2025-12-31-accounts - 5th Christchurch (Highcliffe) Scout Group

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5th Christchurch (Highcliffe) Scout Group Scout Council

Trustees’ Annual Reports and Statements of Accounts Year Ending 31 December 2025

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Trustee’s Annual Report

For period of 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2025

Reference and Administration Details

Charity Name	5th Christchurch (Highcliffe) Scout Group
Registered Charity Number	302216
Charity Registered address	Scout Hit, Chewton Common Road,
	Highcliffe, Dorset, BH23 5LZ

Trustee(s)

rustee(s)
Name	Role	Date of appointment

Annabel Neal	Chair	14 June 2024

Dylan (Rebecca) Stevens	Trustee	01 September 2025

Andrew James Hewitt	Trustee	16 July 2023

Stephanie Tomkinson	Trustee	27 May 2023

Graham Budd	Trustee	01 November 2022

Keryn Hallett	Trustee	01 September 2022

Courtney Fereday	Trustee	01 January 2020

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Name Role Date of appointment Claire Dooks Trustee 01 September 2025

Structure, governance, and management

Highcliffe Scout group is 1 of 8 groups that belong to the district of Christchurch, the Group's governing documents are those of The Scout Associa�on. They consist of a Royal Charter, which in turn gives authority to the Bye Laws of the Associa�on and The Policy, Organisa�on and Rules of The Scout Associa�on.

The Group has adopted the cons�tu�on set out in the Scouts Policy, Organisa�on and Rules and is managed by the Trustee Board, members of which are Trustees of the Charity. Trustee selec�on methods - The Trustees are appointed in accordance with the Policy, Organisa�on and Rules of The Scout Associa�on.

The Trustee Board exists so that the Trustees work together to make sure Scou�ng is run safely and legally within the Group. The Trustee Board supports the other volunteers run the Scout Programme that gives young people skills for life.

The 5th Christchurch {Highcliffe) Scout Group provides Scou�ng to young people aged between 4 and 14 ½ years of age and through a Partnership agreement with Christchurch Scout District also provide scou�ng to young people aged between 13 ½ and 18 years of age. Ac�vi�es take place from the headquarters in Chewton Common Road Highcliffe. Young people take part in ac�vi�es based on the sec�on they belong to and their age. The Group currently have 4 sec�ons within the Group 1 Squirrel Drey, 1 Beaver Colony, 1 Cub Pack, 1 Scout Troop. The group are also in partnership with the District Explorer unit, Nyeri.

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Objectives

Our objec�ve is to promote the development of young people in achieving their full physical, intellectual, social and spiritual poten�als, as individuals, as responsible ci�zens and as members of their local, na�onal and interna�onal communi�es

The sec�on reports at the end of this Annual Report shows some of the ac�vi�es undertaken by the young people involved in scou�ng in Highcliffe.

Achievements

A�er last year’s Group Centenary, we have successfully expanded our volunteer teams and the size of the Cub and Scout sec�on.

2025 has seen a wide range of ac�vi�es with all sec�ons con�nuing to offer a wide range of ac�vi�es including nights away to the young people in their sec�ons.

Squirrels awarded 185 badges and 9 Chief Scout Acorn Awards.

Beavers awarded 322 badges and 8 Bronze Chief Scouts Awards.

Cubs awarded 349 badges and 5 Silver Chief Scouts Awards as well as compe�ng in the District scrap store challenge compe��on and the 5-a-side football compe��on.

Scouts awarded 146 badges and took part in the annual Emlyn (scout skills) compe��on, supported the Highcliffe Cliff Top Music fes�val and the New Forest Marathon.

Explorers have consolidated a�er last year’s change in leadership and are con�nuing to build a comprehensive program of ac�vi�es with a focus on the higher scou�ng awards, with seven explorers achieving the Chief Scouts Pla�num award and three comple�ng four Young Leader missions.

