Highest scouting honour for Syke scout

Jonathan Buckley was awarded the Chief Scouts Gold Award

A scout from the 40th Rochdale Troop has been presented with the highest award a scout can achieve – the Chief Scout Gold Award.

Through a lot of hard work and commitment over the last three and a half years, Jonathan Buckley, aged 14, has completed the prestigious award.

To achieve the award, Jonathan had to complete nine challenge badges which included: experiencing adventurous activities; learning about the world; developing personal skills; taking on leadership roles; completing team work challenges; taking part in creative activities; attending camps and navigating expeditions.

Highlights of Jonathan's scouting journey include a hiking expedition in Derbyshire; completing the Master at Arms badge; camping trips; making great friends, and rising to the position of patrol leader. 

Jonathan said: “When I first joined scouts, I was wondering if would ever get along with people - but now I am close friends with pretty much everyone there. From the beginning I doubted that I would achieve what I have done - but I was wrong, just stuck with it and never gave up."

Leanne Chorlton, scout leader for 40th Rochdale Scouts said: “We are so proud of the hard work and commitment Jonathan has shown to achieve the Chief Scout Gold Award - he has grown in so much confidence during his time in scouts, and is well deserving of this award." 

Jonathan hopes to continue his scouting journey in explorers, and has shown interest in becoming a young leader at a local group.

For details of how to join the adventure visit www.scouts.org.uk/scouts/being-a-scout/how-to-join/