This week’s primary school assembly and classroom discussion explores an important and current topic featured in the news— the significant rise in demand for Scout and Girlguiding groups across the UK. Let’s delve into the details, the activities offered by these organisations, and discuss why hobbies and clubs matter for children. What’s Happening in the News? Requests to join the Scouts and Girlguiding groups have reached their highest levels in more than 80 years. According to the Scout Association, nearly 90,000 young people across the UK are currently on waiting lists for the Scouts, while Girlguiding has almost 55,000 people waiting for a place. The Scout Association’s national spokesperson, Simon Carter, revealed that membership has grown by 16% in a year, a level of growth not seen since the Second World War. He noted, "Lockdown was a grim period for young people. They couldn't go anywhere. There is now more zeal for the outdoors." Why Is Demand for Scouts and Girlguiding So High? The surge in interest is linked to young people’s increased enthusiasm to spend time outdoors and connect with others after the isolation of recent lockdowns. For many, youth groups provide a sense of acceptance, friendship, and the chance to learn new skills. Girlguiding UK’s Girls’ Attitudes Survey showed that 61% of girls and young women aged 11 to 21 feel accepted in youth groups, 60% feel connected, and 58% feel they learn new skills. Activities Offered by Scouts and Girlguiding Groups Scouts and Girlguiding groups offer a wide variety of activities designed to build skills, confidence, and friendships. Some key activities include: Girlguiding: Sleepovers, canoeing, body confidence workshops, and leading camps. Scouts: Camping, hiking, swimming, abseiling, cycling, and canoeing. Both organisations place a strong emphasis on learning new skills and working together as a team. The History of Scouts and Girlguiding The Scouting movement began in 1907 when Robert Baden-Powell held the first Scout camp in Dorset, England. By 1909, the Girl Guides Programme was launched due to girls’ interest in joining Scouting. Throughout both World Wars, members of the Scout and Girlguiding movements helped with many National Service tasks, showing their commitment to social action. Over the years, these organisations have evolved. Girls could join the Scout Movement officially as Venture Scouts in 1976, with full inclusion in all sections by 1991. In 2007, it became compulsory for all groups to make provisions for girls. What Is a Hobby? Why Are They Important? A hobby is an activity someone enjoys doing regularly in their own time for fun or relaxation. Examples include gardening, painting, playing an instrument, collecting items, or playing sports. According to the news story, everyone has different interests, passions, and activities. Hobbies are important because they help us relax, learn new things, and sometimes make a positive difference to others and the world. Some hobbies involve working with others in a team, such as playing sports or participating in community groups. Others can be done alone, like reading or drawing. Volunteering, charity work, and participating in environmental projects are examples of hobbies that help improve communities. Reflection: The Importance of Inclusion and Social Action The Scouts and Girlguiding movements have always emphasised inclusion, personal growth, and contributing to society. As society changes, these organisations continue to adapt their programmes and promises to better prepare children for life. Being part of these groups can help children build confidence, develop skills, and make friends for life. For over 100 years, volunteers and members have made a positive contribution through social action and teamwork, and they continue to offer opportunities for children as young as four to learn and grow. Questions for Assembly and Classroom Discussion What does being a part of Scouts or Girlguiding mean to you or someone you know? Why do you think there is such high demand for these groups now? What are your favourite hobbies? Do you enjoy them alone or with others? Have you ever been involved in a hobby or activity that helped others? How important is it that these organisations continue to change and evolve? KS1 & KS2 Follow-up Ideas KS1 Draw a picture of your favourite hobby and another of a hobby you’d like to try. Discuss if everyone in the class enjoys the same hobbies and why. KS2 Create a survey about clubs or groups people enjoy at school. Design your own skill or challenge badge. Take part in team-building outdoor activities. Key Vocabulary Demand: A need for something to be supplied. Grim: Worrying or without hope. Hobby: An activity done for pleasure or relaxation. Passion: A very strong feeling, belief or interest in something. Request: Officially ask for something. Zeal: Great enthusiasm or eagerness. Final Thoughts We all have different interests and hobbies. Taking part in clubs and groups like Scouts or Girlguiding helps children connect, learn new skills, and build confidence. Whether you enjoy hobbies alone or with others, there’s always something new to try— and some hobbies can even help the community. It’s important for everyone to find activities they enjoy and to make time for both fun and relaxation. How we spend our spare time can shape our skills, happiness, and the world around us. * Explore the latest Picture News resources here: https://picture-news.co.uk/free-sample * Join our latest discussion here: https://picture-news.co.uk/discuss * Explore our recent events and training here: https://picture-news.co.uk/training