Further details of the sec�on ac�vi�es are appended to the Report

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Finance

As per the groups accounts (a�ached) Highcliffe Scout Group are in a good financial posi�on. Income was outstripped by expenditure this year which was caused by spending on a new electric consumer unit and a gas cage to ensure insurance compliance. The Group also purchased a Jackery ba�ery pack and solar panels to support outdoor campsites with safe ligh�ng. Subscrip�on income is up on 2025 as both the cub pack and scout troop have grown and due to the increase in subscrip�ons. The group are in a fortunate posi�on to have sufficient funds in reserves to con�nue scou�ng even if the current economic environment deteriorates and at a �me when we are forecas�ng expenditure to rise quicker than income. Subscription rates have not risen for a number of years and were reviewed in 2025 with an increase to £17.50 a month. The Trustee Board have con�nued to draw down on some of these reserves in 2025 rather than add further financial pressure to our families. Gi� Aid has now been successfully applied for the years 2022-23, 2023-24, 2024-25 and 2025-26 it has paid the group £13,000 and will allow the Group to remain comfortably solvent with addi�onal claims being done annually now the systems are established for the current trustee team.

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5th Christchurch (Highcllffel Scout Group Receipts for year ending 3151 December 2025 2025 2024 Recelpts Membership Fees Membership Fees- Nyeri 17,lJ)7.16 15.IC12.83 999.00 16,101.83 17AX17.16 Bank Interest 971.64 971.64 104.13 104.13 In¢ome Hall Hire Nyeri Rent 45.IXI 1,836.00 1.836.00 Grants and donatlons Government Covid Graftts Donation 0.00 443.00 0.00 443.110 281.50 Gift Aid 281.50 Artlvltles Events Centenary Camp Welsh Dragon Qmp 2026 Events Squirrels Events- Beavers o. 195.15 4,435.85 5.490.00 50.00 355.00 495.C(J 1.328.(Kl 4.218.CKJ Events- Cubs Events - EXplor$ Events- Scouts 1,513.00 2,426.50 I312.50 1,991.85 3,999.85 Fundralsln8 Plant Sale Fundraising other 14442.17 15.010.51 13.36 14.455.53 15,010.51 Other In¢ome Correction5 Hardship repayments Broadband DO Refund Car Project 8rdnd Unrform 38.94 315.(M) 289.86 21.86 100.00 104.66 516.38 680.96 1.034.90 Total receipts for y¢ar 49.305.73 41,000.20

5th Chrlstchurch IHlghclFffel Scout Group Payments for year endlng 31st December 2025 31st December 2025 Payments 2025 2024 Preffllses Rent 1.964.29 199.28 1,638,48 630.50 511.71 3,619.55 Rates ut11leS Waste Collections Broadband Insurance 1,706,80 549.69 486.41 3,601.06 0.00 0.00 222.94 Contents insurance Occasional helper Insurance Cv Cameras Venue Maintenonce 166.76 2,737.61 11,468.18 1,790.66 8357.56 Acthiitles Events Events- Beavers Events- Cubs 1,516.61 1,260.25 3,881.71 419.36 138.88 778.58 Events- Explorer5 Events- Stouts Events- Squirrels Meetings Meetings- Beavers 2,521.68 50.00 13.98 396.12 1,318.79 401.10 1,106.65 k 11 Meetlngs- Cubs Meetlngs- Explorers Meetings- Scouts Meetings- Squirrels Centenary Camp Welsh Dragon 2026 District D of E Support Car Project 1.363.69 0.00 2,535.79 142.20 724.35 809.52 8,659.31 427.24 0.00 1.700.00 123.25 13.273.48 17.015.S8 Fundralslni Plant Sale 9,954.74 9,954.74 9,581.78 9,581.78

Admlnlslratlon Expenses Bartsk Fees Go Cardless / Paypal fees Hardship fund OSM Fees Admin Website Capttation Highclrffe Captiation Nyeri 81.50 1.090.01 900.00 178.35 835.41 132.ljj 4,823. 275.04 808.39 232.68 688.55 75.00 4,140.1)0 8.040.27 6,219.66 5th Christchurch IHighcliffel Scout Group Payments for year endin8 31st December 2025 Icontl 2025 2024 Equlpment Equipment Activity equipment Camping Equipment 4,600.07 258.94 748.44 5.607.45 2,030.82 119.83 2.150.65 Other Expenses Training Motor Cost Gifts Sundry Corrections Refreshments Trophies and engraving 0.00 338.60 164.98 0.00 304.86 1,285.27 206.41 78.65 38.94 370.73 479.50 2,459.50 122.98 931.42 Badges & Urbffiorni 8adge5 Activity Wear Leader5 Uniform 1.789.44 1,137.29 46.69 2,973.42 1,090.37 1,018.30 218.00 2,326.67 Paymefftts for the year 53,777.04 46,583.32 Summary for year endlng 3tst December 2025 2025 2024 Summary Actount balance brought forward Total income Total expenditure Net income Account balance carrled fonvard 31.850.01 53.245.96 57,740.77 4.494.81 27 355.20 37,433.13 41,000.20 46,583.32 -5,583.12 37 433.13

