscoutgroup@gmail.com
For any other enquiries or ideas please contact Helen Wooldridge – helen@cuddledry.com
Our local Scout group is working hard to raise funds for a new minibus – no easy task! We have put in a bid to the Co-op community fund to help. You can vote for our project by logging in to your membership account if you are a Co-Op member, or for just £1 and a few easy clicks you can join here www.coop.co.uk/membership and not only vote for us – SPARKFORD SCOUT GROUP (please do!) but also get money off your own shopping at Co-op! THANK YOU for helping us J
Our Beavers have been having a lovely time in the woods over the last few weeks, they have learnt to cook on a camp stove and on a camp fire, and this week went tree-shaking to see what mini beasts we could find and earn their Explorer badge. We had a great hike from West Camel to Queen Camel and started to learn how to read a map. We have also been making cards and gifts for Father's Day. The Beavers are very excited about their upcoming Sleepover, this could be their first time away overnight for some, but we are going to have lots of fun!
The Cubs have been busy getting ready for a District wide Cub camp, where they will be staying with around 200 other cubs – learning how to be organised with equipment and teamworking. We have also been getting to know Sparkford by doing an alphabet scavenger hunt.
Before half term the Scouts did a first aid session to freshen up on their basic first aid skills and had great fun doing some role play, bandaging each other and learning what to do in an emergency situation. With the lighter nights and warmer weather we've been kayaking and hiking at Langport and it's brilliant to see the Scouts skill and confidence growing on the water. We also had a weekend visit to Dorset Water Park with West Coker Scouts which was great fun.
WE ARE LOOKING FOR NEW LEADERS FOR SCOUTS AND CUBS – this could be as casual helpers or full leaders - anyone interested in joining or helping please email sparkfordscoutgroup@gmail.com
For any other enquiries or ideas please contact Helen Wooldridge – helen@cuddledry.com
We URGENTLY need your votes to help us buy our new minibus!
We continue to work to raise the much-needed funds, and have put in a bid to the Co-op community fund to help. You can vote for our project by logging in to your membership account if you are a Co-Op member, or for just £1 and a few easy clicks you can join here Co-op Membership account and not only vote for us – SPARKFORD SCOUT GROUP (please do!) but also get money off your own shopping at Co-op! THANK YOU for helping us
The Beavers have a great few sessions lined up for the Summer. They have already had a great evening learning about camp fire safety in the woods and building their own fires in teams, and will be going back soon to do some camp cooking. We are working towards lots of exciting badges - we will be going on a hike, making crafts, practising our ball and cycling skills, looking at nature and having a sleepover!
The lighter evenings have meant that the Cubs have been able to get outside more. We have been shelter building in Sparkford Woods. We have also been taking time to remember the core values of scouting, their promises and the Cub Scout Law, which is of course; "Cub Scouts always do their best, think of others before themselves and to a good turn every day."
The Scouts have been making the most of the dry weather and lighter evenings, we've been out hiking, playing games at the park and also practising our camp survival skills at the woods in preparation for a survival camp later this year. The Scouts are also getting very excited about the Kent International Jamboree that we are attending in the summer along with about 6,000 other Scouts from around the world.
We would like to thank all the parents who have helped out during the last few weeks, without your support and help it would impossible to run all of the activities.
Anyone interested in joining or helping please email sparkfordscoutgroup@gmail.com
Or if you have any ideas for fundraising for our group (especially as we work towards our new minibus!) please contact Helen Wooldridge – helen@cuddledry.com
We continue to work to raise the much-needed funds, and have put in a bid to the Co-op community fund to help. You can vote for our project by logging in to your membership account if you are a Co-Op member, or for just £1 and a few easy clicks you can join here Co-op Membership account and not only vote for us – SPARKFORD SCOUT GROUP (please do!) but also get money off your own shopping at Co-op! THANK YOU for helping us
The Beavers have a great few sessions lined up for the Summer. They have already had a great evening learning about camp fire safety in the woods and building their own fires in teams, and will be going back soon to do some camp cooking. We are working towards lots of exciting badges - we will be going on a hike, making crafts, practising our ball and cycling skills, looking at nature and having a sleepover!
The lighter evenings have meant that the Cubs have been able to get outside more. We have been shelter building in Sparkford Woods. We have also been taking time to remember the core values of scouting, their promises and the Cub Scout Law, which is of course; "Cub Scouts always do their best, think of others before themselves and to a good turn every day."
The Scouts have been making the most of the dry weather and lighter evenings, we've been out hiking, playing games at the park and also practising our camp survival skills at the woods in preparation for a survival camp later this year. The Scouts are also getting very excited about the Kent International Jamboree that we are attending in the summer along with about 6,000 other Scouts from around the world.
We would like to thank all the parents who have helped out during the last few weeks, without your support and help it would impossible to run all of the activities.
Anyone interested in joining or helping please email sparkfordscoutgroup@gmail.com
Or if you have any ideas for fundraising for our group (especially as we work towards our new minibus!) please contact Helen Wooldridge – helen@cuddledry.com
Minibus total creeping up…. & how many cubs can you fit in a Cadillac?
We would like to thank the members of our local communities who have so generously donated so far to our minibus fund, we are so grateful to you for your support. We continue to work to raise the much-needed funds, and have put in a bid to the Co-op community fund to help. You can vote for our project by logging in to your membership account if you are a Co-Op member, or for just £1 and a few easy clicks you can join here Co-op Membership account and not only vote for us (please do!) but also get money off your own shopping at Co-op!
The Scouts had a great time caving with West Coker Scouts at the end of March. For some of them it was their first experience of caving but they all did amazingly well and we are looking forward to more sessions later this year. Before Easter we went on a night hike in Milborne Port which enabled the Scouts to explore new routes and a different area of the district. We are now looking forward to the lighter nights so that we can enjoy some more outdoor activities with an action packed programme for the summer term!
Cubs had a fantastic day at Wookey Hole, where they met up with all the cubs in Somerset. Cubs and Beavers were also shown around Haynes Motor museum, as Haynes very kindly gave us a free tour. We are very grateful to all the museum volunteers who gave their time to show us around. We learnt about the history of cars, including the difference between American and European cars in the 50s and 60s; and we worked out just how many Cubs can fit in an American Cadillac!
