Programme Resources

We have developed some Programme Resources to help teams get ready for Moonlight. If you have not done Operation Moonlight before these might be useful, or if you have they are a good refresher still to have:

Session 1: Map Reading Skills

Objective: Teach Scouts to interpret maps and identify key features.
Materials:

  • Printed local area maps (one per small group)
  • Compass (optional, for extension activities)
  • Marker pens or sticky notes

Structure:

  1. Introduction (5 minutes)
    • Briefly explain what a map is and why it’s important.
    • Show an example map and highlight key features: compass rose, scale, grid lines, contour lines, symbols, and legend.
  2. Activity 1: Map Symbol Match-Up (10 minutes)
    • Provide Scouts with a map and a list of common symbols.
    • Challenge them to find as many symbols as possible on the map.
    • For each symbol, discuss what it represents.
  3. Activity 2: Contour Line Game (10 minutes)
    • Explain contour lines and how they show elevation.
    • Ask Scouts to identify a flat area, a steep slope, and a hill on their map.
  4. Wrap-Up (5 minutes)
    • Recap key points and emphasize how map reading is a skill that opens up the outdoors.
    • Optional: Hand out a small puzzle or riddle based on map symbols for them to take home.

Session 2: Navigation Skills

Objective: Teach Scouts basic navigation skills using a map and, optionally, a compass.
Materials:

  • Maps (same as Session 1)
  • Compasses (one per small group)
  • Markers to place in the activity area (trees, cones, or laminated cards)

Structure:

  1. Introduction (5 minutes)
    • Explain how navigation helps Scouts find their way and stay safe.
    • Show how to orient a map using visible landmarks or a compass.
  2. Activity 1: Orienteering Basics (10 minutes)
    • Scatter markers in an open area or Scout Hall, each numbered or marked with symbols.
    • Give Scouts a map showing the locations of the markers.
    • In small groups, they must navigate to as many markers as possible.
  3. Activity 2: Navigation Relay (10 minutes)
    • Each team takes turns navigating to a specific marker and returning.
    • Points are awarded for accuracy and teamwork.
  4. Wrap-Up (5 minutes)
    • Discuss how navigation applies to outdoor adventures.
    • Encourage them to try navigating at home, perhaps with a family walk.

Session 3: The Countryside Code

Objective: Introduce Scouts to the Countryside Code and responsible behaviour outdoors.
Materials:

  • Countryside Code posters or printouts
  • Small cards with scenarios written on them
  • A whiteboard or flipchart for group responses

Structure:

  1. Introduction (5 minutes)
    • Explain the Countryside Code (stay on paths, leave no trace, respect wildlife, etc.).
    • Discuss why it’s important to protect nature and local areas.
  2. Activity 1: Scenario Game (10 minutes)
    • Divide Scouts into small groups.
    • Give each group a scenario (e.g., “You see litter on a trail” or “You come across a broken fence”).
    • Ask them to discuss and present the best way to handle the situation.
  3. Activity 2: Code Quiz or True/False Game (10 minutes)
    • Read statements related to the Countryside Code (some true, some false).
    • Scouts move to one side of the room if they think it’s true, the other if false.
    • Use this to spark brief discussions about correct behaviour.
  4. Wrap-Up (5 minutes)
    • Highlight how following the Code makes the countryside enjoyable for everyone.
    • Optionally, provide a small handout of the Countryside Code or a fun checklist to use on their next outing.

These sessions are designed to be fun, interactive, and educational, giving Scouts practical skills and fostering their love for the outdoors.