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19.10.2007
Queen's Scouts shine at London's Tate Modern
Some 130 Explorers and Network members gathered at the Tate Modern this weekend to receive Scouting's highest honour - the Queen's Scout Award . The Scouts, all aged between 16-25 were recognised over two days in five receptions at the iconic London landmark.
Overlooking The Globe Theatre, St. Paul's and London's famous South Bank, the Scouts shared the stories of expeditions, community service, environmental and other projects that they have completed to gain the prestigious award. The Queen's Scouts - half of which were female, join an exclusive group of just a few hundred each year who reach this level.
The awards were presented by Chief Scout Peter Duncan. Referring to Doris Salcedo's Shibboleth, the controversial chasm that stretches the length of the Turbine Hall, he talked off the symbolic dividing line between's the UK's have and have-nots. 'Scouting has such an important role to play today,' he said, 'in bridging that divide.'
The young people seemed to enjoy the contemporary surroundings - and being on show in one of the UK's busiest attractions. 'A nice friendly atmosphere.' said one. 'Good location, very informal and with plenty of opportunity to talk in small groups with the Chief Scout,' commented another. All enjoyed hearing how other young people earned their award. In an unusual twist, one Scout was also presented with a trophy passed on from their Grandfather who earned a King's Scout Award fifty years ago.
Jess Kelly who co-ordinated the event for The Scout Association was highly complimentary about the venue. 'We were brilliantly looked after and the Tate makes for a great backdrop to this important event. It's a high profile location for a high profile award. The young people were made to feel so spacial and the public were given a chance to see Scouting at its best.'
