1st Washington Cubs – A Reflective Start to the Term
The new Cubs term began with a thoughtful and meaningful activity as
1st Washington Cubs set out on a walk through Washington Village. The
aim wasn’t just to stretch our legs after the break, Our walk also
gave us the chance to talk about the upcoming Remembrance Day parade
taking place the following Sunday. Many of the Cubs taking part,
understanding that their presence helps keep these traditions alive
for future generations.
It was a gentle, reflective start to the term, but one that set the
tone beautifully: learning from our community, showing respect, and
exploring the world around us together.
Taste of Adventure: Backwoods Cooking Night
The following week, the Cubs swapped village streets for the great
outdoors as we embraced one of their favourite challenges, backwoods
cooking. With the fire crackling and spirits high, the Cubs learned
how to prepare simple but satisfying campfire food using basic
ingredients and traditional Scouting techniques.
Armed with potatoes, dough, and a tin of baked beans, the Cubs got
hands on with the essentials of outdoor cooking. They wrapped potatoes
to bake in the embers, twisted dough around sticks to make classic
bread twists, and heated baked beans right in the tin a timeless
Scouting skill that never fails.
There was plenty of smoke and a real sense of achievement as the Cubs
tasted the results of their hard work. For many, it was their first
time cooking over an open fire, and they showed brilliant teamwork,
patience, and enthusiasm throughout the evening.
Backwoods cooking night wasn’t just about food, it was about building
confidence, learning practical skills, and enjoying the simple
pleasure of creating something together outdoors.
Reaching New Heights at Sunderland Climbing Wall
The adventure continued the following week as 1st Washington Cubs
headed to the Sunderland Climbing Wall for an evening packed with
energy, courage, and determination. For some Cubs, it was their very
first time tackling a climbing wall. For others, it was a chance to
push themselves a little higher than before.
After a safety briefing from the instructors, the Cubs got straight
onto the ropes. It was brilliant to see them encouraging one another,
cheering on their friends, and celebrating every achievement, whether
that was reaching the top or simply taking that brave first step off
the ground.
The climbing session wasn’t just about physical challenge. It helped
the Cubs build confidence, trust, and resilience, all while having a
fantastic time. By the end of the night, there were tired arms, big
smiles, and plenty of proud moments to take home.
Learning to Care: Animal Carers Badge Night
The following week, the Cubs turned their attention to the world of
animals as they worked toward their Animal Carer badge. It was a
brilliant evening full of curiosity, questions, and plenty of
enthusiasm as the Cubs explored what it means to look after different
kinds of pets responsibly.
A highlight of the night was a fantastic presentation from one of our
Cubs, who proudly introduced everyone to his pet tortoise, Shellby. He
shared facts about Shellby’s diet, habitat, and daily routine, and
explained how he keeps his tortoise healthy and happy. The Cubs were
captivated and full of questions as they learned about the unique
needs of a reptile pet.
The session encouraged the Cubs to think about the responsibility that
comes with caring for animals, whether big or small, furry or shelled.
It was a lovely mix of learning and sharing, and a great example of
Cubs supporting one another’s interests.
Maps at the Ready: Navigation Skills Night
The following week, the Cubs put their problem‑solving skills to the
test as they dived into the world of navigation. With maps spread out
across the floor of the HQ, the room quickly filled with excitement as
the Cubs learned how to read symbols, follow routes, and understand
the basics of using a map to find their way.
They explored key features such as contour lines, grid references, and
map symbols, discovering how these tools help us make sense of the
landscape. It was brilliant to see the Cubs working together, helping
one another spot landmarks and plan simple routes.
The session sparked plenty of curiosity and a few “aha!” moments as
the Cubs realised just how useful navigation skills can be, whether on
a hike, an adventure, or even just exploring somewhere new. By the end
of the evening, they were confidently pointing out features and
showing real progress in their map‑reading abilities, we tasked them
as a part of the badge work to create their own maps that showed the
routes they take from home to the HQ hut.
Celebrating Success: Badge Presentation Night
As the term was coming to a close, it was time to recognise the Cubs’
dedication, enthusiasm, and hard work with our Badge Presentation
Night. This is always a special evening in the 1st Washington
calendar, and this term was no exception.
One by one, the Cubs came forward to receive the badges they had
earned — each one representing new skills learned, challenges
completed, and personal achievements reached. From outdoor adventures
to creative projects and community engagement, every badge told a
story of effort and growth.
It was wonderful to see the pride on their faces as they added new
badges to their uniforms, and just as heart warming to see the
applause and encouragement they gave one another. Moments like these
remind us what Scouting is all about: supporting each other,
celebrating progress, and recognising that every Cub brings something
unique to the pack.
Badge Presentation Night was a joyful milestone in the term, and a
well‑deserved celebration of everything the Cubs have achieved
together, with some of our Cubs moving to Scouts and receiving the Silver Chief Scouts award – the Highest achievement for the Cubs.
Well done all
A Relaxed Finish to the term: 1st Washington’s Cinema Night
To bring the term to a close, the Cubs enjoyed a well earned treat
with the 1st Washington Cinema Night at HQ. After weeks packed with
learning, adventure, and new experiences, this was the perfect way to
unwind together.
The Cubs arrived ready for a cosy evening, armed with blankets and
plenty of excitement. With snacks at the ready and the lights dimmed,
they settled in to watch a film of their choice which was Home sweet
home alone.
Laughter, chatter, and the rustle of sweet wrappers filled the hall as
the Cubs relaxed and enjoyed time with their friends. It was a simple
but brilliant way to end the term: fun, friendship, and a shared
experience that left everyone heading home with smiles on their faces.
