## **Biggleswade Scout Group Trustees Report and Annual Review 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026** **Registered in England and Wales Charity No 300444** ## **Contact Details** Joint Lead Volunteers Chris Wells Tel 07970 269896 Sue Doyle Tel 07779 817529 Email gsl@biggleswadescouts.org.uk Group Chairperson — Leigh Wood Tel 07771 785454 Email chair@biggleswadescouts.org.uk Group Treasurer — Helen Kingerley Email treasurer@biggleswadescouts.org.uk www.biggleswadescouts.org.uk Page | 2 ## **Trustees’ Annual Report** for the Period 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026 ## **Charity Trustees** Chairman Leigh Wood Group Joint Lead Volunteers Chris Wells; Sue Doyle Treasurer Helen Kingerley Trustee Clare Peacock Trustee Jerome Doyle Trustee Chris Flood Trustee Jasper Hare Charity Number 300444 Principal Address The Scout Headquarters London Road Biggleswade SG18 8EL Page | 3 ## **Structure, Governance and Management** Biggleswade Scout Group is a registered charity governed by its Constitution, Declaration of Trust dated 17 April 1962. The charity’s governing documents are those of The Scout Association. They consist of a Royal Charter, which in turn gives authority to the Bye Laws of the Association the Policy, Organisation and Rules (POR) of The Scout Association. The charity is a trust established under its rules which are common to all Scouts. It is constituted as an educational charity. The Trustees are appointed in accordance with the Policy Organisation and Rules of The Scout Association. All Trustees complete The Scout Association trustee and mandatory learning within the first six months of joining the Trustee Board, they also complete other Scout Association mandatory learning periodically as required. The charity is managed by the Trustee Board, the members of which are the “Charity Trustees”. As charity trustees they are responsible for complying with legislation applicable to charities. This includes the registration, keeping proper accounts and making returns to the Charity Commission as appropriate. The Trustee Board consists of the Chair, Treasurer and 5 Trustees (including 3 Ex-Officio Trustees, and 2 co-opted Trustees) and meets 6 times a year. The Trustee Board is supported by a Board Administrator. The Trustee Board exists to support the Leadership Teams in meeting the responsibilities of their appointments and in supporting them to run high-quality and safe programs that give young people skills for life. The Trustee Board maintains appropriate governance policies and oversight. The Trustee Board is responsible for carrying out its purposes for the public benefit, complying with the charity’s governing document and the law, and managing the charity’s resources responsibly. The Trustee Board is responsible for ensuring the charity is well managed, risks are assessed and mitigated, buildings and equipment are in good order and everyone follows legal requirements and Scout Association Policy, Organisation & Rules. This includes responsibility for: - Promoting a positive image of Scouting in the community, as well as its development; - Developing, maintaining and regularly a risk register, including putting in place appropriate mitigations; - Ensuring that the finances are properly managed, and there are sufficient resources (and reserves) to deliver high quality Scouting; - Ensuring a system of internal controls is in place that is designed to provide reasonable assurance against material mismanagement or loss; - Ensuring that property is appropriately managed; - Maintaining appropriate insurance of persons, property and equipment; - Assisting in the recruitment of leaders and other adult support; - Having an open and transparent selection process for the recruitment of Trustees; - Appointing Advisors as required; - Ensuring effective administration is in place to support the Trustee Board; Page | 4 - Ensuring compliance with applicable governance and charity regulations, including in respect to safety and safeguarding; - Ensuring incidents are appropriately reported in line with regulation and policy; - Ensuring applicable policies and regulations are regularly reviewed and changes implemented as appropriate; - Ensuring transparency of operations, including in the preparation of accounts and holding and AGM; - Ensuring compliance with Data Protection legislation; - Acting as a responsible employer for any employees, who are effectively managed. The trustees are currently implementing a programme of upgrades to maintain and enhance the Biggleswade Scouts Headquarters and are looking to have a rolling replacement program for equipment which in this year period included: - Trolley Store - Refurbishment of Stores - Purchase of new Tents They continue to engage with local politicians and stakeholders to secure long-term access to the site—and to explore opportunities for potential relocation to ensure the sustainability of Scouting in Biggleswade for the next 20–30 years. As part of The Scout Association the Trustees receive guidance and support from the local district (Biggleswade and District), county (Bedfordshire), regional, and national teams. Trustees also take into account the guidance and best practices issued by the Charity Commission. The Group Council—composed of all adult volunteers, supporters, and parents/guardians of youth members—serves as the