5th Christchurch IHlgh¢iiffe} 5cjt Group ststement of Assets & Llabillties a5 at 31st Detember 2024 2025 2024 Current Assets (Bank PAYPAL LLOYDS BANK GROUP ACCOUNT EXPENSE ACCOUNT 701.58 4.363.03 2,280.02 7,344.63 25.14 2,999.57 2,754.84 5.779.55 LLOYDS FUNDRAISING ACCOUNT LLOYDS DEPOSIT ACCOUNT I LLOYDS DEPOSIT ACCOUNT 2 10.010.57 10,000. 6,070.46 10,000.00 10,000.00 26,070.46 20,010.57 GROUP Petty tash Scouts Petty Cash Cash in hand IPety C ashl Total Cash Assets 27,355.20 31.850.01 Flxed Ass¢ts Van FGII XBE Equipment for insurance purpose 3,015.00 31,132.00 34,147.00 3,015.00 31,132.00 34.147.00 Total Assets 61,502.20 65,997.01 The above Accounts were approved by the Trnstees on: And sbgned on thelr behalf by:

Independent examiner's report to the trustees of 5th Christchurch (Highcliffe) Scout Group I reportto the trustoes on my minatiOn of the aceounts of tho 5th ClwlstthurGh (Highdiffel Scout Group for the year onded 31 December 2025. Responsibilities and basis of report A$ the charity trustees ofthe 5th Christchur¢h IHwJhdiffe) Scout Group, you are responsibl8 for the preparatlon of Ihe accounts in aCrdance with the UIr8MWts ofth8 Charities Aet 2017llhe Ad,). I report in resm of my éxamination of 5th Christchurch IHTrghcliffe) Scout Group, the accounts Carri out under secbon t45 of the 2011 Act and In carrying out my 8xaminatton I hav followed all tr¢ directlons given tythe Charity Commlssion under s•ction 145(5)(b) ofthe acL Independent examiner's statement I have cnmp10tsd my ewnlnation. I confirm that no material maltets have como to my attentson In conMon with tho examination gNlng me cau8e to Wieve that in any matorial l. aCUntir1J reLYJrds were not keF¢ in rn5recl of the 5th Chrtrurch IHwhdJffe) ScA)UtGroup as required by secton 130 of the Act,. or 2. the accounts do not accorf wlth those records. I have no concems and have coFrn across no other matters in nneCtIOn with the examination to which attention should be drawn in thls report in orderto enable a proper understwding ofthe a(xounts to b8 read. Sfjgnad.. Richard Webb S2 copp Avenue, Femdovm, Dorse( BH22 9PJ 04 Jung 2026

5[th ] Christchurch (Highcliffe) Scout Group

Annual General Meeting (AGM) (for year end 2025)

19[th] June 2026 @ 18.45 Highcliffe Scout Hut Chewton Common Road Highcliffe

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Another good year that has seen adult and Squirrels numbers fluctuate a li�le but we’re now steadying with typically around 18 Squirrels at a �me. Our adult leadership team has been a li�le stretched throughout the year, but I’m pleased to say things are now improving. We have a good number of adults listed, but many have other commitments including work, studying and, for myself, some�mes other Scou�ng commitments.

We are currently down to one Young Leader – Mia – who con�nues to be a tremendous asset to the team and the Drey and we are very grateful for her par�cipa�on. As this report covers the calendar year 2025, it’s appropriate to also thank Dom who we no longer see, but who was always hugely valuable.

The Squirrels themselves con�nue to be fantas�c. Their great imagina�on and willingness to try lots of new things with enthusiasm make this fun for everyone. In 2025 we awarded 185 badges, including 9 Chief Scout’s Acorn Awards which is the top award in Squirrels. Many of the recipients moved on to Beavers and are now enjoying new adventures there.

As well as lots of badge work, we’ve also been out and about. We carried out a li�er pick at Highcliffe Beach for the Earth Tribe Award, had what is now becoming our annual Hike at Wilverley organised by Sam/Pigeon, and visited the grounds of Highcliffe Castle a couple of �mes.

