Today, the 5th Dartford Scout Group held a Scout climbing day for members of the Earley & Burne Scout troops and representatives of the 9th Dartford Scout Group. The day started at 09:30 with 21 Scouts ready to learn about the knots, equipment and safety aspects before the afternoon’s practical session.
After lunch, the wall was divided in to 7 climbs of varying difficulty and 1 abseil. In order to qualify, each Scout had to complete 4 different climbs (incl 1 difficult climb) and the abseil. Working in pairs and supervised by permitted instructors, the Scouts took it in turn to either climb or belay having fitted their own harnesses, belay systems and safety knots.
I am pleased to announce that every scout completed the required number of climbs and was awarded the activity badge.
A special mention must be made to 3 Scouts in particular (1 from each troop) who despite their obvious fear of heights were able to muster the courage with the support of everyone on the ground. This is what makes us Scouts!
A big thanks to all the leaders and instructors who gave their time on the day to make this course happen.