electoral body supporting Scouting within the Group. It holds the Group Trustee Board accountable. ## **Objectives and Activities** Our charitable purpose is to support young people in achieving their full physical, intellectual, social, and spiritual potential as individuals, responsible citizens, and members of their local, national, and global communities. The charity meets the Charity Commission’s Public Benefit criteria under both the advancements of education and the advancement of citizenship or community development headings. The objectives of the charity are as a part of the Scout Association ## **Purpose of Scouting** Scouting exists to actively engage and support young people in their personal development, empowering them to make a positive contribution to society. Page | 5 **Values of Scouting** As Scouts we are guided by these values **Integrity** – We act with integrity; we are honest, trustworthy and loyal **Respect** – We have self-respect and respect for others **Care** – We support others and take care of the world in which we live **Belief** - We explore our faiths, beliefs and attitudes **Co-operation** – We make a positive difference; we co-operate with others and make friends ## **The Scout Method** Scouting takes place when young people, in partnership with adults, work together based on the values of scouting and: - enjoy what they are doing and have fun - take part in activities indoors and outdoors - learn by doing - share in spiritual reflection - take responsibility and make choices - undertake new and challenging activities - make and live by their promise In 2025, membership grew from **203** to **211** . The Group offers: - 1 Squirrel Drey (ages 4-6) - 3 Beaver Colonies (ages 6–8) - 3 Cub Packs (ages 8–10½) - 2 Scout Troops (ages 10½–14) We also work in partnership with Phoenix Explorers (ages 14–18), a District-led Explorer Scout Unit. Together with Phoenix we provide a developmental programme for over 250 young people in and around Biggleswade, through: - Weekly term-time meetings - Day trips throughout the year - Opportunities to participate in residential experiences The Group is run entirely by dedicated volunteers. Page | 6 ## **Achievements and Performance** Scouting remains vibrant in Biggleswade, with all sections operating at or near capacity. The Group successfully opened the first Squirrel Drey (Comets). There are waiting lists for all sections, these are young people eligible to join but are awaiting places: Squirrel Waiting List 30 Beaver Waiting List 16 Cubs Waiting List 4 Scout Waiting List 3 In addition to this we have 20 more registered on our waiting list for future years. Across all sections, the Group delivered over approximately **490 hours of activity** throughout the year—translating to more than **100,000 hours of personal development** delivered to local young people. Achievement was evident in the large number of **Chief Scout Awards** presented across all age sections, reflecting the commitment of both our youth and volunteers. ## **Fundraising and donations** - **Wilmott Dixon - £500 donation towards a new porch to Group funds** - **Donations for surplus fundraising stock - £45 to Group funds** - **Online Giving - £43.45 to Group funds** - **Group Easy Fundraising - £39.93 to Group funds** - **Armstrong Easy Fundraising - £143.90 to Armstrong Scouts funds for camps/events** - **Parental Donation - £85 to Armstrong Scouts funds** As Biggleswade continues to expand, with new housing and school developments on the east and north sides of town, our Group faces the ongoing challenge of scaling up provision to meet growing demand. The trustees would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to all our Leaders, helpers, parents, guardians, and—most importantly—our young people for their energy, time, and dedication throughout the year. Page | 7 **Financial Review** ## **Policy on Reserves** The policy on reserves is to hold sufficient resources to continue the charitable activities of the charity should income and fundraising activities fall short. The Trustee Board considers that the charity should hold a sum equivalent to 12 months running costs plus one capitation payment, circa £43,500 in total. The charity held reserves of approximately £43,400 in total across two accounts against this at year end. This is in line with the amount required for operating expenses plus capitation. Reserves may be used under the following circumstances: - To cover essential running costs during periods of reduced income. - To meet the annual capitation fee if subscription income is insufficient at the time payment is due. - To respond to emergencies, unexpected financial demands or major capital equipment replacement that cannot reasonably be met from normal income. - To maintain continuity of Scouting provision in the event of major disruption. Use of reserves must be approved by the Trustees and recorded in the minutes of the relevant meeting. The reserves level will be formally reviewed annually, alongside the budget and financial risk assessment. If reserves fall below the target level, the Trustees will agree a plan to rebuild them over a reasonable period. If reserves exceed the target level, the trustees may designate surplus funds for development projects, equipment, or improvements that support Scouting in Biggleswade. ## **Policy on Investments and Investment