Pioneering

Pioneering is a skill that develops teamwork and leadership. It is particularly useful within the leadership context where only small numbers are available.

Note that it is important that the instructor is constantly checking for safe practice and encouraging those taking part to do the same - the activity lends itself to an understanding of strengths of rope and other materials, and strength data should be included as part of the training.

With Pioneering from Grade 2 onwards it is important to move most the activity out of doors. If used during the more relaxed time of the summer (even at camp) there is an opportunity to tackle larger projects that require additional time for their completion as well as the subsequent dismantling and packing away of the materials used.

It is anticipated that the practical exercises that follow will be done by the candidate as one of a group. In assessment individual contributions to the group will need to be identified.

Grade 1.
Awarded to boys who have regularly attended a course of instruction and are subsequently able to carry out the following:
1.	Make a Reef Knot, Clove Hitch and Timber Hitch.
2.	Make a diagonal and a square lashing
3.	Construct a pair of stilts and use them.
4.	Construct an A-frame and demonstrate its strength.
5.	Show a knowledge of rope and its care.

Grade 2.
Awarded to members who have regularly attended a course of instruction and are subsequently able to carry out the following:
1.	The requirements of Grade 1 above.
2.	Make a figure of eight lashing
3.	Build a tripod.
4.	Build a tower at least 10ft high.
5.	Make a long and short splice.
6.	Whip the ends of a rope.
7.	Know the strengths of rope with and without included knots.

Grade 3.
Awarded to members who hold the Grade 2 Credit and subsequently attend regularly a course of instruction and can demonstrate the above skills and in addition:
1.	Understand how to make and use holdfasts and anchorages.
2.	The use of blocks and pulleys.
3.	Be able to build a log bridge (low level).
4.	Be able to build a low level crane.
5.	Be able to make an eye splice.

Note that throughout the constructional exercises everyone will be working as part of a team - even though at Grade 1 level the team may only be two strong.

The constructional sessions in Grade 3 can usefully be an hour long see note above about summer evenings.

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