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Sail to the Chief
14/05/2010
A Hampshire Sea Scout who undertakes assessments of powerboat drivers last week found himself scrutinising a particularly famous pupil – UK Chief Scout Bear Grylls.
James ‘Jimbo’ Davies of the 1st Sandleheath Sea Scout Group is a qualified Advanced Powerboat and Safetyboat Instructor. Despite his many years of experience, both in and out of Scouting, he was hugely impressed with his latest trainee who, not surprisingly, passed with flying colours.
‘Throughout the session, Bear was very calm and professional, and displayed exceptionally high boat-handling and seamanship abilities,’ said Jimbo. ‘He answered every question I had, and it was obvious that he took safety very seriously.’
Chief Scout Survival Camp
The Chief Scout was being put through his paces in preparation for the forthcoming Survival Camp, where eight Scouts will get to spend a weekend with him on his own island off the coast of Wales.
Bear will be transporting the lucky young people to the camp in a RIB but, as The Scout Association’s rules apply to everyone regardless of status, gaining the appropriate permit in advance was a must.
Jimbo runs his own business offering boat training and instruction so, despite the fact that he was sharing a vessel with one of the world’s most famous adventurers, professional pride demanded that no special favours were on offer.
‘Bear was grilled on collision regulations, passenger safety and briefings, navigation, emergency procedures and crew awareness – with particular reference to young people,’ he explains.
Activities and adventure
Hampshire County Commissioner Adam Jollans believes that the Chief Scout’s insistence on undergoing this assessment sends a very strong message to Scouts all over the UK.
‘It drives home the idea that everyone in the Movement needs to be assessed before they can run activities,’ he says. ‘We weren’t just examining technical ability either. It’s important to know that the person can inspire and motivate young people. We are all delighted that Bear passed with such success.’
‘We did have time to chat about the Scout Association,’ Jimbo continues. ‘He is a firm believer in the opportunities and skills it provides to young people and volunteers alike.
‘I am extremely pleased that with this successful award of a Scout Powerboating Permit, more young people will be able to spend time afloat with the Chief Scout and benefit from his infectious enthusiasm.’
More information
The eight who will attend the Chief Scout’s Survival Camp will be chosen from applicants who have achieved the Chief Scout’s Gold Award (or will have by 31 July). The closing date for applications is 15 May so there is still time for Scouts to take advantage of what is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
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