As part of the ASH Legacy project, we recently partnered with the University of Leicester to invite students to get involved with Scouting. Many were looking for opportunities to develop leadership skills, gain experience working with young people, and make a difference in the community.
Through attending the Freshers Fair and the Volunteers Fair, we successfully recruited several new student volunteers who have since joined local groups — bringing fresh energy and ideas into Beavers, Cubs, and Explorers.
What made this partnership especially exciting was the diversity of the students. Two came from overseas — one from Hong Kong and one from India — alongside others from across the UK. Each brought their own skills, cultures, and perspectives, enriching the experiences of the young people they supported.
And this is only the beginning. We’re now welcoming a new volunteer from Poland, who brings with him a background in boxing and martial arts. He has been warmly invited to join 102nd Leicester (Aylestone St Andrews), where he’s looking forward to sharing his skills with young people and showing how fitness, discipline, and fun can go hand in hand.
A big part of this success has been down to the groups who’ve opened their doors so warmly. 68th Leicester, 41st/58th Leicester, 33rd/65th Leicester, and 12th/74th Leicester have all played a huge role in welcoming students into their sections, showing how much can be achieved when communities work together.
One challenge we faced was around timing. Towards June, many students either return to their hometowns or, for those studying master’s degrees, travel back overseas. This meant we sometimes struggled with ongoing contact and communication. It’s been a valuable learning point and will help us shape how we work with university partners in the future — building in ways to keep in touch and offer flexible opportunities.
This is just one example of how the ASH Legacy is helping Scouting in Leicestershire to grow and thrive. By building bridges with local organisations and welcoming in fresh perspectives, we’re not only creating opportunities for young people but also strengthening Scouting with new skills, energy, and enthusiasm.
