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5th January 2000

Proposals by David Blunkett for summer activity camps for 16 year olds to complement the formal education system are welcomed by leaders of the UK Scout Association who have offered their experience and infrastructure in support of the Government initiative.

The scheme, announced by Education Secretary David Blunkett today (Thursday 6/1/2000), aims to develop self-esteem and leadership skills as young people prepare to leave school either for the world of work or further education.

"There are three areas in which we can make a contribution and offer significant expertise", said Derek Twine, Chief Executive of the half million strong Scout Movement.

"First, the sort of activities outlined in the Minster's proposals are exactly those at the core of our highly successful 'education for life' programme for young people being delivered throughout the UK.

Second we have a network of established activity centres and bases which are equipped and experienced at providing the safe operation of challenging adventurous activities on land and water.

Finally, and crucial to the operation of any such programme, we have considerable experience at training the adults who would be required to manage and supervise an ambitious residential programmes of this sort".

Scouting's role is to help young people face the challenges and pressures of adult life in a way that compliments the formal education system and then takes over from it when they leave school. The Scout training programme gives opportunities for young people of all backgrounds to take responsibility for themselves and others and play an active part in their community. It provides a route for them to take part in highly successful personal development programmes such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme or Scouting's equivalent 'Queen's Scout Award'. They can also train for other skills ranging from First Aid Certificates to recognised qualifications to train and instruct others in outdoor skills and activities.