By Isle of Wight Observer
Shanklin scout, Jamie Dowsett, has been congratulated, at Windsor Castle, after achieving the King’s Scout Award.
Jamie attended the special event on April 26, where Chief Scout, Dwayne Fields, congratulated young people who had achieved the award, the highest recognition in scouting for adventure and skill development.
The event, held in the castle’s quadrangle, brought together scouts, families, and supporters. Scout ambassadors, including astronaut, Tim Peake, also attended.
The King’s Scout Award recognises personal achievement by scouts aged 16 to 25. To earn it, young people complete challenges including community volunteering, an expedition in wild country, a five-day residential experience in a new environment, and developing an existing talent or learning new skills.
Jamie said: “Completing my King’s Scout Award alongside my Explorer Belt on the same day was a huge milestone for me and something I’m really proud of.
“My expedition in Dartmoor, working with scouts from the Isle of Wight, was a brilliant shared experience, where we all took on different responsibilities and supported each other throughout the journey.”
Jamie has also been involved as an adult volunteer in scouts and as a county youth lead, as well as learning to drive and becoming a lifeboat crew member.
He added that, as someone with ADHD, the structure of the award had helped him build resilience, stay calm under pressure, and grow in confidence when working with others.
Mal Butler