Performance** The Trustee Board considers that it maintains sufficient reserves to invest short-term, low volatility investments in accordance with The Policy Organisation and Rules (POR) of The Scout Association. These are in the form of 2 COIF Charities Deposit Funds, categorised as short-term low volatility net asset value money market funds. In the period the investment performance was 3.6966% AEY (Annual Equivalent Yield). ## **Designated Funds** As at 31[st] March 2026, the Group hold the following in designated funds (spending is restricted to the purpose specified by the fund): ## **Assistance Fund** : £800 **Porch** Designated Fundraising: £500 **Scout Camps/Events** Designated Fundraising: £4042.75 Page | 8 ## **Receipts and Payments Accounts** For financial year ended 31 March 2026 |**Receipts**
Membership Subscriptions
Residential Experiences and Trips
Activities
Bank Interest
Fundraising (Incl. Donations)
Rent
Gift Aid
Other
**Total Receipts**
**Payments**
Scout Association Capitation
Residential Experiences and Trips
Activities
Fundraising Costs
Headquarters -Utilities
Headquarters-Maintenance and Cleaning
Headquarters Improvements
Leader Uniform
Insurance
Rent
Equipment
Resources (including Badges)
Volunteer Expenses
Donations
Other
**Total Payments**
**Net Receipts/Payments**
**Cash Funds Last year end**
**Cash Funds this year end**
**tatement of Assets and Liabilities**
or financial year ended 31 March 2025
**Current Assets**
Bank Current Accounts
Bank Deposit Accounts
Cash in Hand
**Total Current Assets**
**Total Current Liabilities**
**Net Assets/Liabilities**|**31 Mar 26**
29,225.10
33,303.96
0.00
1,732.30
857.28
385.00
5,428.84
20.00
**70,952.48**
**31 Mar 26**
13,490.50
32,864.80
4,206.29
0.00
2,720.75
1,871.41
2,009.37
433.51
1,210.65
1,100.00
4,677.49
2,463.92
0.00
25.00
680.86
**67,754.55**
3,197.93
74,903.15
**78,101.08**
**31 Mar 26**
27,343.30
50,682.50
75.28
**78,101.08**
**0.00**|**31 Mar 25**
27,093.28
24,969.88
0.00
1,395.07
2,840.67
504.00
4,403.64
242.50
**61,449.04**| |---|---|---| |||**31 Mar 25**
12,852.00
25,980.19
6,621.07
0.00
2,017.21
2,636.94
4,589.21
518.09
2,496.31
991
1,116.94
2,191.84
0.00
2,220
685.24
**64,916.04**| |||-3,467.00
78,370.15
**74,903.15**
**31 Mar 25**
27,590.08
47,217.09
95.98
**74,903.15**| |||0.00| ||**78,101.08**|**74,903.15**| ## **Statement of Assets and Liabilities** For financial year ended 31 March 2025 Page | 9 ## **Notes to the Accounts** For Financial Year ended on 31 March 2025 This was another successful year for the Group. Although it appears that we have a small surplus, this takes into account income for camps next financial year, which is £5458.21 after costs already paid. This leaves a small deficit on in-year operating finances. We have invested in new tents for the Group this year, which accounts for the deficit. We continue to have a very healthy balance at the end of the year. This enables us to hold one-year running costs and one year’s capitation in reserves. The remaining balance allows for Section allowances to be paid to each Section at the start of the financial year, without impeding cash flow. ## **Receipts** Membership subscriptions – the main source of income for the Group. Up this year due to an increase in the subscriptions rate agreed by the Executive Committee and the introduction of the Comet Squirrel Drey mid-year. Residential Experiences and Trips – Additional money collected from the members for the purposes of paying for specific camps and trips. Usually these take the form of day or weekend activities. Activities—Additional money collected from the members to pay for activities that take place as part of the weekly programme. Bank Interest – interest earned in all of the Scout Group accounts. Fundraising – Only small amounts of fundraising and donations this year for the Scout Group, including £500 donation from Wilmott Dixon towards the new porch. This has been ringfenced in the accounts. Rent – Rent received from Rainbows for using our Headquarters. Gift Aid – As a registered charity we are able to claim Gift Aid on donations and our membership subscriptions qualify as a donation for these purposes. We submitted a claim for 2024-25 this year. Other—other income—this consisted of a number of items that did not fall into any other category. ## **Payments** Scout Association Capitation – Annual payment made to the Scout Association based on the number of members within the Group. For 2025/26 this was £13,490.50 which is slightly more than it was in 2024/25 due to an increase in the Capitation Fee and an increase in members. Residential Experiences and Trips – Money spent on providing specific camps and trips for our members. Activities – Money spent on providing activities for our members as part of our weekly meetings. Fundraising Costs – costs incurred in the course of raising funds, this is zero as we have not actively undertaken any fundraising activities this year, due to a shortage of volunteers. Headquarters Utilities – Expenditure on Electricity, Gas, Water and Refuse collections for the Scout Group Headquarters. We have seen an increase in utility costs this year. Monthly direct debits have increased from £93 to £215.05 per month to correct an account deficit that had built up. Page | 10 Headquarters – Maintenance and Cleaning – costs incurred in maintaining the Group’s Headquarters and its grounds. Cleaning