Cubs and Scouts Explore HMS Caroline

Cubs and Scouts from 1st Rathfriland Scout Group and the Red Kite Explorer Unit were joined by young people from 1st Newry Scouts for a special visit to HMS Caroline in Belfast.

The visit was delivered through the ongoing partnership between Scouts NI and Northern Ireland Museums Council (NIMC), giving young people the chance to explore one of Belfast’s most important historic ships and learn more about Northern Ireland’s maritime heritage.

With the support of Michael and the dedicated museum team, the tour was highly engaging and informative. Young people explored the ship, discovered what life on board would have been like, and asked thoughtful questions as history was brought vividly to life around them.

Activities like visiting a local museum link closely with the Scouts programme, helping Cubs and Scouts build curiosity, confidence and an understanding of their local community. Experiences like this also support progress across a range of programme areas, including elements found within sectional NI Challenge Awards, by encouraging young people to learn through real experiences.

On the day, all those taking part were awarded the Purple History Blanket Badge, recognising their enthusiasm for learning about local history and ensuring they had something to mark the experience straight away, while continuing to work towards their wider challenges back in their sections.

It was a thoroughly enjoyable and educational day for everyone involved and a great example of how partnerships help young people develop skills for life.

At Scouts NI, activities like this are just one of the many ways groups support young people as they work through the programme. Find out more about the NI Challenge Awards, available from Squirrels right through to Network here.

Story submitted by Louise McQuaid.