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Scouting
The Scout Section caters for young people aged 10½ to 14. Each Scout Troop consists of small units (Patrols) of six to eight boys and girls, one of whom is Patrol Leader who shares responsibility with the adult Leader for maintaining standards and training other members of the Patrol. Together, all Patrol Leaders in a Troop form a Patrol Leaders' Council which takes the acceptance of responsibility a stage further to cover some aspects of the functioning of the Troop, planning activities and monitoring Members' progress. Outdoor activities feature prominently in the Scout Troop. The highlight for most Members is the annual summer camp or expedition, and much of the rest of the year is devoted to preparation for this. Even in winter there may be Patrol hikes or weekend camps. Map reading, camp cooking, first aid and other skills can be practised at any time of the year. Often there will be more adventurous activities like rock climbing, pioneering and orienteering where Members gain experience in the use of equipment. Scouts are offered a wide range of other activities ranging from technology based subjects such as electronics, computing or amateur radio to cultural activities. All these activities are embraced in a continuously updated progressive training scheme designed to encourage and support boys and girls as they develop through the Section age range.