We also joined Squirrels from the rest of the District for a visit to District Spring Camp in May, Squirrels Go Nuts at Braggers Wood in September, and the District Squirrels Christmas Party. We marked Remembrance Sunday at Highcliffe, and who can forget that it was a brave Squirrel who slayed the dragon at the District St George’s Day service run by Highcliffe Group at Christchurch Priory.

It’s hard to pick a highlight for 2025 with such a busy year and wonderful Squirrels. But I have to men�on the amazing team of Leaders that we have. Although a li�le stretched in 2025, we have worked together to spread the load amongst us and we’re looking forward to expanding the team further during this year. None of us can a�end each week due to other commitments but it doesn’t ma�er. We plan the programme together and everyone plays their part to have fun and ensure a balanced and exci�ng range of ac�vi�es for the Squirrels.

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We started the year by talking and learning about how Scouts started and then celebrated Chinese New Year, had a fun evening roas�ng marshmallows and making S'mores whilst learning and singing camp songs around the fire. We did lots of badge work including Hobbies Badge, Pain�ng, Disability Awareness, Book Reader and photographer. We went for a visit to Kingfishers Care Home to sing a few songs and play games with the residents, which the residents enjoyed. In March a few of our older Beavers took part in the district 'Beavers at Braggers' where they had a great �me. The term ended with our tradi�onal Easter Egg hunt.

In the summer term we did a li�er pick on the cliff top, and a trail at steamer point and went for a visit to the Priory learning about the history of it and visited the RNLI lifeboat sta�on at Mudeford. We did some badge work on Safety, green cross code, Global Issues and camp cra�. The Beavers had a visit to District Camp in May, where they did lots of fun things, such as, tomahawks, cra� making out of nature, football pool, games and picture trail of the camp site. The Beavers had a Disney theme camp in July which we did with Somerford Beavers at Braggers Wood, they had fun doing archery, tomahawks, pu�ng up tents, campfire and cra�s. The summer term ended with our annual water games fun.

In the Autumn term we on a Scavenger hunt around Highcliffe castle grounds and visited the Fire Sta�on in Christchurch for a tour around the sta�on and at the end all the beavers got a go at using the fireman's hose to squirt the water as high as it could go! We did badge work involving Money Skills, Air Ac�vi�es level 1, Space Badge, Naviga�on and Skills. Also, in October a few of the older beavers a�ended the second Beavers at braggers for the year, where they had a great �me. We con�nued the fun of pumpkin carving into our joint Halloween Camp with cubs at the end of October with spooky fun and ac�vi�es.

We did Christmas cra�s and had a party in December. Then we finished our term off with our annual visit to Snowtrax with all the beavers and leaders enjoying the Ringo's.

Most important to men�on our Beavers, Ethan A, Albie, Tom, Sam, Jacob, Archer, Ethan C and Eric all completed and were rewarded with their Chief Bronze Scout award in this year.

We've already had lots of fun so far in 2026, with many ac�vi�es and ac�vi�es planned for the coming terms.

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The past year has been another outstanding one for Highcliffe Cubs. With growing membership, an expanding leadership team and a programme packed with adventure, challenge and fun, our Cubs have enjoyed a year full of opportuni�es to learn new skills, build confidence and create las�ng memories.

One of the highlights of the year has been the con�nued growth of our Cub Pack. More young people than ever are experiencing the benefits of Scou�ng, and it has been wonderful to see new Cubs quickly se�le in, make friends and become part of the Highcliffe Cubs family. Alongside this growth, our leadership team has expanded significantly. New leaders and young leaders have joined us throughout the year, bringing fresh ideas, enthusiasm and valuable support. Their commitment has enabled us to offer an even broader programme and ensure that every Cub can get the most from their Scou�ng experience. We are extremely grateful to all our volunteers for the �me and energy they dedicate each week.

Our weekly programme has con�nued to offer a wide variety of ac�vi�es designed to develop prac�cal skills, teamwork and independence. Over the course of the year, Cubs have earned badges covering everything from cooking and bike maintenance to stop-mo�on anima�on, money management and map reading. One badge proved par�cularly popular with parents – the Home Help Badge – which saw Cubs pu�ng their new skills to good use around the house!

