12th Caterham Beavers visit RAF Kenley
Beavers from 12th Caterham Scout Group were invited to visit 615 Volunteer Gilder Squadron at RAF Kenley. As we had more than 25 Beavers who wanted to join us, we decided it was best to split the session over two visits. This was also my first solo trip with the Beavers since becoming the BSL in September 2023. The Beavers were true ambassadors for 12th Caterham Scout Group and also for the District. Their attitude, behaviour and engagement with the session was excellent. I’m hoping this helps build bridges for more groups to visit 615 VGS in the future.
The first group visited on a rather drab, wet day, which was a blessing in disguise. It allowed the young people to go into the hangar and see all the gliders up close. We were met by Flt Lt Chris Goodard who is the Adjutant for 615 VGS. He took the Beavers through to the ‘briefing room’ and gave us all an overview of what they do, where they operate, how gliders work and answered lots of obscure questions that the Beavers asked.
After the Q&A, Chris took us through to the hangar to get close to the gliders, point out components and operate the air brake on the gliders. Again, the young people had all sorts of wonderful and relevant questions. At the end of the session, all the Beavers were given a badge and a sticker. All left with a huge smile and were excited to tell their parents about the morning’s activities.
The weather for our second session was perfect for flying. Clear skies, plenty of thermals (I was told!) and plenty of air cadets visiting 615 VGS. However, Chris was able to find time for the young people and assigned one of his team to help with this week’s session. She was put under the microscope by our Beavers, again loads of wonderfully weird questions that made all the adults smile. As the weather was better the hangar was empty, however, there were a few gliders in there that we were able to get close to. Emily showed us all the key components and operated various controls on the gliders. Fortunately, the winch was set up right outside the hangar and we were able to see it in action and ask the winch operator some questions. We got VIP seats to see a few launches and waved at the gliders who waved back to us!
This visit and a Beaver meeting have enabled the Beavers at 12th Caterham to meet the criteria for their ‘Air Activities Stage 1’ badge.
Shaun
12th Caterham BSL