costs were slightly higher, but maintenance costs were lower than last year, seeing a reduction overall from last year. Headquarters Improvements - Money invested in making improvements to our Headquarters building. Projects completed this year were sorting outside storage to create a workshop space for ongoing maintenance of equipment, construction of a truck store and planning approval for the Porch. Leader Uniform – cost of uniform for the Group’s volunteers and provision of Group Neckers and Group Badges. Insurance – Costs of providing insurance for the Scout Group HQ and all camping equipment owned by the Scout Group. Last financial year saw 2 payments due to the renewal date near to the financial year boundary. This year is only one payment so appears lower but is commensurate with expectations. Rent – cost to the Group of renting rooms at Trinity Methodist Church to accommodate Neptune Cub Pack. This also included various rents for other ad hoc events. Equipment – Capital expenditure on group equipment. This year it included new tents for indoor squirrel sleepovers and complete replacement of all Group outdoor tents. Resources (including badges) – Resource items purchased for use e.g. paper, glue, paint etc. Purchase of Activity and Challenge Badges to present to the young people. Volunteer expenses – costs incurred by volunteers in the course of their volunteer work which are reimbursed to them. None claimed. Donations ‐ donations made by the Group or Sections to other Charities. This year the only donation was for our Armistice wreath. Other—other expenditure—this consisted of a number of items that did not fall into any other category. ## **Assets** Bank Current Accounts—includes the Groups central Current accounts as well as the individual section current accounts. Bank Deposit Accounts — Includes the Group Reserves accounts, an Armstrong Scout Troop savings account and a very small amount in a Neptune Cub Pack savings account. Cash in Hand – Includes a Group float for fundraising events and small amounts of cash In Neptune Cub Packs. In addition to the current assets, the Group owns the HQ building along with the land and a considerable quantity of camping equipment. These have not been formally valued and so are not included in the accounts. ## **Liabilities** As at 31 March 2026, the Scout Group had no liabilities. Page | 11 ## **Declaration** The trustees declare that they have approved the trustees’ report above Signed on behalf of the Charity Trustees Signature Full name **Leigh Wood** Position **Group Chairperson** Date **28 April 2026** ## **Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of the Biggleswade Scout Group** I report on the accounts of the charity for the year ended 31 March 2026 which are set out on page 9. ## **Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner** The charity's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity’s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year (under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act)) and that an independent examination is needed. It is my responsibility to - examine the accounts under section 145 of the 2011 Act; - follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act; - state whether particular matters have come to my attention. ## **Basis of independent examiner’s report** My examination was carried out in accordance with General Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a “true and fair view” and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below. ## **Independent examiner's statement** In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention: 1. which gives me reasonable cause to believe that, in any material respect, the requirements: - to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the 2011 Act; and - to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the 2011 Act; - have not been met; or 2. to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. Signed: Date: 22/05/2026 Name: Kim Clegg FCMA CGMA Address: 1 Meadowsweet Close, Lower Cambourne, CB23 6ET Page | 12 ## Comet Squirrels Annual Report ## **Badges** **Awards:** 3 Acorn Awards **Challenge Awards:** 11 All About Me 9 All About Adventure 16 All Around Us 3 All Together **Activity Badges:** Exciting Experiments, Feel Good, Get Creative, Let's Celebrate, Local Superhero, Story Time **Staged Badges:** Community Impact Stage 1, Emergency Aid Stage 1, Hikes, Navigator Stage 1, Nights Away We started the Drey in September with 12 and now have 16 incredible Squirrels attending weekly. The Squirrels have been out and about in the community, taken part in remembrance parade, and challenged themselves with lots of new skills. We had a very successful first sleepover in March with 8 brave Squirrels staying overnight, some away from parents for the very first time! We are looking forward to all the exciting adventures the next year will bring. ## **Thank you!