Beavers have had a great term working towards our gardening and space badges, doing challenges and cooking. We are really looking forward to an exciting summer term. It's a great time to explore and learn about our local community. We will be practising sports, walking, den building and trail activities. We do have a waiting list but there will be opportunities to take on more Beavers this and in the Autumn term. If you are interested in trying, please let us know.
And we are delighted to congratulate our Scout leader Kevin Davis who has after six years finally completed all of his Scout training so will be looking forward to receiving his wood beads in the next few months!
Anyone interested in joining or helping please email sparkfordscoutgroup@gmail.com
Or if you have any ideas for fundraising or you have skills to share with our groups please contact Helen Wooldridge – helen@cuddledry.com
We would like to thank the members of our local communities who have so generously donated so far to our minibus fund, we are so grateful to you for your support. We continue to work to raise the much-needed funds, and have put in a bid to the Co-op community fund to help. You can vote for our project by logging in to your membership account if you are a Co-Op member, or for just £1 and a few easy clicks you can join here Co-op Membership account and not only vote for us (please do!) but also get money off your own shopping at Co-op!
The Scouts had a great time caving with West Coker Scouts at the end of March. For some of them it was their first experience of caving but they all did amazingly well and we are looking forward to more sessions later this year. Before Easter we went on a night hike in Milborne Port which enabled the Scouts to explore new routes and a different area of the district. We are now looking forward to the lighter nights so that we can enjoy some more outdoor activities with an action packed programme for the summer term!
Cubs had a fantastic day at Wookey Hole, where they met up with all the cubs in Somerset. Cubs and Beavers were also shown around Haynes Motor museum, as Haynes very kindly gave us a free tour. We are very grateful to all the museum volunteers who gave their time to show us around. We learnt about the history of cars, including the difference between American and European cars in the 50s and 60s; and we worked out just how many Cubs can fit in an American Cadillac!
Beavers have had a great term working towards our gardening and space badges, doing challenges and cooking. We are really looking forward to an exciting summer term. It's a great time to explore and learn about our local community. We will be practising sports, walking, den building and trail activities. We do have a waiting list but there will be opportunities to take on more Beavers this and in the Autumn term. If you are interested in trying, please let us know.
And we are delighted to congratulate our Scout leader Kevin Davis who has after six years finally completed all of his Scout training so will be looking forward to receiving his wood beads in the next few months!
Anyone interested in joining or helping please email sparkfordscoutgroup@gmail.com
Or if you have any ideas for fundraising or you have skills to share with our groups please contact Helen Wooldridge – helen@cuddledry.com
Space missions, missiles, sound and electricity at Sparkford Scouts!
Beavers have been finding out about Space this term, looking at constellations, planets and making their own solar systems. They even thought about what they would take with them on a Space mission. Back to the Earth with the next topic as now Spring is here Beavers are working towards their Gardening badges.
The Cubs have had a fantastic few weeks working on their science and communicator badge. With the help of their parents, the cubs all made missile launchers to take part in a live action 'Angry Birds' challenge. They had to use their missile launchers to knock teddies off a cardboard box tower.
We are so grateful to local resident Peter Shiret, who put so much time and effort into teaching our cubs about telephones and sound. This week was the finale of several sessions, which started off with tin cans and string, and ended this week with every cub making their own working telephone. It was a truly inspiring evening.
If any other residents have ideas for projects they can help with, please let us know. We guarantee that you will get as much out of it as the kids.
The Scouts have now achieved their electric badges and have been using their photographic skills in a group challenge. They also took part in a taster caving session at Goatchurch on the Mendips at the beginning of March. With Spring fast approaching we're looking forward to the lighter evenings to enjoy more outdoor activities!
We are continuing to fundraise for a new minibus – we are doing our very best to try to make it happen so that we can organise many more adventures! HUGE thank you to members of our local communities who have so kindly already supported this important cause.
Anyone interested in joining or helping please email sparkfordscoutgroup@gmail.com
Or if you have any ideas for fundraising or donations of equipment/craft materials to our group please contact Helen Wooldridge – helen@cuddledry.com
YOU can help us too when you order your oil – by saving money via this price comparison link https://www.boilerjuice.com/community/3rd-sparkford-scout-group/ - who donate money to our group for every litre of oil you order! Please do use it if you can – thank you.
Space missions, missiles, sound and electricity at Sparkford Scouts!
Beavers have been finding out about Space this term, looking at constellations, planets and making their own solar systems. They even thought about what they would take with them on a Space mission. Back to the Earth with the next topic as now Spring is here Beavers are working towards their Gardening badges.
The Cubs have had a fantastic few weeks working on their science and communicator badge. With the help of their parents, the cubs all made missile launchers to take part in a live action 'Angry Birds' challenge. They had to use their missile launchers to knock teddies off a cardboard box tower.
We are so grateful to local resident Peter Shiret, who put so much time and effort into teaching our cubs about telephones and sound. This week was the finale of several sessions, which started off with tin cans and string, and ended this week with every cub making their own working telephone. It was a truly inspiring evening.
If any other residents have ideas for projects they can help with, please let us know. We guarantee that you will get as much out of it as the kids.
The Scouts have now achieved their electric badges and have been using their photographic skills in a group challenge. They also took part in a taster caving session at Goatchurch on the Mendips at the beginning of March. With Spring fast approaching we're looking forward to the lighter evenings to enjoy more outdoor activities!
We are continuing to fundraise for a new minibus – we are doing our very best to try to make it happen so that we can organise many more adventures! HUGE thank you to members of our local communities who have so kindly already supported this important cause.
Anyone interested in joining or helping please email sparkfordscoutgroup@gmail.com
Or if you have any ideas for fundraising or donations of equipment/craft materials to our group please contact Helen Wooldridge – helen@cuddledry.com
YOU can help us too when you order your oil – by saving money via this price comparison link https://www.boilerjuice.com/community/3rd-sparkford-scout-group/ - who donate money to our group for every litre of oil you order! Please do use it if you can – thank you.
Desert Island survival and emergency services
The Sparkford Beavers, Cubs and Scouts had a busy time at the end of 2016. At the end of last term the Cubs had to imagine they were stranded on a desert island. They were set various puzzles and challenges to survive. This was to work towards their team working badge. At the same time, our Scouts competed against each other in an Outdoor Adventure themed Bake Off, with some amazing cakes made, really showing how creative they could be!
