Scottish News 2007 April - July
- Guides Name Top Ten Skills - 25/07/07
- Guiding Star Winners Named - 04/07/07
- Win Signed Bel's Boys Goodies - 28/06/07
- Guides Sing for Scotland at UK Final - 28/06/07
- Tears and Cheers at Tartan Gig - 13/06/07
- Lil' Chris Checkin' It Out At Guides Gig - 24/05/07
- Bel's Boys Come Out To Play At Girlguiding Gig - 15/05/07
- Blueprint for Change - 04/07
Latest Scottish News
Scottish News 2007 January - March
Self-Defence, Cyber-Safety and Saving-Cash
Guides Name Top Ten Skills for the Modern Girl
- Road and cyber safety top skills for the 7-to-10s
- Standing up to boys and rustling-up a healthy meal priorities for the 10-to-15s
- Saving-up and saving-lives: money management and CPR chosen by 16-to- 25s
Girls in Guiding have named the top skills that every modern girl should have under her belt. The new survey shows today's girls prioritise independence, knowing how to take care of themselves and getting their voices heard. Over a thousand young members of Girlguiding UK - from seven to 25 - took part.
16-to-25s: Named by 93%, money management comes first for debt-aware 16-25 year olds, followed by performing CPR** (85%), speaking confidently in public (84%) and practicing safe-sex (80%). A career-conscious two-thirds prioritise producing a first-rate CV and holding down a job, while at home, assembling flat-pack furniture was chosen by over half (55%).
10-to-15: Snubbing snacks and fast-food, four out of five 10-to-15 year olds made cooking a healthy meal their first choice (79%), followed by leading a team (74%),pitching a tent (71%) and knowing how to stand up to boys (68%). A tech-savvy two thirds chose getting to grips with Word and Excel. Meanwhile, a switched on 67%, opted for changing a light-bulb with a similar proportion keen to master some high kicking self defence moves (65%).
7-to-10s: Four out of five street-wise 7-to-10 year olds put knowing your green cross code first (79%), followed closely by safe cyber-surfing (75%). And they showed their caring side with three quarters choosing looking after a pet and knowing basic first aid (74%). Counting to ten in another language came next (60%), with more energetic accomplishments - riding a bike (59%) and swimming 100 meters (58%) - not far behind.
Scottish Chief Commissioner, Liz Pitcairn, said: "As Scotland's leading voluntary organisation for girls and young women we prioritise giving girls the skills, experiences and opportunities they need to reach for new aspirations and succeed in the modern world. But these goalposts don't standstill. Which is why we constantly ask our members what they think, so that we can continue to be truly relevant to tomorrow's young women."
Girlguiding Scotland offers a huge range of exciting activities - badges and beyond - to help girls learn new skills. Modern badges include: Communicator, Computer, Cyclist, Healthy Lifestyles, Independent Living, Outdoor Pursuits, Party Planner, Personal Safety, Road Safety and World Traveller.
For more information contact Girlguiding Scotland on 0131 226 4511 or use our contact page .
The Top-Tens
7-10s
- Know your Green Cross Code
- Surf the web safely
- Care for a pet
- Clean a cut or graze
- Count to ten in a foreign language
- Ride a bike
- Swim 100 metres
- Name your favourite book
- Name the Prime Minister
- Name 10 countries in Europe
10-15s
- Cook a healthy meal
- Lead a team
- Pitch a tent
- Stand up to boys
- Master Microsoft Word
- Change a light bulb
- Know self-defence
- Use a compass
- Say hello in three languages
- Take an expert photo
16-25s
- Manage your money
- Perform CPR
- Speak confidently in public
- Practise safe-sex
- Produce a top CV
- Keep down your carbon footprint
- Hold down a job
- Assemble flat-pack furniture
- Cook a roast dinner
- Plan a holiday with mates
25th July 2007 
GUIDING STAR WINNERS NAMED
The National finals of Guiding Star were held on Saturday 30th June 2007. Isabella Stocchetti from LaSER won the ten to sixteen category while in the sixteen to twenty-five category South West's Samantha Laurilla came first. Congratulations to the winners and well done to everyone who took part especially our Scottish Guiding Stars: Lois Niblo, Sarah Jane Andrew and rock group, Me, Myself and My Broken Legs!
Photos of the event can be seen at the Girlguiding national website. Click here.