** A huge thank you to Chris for all his support in setting up the Drey and to our wonderful leaders for all their hard work. Thank you also to our amazing young leaders, Pippa and Emily, and to all the parents that have given their time to support us. Finally, a big thanks to our Squirrels who should all be incredibly proud of themselves. ## **September 2025** The Drey held a 4-week taster programme for the first 12 Squirrels in Biggleswade! Activities included teddy bear first aid, exploring our senses and simple chemical reactions, fire lighting and fire safety. The month ended with an activity day of caving, soft tomahawks, campfire, and games. ## **October 2025** The Squirrels worked towards their local superhero badge by visiting Biggleswade fire station where they enjoyed a talk, tour, and had a go at using the hoses. They explored how they could be superheroes in their own homes and community, and went for an evening hike and play in the park too. ## **November 2025** The Squirrels took part in a campfire singsong for bonfire night at Boyd. Some of the Squirrels paraded with the group on Remembrance Day. They worked towards their All About Me award with a show and tell and they enjoyed an evening of music, making instruments, and working together to play songs using boom whackers. ## **December 2025** Continuing their work towards the All About Me award, the Squirrels set themselves personal challenges and took part in a skills evening. They also took part in a teamwork evening where they worked together to communicate and solve problems. The term finished with a Christmas party. ## **January 2026** The term started with New Years celebrations. The Squirrels visited Sandy Tesco to learn about food donations and had a go at scanning food on the tills. As a Drey we chose to plan action around food insecurity for their Community Impact badge, they discussed what this means and learnt about food banks. They also organised and advertised a food drive. Den building was also a hit! ## **February 2026** The Squirrels enjoyed a visit to Biggleswade library where they had a tour, read some stories, and also made up their own. They celebrated Lunar New Year with crafts, games, and food. For Founder's Day, the Squirrels explored the history of Scouting and the different sections that make up Biggleswade Scout Group. They wrote letters and coloured pictures for our pen pals, Keas, in New Zealand. ## **March 2026** To finish off their Community Impact award, the Squirrels donated the food from their food drive to The Need Project, and made a poster. Other activities included Mother's Day crafts, bubble making and art, and an Easter egg hunt at Boyd with a campfire singsong to finish off the term. The first Comet Squirrel Sleepover also took place in March where 15 Squirrels took part in activities including den building, animal tracks, an obstacle course, fire lighting and a campfire. 8 Squirrels stayed overnight, sleeping in tents indoors. We can't wait for the next one! ## Apollo Beavers Annual Report ## **Badges** **Awards:** 5 Bronze Awards ## **Challenge Awards:** 6 Adventure, 4 Outdoors, 11 Personal, 6 Skills, 11 Teamwork, 3 World ## **Activity Badges:** Book Reader, Experiement, Explore, Gardener, International, Money Skills, Photographer, Space ## **Staged Badges:** Digital Maker, Hikes, Navigator, Nights Away We are at the end of another successful year for Apollo Beavers with a good range of activities and events. The Beavers have obtained lots of Activity and Challenge Badges this year. With both Chris B and AJ needing to take a step back from the Team this year we have been relying on our Parent Rota and looking to recruit new people to the Team. ## **Thank you!** A big thank you to the Beaver Leadership Team - Steve, Chris B, Max and Young Leader Astrid. ## **April 2025** Following the Easter Break we only met once in April on the theme of safety. ## **May 2025** Treasure hunt in Chambers Way park and District Teddy Bears Picnic at Boyd campsite. ## **June 2025** Planted sunflowers, did a walk, bug safari and teamwork challenges. We also had 8 members attend Bigg Weekender 2025. ## **July 2025** Made bird boxes and enjoyed our usual water games night at Boyd campsite. ## **August 2025** Summer Break. ## **September 2025** Tent pitching, fire lighting and navigation. ## **October 2025** Activities related to Japan and enjoyed the District Autumn Fayre where we did a range of games and crafts. ## **November 2025** Health and fitness, designed and made cars and attended Remembrance Parade. 7 members took part in Show in a Day. ## **December 2025** Enjoyed the Digital Maker badge and had lots of Christmas fun. ## **January 2026** We looked at New Years resolutions and learnt essential money skills. ## **February 2026** Board games, and experiments evening and a magic night. ## **March 2026** Digital Maker level 2 and chocolate themed activities. ## Gemini beavers Annual Report ## **Badges** **Awards:** 10 Bronze Awards ## **Challenge Awards:** 8 Outdoors, 18 Personal, 11 Skills, 5 Teamwork, 6 World. ## **Activity Badges:** Animal Friend, Book Reader, Builder, Collector, Cook, Creative, Experiment, Hobbies, International, Photographer, Space, Sports ## **Staged Badges:** Digital Maker, Hikes, Nautical Skills, Nights Away, Paddle Sports, Sailing, Time on the Water. Over this year we have tried to give the beavers a varied programme with opportunities to do things that wouldn't happen otherwise. They have had a massive water fight, played rugby with Biggleswade rugby club and had a night of magic. ## **Thank you!