We were also fortunate to welcome emergency service personnel to one of our mee�ngs and to visit the RNLI sta�on at Mudeford Quay. These experiences gave Cubs a fascina�ng insight into the work of the people who help keep our communi�es safe and inspired many though�ul ques�ons from our young people. The fes�ve season brought another memorable ac�vity as Cubs designed and created their own Christmas Eve boxes, filling them with treats and surprises to enjoy at home.

Highcliffe Cubs par�cipated enthusias�cally in a range of district events throughout the year, including District Camp, the District Cub Quiz, the football tournament and St George’s Day celebra�ons.

We made good use of our local campsite at Braggers Wood, beginning with an Easter Egg Hunt organised by our young leaders. It was fantas�c to see our young leaders taking responsibility for planning and delivering an ac�vity that was enjoyed by everyone. Later in the year, Cubs returned to Braggers Wood for a training camp that began with a five-mile

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hike carrying their full kit. For many, this was their first experience of undertaking such a challenge, and they demonstrated determina�on, resilience and teamwork throughout.

During the summer term, Cubs took to the water for our annual Time on the Water ac�vity. Despite some challenging windy condi�ons, they embraced the opportunity to develop their kayaking skills, build confidence and enjoy being ac�ve outdoors. In October, we returned to Braggers Wood for our popular Halloween Camp, held jointly with the Beaver sec�on. Packed with cra�s, games and seasonal ac�vi�es, it was a weekend full of fun and excitement.

The highlight of the year was undoubtedly our Brownsea Island Camp in August. Nineteen Cubs, supported by three young leaders and eight adult leaders, spent an unforge�able few days at the birthplace of Scou�ng. The camp provided opportuni�es to develop independence, teamwork and outdoor skills while experiencing a truly special part of Scou�ng history. For many Cubs, it was a once-in-a-life�me adventure and one they will remember for years to come.

Highcliffe Cubs con�nues to go from strength to strength. With increasing membership, a growing leadership team and an exci�ng programme already planned for the coming year, we are looking forward to crea�ng even more opportuni�es for adventure, learning and personal development.

Thank you to all our leaders, young leaders, parent helpers and supporters for the �me, energy and commitment you give throughout the year. Your support makes everything we do possible.

Most importantly, thank you to our Cubs. Their enthusiasm, curiosity, kindness and sense of adventure are what make Highcliffe Cubs such a rewarding sec�on to lead.

We look forward to another fantas�c year of Scou�ng.

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2025 has been another fantastic year for the 5th Christchurch (Highcliffe) Scout Troop, packed full of adventure, challenge, teamwork, muddy boots, campfires, laughter, and memories that will hopefully last for years to come. The Troop continues to go from strength to strength. We currently have 31 Scouts actively attending the Troop. We are incredibly fortunate to have a dedicated volunteer leadership team made up of our uniformed leaders: Rob Neal, Courtney Fereday, Adam Hallett, Robin Abbott, Jacob Grant, Ben Bishop, Alex Hewitt; and young leader Eliot Holkham. Supported by: Parent Helper – Zoe Blythin. The time, energy, patience, and enthusiasm that our volunteers give week after week is what makes the Troop possible, and we are hugely grateful for everything they do.

Throughout the year, the Troop delivered an exciting and varied programme balancing traditional Scouting skills, outdoor adventure, teamwork, challenge, and fun. Highlights from our weekly meetings throughout the year included: Wide games and camouflage evenings in the New Forest, Backwoods cooking and campfire skills, Navigation and night hike training, First aid and DIY skills, Pancake Day chaos, MasterChef evenings, Trading Post and inter-patrol competitions, Science experiments for the Scientist badge, Water wide games, Crabbing at Mudeford Quay, Hunted-style challenge evenings, Gingerbread house competitions, Light writing photography, Chilli and S’mores evenings, cooking and serving meals for parents and special guests and Christmas dinner cooked on campfires. The Troop also spent time focusing on badgework, leadership development, teamwork, and Scout-led activities, including Patrol Leader-led meetings and Troop Forums.