Isabella and Samantha will now go on to perform live at the MEN Arena for the BIG GIG 2007.
Meanwhile Lois, Sarah Jane and Me, Myself and My Broken Legs are preparing to perform at Girlguiding Scotland's Annual Event. Lois has also been invited to sing at the prestigious opening of the Scout Jamboree.
Win Signed Bel's Boys Goodies!
4th July 2007
WIN SIGNED BEL'S BOYS GOODIES
CONTEST NOW CLOSED
To celebrate the UK final of the Guiding Star on Saturday, 30th June, we have two bags of signed Bel's Boys goodies to give away. The packs include pencils, stickers, badges and a CD signed specially by Eoin, Graham and Luke. To be in with a chance of winning, answer the following question:
How old is Bel who manages the band in the CITV programme?
(Clue - check out their website)
Send your answer with your name, age and address to:
with 'Bel's Boys Contest' in the subject line.
Closing date: 28th July - NOW CLOSED
To find out more about the UK Final click here.
To visit the official Bel's Boys site click here and sign up for their fab free downloads.
To watch videos of the Tartan Gig click here.
28th June 2007
GUIDES SING FOR SCOTLAND AT UK FINAL
Five young women will be singing for Scotland on Saturday, 30th June, after beating off nearly 3,000 competitors from across the UK.
Lois Niblo, Sarah Jane Andrew and rock group, Me, Myself and My Broken Legs, will be singing live at the National Final of the Guiding Star competition at Sheffield City Hall. Each of the three Scottish acts will be hoping to be crowned UK winner and given the chance to perform live at Girlguiding UK's BIG GIG pop concert alongside some of the biggest names in the pop industry, at the MEN Arena in Manchester in October 2007.
The young Scots are fresh from their success at the Tartan Gig in Glasgow on 9th June. In front of a panel of expert judges, including Fame Academy's Sinead Quinn, they wowed the audience. They also impressed the famous pop acts that shared the stage including Michelle McManus, Lil' Chris, Bel's Boys and Liberty X in their last Scottish gig.
The Guiding Star competition was launched by Girlguiding to give its members a chance to follow their dream of being the next big name in pop. The overall winners will then be given the opportunity to learn the tricks of the music industry, including a tailor-made tuition package with industry professionals. They'll also learn how to fine-tune their performance for maximum impact, before joining their pop heroes on the MEN Stage in October.
The Scottish girls will be hoping their earlier experience at the Tartan Gig will help them cope with the crowds and the famous names.
Speaking about the Scottish acts, after the Tartan Gig, Michelle McManus, said: "I think there is more than one future star here."
Sinead Quinn agreed: "Some of the girls would literally take your breath away. The standard in Glasgow was so high, I wouldn't be surprised if one of them makes it through to the final."
Sinead specially selected one wildcard act to attend the final in Sheffield. Choosing from all the girls who performed at regional heats across the UK, she opted for Louisa Scott, Nadine Cowan and Anna Oxley. The Scottish girls perform as 'Me, Myself and My Broken Legs'. The girls (one of whom learnt to play bass especially for the concert) were amazed their high energy performance of 'Pirates' by Bullets and Octane secured them a place in the final.
They said:
"It's a once in a lifetime opportunity. It shows that Guiding isn't about sitting round a campfire. It's a lot more modern and we're here to prove that."
The UK final will produce two winners, one for girls aged ten-16, and another for girls aged 16-25. The competitors will be judged by Sinead Quinn; Sean Quinn, agent to the stars and promoter of the BIG GIG; and Ray Monk, an established musician and musical director of popular TV programmes Pop Idol and Soapstar Superstar. CBBC presenter Anne Foy will host the event, and Bel's Boys, the Northern Irish band and stars of their own TV show on CITV, will also perform.
Speaking exclusively to Girlguiding Scotland, Liberty X's Kelli Young said: "The Guiding Star contest is a great idea. You have to have an outlet for your talents and girls sitting in the audience will realise they can do it too."
Busloads of supporters will be braving the flooding to make the journey to Sheffield and cheer on the Scottish acts.
28th June 2007
Tears and Cheers at Tartan Gig
There were tears and cheers at Girlguiding Scotland's Tartan Gig in the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall on Saturday evening. In their last Scottish concert, an emotional Liberty X played their hits to thousands of girls and young women. Their amazing set was the pinnacle of an event that included brilliant performances from Sinead Quinn, Bel's Boys, Lil' Chris, and a host of talented girls and young women from across Scotland.