** Thank you to my fellow leaders at Gemini, Chris and Sue for all the support they give us as well. ## **April 2025** We did tent building, ## **May 2025** Hike, a bug hunt and tree discovery. At baulk wood. Outdoors sports at the park, a Eurovision party with World food. ## **June 2025** Learning about space and disability. Trip to food bank and collection ## **July 2025** Skills evening, oral care, photo frame making, water fight and water skills, team games, creative making things ## **August 2025** No meetings summer holidays ## **September 2025** Team games, make friends, climbing wall, rugby, plan and build with Lego or recycling ## **October 2025** Board game night, campfire cooking and singing, moonhakers, team games and team challenges ## **November 2025** Remembrance Day learning, poppy's, bring your pets evening, sewing ## **December 2025** Experiment night, different Christmas round the world, West end scouts the musical night ## **January 2026** Sports, team games, health and fitness, kitchen safety, magic tricks ## **February 2026** Self-portraits in different styles, cooking, hike and night park playing ## **March 2026** Building and planning with recycling, Mother’s Day crafts, global issues, easter there games ## Mercury Beavers Annual **----- Start of picture text -----**
Report
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## **Badges** **Awards:** 15 Bronze Awards ## **Challenge Awards:** 15 Adventure, 20 Skills, 12 World, 20 Outdoor, 20 Teamwork and 19 Personal. Totalling 106 ## **Activity Badges:** Animal Friend, Book Reader, Builder, Camp Craft, Collector, Cook, ative, Cyclist, Explore, Faith, Gardener, Health and Fitness, Hobbies, International, Safety, Space, Sports, Disability Awareness ## **Staged Badges:** Air Activities, Digital Citizen, Emergency Aid, Hikes, Musician, Nautical Skills, Navigator, Night Away, Paddle sports, Snowsports, Sailing, Swimming and Time on Water We had another great year full to capacity each term. We took part in the Luton Hoo Water Activity Day. A Sleepover with Surrey Beavers with a twist, the Beavers camped at home and completed badge work with their families. Our two annual sleepovers and of course the District Bigg Weekender and Remembrance Day. We also saw the first two Squirrels move up to Mercury Beavers this Spring with a very smooth transition and become invested Beavers. ## **Thank you!** As always, I need to thank my Volunteer leaders Paul, Myra, Andy, Luke & Tom. My Young Leaders Matt, Jake & Freya. Our parents who turned up when asked and of course our Beavers. ## **April 2025** Easter fun and Welcome back games. ## **May 2025** Den Building at Baulk Wood, Imagination night creating a superhero and Health & Fitness Badge work. We also did our Spring Sleepover at Bromham. ## **June 2025** Pauls Adventure Hike, Problem Solving games, climbing wall, Axe throwing and team games at Boyd, Safety Badge Work. ## **July 2025** Bike & Scooter fun at the Adult Learning Centre, Summer games with a splash plus end of term party with game. ## **August 2025** Summer Break. ## **September 2025** Water Activity Day at Luton Hoo, Global Issues badge work, build a marble run out of recycling. ## **October 2025** Cook pita bread pizzas, musicians badge work with junk, Beavers’ choice games night. ## **November 2025** Newspaper teepee your team can sit in, Remembrance Day. Our Sleepover in little Wymondley and Digital Citizen work. ## **December 2025** Digital Citizen work, Christmas craft, Christmas party. Fireman dad answers questions. ## **January 2026** Learning our Knots, RSPB bird feeders and Big Garden Watch, Hobbies, Collections & Sports night showcase. ## **February 2026** Sweetie catapults, Reach for Stars at home sleepover and badge work, Police Community officer visit. ## **March 2026** Book Day fun, Emergency Aid Badge and odd sock night for Down Syndrome Awareness/loneliness through difference. ## Jupiter Cubs Annual Report ## **Badges** **Awards:** 6 Silver Awards ## **Challenge Awards:** 8 Adventure, 1 Outdoors, 6 Personal, 13 Skills, 6 Team Leader, 15 Teamwork, 3 World ## **Activity Badges:** 2 Animal Carer, 1 Artist, 1 Athletics, 13 Chef, 1 DIY, 7 Entertainer, 10 Environmental Conservation, 1 Road Safety, 18 Scientist, 17 Space,1 Sports Enthusiast. ## **Staged Badges:** 1 Digital Maker Level 1, 10 Nautical Skills Level 2, 1 Nights Away Level 3, 2 Level 4, 5 Level 5, 4 Level 10, 2 Level 15, 1 Snowsports Level 1, 3 Time on the Water Level 2, 1 Level 5. This year we have had lots of fun at Jupiter Cubs. We worked towards lots of different badges including our DIY, Environmental Conservation, Science and Backwoods Cooking badges. We have attended several District Events including a Water Activity Day at Grafham Water, a visit to the National Space Centre in Leicester and Go Karting at Teamworks in Letchworth. We have also taken part in the Bigg Weekender Camp in June 2025 and had enjoyed our annual Frosty Camp in February 2026. Some of our older Cubs took part in a District Sixer and Seconder Camp in September 2025 and some of Jupiter Cubs also represented the Section in the District Show in a Day Performance. ## **Thank you!