We also had a visit from the South West Ambulance Service where the Scouts learnt about first aid and the emergency services, and were even let loose in the ambulance. Since then some of our youngsters have used their skills in real situations, of which we are very proud.
We also took part in the County Scout Challenge at Huish Woods in November which was a very wet and muddy evening of fun.
In the run up to Christmas the Beavers, Cubs and Scouts all took part in the Carol Service at Sparkford Church – and it was fantastic to see the church packed out and to see the youngsters giving the readings and participating in setting up the stable for the crib service.
We are continuing to fundraise for a new minibus – we are doing our very best to try to make that happen so that we can organise many more adventures! If you have any ideas to help us raise the much needed funds for this please do contact Helen Wooldridge – helen@cuddledry.com
Anyone interested in joining or helping please email sparkfordscoutgroup@gmail.com
YOU can help us too when you order your oil – by saving money via this price comparison link https://www.boilerjuice.com/community/3rd-sparkford-scout-group/ - who donate money to our group for every litre of oil you order! Please do use it if you can – thank you.
The Sparkford Beavers, Cubs and Scouts had a busy time at the end of 2016. At the end of last term the Cubs had to imagine they were stranded on a desert island. They were set various puzzles and challenges to survive. This was to work towards their team working badge. At the same time, our Scouts competed against each other in an Outdoor Adventure themed Bake Off, with some amazing cakes made, really showing how creative they could be!
We also had a visit from the South West Ambulance Service where the Scouts learnt about first aid and the emergency services, and were even let loose in the ambulance. Since then some of our youngsters have used their skills in real situations, of which we are very proud.
We also took part in the County Scout Challenge at Huish Woods in November which was a very wet and muddy evening of fun.
In the run up to Christmas the Beavers, Cubs and Scouts all took part in the Carol Service at Sparkford Church – and it was fantastic to see the church packed out and to see the youngsters giving the readings and participating in setting up the stable for the crib service.
We are continuing to fundraise for a new minibus – we are doing our very best to try to make that happen so that we can organise many more adventures! If you have any ideas to help us raise the much needed funds for this please do contact Helen Wooldridge – helen@cuddledry.com
Anyone interested in joining or helping please email sparkfordscoutgroup@gmail.com
YOU can help us too when you order your oil – by saving money via this price comparison link https://www.boilerjuice.com/community/3rd-sparkford-scout-group/ - who donate money to our group for every litre of oil you order! Please do use it if you can – thank you.
2016
November
Climbing and Remembrance at Sparkford Scouts
Our Cubs and Scouts had an amazing trip to Osmington at the start of half term, where they faced a fantastic range of challenges, from raft building at Portland, to mountain biking and team building games. And they achieved great heights on the climbing walls and now infamous ‘Jacobs Ladder’ – showing amazing confidence and determination, even when their legs did feel like jelly!
Our young Beavers have been busy earning their Personal Challenge Awards and Cooking Activitiy badge. They too are off climbing at the end of this month before they start looking forward to Christmas. We have a fantastic full section and new leaders who are developing the colony brilliantly.
Our Cubs have been learning about Remembrance Day during their recent meetings, and all our sections were represented superbly at the Remembrance Day Parade held at Queen Camel Church, with flag bearers from age six upwards, all marking this important occasion.
We are continuing to fundraise for a new minibus – we have an opportunity to purchase one from a local school in the coming months so we are doing our very best to try to make that happen so that we can organise many more adventures!
Anyone interested in joining or helping please email sparkfordscoutgroup@gmail.com
Or if you have any ideas for fundraising or donations of equipment/craft materials to our group please contact Helen Wooldridge – helen@cuddledry.com
YOU can help us too when you order your oil – by saving money via this price comparison link https://www.boilerjuice.com/community/3rd-sparkford-scout-group/ - who donate money to our group for every litre of oil you order! Please do use it if you can – thank you.
Our Cubs and Scouts had an amazing trip to Osmington at the start of half term, where they faced a fantastic range of challenges, from raft building at Portland, to mountain biking and team building games. And they achieved great heights on the climbing walls and now infamous ‘Jacobs Ladder’ – showing amazing confidence and determination, even when their legs did feel like jelly!
Our young Beavers have been busy earning their Personal Challenge Awards and Cooking Activitiy badge. They too are off climbing at the end of this month before they start looking forward to Christmas. We have a fantastic full section and new leaders who are developing the colony brilliantly.
Our Cubs have been learning about Remembrance Day during their recent meetings, and all our sections were represented superbly at the Remembrance Day Parade held at Queen Camel Church, with flag bearers from age six upwards, all marking this important occasion.
We are continuing to fundraise for a new minibus – we have an opportunity to purchase one from a local school in the coming months so we are doing our very best to try to make that happen so that we can organise many more adventures!
Anyone interested in joining or helping please email sparkfordscoutgroup@gmail.com
Or if you have any ideas for fundraising or donations of equipment/craft materials to our group please contact Helen Wooldridge – helen@cuddledry.com
YOU can help us too when you order your oil – by saving money via this price comparison link https://www.boilerjuice.com/community/3rd-sparkford-scout-group/ - who donate money to our group for every litre of oil you order! Please do use it if you can – thank you.
October
Creative times, survival, and growth at Sparkford Scouts!
It’s a time of growth at Sparkford Scouts, with lots of enquiries about new youngsters wanting to join. We have a new email for anyone wanting more information -sparkfordscoutgroup@gmail.com so do get in touch. Our group has big plans and a great vision – and we are setting to work to fundraise for a new minibus, and ultimately our long term dream of maybe even finding a place to have our very own Scout hut. If anyone passionate about Scouting has a little bit of land or a building they would love to bequeath to us locally, now or one day …. we are all ears!
Updates from our groups:
Our Beavers - are looking forward to achieving their experiment badge over the next two weeks, after working hard creating obstacle courses, campfire skits and songs. After half term we will be concentrating on cooking and Christmas decorations. We want to procure a really well organised ‘craft cupboard’ so if anyone has anything to donate please do contact us.
