Discovering our heritage

our history

Almost 100 years of Adventure and Growth

In 1985, the dedicated Group Scout Leader, Mr. Terry Harrison, set out to document the rich history of the 1st Solihull Scout Group. Below are just a few key milestones in the group’s growth over the years…

1928
1928: The Beginnings of 1st Solihull Scouts
1st Solihull was formed. With 30 boys attending, they met at Church House in Drury Lane.
1928
1930
How much?
The group had one pack and one troup only, and the cost of hiring the venue was 12.5p per night. Camps were on on a local farm in Hay lane.
1930
1937
Going back to school...
The weekly venue was moved and meetings were held at Lode Heath School – in a classroom.
1937
1950
Moving in...
In 1950, the Millpool site was purchased by the scouts, providing 18 acres of exploration, camping and community involvement
1950
1951
Lets get building

The following year, a large Nissen hut was purchased from the army, and was self-built (with lots of difficulty) on site. (Representative image only.)

1951
1968
Moving out

After operating from the Ex-army hut, a county building was constructed on site.

1968
1982
Extra storage

Having the millpool on site allowed the scouts to use the water for activities, so a new 'Boat Store' was constructed. 

1982
1983
Helping the community

The following year, the scouts also constructed an Ambulance garage to house a new vehicle for the Physically Handicapped Society which needed good storage.

1983
1984
A new arrival

The groups first Beavers Secton formed within the group allowing younger children to attend.

1984
The 1985 Prospectus

Thanks to the efforts of the fantastic and dedicated Group Scout Leader, Mr Terry Harrison, the scouts were able to meticulously trace the Group's journey, detailing its structure, the leaders of each section, and provide an intriguing snapshot of life within the Group and District. All this rich history was compiled into a bound document, proudly presented as a 1985 Prospectus.

The original Prospectus was a true labour of love, painstakingly produced on a typewriter and shared as with local commissioners as well as the Chief Scout. This was recently rediscovered in our archives and typed up as a digital booklet that can be downloaded and viewed here:

1st Solihull Scout Group Prospectus 1985

1990
New technology

The 1990's saw the group adapt to an ever changing world, with updated badge programmes, a stronger focus on leadership skills, and rise in technology meant there were opportunities to learn about the internet and basic computer safety in addition to outdoor skills and activities.

1990
2000
Community Engagement and Growth

In the 2000's, there was a stronger focus on community involvement and recruiting more adult volunteers. With their support, the group was able to grow and welcome more young people into Scouting.

2000
2010
A focus on Inclusivity

The Scout Association launched its "Skills for Life" strategy, which aimed to equip young people with essential life skills. 1st Solihull Scout Group was able to support these goals, expanding its program and focusing on developing young people's leadership, teamwork, and resilience.

2010
2020
Navigating Covid

The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 posed significant challenges, leading to the suspension of face-to-face Scouting activities across the UK. The Scouts responded with "The Great Indoors" initiative, providing online resources to keep young people engaged. This included virtual meetings and activities and inroducing safety measures when meeting.

2020
2020
Inviting in the squirrels!

1st Solihull were able to introduce a new Squirrels section to cater for 4–6-year-olds, further expanded the reach of Scouting, allowing new children and eager siblings of existing cubs and scouts to join in on the learning and fun.

2020

Extraordinary Experiences

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Our Core Values

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