** Jupiter Cubs would like to thank all of our parent helpers which have supported us over the course of the last year, particularly whilst our Akela (Clare) was absent on maternity. ## **April 2025** We worked on our DIY badge by constructing Bird Tables. ## **May 2025** We enjoyed a Birds of Prey visit at Scout HQ. ## **June 2025** We had lots of fun Go Karting and Boyd Campsite and doing a hike at Deepdale Wood and Quarry. ## **July 2025** We had a great time using the Climbing wall at Boyd as well as building dens at Rowney Warren woods. ## **August 2025** Summer Break. ## **September 2025** We had our traditional Conkers challenge evening; no conkers were harmed during this event! ## **October 2025** ## **November 2025** We held our own Highland Games and also represented the Scout Group at the annual Biggleswade Remembrance Parade. ## **December 2025** We had our traditional Christmas party night with pizza and games. ## **January 2026** We had our traditional annual trip to see the pantomime at the Gordon Craig Theatre in Stevenage. ## **February 2026** We made pancakes for pancake day and had loads of fun on our pirate themed Frosty Camp. ## **March 2026** We held our annual Jupiter Cubs Bowling Competition at Hollywood Bowl and enjoyed making Hama Bead gifts for Mother’s Day **.** We made our own bowling skittles and had a practice session in preparation for our annual Jupiter Bowling Competition. ## Saturn Cub Pack Annual Report ## **Badges** **Awards:** 2 Silver Awards ## **Challenge Awards:** 17 Adventure, 8 Skills, 1 Team Leader, 2 Teamwork, 6 World **Activity Badges:** Animal Carer; Artist; Athletics; Backwoods Cooking; Book Reader; Chef; Collector; Entertainer; Environmental Conservation; Fire safety; Gardener; Hobbies; Home Help; International; Local Knowledge; Pioneer; Road Safety; Scientist; Skater; Space; World Faiths **Staged Badges:** Digital Maker 1; Emergency Aid 1; Navigator 1; Nights Away 3; 5; 10 and 15; Swimmer 2; 3 and 4; Joining in 2, 3 and 4 It’s been a fantastic year for Saturn Cubs, filled with outdoor adventures, creative projects, new skills and big group events. From Boyd activities and hikes to science, cooking, crafts, camps and celebrations, the Cubs threw themselves into everything. A year full of energy, learning and laughter. ## **Thank you!** Thank you to all the adults who gave up their time to help us on our section nights, sorted the badges, helped plan and to the leaders for making it all possible. Thank you to the young people for being such excellent cub scouts! ## **April 2025** Easter Egg Fun at Boyd, Road Safety. ## **May 2025** Town Trek to finish Road Safety, Backwoods Cooking, Gardening world at Dunton Community Gardens. ## **June 2025** Boyd Activities, Cluedo in the park, Cricket try out, Pond Dipping at Stotfold Mill ponds, Bigg Weekender. ## **July 2025** Bubble Magic at Kitelands, Rafting at Boyd, Olympic Games at Boyd, Water Activity Day. ## **August 2025** Summer Break. ## **September 2025** Pack Forum & Code of conduct, Tracking at Baulk Wood, Shooting at Boyd, Collectors!, Hike prep, Sixer and Seconder Camp. ## **November 2025** Wide games and making Smores, Remembrance Day Parade, Remembrance Day, Mad Scientist Parts 1 & 2, Show in a Day. ## **December 2025** Christmas Snowglobes, Christmas Cards, Christmas Party. ## **January 2026** Welcome Back, Problem Solving, STEM activities, 1st Aid, Dick Whittington and his cat panto. ## **February 2026** Games Night, Cooking pancakes, Founders Day, Pirate Frosty Camp, Show in a day presentation, District Cubs Go Karting. ## **March 2026** Getting knotted, Mothers Day Craft, Disability Awareness, Easter Egg fun at Boyd, Saxon Pool Party with Inflatables. ## **October 2025** Hikes away at Danish Camp, International Food Night, Fire Station visit, District Cubs Space Center Trip. ## Neptune Cubs Annual Report ## **Badges** **Awards:** 2 Silver Awards ## **Challenge Awards:** 1 Skills, 1 Teamwork **Activity Badges:** Home Safety, Athletics, My Faith, Hobbies, Local Knowledge, Book Readers, Environmental, Conservation, Artist, Chef. **Staged Badges:** Digital Citizen, Air Activities, Navigator, Swimmer, Emergency Aid, Nights Away. ## **Thank you!** I would like to thank Nick, Lucy and Lorraine for their involvement and support with running the pack during the last twelve months. ## **April 2025** We celebrated St. Georges Day. ## **May 2025** Tracking skills were developed. V.E. Day was celebrated and preparations were made for camping. We had an evening working towards earning an Athletes badge. ## **June 2025** An evening was spent making model boats from junk and the following week floating them down the River Ivel. Some attended the Big Weekend Camp at Boyd Field Henlow. Preparations were made for a visit to Penrose Court where a week later we had a campfire for the residents. ## **July 2025** This month was devoted to evenings of Swimming, Ten pin bowling, Axe throwing and Shooting. ## **August 2025** Summer Break. ## **September 2025** This month saw the cubs working towards D.I.Y. and Conservation badges. ## **October 2025** Badge work was the theme for this month, and work was done towards earning Communications and First Aid badges. ## **November 2025** A visit was made to the local Fire Station in connection with Fire Safety. Our annual fireworks evening was held. Preparation was made for participation in ‘Show in a Day’. We carried out Team Building exercises and worked towards earning a Leadership badge. ## **December 2025** An indoor sports evening was held. Christmas crafts were made by the cubs to take home, and we visited Penrose Court to sing carols and share readings with the residents. ## **January 2026** A delayed Christmas party and games evening was held. We had a kite making evening. A visit was made to St. Andrew’s Parish Church where the cubs did