Cubs - We are trying to make the most of the last few light evenings of the year, so we have been busy cooking over campfires in Sparkford Woods. We have also started to learn about telephones, by making tin can phones and learning about the phonetic alphabet, with help from local volunteers. This week we went Geocaching at Lytes Cary.
Scouts - This term we will be testing the Scouts local knowledge and they will be trying to fill Mary Berry's shoes by holding their own British Bake Off! They also tested their outdoor cooking and shelter building skills on a joint Survival Skills and Expedition weekend along with West Coker Scouts – and all survived!!! We also have the Scout Challenge to look forward to in November.
The youngsters themselves have been fundraising as always – bag packing at supermarkets in particular, to help pay for all their activities. YOU can help us too when you order your oil – by saving money via this price comparison link https://www.boilerjuice.com/community/3rd-sparkford-scout-group/ - who donate money to our group for every litre of oil you order! Please do use it if you can – thank you.
For fundraising input or volunteering please contact Helen Wooldridge on helen@cuddledry.com or 01963 440801
Creative times, survival, and growth at Sparkford Scouts!
It’s a time of growth at Sparkford Scouts, with lots of enquiries about new youngsters wanting to join. We have a new email for anyone wanting more information -sparkfordscoutgroup@gmail.com so do get in touch. Our group has big plans and a great vision – and we are setting to work to fundraise for a new minibus, and ultimately our long term dream of maybe even finding a place to have our very own Scout hut. If anyone passionate about Scouting has a little bit of land or a building they would love to bequeath to us locally, now or one day …. we are all ears!
Updates from our groups:
Our Beavers - are looking forward to achieving their experiment badge over the next two weeks, after working hard creating obstacle courses, campfire skits and songs. After half term we will be concentrating on cooking and Christmas decorations. We want to procure a really well organised ‘craft cupboard’ so if anyone has anything to donate please do contact us.
Cubs - We are trying to make the most of the last few light evenings of the year, so we have been busy cooking over campfires in Sparkford Woods. We have also started to learn about telephones, by making tin can phones and learning about the phonetic alphabet, with help from local volunteers. This week we went Geocaching at Lytes Cary.
Scouts - This term we will be testing the Scouts local knowledge and they will be trying to fill Mary Berry's shoes by holding their own British Bake Off! They also tested their outdoor cooking and shelter building skills on a joint Survival Skills and Expedition weekend along with West Coker Scouts – and all survived!!! We also have the Scout Challenge to look forward to in November.
The youngsters themselves have been fundraising as always – bag packing at supermarkets in particular, to help pay for all their activities. YOU can help us too when you order your oil – by saving money via this price comparison link https://www.boilerjuice.com/community/3rd-sparkford-scout-group/ - who donate money to our group for every litre of oil you order! Please do use it if you can – thank you.
For fundraising input or volunteering please contact Helen Wooldridge on helen@cuddledry.com or 01963 440801
September
New Term Update! Lots of Activity for Sparkford Scouts

Beavers are very excited to be returning after such a fabulous summer! We have lots planned for this term, visits, camp fires, singing, scary mask competitions, Olympic challenges and cooking! We do have a waiting list so please put any names down as soon as possible so we can get your child started in scouting when a space is available. If you would like further details or to be added to the waiting list, please email Siobhan on sparkfordscoutgroup@gmail.com with names, date of birth and contact details.
As Cubs come back after the summer holidays we shall be welcoming some new starters. We shall try to make the most of the last few light evenings by getting outside to play games, and for outdoor learning. This term we hope to learn about radios and telephones. We hope to be making a telephone and to create our own radio show. So if anyone has any experience with this, and wants to help make this a really great experience, we would love to hear from them.
Scouts are starting the new term with a busy programme. We will be making the most of the evenings outside before the winter arrives and will be focussing on team building. Some of the Scouts are attending a Survival camp next month and they will also be taking part in an outdoor activities camp at Osmington Bay.
We didn't stop during the summer as we joined West Coker Scout Group and attended a week long camp at Gilwell Park, the Scouting headquarters. This was a fun filled week including activities, challenges and competitions as well as a trip into London and Lee Valley Water Park. We are already planning the summer camp next year at Kent International Jamboree.
Our Beavers, Cubs and Scouts kicked off the new term working hard packing shopping for customers at Sainsburys in Sherborne and raised just over £400! Huge thank you to all at Sainsbury’s and to the shoppers for their very kind donations – this will make a big difference for us. We also need to thank the parents, grandparents and Scouts who worked hard at the ‘Classics at the Castle’ car show this summer, as parking attendants and litter pickers! Thank you to the Rotary Club for inviting us once again and giving a generous donation to our group.
July
June
Update from 3rd Sparkford Scouts – camping season begins!
The Scouts and Cubs were delighted to complete their first camp of the year – with our fantastic new equipment – at Huish Woods Scout camp. Nobody was put off by the rain, and all the youngsters demonstrated fantastic camp skills, from building the camp and cooking all their meals, to making ingenious ‘gadgets’ using branches and twigs to build things as creative as washing up bowl holders and draining boards! It was a brilliant opportunity to use the new tents and cooking kit, and we owe so much thanks to local businesses and individuals who have helped us raise funds for those so far. Special mentions to Higos Insurance, Yeovil Lions, Rotary Clubs of Yeo Vale & Sherborne Castles, and all the local parish councils who support our work. THANK YOU!
Our group also played a major part at the Cubs100 Event in Frome to celebrate 100 years of Scouting, with our team running the Activity section. Our youngsters were delighted to meet the Chief Scout himself, Bear Grylls, who commented on their excellent skills!
For the next camp we will be running a competition for the youngsters to design a commemorative badge to sew on their camp blankets, so if anyone locally fancies helping us to fund that we would of course be delighted to receive any contributions.
If you are interested in getting involved as a helper, committee member or have ideas for fundraising, please email Helen Wooldridge helen@cuddledry.com or call 01963 440801. Thank you.
The Scouts and Cubs were delighted to complete their first camp of the year – with our fantastic new equipment – at Huish Woods Scout camp. Nobody was put off by the rain, and all the youngsters demonstrated fantastic camp skills, from building the camp and cooking all their meals, to making ingenious ‘gadgets’ using branches and twigs to build things as creative as washing up bowl holders and draining boards! It was a brilliant opportunity to use the new tents and cooking kit, and we owe so much thanks to local businesses and individuals who have helped us raise funds for those so far. Special mentions to Higos Insurance, Yeovil Lions, Rotary Clubs of Yeo Vale & Sherborne Castles, and all the local parish councils who support our work. THANK YOU!
