A Message from Studley Scout Group’s New Group Lead Volunteer (GLV), Rob Tuby

As the new Group Lead Volunteer (GLV), I wanted to take a moment to introduce myself and share a little about my journey with the group so far. Over eight years ago, upon moving to Studley, I began volunteering with the group by lending a hand during weekly sessions when there was a shortage of adult helpers. What started as occasional support soon grew into leading activity nights, including a memorable session on disability awareness where my family and I brought in specialist equipment and shared our experiences. The session was successful, so I then went on to deliver to our Jackal Cubs as well.

It was shortly after this I made the commitment to be an Assistant Cub leader, wear my shirt and necker and in front of the pack, recited my Scout Promise – to do my best, to do my duty, to help other people and to keep the scout law. Still today I reflect on this commitment, and the words are never truer.

When we held our first overnight sleepover, I took the opportunity to observe how everything was organised, all while ensuring I completed the necessary safeguarding checks.

My involvement expanded further when I attended county-level planning meetings for the Get In 2018 camp, which gave me invaluable insight into managing large-scale events and the chance to organise an activity zone alongside contractors and volunteers.

In 2020, Whilst out with the Coyote Cubs on a hike at Oversley Woods, we had to react quickly to the government’s announcements, saying goodbye to the cubs and parents for the evening and saying we didn’t know what would be happening with Scouting within Studley for the foreseeable. Within a couple of weeks we were back scouting, only online. This brought about initiatives like “Walk with Phao” for the Cubs and a group-wide “Camp at Home.” Adapting to virtual programming became an essential part of what we do, ensuring we remained connected and engaged during challenging times.

By 2021, as lockdowns were ending, emerging into the new world of scouting and seeing the devastating detrimental effect the pandemic had on our young people from a developmental perspective, I was invited to lead the co-ordination for the “INvigorate” activity zone at GetIn 2022, working closely with parent volunteers and contractors to deliver one of the largest and liveliest zones at the event. GetIn2022 for me was the “we are back scouting, bigger and better than ever!

Please see the highlight reel here: https://youtu.be/cvGja09abn4?si=CPAqR9toJ3mD-WiD

More recently, my focus had been on delivering District Pirate Camp 2025, taking on “Ships Captain” and helping us reach fantastic attendance milestones for Studley.

These experiences have now inspired me to take on more responsibility within the group, with the aim of expanding and enhancing opportunities for our young people. I recognise just how important it is to continue recruiting volunteers across a range of roles, whether directly working with young people or providing support behind the scenes, to keep our activities running and growing.

Support from our community is absolutely vital. Whether it’s helping occasionally at events, assisting with hut maintenance, or connecting us with financial or material resources, every bit helps. Examples have shown how even short bursts of volunteering can make a huge difference to our young people. Most recently, one parent agreed to help peel potatoes at camp, this small gesture of time allowed the young people to come from activities, refuel and re-hydrate and be ready to go within 45 minutes! A simple act benefitted 99 young people and adults.

As we move through this transition, volunteer capacity remains a real challenge. If you, or anyone you know, would like to support us in any way, please do get in touch. I’d be delighted to discuss opportunities and find a role that suits your interests and availability.

You may have noticed I’ve mentioned the GetIn Camp 2018 and 2022, GetIn Camp 2026 around the corner is set for 1st–3rd May 2026, mark your calendars now, we would like to have all our young people attend, and some assistance with volunteering to help bring this together please.

Thank you for your continued support. Together, we can make a real difference to Scouting in Studley.

Best wishes,

Phao

Rob Tuby

Group Lead Volunteer (GLV)