brass rubbings and had the opportunity to visit the bell tower and try their hand at bell ringing. Further work was done on earning Fire Safety and Air Activities badges. ## **February 2026** We had a cooking evening which involved preparing and cooking a meal and washing up afterwards. Work was also done towards earning a Book Readers badge and Challenge badge. ## **March 2026** We continued working towards the Book Readers badge and made gifts for Mothering Sunday for the Cubs to take home. ## Armstrong Annual Report ## **Badges** **Awards:** 5 Gold Awards ## **Challenge Awards:** 14 Adventure, 16 Creative, 6 Expedition, 5 Outdoors, 16 Personal, 3 Skills, 5 Team Leader, 17 Teamwork, 8 World. Totalling 90. ## **Activity Badges:** 1 Craft, 16 Entertainer, 15 Fire Safety, 1 Local Knowledge, 23 Money Skills, 15 Photographer, 13 Scientist. Totalling 118 ## **Staged Badges:** 3 Navigator Level 1, 5 Level 2. 4 Nights Away Level 5, 2 Level 10, 9 Level 15, 9 Level 20, 2 Level 35. Activities for the year have been varied a with a good mix of nights at the hut and also getting out and about whenever possible. Camps have been extremely popular with at least 20 plus scouts attending most events and Frosty Camp was amazing with all 28 scouts attending. It is great to see individuals grow over their time with us so well done to all scouts for giving things a try, particularly those who experience new things even those they find challenging. ## **Thank you!** We have had a number of Parents help us this year which has been amazing so a big thank you for volunteering to assist. It really does make a difference. As always thanks to the Armstrong leadership team for everything they do week after week. ## **April 2025** An evening walking quiz in Sandy to find hidden landmarks using navigation skills. Looked at the history of St George. ## **May 2025** Learning about film, photography skills and digital media production. Looked at the art of planning events and projects. ## **June 2025** A quiz trail in Biggleswade looking for the History Society Blue Plaques. Also looked at local knowledge and navigation. ## **July 2025** Discussed bullying, challenging behaviours and how to help each other. Fun at water park and BBQ. ## **August 2025** Older scouts met twice with Leaders for in depth planning of their Expedition Challenge Award. ## **September 2025** Designed a menu, bought the ingredients then held a cooking competition. Learned lashings and built a camp gadget. ## **October 2025** Followed a 5km flour trail round Biggleswade, looked at fire safety both for on camp and in the home. ## **November 2025** Joined in "Parliament Week". Held debates, had votes and learned about government. Looked at money and budgeting ## **December 2025** Went to a ski slope and had lots of fun. Had a Christmas themed games night and had a party night eating pizza. ## **January 2026** Great time at Frosty Camp outdoors in the woods. Looked at OS map skills, first aid for allergies and anaphylaxis. ## **February 2026** Learned the art of mixology by selecting and mixing flavoured drinks. Awareness evening on drugs, alcohol and smoking. ## **March 2026** Made and painted Airfix models. Made our own Donner Kebabs from scratch mixing meat with spices, cooking and eating! ## Irwin Scouts Annual Report ## **Badges** **Awards:** 5 Gold Awards **Challenge Awards:** 64 Challenge Badges **Activity Badges:** Chef, Model Maker, Local Knowledge, Cyber Security. **Staged Badges:** 57 inc Nights Away, Time on Water and Navigator. Irwin has had another great year! Some highlights include The Bigg Weekender and our Summer camp, with another great set on on-site and off-site fun! We welcomed an IT team for Cyber Security, as well as got our first chance to drive a real car! We enjoyed cooking and campfires, as well as SUPing and the Airfix model making night. A Skills camp was well received, walking to pick up food, hike to site and cook! Not to forget our SPY Frosty camp ## **Thank you!** Thanks to the whole Leadership Team and Young Leaders who provide support throughout the year. Thanks also to Sue T for admin and Helen for badges. ## **April 2025** ## **May 2025** Bringing hobby/interest. Dough twists over campfire for World Baking Day. We also had a film night ## **June 2025** Willmott Dixon IT team for Scouts Cyber Security badge. Bike or Hike. The Bigg Weekender Camp. Cleaned Boyd. Hoo Hill ## **July 2025** Axe, Saw, Wood whittling. Gold Camp. Jerome TFL retirement. Water inflatable park. 2-week Stand Up paddleboards ## **August 2025** Summer Camp joined with Armstrong at Paccar for onsite fun, roller-skating, London day, Legoland, Cluedo & much more! ## **November 2025** Halloween fun. Scout camp with hike. First Aid with Air Ambulance Monopoly Run around Biggleswade. International night ## **December 2025** Christmas crafts, games and Trampoline Park ## **January 2026** Frosty Camp, Detective and Spy theme. Life Skills and STEM activity. ## **February 2026** Carrot Whittling. Night Hike and making Pancakes. Scout Skills day. ## **March 2026** Scout Skills. In the Woods. Quiz night and lighting fires. Bigg Shot competition with tomahawks, archery and rifles. ## **September 2025** Cooked on gas. Model aircrafts with Airfix. Patrol leader led night. ## **October 2025** Scouts drove in learner cars around a circuit, as well as car maintenance. Scouting Skills