Using this pack

The aim of this pack is to provide an introduction to new groups of Pioneers. They may be completely new groups or, more likely, small subgroups of young people moving up from Elfins.

Most of the activities in this pack are concerned with developing the individual’s confidence and trust in the group and with the development of the group as a safe, supportive, and democratic structure. Almost any Pioneer group, whatever its stage of development, should be strengthened by following these activities so even if your group has been in existence for some time you should still find them useful – particularly when integrating a new intake of ten-year-olds.

Background information
Drawn from the Pioneer Leader’s Handbook this section covers:

• Our aim for Pioneers
• Education for Social Change
• What is a Pioneer?
• Pioneer leaders
• The role of leaders

Introduction
This section looks at the aim and purpose of the activities in this pack – in particular at the importance of developing self-esteem and assertiveness amongst Pioneers to help them participate happily and confidently in the group.

The Activities:
There are seven activity resources. Some of these will stretch over several sessions – how you use them will depend very much on the nature of your group and how long you meet for. Most of the sessions do not require much prior preparation and the materials required will probably be already available in your store. Some of the activities include suggestions for extending them if you have time available and/or your group shows interest in the issue.

Confidence boosters – assertiveness for young people
This section includes six different activities for developing self-esteem and confidence, as well as learning to cope with anger and criticism.

1. Listening hear
   Activities designed to encourage ‘active’ listening. These techniques will complement the discuss ideas in the next section.
   
2. Discussion techniques
   Ideas for different ways of conducting discussions.
   
3. Group ground rules
   A session where the group sets it’s own rules on behaviour, participation etc.
   
4. We’re a Pioneer Group – get us out of here!
   Lots of problems solving, trust building and initiative activities which everyone will enjoy and which will really help the group to bond.
   
5. Programme planning
   Some ideas on how to involve the whole group in planning it’s programme.
   
6. Reviewing
   Techniques to use in debriefing after an activity – to reinforce learning and provide feedback to participants.

More Activities
This sheet suggests other activities that you could undertake to support and develop those included in this pack.

Links and Resources
This section includes web links and some references to other resources that will complement your work.