Scouting is for all, and the launch of a new Explorer Unit at Fosse Way School in Radstock, near Bath, is paving the way for its students.
Fosse Way Explorer Scouts is a SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) unit based at Fosse Way School. Nine of the 11 members of the unit are from Fosse Way House, a residential provision attached to the special school. The group meet weekly during term time.
Fosse Way Explorers are fast becoming a vital part of the wider scouting family. Each term the unit meets with other Explorer Units in the area. In September the Unit explored Midsomer Norton Railway with their scouting friends at Argus Explorers, from Saltford, with more collaborative activities planned with other units across the next two terms.
The activities are carefully planned by volunteer leaders to ensure they are fun, accessible and exciting for all members of both units involved.
Fosse Way Explorer Scout Unit was the idea of Graham Bush, whose son James (14) is currently a student at the Special School. Graham is the District Lead Volunteer for local Scouting and James has been involved in Scouting since he was 6. Between Graham and Jason Towells, Residential Education Manager at Fosse Way House, they set up a group dedicated to SEND members.
“Scouting aims to be an equitable, diverse and inclusive movement,” said Graham. “The volunteer leaders, which include staff from the Fosse Way House team, have worked together to provide a balanced programme around three main themes: outdoor and adventure; the world around us; and skills for life. The team has ensured that each of these has been adjusted to meet the needs of the young people within the unit.”
The new unit at Fosse Way isn’t just developing their own skills for life, but sharing theirs with others. The highly-trained staff from the special school have also provided training on autism education to scout leaders across Wansdyke, with more dates in the diary.
Jason Towells, from Fosse Way, said, “The students are so excited that they are now scouts. Every Tuesday evening, they are dressed in their uniforms and raring to go by 6.30pm. It’s wonderful to see how much enjoyment they, and the staff here, get from participating in the group.”
Luke, one of the Explorers in the group, added,
Luke, an Explorer from the group, added, “Scouts is great fun, it’s my favourite”.
The Fosse Way Explorers have already achieved badges in First Aid, Athletics and Air Activities.