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1st Night Back! - Thursday 5th September
Who we are
Who we are
Are you looking for a fun and rewarding activity for your child? Look no further than 1st Monkstown Scout Group! Our group offers a variety of sections for children and young adults aged 4 to 25 years old.
Firstly, we have our youngest section called the "Squirrels," which is for children aged 4 to 6 years old. In this section, our young members get to explore the world of Scouting through a variety of games, crafts, and outdoor activities. They also learn basic life skills such as sharing, teamwork, and independence, all while having fun in a safe and supportive environment.
Next up, we have our "Beavers" section for children aged 6 to 8 years old. Here, our Beavers participate in activities such as camping, hiking, and badge work. They also learn valuable skills such as leadership and communication, all while making new friends and having fun.
For children aged 8 to 10 years old, we have our "Cubs" section. Cubs participate in a variety of activities, from outdoor adventures to community service projects. They also work towards earning badges that recognize their achievements and progress in Scouting.
As children grow older, we have our "Scouts" section for 10 to 14 year olds. In this section, Scouts learn more advanced skills such as camping, first aid, and navigation. They also work towards earning badges that recognize their achievements and progress in Scouting, all while developing leadership and teamwork skills.
For older teenagers, we have our "Explorers" section for 14 to 18 year olds. In this section, members have more input into the activities they participate in and take on more responsibilities, such as planning and leading events.
Finally, we have recently started housing the South East Antrim District Network members, which is for young adults aged 18 to 25 years old. In this section, members participate in a range of activities such as hiking, camping, and community service projects. They also develop important skills such as teamwork, leadership, and communication.
At 1st Monkstown Scout Group, we are dedicated to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all members. Our leaders are trained to provide a high standard of care, and we follow all health and safety guidelines. We also offer a range of opportunities for our members to develop skills and make lifelong friends.
So why not give Scouting a try? To find out more about our sections and how to get involved, please visit our website or email us at [insert contact details]. We can't wait to welcome you and your child to our Scout Group!
The History of 1st Monkstown Scout Group
The History of 1st Monkstown Scout Group
Monkstown Scout Group began way back in 1962 with the opening of a Cub Pack that had just ten boys. The founder was Robin Craig who was working in community relations with different sections of youth in the area and foresaw the need for a youth group that gave direction and growth for its members.
Back then other leaders included Joan Kelly and David Stewart and the original meeting place was in a room over the shops which used to stand at the junction of the Monkstown and Jordanstown roads. This is directly opposite the White Church which should be a more familiar landmark to many. The original shops are now no longer there but new ones have taken their place, such as the Tesco Express and Toto Chinese.
Later in the sixties, Scouts were started by Paul Gibbs, a micro-biologist from England who was at that time working in Northern Ireland.
In 1970 with the opening of the Church of the Good Shepherd at the entrance to the Monkstown estate the group was invited to use their halls as a meeting place. Akela then was Carol Kay assisted by Dorothy Beattie.
The Group remained open attracting boys from all denominations.
The Troubles in the early seventies resulted in a loss of members and the troop lapsed but the pack still boasted over 25 boys. The pack enjoyed many evenings outdoors exploring local landmarks such as Jack's Lane and the disused railway track which led to Greenisland. Due to development these places have long gone but provided lasting memories of fun evenings for many Cubs who passed through the Pack.
Pack Holidays, the predecessor of Nights Away, were popular visiting many sites as far a field as Ballylough, Carnfunnock and the former Youth Hostel in Ballygally.
In the mid-seventies Scouts were revived by Tom Weir. The troop was very active with around 20 boys. Camping was a popular activity. Good times were had at Loch Goilhead, Garrison and Cladagh Glen both in County Fermanagh and a memorable canal boat trip near Birmingham to name but a few of the places visited.
Beavers were started in 1984 under Catherine Lunn, who had originally been a Cub Scout Leader in St. Catherine's 75th Belfast Cubs. This helped boosted group numbers for both Cubs and Scouts.
Coming more up to date the Pack is still active and in the last year the Troop has been restarted under the leadership of Stuart Ritchie.
The current Akela is Oliver Townsend who is ably assisted by Gail McKirgan.
We are actively looking for leaders to restart our Beaver Colony.
Monkstown has survived intact for 49 years and is still going strong due to the dedication of many people throughout the years who gave unstintingly of their time and talents. The next milestone will be 2012 when we will celebrate being 50 years old.
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