Camping and outdoor adventure remained at the heart of the programme during 2025. The Scouts had a brilliant time at the District Spring Camp, where 25 Highcliffe Scouts camped for three nights at Braggers Wood alongside Scout groups from across the District. The weekend was packed full of activities and adventure, including; Go-karting, Archery, Rifle shooting, Laser tag, Inflatables, Fire lighting, Campfires, A silent disco, and many other fun challenges and activities throughout the weekend. As well as having a fantastic time, the camp gave Scouts the opportunity to meet young people from across the District, build confidence, strengthen teamwork skills, and make friendships that will last for years to come.

A number of Highcliffe Scouts and leaders also took part in the District International Camp to Germany during 2025. In August 2025, 84 Scouts and Explorer Scouts from Christchurch District completed a highly successful 10-day international expedition to Germany. This flagship adventure focused on fostering international Scouting links, highlighted by a visit to Christchurch’s twin town of Aalen and a stay at the historic Rieneck Castle. The programme included; Canoeing and rafting, High ropes and abseiling, Escape rooms, Falconry, Team challenges and games, Tie-dye activities, Jousting and medieval-themed activities, Campfires and discos, Visits with German Scouts, A theme park day, Swimming and cultural visits. The

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trip was an incredible experience for everyone involved and gave Scouts the opportunity to experience international Scouting, develop independence and confidence, and create memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.

A major highlight of the year was the Emlyn District Camping Competition. Following a successful training camp at the hut, the Troop entered two patrols into the competition. The Scouts performed exceptionally well; 1st and 2nd place in the camping elements of the competition, 3rd overall across the District and Winners of both archery and rifle shooting. The teamwork, organisation, and campcraft skills demonstrated by the Scouts were outstanding and reflected the huge amount of effort put in by both the Scouts and leaders.

One of the most memorable events of the year was the legendary “Beat the Sun” night hike from Cadman’s Pool to Sway Scout Hut. The Scouts completed an incredible 15-mile overnight hike through the New Forest. Starting at sunset, we narrowly missed beating the sunrise by just two minutes. The determination, humour, teamwork, and resilience shown throughout the night made it an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.

We attended the annual Ferny Crofts “Fright Night” Camp around Halloween time, which was certainly one of the Scouts’ favourite events of the year. The camp combined spooky activities, outdoor adventure, and overnight camping. Scouts arrived in fancy dress and spent the day setting up camp before taking part in a wide range of themed activities including; Fairground-style games, Pumpkin carving, Inflatable activities, Creepy crawlies, Dinosaur encounters, Campfires and evening activities. The real spooky challenge arrived after dark when the Scouts tackled the famous haunted woodland trail — complete with plenty of frights, surprises, and screaming along the way!

Despite torrential rain and challenging conditions, the Scouts took part enthusiastically in the annual District Night Hike Competition held around Wilverley Inclosure in the New Forest. This year, Highcliffe Scouts were proud to organise and host the event on behalf of the District. Following significant planning work and engagement with Forestry England to secure the necessary permissions for an overnight event within the New Forest, the competition was successfully based out of Wilverley Cottage. Scouts navigated a challenging route through the forest after dark, completing a series of Scouting, teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership-based challenges at activity bases along the way. Teams were scored both on the accuracy of their navigation and their performance across the various activity bases. After completing the hike in extremely wet weather conditions, participants were welcomed back with well-earned hot dogs and hot chocolate at the finish. Highcliffe Scouts performed extremely well throughout the competition, finishing in an impressive third place against strong competition from across the District.

More broadly, we are incredibly proud of the opportunities our Scouts continue to have through events such as this — developing new skills, building resilience and confidence, strengthening teamwork and leadership abilities, and creating memorable experiences and friendships that will stay with them for many years to come.

The Troop continued to support both the Scout Group and the wider local community throughout the year. Scouts assisted with the annual Group Plant Sale deliveries, helping

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raise valuable funds while representing the Group brilliantly within the local community. The Scouts once again supported the New Forest Marathon by manning a water station and encouraging runners competing in the marathon, half marathon, and 10k events. It was a fantastic atmosphere and another brilliant example of community volunteering and fundraising in action. The Troop supported the Cliff Top Music Festival with litter picking and giving out programmes throughout the weekend. Feedback from organisers was extremely positive, with particular praise for the Scouts’ enthusiasm, hard work, and attitude. Some Scouts even found themselves on stage during the event!