Our group also played a major part at the Cubs100 Event in Frome to celebrate 100 years of Scouting, with our team running the Activity section. Our youngsters were delighted to meet the Chief Scout himself, Bear Grylls, who commented on their excellent skills!
For the next camp we will be running a competition for the youngsters to design a commemorative badge to sew on their camp blankets, so if anyone locally fancies helping us to fund that we would of course be delighted to receive any contributions.
If you are interested in getting involved as a helper, committee member or have ideas for fundraising, please email Helen Wooldridge helen@cuddledry.com or call 01963 440801. Thank you.
Update from 3rd Sparkford Scouts – heading for summertime!
All our groups have been out and about – with Scouts successfully completing a blind hike, & now preparing for camp where our Cubs and Scouts will be using the new cooking equipment we have recently purchased with kind donations from our local Parish Councils and our fundraising. We are also looking forward to a joint camp at Gilwell Park in London with West Coker Scout group in the summer. The Cubs have been hearing about the traditions of the camp fire and learning some of the songs in readiness!
The Beavers are doing well, a number have moved up to Cubs and we now have some new starters off our waiting list. We have also welcomed Sally and Gemma to the leadership team, so we are now looking at an exciting outdoor program for the summer. We will be doing den building, walking, ball skills and of course campfire cooking and fun.
Beavers, Cubs and Scouts all celebrated the Queen’s Birthday, lighting the Beacon on Cadbury Camp – all in uniform and waving Union flags!
All our groups have been out and about – with Scouts successfully completing a blind hike, & now preparing for camp where our Cubs and Scouts will be using the new cooking equipment we have recently purchased with kind donations from our local Parish Councils and our fundraising. We are also looking forward to a joint camp at Gilwell Park in London with West Coker Scout group in the summer. The Cubs have been hearing about the traditions of the camp fire and learning some of the songs in readiness!
The Beavers are doing well, a number have moved up to Cubs and we now have some new starters off our waiting list. We have also welcomed Sally and Gemma to the leadership team, so we are now looking at an exciting outdoor program for the summer. We will be doing den building, walking, ball skills and of course campfire cooking and fun.
Beavers, Cubs and Scouts all celebrated the Queen’s Birthday, lighting the Beacon on Cadbury Camp – all in uniform and waving Union flags!
Marshmallows, Mothers Day, Firelighting and Swimming - March Newsletter 2016
The girls and boys of our local Beavers, Cubs and Scout Group have been busy this month with some creative activities. The younger ones had some sticky fun learning about building bridges using marshmallows and spaghetti, while the cubs were busy making presents for Mothers Day (with some really impressive results – a great example of Scouting activities broadening the youngsters’ thinking and imagination). The Scouts meanwhile are working towards their electrics badge so have been wiring plugs and making buzz bars.
Outdoors the cubs have been signalling with morse code in the dark and practising their knots, while the Scouts have been cooking at the woods and lighting fires with flints.
We celebrated Shrove Tuesday with lots of pancakes, and will be learning about the importance of Easter in the coming weeks.
We have some new leaders joining the group which is fantastic news, and we are still on the lookout for a few more – why not come along and join our team of volunteers? You don’t have to come every week, just whatever you can commit to. Contact Helen Wooldridge to find out more –helen@cuddledry.com or 01963 440801.
And lastly – our fundraising continues as we work towards buying another new patrol tent for our cubs so they aren’t so squashed on camp this summer. A team took part in the Lions Club Swimarathon at Clayesmore School last weekend, raising funds for our group and for other local charities.
The girls and boys of our local Beavers, Cubs and Scout Group have been busy this month with some creative activities. The younger ones had some sticky fun learning about building bridges using marshmallows and spaghetti, while the cubs were busy making presents for Mothers Day (with some really impressive results – a great example of Scouting activities broadening the youngsters’ thinking and imagination). The Scouts meanwhile are working towards their electrics badge so have been wiring plugs and making buzz bars.
Outdoors the cubs have been signalling with morse code in the dark and practising their knots, while the Scouts have been cooking at the woods and lighting fires with flints.
We celebrated Shrove Tuesday with lots of pancakes, and will be learning about the importance of Easter in the coming weeks.
We have some new leaders joining the group which is fantastic news, and we are still on the lookout for a few more – why not come along and join our team of volunteers? You don’t have to come every week, just whatever you can commit to. Contact Helen Wooldridge to find out more –helen@cuddledry.com or 01963 440801.
And lastly – our fundraising continues as we work towards buying another new patrol tent for our cubs so they aren’t so squashed on camp this summer. A team took part in the Lions Club Swimarathon at Clayesmore School last weekend, raising funds for our group and for other local charities.
CUBS
We are delighted a few locals have come forward to help with Cubs, both male and female which is wonderful, thank you! We are still seeking more helpers for the Scouts, so the boys and girls can undertake some more activities - please get in touch!
If you or someone you know can get involved please contact:
Helen Wooldridge on helen@cuddledry.com or 01963 440801
We are delighted a few locals have come forward to help with Cubs, both male and female which is wonderful, thank you! We are still seeking more helpers for the Scouts, so the boys and girls can undertake some more activities - please get in touch!
If you or someone you know can get involved please contact:
Helen Wooldridge on helen@cuddledry.com or 01963 440801
Exciting times at our local Beavers, Cubs and Scouts as the evenings start to get lighter (although we still hiked in the dark and wet!). Our little Beavers are busy working on their Skills, Hobbies and Collection Badges, and celebrated Burns Night with "Highland Games", and Chinese New Year with their own fabulous and fearsome Chinese Dragons. They will be Welly Wanging for St Davids Day so watch out for that one! The Cubs have been learning about first aid, and now know how to check if someone is breathing, put them in the recovery position, and make a sling. Scouts is bursting at the seams with the troop now running at full capacity. We entered two teams in the district scout four a side football competition – a great chance to meet other Scouts, and we were delighted our teams came in 2nd and 3rd. We are looking forward to using our new equipment for camping this summer, with help from a recent generous donation from Higos Insurance – and seeking a few more volunteers to come along and help out or run sessions for us. If you or someone you know might be interested please email helen@cuddledry.com or call Helen on 01963 440801.
