To celebrate 25 years of the National Ice Centre, our members were very kindly invited to take part in a free ice skating session during September. A whopping 2,000 young people and adults from Nottinghamshire Scouts laced up their skates and took to the ice.

What's more, is that instead of the public rink, our members got to skate on the arena ice, home of the Nottingham Panthers! Don't forget about our special discounted tickets to see the Panthers play - check out the Notts Scouts Newsletter to find out more.

The sessions allowed all of our members to take part, from our youngest squirrel, to our Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Explorers and Volunteers. It was a spectacle to see so many of our members experiencing adventure together.

We are incredibly grateful to the team at the National Ice Centre for their generosity. Keep your eyes as we look to work together on exciting and unique experiences together.

We recently hosted our brand new event, The BIG Hideout! Over 100 explorers were invited to take part in our live action game of strategy, evasion and teamwork. Their aim was simple, get to the secret extraction point without being captured by our specialist teams of hunters.

Star of Channel 4's 'Hunted', Ray Howard (The Chief) sent our participants a special message welcoming them to the game, warning them that "you can run, but you can't hide".

Over the eight hours of gameplay, our teams trekked across the countryside, often staying away from roads and public footpaths to avoid capture. There were also a number of bases with challenges and the opportunity to gain extra points for the team.

All of our participants did extremely well in challenging weather conditions and this brand new activity format, a big well done to all who took part.

Keep your eyes peeled for the BIG Hideout returning in 2026!

This week dozens of Scouts and Explorers have braved the stage in Chilwell School Theatre. Altogether, 9 teams from South West Notts gathered to deliver a variety of expedition presentations, covering 2 scout expeditions, 5 Bronze Duke of Edinburgh expeditions and 2 Silver Duke of Edinburgh expeditions. The expedition presentation is an essential element of the Duke of Edinburgh award and allows for originality in content and approach.

Jack Kellas (County Youth Lead) and David Henson (County DofE Lead) attended the presentations as representatives of Nottinghamshire Scouts, and were very impressed by the effort witnessed.

Speaking to the Scouts, Jack said "All of the presentations this evening demonstrated perseverance, progress and pride.

"You overcame the hurdles faced in your planned expeditions, and showed perseverance in pushing through the challenges faced individually and as teams.

"Tonight you have told us all about your perseverance, and in doing so you have charted your progress, recognising how far you have come with a huge amount of pride"

Parents and carers asked thoughtful questions of the young people, all of which were answered with honest reflections on their expedition experiences. The presentations ended with a huge thank you and well done from Jack and Ed (District Lead Volunteer), with the majority of young people committing to completing the next level of expedition at the next possible opportunity.

We were recently honoured to be invited to send a small delegation of Nottinghamshire Scouts to the King's Official Birthday Service. The service hosted dignitaries from across Nottinghamshire, and was hosted by His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant, Professor Veronica Pickering MBS HAC, the High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire, Ed Attenborough DL, and the Dean of Southwell, The Revd Canon Dr Neil Evans, at the stunning Southwell Minster.

Nottinghamshire Scouts was represented by Jack Kellas (County Youth Lead), Victoria Nicholson (District Youth Lead), Mia, Leighton, and Nancy.

Their visit got off to an exciting start as, by chance the Scouts stumbled into the Lord-Lieutenant on her way to the Minster in her full and impressive regalia. The Scouts shook the Lord-Lieutenant's hand and accompanied her to the Minster, whilst chatting about her work representing the King in Nottinghamshire, and the Skills For Life they develop in Scouting. The Lord-Lieutenant expressed how impressed she was by the Scouts and, in particular, their understanding of the work of her Lieutenancy.

In her foreword, Professor Veronica Pickering said "It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to this service, to celebrate the official birthday of His Majesty The King, and to recognise the vital role of our communities and all their many achievements"

The Lord-Lieutenant later went on to say "By mentoring our young people, harnessing their creativity and skills and encouraging them to pursue their visions for the future, we lay the foundations of a more hopeful and empowered generation". This statement, and the kind words shared directly with the Scouts, demonstrate that the impact of Scouting in Nottinghamshire is recognised and appreciated in our communities, especially by our Lord-Lieutenant.

On 27th October, Nottinghamshire Scouts held their annual Oak Awards Recognition event, honouring over 20 volunteers and groups for their exceptional service to the scouting community. The event highlights the dedication of individuals who have played a key role in delivering essential life skills to young people across the county.

Jordan Phillips, County Lead Volunteer, praised the efforts of the volunteers, stating, "The event brings together volunteers across Nottinghamshire Scouts to recognise their contributions to deliver skills for life. It's amazing to see so many people recognised." His words reflected the pride and gratitude felt by the all those that attended.

The Oak Awards celebrate volunteers from various roles, including group leaders, section helpers, and behind-the-scenes supporters, all of whom contribute to the success of the scouting movement. Their work empowers young people to build confidence, resilience, and teamwork skills, preparing them for future challenges.

This year’s recipients represented the diversity and commitment of Nottinghamshire Scouts, with each awardee receiving recognition for their unique contributions. The event was filled with applause, appreciation, and a strong sense of community.

The Oak Awards serve as a reminder of the vital role volunteers play in shaping the lives of young people. In his closing words Jordan went on to say “Never underestimate the massive positive impact your volunteering has on young peoples lives, keep being brilliant”. Through the tireless efforts of many, these individuals help ensure that Scouting continues to thrive, offering invaluable experiences to the next generation.