February 2025 update

World first for Southwell's Brownies

Southwell Brownies have joined an exclusive group alongside Southwell's Guides and Scouts by being the first Brownies in the world to receive Lions Challenge Badges.

The Challenge is designed to teach and encourage participants in five ‘Areas of Excellence’ – Creative, Community, Communications, Environment and Safety. Participants undertake tasks and learn new skills appropriate to their age group over a period of several weeks.
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The Badges and Certificates were given out by Lion Verdun Webley (right) at a special presentation in February.

January 2025 update

Southwell Guides are heading to Iceland

One of the Lions' key objectives is to help young people with their personal development so we are delighted to help two Guides from Southwell to attend an international Girlguiding camp in Iceland later this year. Cat Riley and Lilian Smith will be joining other Guides from around the world on an exciting cultural exchange.

Cat and Lilian are particularly looking forward to learning about Iceland’s sustainable use of geothermal energy (as well as glacier walking and whale watching). They had to attend a selection camp, where they played a series of games to show they can work well with others, in order to be chosen to represent Nottinghamshire.
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On this week-long trip, the Guides will be camping under canvas, experiencing firsthand the power of the earth by spending time at one of Iceland’s geothermal springs, learning about Icelandic culture and history, as well as undertaking some community service within the local area.

Both are raising funds for the trip through a variety of activities, including selling items they’ve made at car boot sales, fetes and markets, sponsored walks and through part-time jobs.

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Cat (left) and Lilian shown with Lions Ian Gillings and Mike Broadly

Halam School pupils to move lessons outside

Nearly three years ago, Halam School PTA started fundraising for a new outdoor classroom and Southwell Lions were very pleased to be able to make a donation towards this excellent new facility. After many delays and a redesign, the classroom was finally officially opened in mid-January and we were delighted to join the teachers, parents and some of the pupils to mark the occasion.

The outdoor classroom gives pupils opportunities to learn and play outdoors, providing an alternative learning space, which research has shown improves engagement and provides a positive learning experience.
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As well as using the outdoor classroom for regular scheduled lessons, it will also be used on an ad hoc basis for extracurricular activities. The children, who have named it the Acorn Classroom, are already planning what activities they can use it for.

Lions Tony Johnson, Verdun Webley and Ian Robinson joined Headteacher, Mrs Speed, and the children at the celebration.