Throughout 2025, the Troop has continued to focus on providing Scouts with opportunities to challenge themselves, develop confidence, and build important life skills through adventure, teamwork, and shared experiences. The programme offered during 2025 was designed to help our young people; Work effectively as part of a team, develop leadership and communication skills, build resilience and independence, take responsibility for themselves and others, gain practical outdoor and Scouting skills.

Scouts have grown in confidence through a wide variety of activities, including; Leading and organising patrol activities, Planning camp gadgets, menus, and campsites, participating in competitions and outdoor challenges, Volunteering and supporting community events, supporting and mentoring younger members of the Troop. The Patrol Leader structure has continued to strengthen throughout the year, with older Scouts increasingly taking ownership of activities, supporting decision-making within the Troop, and acting as positive role models for newer Scouts.

In 2025, we also reintroduced the concept of Senior Patrol Leaders, which has proven very successful in helping prepare older Scouts for stepping up into Young Leader roles when moving on to Explorers. Thank You

A huge thank you must go to:

All of our volunteer leaders and helpers
Our Young Leaders and Explorers who support Highcliffe Scouts
Parents and carers
The District team
And of course the Scouts themselves

The energy, humour, teamwork, and enthusiasm shown throughout the year has been incredible.

2025 has been another memorable year for Highcliffe Scouts, and we are incredibly proud of everything the Scouts have achieved. We are already looking forward to another exciting year of adventure in 2026.

Yours in Scouting,

Rob Neal

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Explorer Group Achievements Report – Nyeri Explorers

Over the last year, the Nyeri Explorer Unit has continued to make significant progress in personal development, community engagement, and skills acquisition. Our Explorers have demonstrated commitment, teamwork, and resilience while working towards various Scouting awards and badges.

Global Challenge Badge

Some of the unit members successfully completed the requirements for the Global Challenge Badge. Through a range of activities focused on Global Trading, Immigration where the Explorers gained a broader understanding of global issues and their role in creating positive change both locally and internationally.

Money Skills Badge

Explorers also completed the Money Skills Badge, developing a financial awareness. Activities included budgeting, saving, and understanding responsible money management. These experiences equipped members with practical knowledge that will benefit them in their everyday lives and future careers.

Platinum Awards

We are particularly proud of those Explorers who successfully achieved their Platinum Awards during the year. Attaining this prestigious award required dedication, perseverance, and the successful completion of challenges across multiple programme areas. These achievements reflect the high standards and commitment demonstrated by our members and serve as an inspiration to younger Scouts within the movement.

Well done to, Izzy, Dom, Will, Mia H-T, Danial, Emily and Hayden. My apologies if I miss anyone. The team would like to say well done to you all for achieving the Platinum Award.

Looking Ahead

The accomplishments of our Explorers this year highlight the strength and enthusiasm of the Nyeri Explorer Unit. We look forward to building on these successes, supporting more members in achieving their awards, and continuing to provide exciting opportunities for personal growth, adventure, and service to the community.

Thank you for a fun year

Nyeri Unit Leaders

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In summary, the last 12mths have been extremely busy, enjoyable, and rewarding for all four sections. The section teams are running extremely well, and I feel honoured to lead such a committed and amazing team. The teams continue to recruit exceptional individuals who provide our youngsters with the widest range of opportunities. The committee has completed its transition to a small, focussed Trustee Board. Financially, the Group remains stable with an eye to the future where a new build hut should one day appear.

Both the Cub and Scout sec�on have grown in leader and member numbers, which is a testament to the teams. All the sec�ons have wonderful young leaders suppor�ng the adults in looking a�er your youngsters. However, there are opportuni�es for young leaders on all sec�ons at this �me.

We are looking to recruit addi�onal Squirrel, Beaver and Scout leaders to support the excellent work the teams do. Emma is stepping down from running our ac�vity wear shop and we are looking for a volunteer to take over the reins.

We have a wonderful maintenance team who keep the hut clean and func�onal. If you have the skills, or just the enthusiasm, please speak to me to join the team. A big thank you to the parents who helped on our maintenance day in April. The ligh�ng and general maintenance work has made a huge

We ran the Plant Sale again this year and raised a significant sum thanks to the efforts of Emma and her team. The support of parents in this way and others is invaluable. I’d like to end by thanking all the volunteer leaders and young leaders, parent volunteers, and Trustees for the many, many hours you give to enable scou�ng in Highcliffe. You are all amazing.

Andy Hewi� (Woody)

Group Lead Volunteer 2025

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