2015
3rd Sparkford Beavers, Cubs & Scouts - November 2015 Remembrance Day

3rd Sparkford mark Remembrance Day and learn new skills
The Beavers, Cubs and Scouts of the 3rd Sparkford Group were proud to mark Remembrance Sunday with a parade at Queen Camel Church – carrying the flags for each section into the service, where local service men and women were remembered. Seeing them all in their uniform was a chance to recognise the hard work the youngsters and their leaders have all been putting in recently to gaining new badges, with skills in mapreading, science, conservation and much more – some lovely achievements. Sadly the group has said goodbye to a fantastic leader from the Cub section – Luke Bugler – due to increased work commitments. Luke has done an amazing job and will be hugely missed. If you know of anyone who might like to get involved we are in need of some new helpers – no experience necessary, just lots of enthusiasm!! We are busy planning camps for next year, and would like to thank the Montgomery family for their ongoing kind donation of potatoes to feed the troops on camp! To get involved, volunteer or donate towards new tents please contact Helen Wooldridge on helen@cuddledry.com or 01963 440801
Photo - Remembrance Sunday at Queen Camel Church
The Beavers, Cubs and Scouts of the 3rd Sparkford Group were proud to mark Remembrance Sunday with a parade at Queen Camel Church – carrying the flags for each section into the service, where local service men and women were remembered. Seeing them all in their uniform was a chance to recognise the hard work the youngsters and their leaders have all been putting in recently to gaining new badges, with skills in mapreading, science, conservation and much more – some lovely achievements. Sadly the group has said goodbye to a fantastic leader from the Cub section – Luke Bugler – due to increased work commitments. Luke has done an amazing job and will be hugely missed. If you know of anyone who might like to get involved we are in need of some new helpers – no experience necessary, just lots of enthusiasm!! We are busy planning camps for next year, and would like to thank the Montgomery family for their ongoing kind donation of potatoes to feed the troops on camp! To get involved, volunteer or donate towards new tents please contact Helen Wooldridge on helen@cuddledry.com or 01963 440801
Photo - Remembrance Sunday at Queen Camel Church
June 2015
The Beavers, Cubs and Scouts from 1st Sparkford – who hail from Sparkford, North Cadbury, Queen Camel, South Cadbury, Marston Magna, North Barrow and all around the area – are having a very active time now the weather is so good. They have been busy learning new skills and getting involved in outdoor activities – from building dens in the woods to bike maintenance, cycling and kayaking. We are delighted that some new leaders and helpers have joined us, and are busy preparing for our next camp. Montgomery Farms have kindly committed to providing a sack of potatoes for each camp for which we are hugely grateful.
With so many now involved the cubs were a bit like sardines in their tent at the last camp, so we are starting to fundraise for our next new patrol tent. The youngsters have lots planned to raise funds, but if you would like to contribute or know someone who might – please do let us know! Contact Helen Wooldridge on 01963 440801 or email helen@cuddledry.com
With so many now involved the cubs were a bit like sardines in their tent at the last camp, so we are starting to fundraise for our next new patrol tent. The youngsters have lots planned to raise funds, but if you would like to contribute or know someone who might – please do let us know! Contact Helen Wooldridge on 01963 440801 or email helen@cuddledry.com
The 3rd Sparkford Scout Group has been on its first camp of the season – this time it was ‘Parent Camp’ so mums and dads had the opportunity to camp too. It was held at Tedbury camp near Frome, a fantastic woodland location which everyone really enjoyed. The youngsters showed their parents how to put up their patrol tents and dining shelters, cooked them breakfast, and created handmade burgers (with meat very kindly donated by Andrew Barclay butchers)! They enjoyed a great hike along the river, and worked hard on their campcraft skills. The rain even held off (most of the time!). The new patrol tent we fundraised for last year was a huge success – now we are putting our energy into raising funds for another as our cubs were crammed in their tent like little sardines!
If you or someone you know can get involved please contact Helen Wooldridge on helen@cuddledry.com or 01963 440801
If you or someone you know can get involved please contact Helen Wooldridge on helen@cuddledry.com or 01963 440801
April 2015
We are delighted a few locals have come forward to help with Cubs, both male and female which is wonderful, thank you! We are still seeking more helpers for the Scouts, so the boys and girls can undertake some more activities - please get in touch!
Our Group Section Leader, Rob Butcher, comments,
"The group has had another great term and the kids have had the opportunity to stretch their knowledge with maps and cooking skills. They have also tried a number of new activities including indoor climbing. We are as ever really interested in hearing from anyone who can help continue to provide these opportunities for the young people in our local area."
Beavers have been busy this term learning about space and aeroplanes with a fantastic visit to RNAS Yeovilton to see the helicopters.
Cubs recently had a great adventure at ready2climb as well as earning their fitness and physical recreation badges.
Scouts have been cooking independently to prepare for camp, navigating, hiking and shelter building.
The group has three exciting camps planned for the summer and we can't wait!
If you or someone you know can get involved please contact Helen Wooldridge on helen@cuddledry.com or 01963 440801
March 2015 - 3rd Sparkford Scouts update
Swimarathon, Space and waiting lists!
The Beavers, Cubs and Scouts of 3rd Sparkford have been busy with new badges, new skills and their own fundraising efforts this term. Beavers completed their Space badge, learning constellations and star gazing. Cubs have been learning navigation and using it on a night hike. Scouts have been putting their practical skills to the test to achieve their camp cooking badge, as well as working on their hobbies badge – a great way to discover what a talented group of youngsters we have in the group.
A team from 3rd Sparkford took part in the Blackmore Vale Lions Club ‘Swimarathon’. The group swam 100 laps in 55 minutes (200 lengths) and managed to collect £379 in sponsorship - £189.50 for the Scout group for our upcoming May and summer camps, and the other 50% will be split between NSPCC, Julia's House and Blackmore Vale Lions Charities Trust.
We are delighted to have recruited two new leaders to the group, and still need more! Women and men who are keen to be part of our exciting, growing group of enthusiastic, active girls and boys, would be hugely welcome, as our waiting lists for new members grow all the time. If you would like to find out more please contact Helen Wooldridge on helen@cuddledry.com or 01963 440801.