The event opened with the final of a Scottish-wide talent contest for members of Girlguiding, called the Guiding Star. After competing in regional heats, eleven acts in two age groups (under 16 and under 26), performed in front of a panel of expert judges including Fame Academy favourite, Sinead Quinn.
The standard was extremely high and performances ranged from an emotional rendition of Celine Dion's 'My Heart Will Go On' to a high-energy interpretation of 'Pirates' by Bullets and Octane. The girls and young women were competing to represent Scotland in the UK final of the Guiding Star contest in Sheffield on 30th June . The winners of the UK final will go on to perform at the Big Gig in the MEN Arena, Manchester in October.
Sinead, who had acted as judge at Guiding Star heats across England and Ireland before travelling to Scotland, admitted: "In Glasgow, the standard was so high, I won't be surprised if one of them makes it through to the final stage. Well done to them all!"
Fellow judge, Chris Bishop, added: "For me the final decision was down to performance. Everyone went on the stage to entertain."
Once the judges had made their decision, it was announced by Michelle McManus and Liz Pitcairn, Scottish Chief Commissioner of Girlguiding Scotland.
Lois Niblo from Roxburghshire was crowned under 16 winner for her rendition of 'I will always love you'. Then Sara Jane Andrew from Montrose, who performed Queen classic, 'No-one But You (Only The Good Die Young)', was named winner of the under 26 age group.
Lil' Chris, Bel's Boys and Liberty X were amazed at the talent on display and full of praise for the Guiding Star contest.
Liberty X's Kelli Young said: "Now we've only got five or six gigs left, we're getting more emotional. When we started out, we played lots of gigs in Scotland. The Scottish crowds are always amazing."
Band mate and former Brownie Sixer, Jessica Taylor, commented: "There wasn't anything like this when we were Brownies. I would have loved to come along to this type of event." Agreeing it was a poignant evening for them, she added: "I'm really looking forward to performing 'Song for Lovers' tonight. It's my favourite just now. It's very moving and because this will be one of our last concerts that makes it even more special."
Michelle Scott-Lee remarked: "I loved being a Brownie. The social aspect was great and it definitely helped to bring me out of my shell!
It's been a really good night. Girlguiding Scotland is a great organisation. It definitely helps girls develop their skills."
Bel's Boys and Lil' Chris enjoyed the concert too and were impressed by the voices of the girls competing.
Michelle McManus, who was determined to be presenter for the evening in spite of her commitment to run the Race for Life the next day, admitted:
"The crowd were fantastic!"
The Guiding Star contestants and the girls in the audience concluded it had been an amazing night. An added treat was when Bel's Boys and Liberty X stayed behind to sign autographs and pose for photos.
After the excitement of the gig, there was another surprise in store. On Sunday evening, under 26-year-olds contestants, Me, Myself and My Broken Legs, who had performed 'Pirates' by Bullets and Octane, received a call from Sinead Quinn. She revealed that after achieving success as the wild card in Fame Academy and as the only judge to attend all the finals across the country, she was allowed to choose an additional act to go through. The Scottish girls were the chosen ones! Louisa Scott, Nadine Cowan and Anna Oxley will join the other Scottish winners at the UK final in Sheffield at the end of the month.
13th June 2007
Lil' Chris Checkin' It Out At Guides Gig
Fresh from playing sell out crowds supporting McFly, Lil' Chris is the latest big name to sign up for Girlguiding Scotland's Tartan Gig at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall on Saturday, 9th June. He joins a line-up that already includes Bel's Boys and Sinead Quinn. The event, the first pop concert, ever hosted by the organisation, has also confirmed Michelle McManus as presenter.
Lil' Chris, instantly recognisable as the star of Gene Simmons' Rock School, looks set to be a massive hit with the thousands of Girlguiding Scotland members attending the concert. His mix of rock and pop has attracted host of fans, secured his supporting slot with McFly and led to his catchy hit, 'Checkin' It Out', being used in Asda adverts.
Describing his music, he said: "It's not hardcore rock - but not full-on pop either. It's got an 80's new wave sort of sound but I'm not ashamed to be pop. All anyone wants is for people to hear their music."
