Golden moment for little Grindleton Brownies who achieved a top award

The restrictions in place due to COVID-19 have made it particularly challenging for the girls to complete all the required elements, as no face-to-face Guiding meetings have been

able to take place since late March. However, the girls have risen to the challenge and found ways to complete all requirements. For example some of the girls have been joining

in with virtual guiding meetings, while others have focused on activities themselves at home.

The Gold Award was introduced when the Girlguiding program changed in summer 2018. Some of the Brownies who have now completed their Gold Award were even chosen to

attend the national launch of the Girlguiding program two years ago, which was held at Waddow Girlguiding Training and Activity Centre. The next step for the Brownies is to attend Guides, and all six are looking forward to the transition.

Ten-year-old Gracie said: “I was so thrilled to achieve my Gold Award," while her friend Holly, also age 10, added: “I was so pleased to receive my sparkly Gold Award.”

Leader, Ailyn Garley, commented: "I am very proud of our six Brownies who have completed their Gold Awards – it has been particularly difficult to work out how to cover the

requirements during the restrictions for the pandemic. The girls chose to lead activities over Zoom for one of their challenges. They all chose something very different and did a

fabulous job. It was a good break for me to not have to plan our activities those nights. I think we have some future leaders in this group!”

She added: "Each Girlguiding group has had different circumstances during the pandemic. Some groups held online meetings, while others emailed or posted activities. Some Leaders dropped activities at young member’s homes during their daily exercise at the peak of the restrictions.

"Girlguiding groups are beginning to plan their activities for the autumn term. At present small Girlguiding groups can meet outdoors if they follow Girlguiding national procedures. Depending on circumstances some groups may decide to continue to meet virtually. Girlguiding Leaders are monitoring for any changes in guidance from Girlguiding which might allow larger group meetings or indoor meeting."