The Beavers, Cubs and Scouts of 3rd Sparkford have been busy with new badges, new skills and their own fundraising efforts this term. Beavers completed their Space badge, learning constellations and star gazing. Cubs have been learning navigation and using it on a night hike. Scouts have been putting their practical skills to the test to achieve their camp cooking badge, as well as working on their hobbies badge – a great way to discover what a talented group of youngsters we have in the group.
A team from 3rd Sparkford took part in the Blackmore Vale Lions Club ‘Swimarathon’. The group swam 100 laps in 55 minutes (200 lengths) and managed to collect £379 in sponsorship - £189.50 for the Scout group for our upcoming May and summer camps, and the other 50% will be split between NSPCC, Julia's House and Blackmore Vale Lions Charities Trust.
We are delighted to have recruited two new leaders to the group, and still need more! Women and men who are keen to be part of our exciting, growing group of enthusiastic, active girls and boys, would be hugely welcome, as our waiting lists for new members grow all the time. If you would like to find out more please contact Helen Wooldridge on helen@cuddledry.com or 01963 440801.
Beavers, Cubs and Scouts Remember - November 2014
Your local beavers, cubs and scouts from the 3rd Sparkford Group were proud to take part in the Remembrance Day Parade and Service held at Queen Camel Church. The event meant a great deal to all our young people, especially in this centenary year, as we all remembered those lost in the 1st World War and in all conflict.
All our groups have a lot planned in the run up to Christmas, learning about Scouting around the world and international charities to earn global badges, and looking at recycling also. Our Scouts took part in the County Scout Challenge, and we are now planning Christmas events including our carol service – details coming soon.
If you would like to get involved or contribute we would love to hear from you – we are now working to raise funds for outdoor cooking equipment – please contact Helen Wooldridge 01963 440801 or helen@cuddledry.com
Your local beavers, cubs and scouts from the 3rd Sparkford Group were proud to take part in the Remembrance Day Parade and Service held at Queen Camel Church. The event meant a great deal to all our young people, especially in this centenary year, as we all remembered those lost in the 1st World War and in all conflict.
All our groups have a lot planned in the run up to Christmas, learning about Scouting around the world and international charities to earn global badges, and looking at recycling also. Our Scouts took part in the County Scout Challenge, and we are now planning Christmas events including our carol service – details coming soon.
If you would like to get involved or contribute we would love to hear from you – we are now working to raise funds for outdoor cooking equipment – please contact Helen Wooldridge 01963 440801 or helen@cuddledry.com
Hello! Our local beavers, cubs and scouts (with children from North Cadbury, Queen Camel, Sparkford, South Cadbury, Galhampton, North and South Barrow, Charlton Horethorne, Corton Denham, Castle Cary and many other local villages) have had an AMAZING summer – due of course to their amazing leaders but also in large part to local contributions from parish councils, trusts and individuals, which has helped us begin the process of creating a set of good equipment for really good outdoor camps. Very exciting times for us – the youngsters are learning to cook independently outdoors (great for parents once they get home with new skills!), and the two camps we have held so far have been amazing. I have attached an update, but do feel free
to include any of this as an intro also.
On this occasion if there is any way you can include the photo below it would be hugely, hugely appreciated – this shows our young patrols (some as young as 8) cooking their breakfasts under our new dining shelters – early one morning on camp. These shelters have revolutionised our camps, and our kids have achieved so much learning as a result of having them. We also have an amazing new patrol tent due to all the fundraising and contributions – it is an amazing start to new, exciting times!
14/10/2014
to include any of this as an intro also.
On this occasion if there is any way you can include the photo below it would be hugely, hugely appreciated – this shows our young patrols (some as young as 8) cooking their breakfasts under our new dining shelters – early one morning on camp. These shelters have revolutionised our camps, and our kids have achieved so much learning as a result of having them. We also have an amazing new patrol tent due to all the fundraising and contributions – it is an amazing start to new, exciting times!
14/10/2014
Community Week – Sparkford Scouts
It’s been a busy time for our Beavers, Cubs & Scouts – with lighter evenings helping us get out and about doing useful things in our local communities. Scouts Community Week took place in June and we have been cleaning, clearing and tidying in local parks, streets, paths and churchyards. This has taught our youngsters new skills and responsibilities, and helped with much needed projects in local villages. Beavers, cubs and scouts are all working towards badges for community skills, outdoor activities and more.
Our youngsters have also been working to raise funds towards our new equipment target – including a very successful session helping customers at Morrisons packing shopping bags. If you would like to get involved or contribute we would love to hear from you – please contact Helen Wooldridge 01963 440801 or helen@cuddledry.com
Next on our agenda – Summer Camp! We can’t wait!
It’s been a busy time for our Beavers, Cubs & Scouts – with lighter evenings helping us get out and about doing useful things in our local communities. Scouts Community Week took place in June and we have been cleaning, clearing and tidying in local parks, streets, paths and churchyards. This has taught our youngsters new skills and responsibilities, and helped with much needed projects in local villages. Beavers, cubs and scouts are all working towards badges for community skills, outdoor activities and more.
Our youngsters have also been working to raise funds towards our new equipment target – including a very successful session helping customers at Morrisons packing shopping bags. If you would like to get involved or contribute we would love to hear from you – please contact Helen Wooldridge 01963 440801 or helen@cuddledry.com
Next on our agenda – Summer Camp! We can’t wait!

Happy campers despite the rain!
This month saw the 3rd Sparkford Scout group camping out, and despite the downpours it was an amazing weekend! Parents were invited to camp too as the group undertook setting up camp, creating incredible handy ‘gadgets’ using sticks and string (from gates to bin bag holders, fences to draining boards), hiking, games, cooking over campfires and learning skills for living outdoors.
This is an exciting time for the group, who are embarking on a new programme of activities and camps designed to really teach the beavers, cubs and scouts independence and outdoor skills. They have to be organised for kit inspection, and they are learning how to cook for themselves, and really work as a team.