The evening will open with the final of a Scottish-wide talent contest for members of Girlguiding, called the Guiding Star. After competing in regional heats, eleven acts aged from 11 to 25, will take to the stage in front of a panel of celebrity judges including Fame Academy favourite, Sinead Quinn.
The judges will face a tough decision as the performers have received advice on dancing, singing, make up and performing from a range of professionals. Bel's Boys will be opening the second half with a storming set including their latest releases. Then Lil' Chris will take to the stage to play his hits. Last year, he played at Girlguiding UK's Big Gig in England so he will know what to expect when faced with an audience of excited Girl Guides.
The Tartan Gig will close with a performance from a Brit Award winning act, still to be announced.
24th May 2007
Bel's Boys Come Out To Play At Girlguiding Gig
Latest pop/rock sensation, Bel's Boys are joining Scotland 's own Michelle McManus and Fame Academy 's Sinead Quinn at Girlguiding Scotland 's Tartan Gig in Glasgow Royal Concert Hall on Saturday, 9 th June.
Fresh from their successful CITV programme, and the launch of their debut album, the boys from Belfast are set to wow over 2000 Girlguides from across Scotland in the first pop concert ever hosted by the organisation.
The night will start with the Scottish final of the Guiding Star - a talent contest that has seen girls across the country competing to be crowned their local Guiding Star.
The winners of the regional heats, eleven acts aged from 11 to 25, will take to the stage in front of a panel of celebrity judges including Fame Academy favourite, Sinead Quinn.
Sinead said: "I'm really looking forward to helping to judge the Scottish final of the Guiding Star competition and to performing at the Tartan Gig in the second half. As a Fame Academy finalist, I know how excited the girls will be. It's a great opportunity for them to perform in front of a panel of celebrity judges and I'm privileged to be able to take part."
The judges will face a tough decision as the performers have received advice on dancing, singing, make up and performing from a range of professionals.
Michelle McManus, presenter for the evening, said: "Having found fame through Pop Idol, I couldn't wait to get involved in Girlguiding Scotland 's Tartan Gig and Guiding Star competition. It's a great introduction to the music business for the girls and young women who are taking part. Plus the audience is in for a real treat with great performances from the regional Guiding Star winners and then a fantastic concert from famous names."
Bel's Boys will be opening the second half with a storming set including their latest releases. Made up of 21 year-old Graham McKee (lead vocals/bass guitar), 19 year-old Luke O'Reilly (lead guitar/vocals) and 19 year-old Eoin Logan (drums/vocals).
Bel's Boys said: "We can't wait to come to Glasgow for Girguiding Scotland 's Tartan Gig. It'll be class craic! It'll be brilliant to play tracks from our new album for our Guiding fans."
Bel's Boys will be followed by two other top pop acts (soon to be revealed) including a Brit Awards winner.
Girlguiding Scotland is the leading voluntary organisation for women and young girls in Scotland with 70,000 members from the Borders to the Shetland Isles. Half of all women in the UK have been members of the organisation at some point in their life.
Michelle added: "My sisters were in the Brownies and I know the skills they learned have definitely helped them through life. It's going to be a great gig and I was determined not to miss it even though I'm taking part in the Race for Life the next day. It's going to be a busy weekend but it will be great fun too!"
15th May 2007
Blueprint for Change
Blueprint, Girlguiding Scotland's newsletter, has followed the lead of the glossy magazines with a new handbag-sized edition! The fresh A5 format (prompted more by postal considerations than glossy trends) is crammed full of photos, features and news, as well as a handy events calendar.
The quarterly newsletter is issued to almost 10,000 adult members across the country, keeping them informed of latest developments and a range of exciting activities. It is also distributed to a wide range of Ambassadors including politicians, Provosts and celebrities.
The new design replaces a more traditional A4 text-led format, whilst maintaining all the favourite features identified in a reader survey. The revamp aims to appeal to the organisation's wide support base from adult leaders in the cities to volunteers in rural communities, from long-standing members to new recruits. It has met with a warm reception.
One member said:"Blueprint is fantastic! It looks extremely professional and is very colourful."
Another added:
"I especially like the way each of the sections are clearly defined and the layout of the feature articles."
Commuters have also welcomed the smaller size which makes it easier to read on the bus or the train.
To download April's Blueprint click here (opens in new window).
The next edition will be issued in September.
April 2007