The group is also working hard to fundraise for new dining shelters after some of the older equipment was found to be less than watertight! They will be packing bags for customers at Morrison’s on June 1st to raise money, and they would like to thank both Sparkford and Queen Camel Parish Councils and Battens Solicitors for donations. Still a long way to go to hit their target, so contributions or ideas always hugely welcome.
Please contact Helen Wooldridge on helen@cuddledry.com or 01963 440801.
This month saw the 3rd Sparkford Scout group camping out, and despite the downpours it was an amazing weekend! Parents were invited to camp too as the group undertook setting up camp, creating incredible handy ‘gadgets’ using sticks and string (from gates to bin bag holders, fences to draining boards), hiking, games, cooking over campfires and learning skills for living outdoors.
This is an exciting time for the group, who are embarking on a new programme of activities and camps designed to really teach the beavers, cubs and scouts independence and outdoor skills. They have to be organised for kit inspection, and they are learning how to cook for themselves, and really work as a team.
The group is also working hard to fundraise for new dining shelters after some of the older equipment was found to be less than watertight! They will be packing bags for customers at Morrison’s on June 1st to raise money, and they would like to thank both Sparkford and Queen Camel Parish Councils and Battens Solicitors for donations. Still a long way to go to hit their target, so contributions or ideas always hugely welcome.
Please contact Helen Wooldridge on helen@cuddledry.com or 01963 440801.
3rd Sparkford Scouts getting busy!
Scouts - Its all change with 8 older scouts due to move on at easter, and
new younger scouts coming into the group. We have been developing a new set
of patrol leaders and assistant patrol leaders. We are busy with plans
continuing for Scout community week in June and camp plans developing too.
Cubs - continue to work on their creative challenge badge writing poems and
rehearsing sketches which will culminate in a performance at the end of term
in front of parents. Cubs having been working with parents and grandparents
at home on their building projects and going on walks thoughout the village
making their own map of Sparkford.
Beavers - had an amazing sleepover at the village hall, full of song cheer
and camping (well tents were erected in the hall!), and we have lots planned
for the forthcoming months for our colony of beavers.
We are getting fundraising activities underway and working to raise money
for some new outdoor shelter tents and equipment so we can get our
youngsters learning about cooking over a campfire and other outdoor skills.
Donations small or large always hugely welcome, to support this new
generation of young beavers, cubs and scouts - please contact Helen
Wooldridge (helen@cuddledry.com) or call 01963 440801 if you can help.
For Community Week 2-8 June we are lining up projects to help out with local
buildings and people. We also really want to learn more about Scouting in
our area - and for this we are seeking photographs or other information from
anyone who was a Scout in this area in the past. Were you or any of your
family a Scout near here? Do you have any photos you could share? Please
contact Helen Wooldridge via the contact details above if you can help.
Scouts - Its all change with 8 older scouts due to move on at easter, and
new younger scouts coming into the group. We have been developing a new set
of patrol leaders and assistant patrol leaders. We are busy with plans
continuing for Scout community week in June and camp plans developing too.
Cubs - continue to work on their creative challenge badge writing poems and
rehearsing sketches which will culminate in a performance at the end of term
in front of parents. Cubs having been working with parents and grandparents
at home on their building projects and going on walks thoughout the village
making their own map of Sparkford.
Beavers - had an amazing sleepover at the village hall, full of song cheer
and camping (well tents were erected in the hall!), and we have lots planned
for the forthcoming months for our colony of beavers.
We are getting fundraising activities underway and working to raise money
for some new outdoor shelter tents and equipment so we can get our
youngsters learning about cooking over a campfire and other outdoor skills.
Donations small or large always hugely welcome, to support this new
generation of young beavers, cubs and scouts - please contact Helen
Wooldridge (helen@cuddledry.com) or call 01963 440801 if you can help.
For Community Week 2-8 June we are lining up projects to help out with local
buildings and people. We also really want to learn more about Scouting in
our area - and for this we are seeking photographs or other information from
anyone who was a Scout in this area in the past. Were you or any of your
family a Scout near here? Do you have any photos you could share? Please
contact Helen Wooldridge via the contact details above if you can help.
February 2014
1st Sparkford Scouts need your help please! We are appealing to members of our local communities to share with us photos from anyone in the locality who was a cub or scout themselves, in the Sparkford group or elsewhere, to be copied for a display and hopefully a special event for Scout Community Week 2-8 June this year. Please contact Helen Wooldridge on helen@cuddledry.com if you can help.
Can we help you?
Also we want to help YOU! if you have a community project, large or small, that we could assist with please do let us know. Please contact julialovesbubbles@gmail.com or call Julia on 07966226916
What we are up to:
Scouts are aiming for completion of Global challenge badge by completing fundraising tasks for the Toilet twinning charity. New members from our waiting list are moving up into the group, and we are developing new challenges, planning and preparation for older scout members to potentially move on to Explorers section (at 14yrs old), whilst younger scouts develop their leadership skills. Summer activities are being planned – camps and exciting joint activities with the cubs section.
Cubs have been hiking in the local area and celebrating Chinese New Year. We are looking forward to going up to the woods and doing activities outside now spring is not far away.
Can we help you?
Also we want to help YOU! if you have a community project, large or small, that we could assist with please do let us know. Please contact julialovesbubbles@gmail.com or call Julia on 07966226916
What we are up to:
Scouts are aiming for completion of Global challenge badge by completing fundraising tasks for the Toilet twinning charity. New members from our waiting list are moving up into the group, and we are developing new challenges, planning and preparation for older scout members to potentially move on to Explorers section (at 14yrs old), whilst younger scouts develop their leadership skills. Summer activities are being planned – camps and exciting joint activities with the cubs section.
Cubs have been hiking in the local area and celebrating Chinese New Year. We are looking forward to going up to the woods and doing activities outside now spring is not far away.
Previously :-)
Scouts

3rd Sparkford Scout Group
We started the new year on 9th January. Beavers, Cubs and Scouts have a full spring programme.
Beavers highlight this term is a sleepover in the village hall.
Scouts are participating in the county Master Chef competition at Shepton Mallet and going climbing and caving.
Daffodil bulbs have been planted by Cubs, Scouts and their parents around the green areas at either end of Wolfester Terrace to brighten up the western area of the village this spring.
We have reduced our waiting list for Beavers and the Cubs should have places available in the summer. Scouts have places available now.