Leaders

Below are the team of leaders that volunteer to help the group with a little bit of information about them.

Keith Pickering

Group Scout Leader

Hi, I’m Keith, Group Scout Leader (GSL) at Portobello. I have been in scouting over 35 years as Scout (2 years), Senior Scout (2 years), Scout Leader (14 years) and Group Scout Leader for 20+ years and still counting. I started scouting back in 1962 as a Scout going onto being a Senior Scout. In 1966 left to pursue a career in the Merchant Navy, in 1985 I left the Merchant Navy and re-joined scouts as a Scout Leader. Over the years, as a Leader, I've seen a large number of young people come up through scouting, now I'm seeing the children of these ex-scouts joining the group. I've enjoyed and still enjoy my scouting, watching the young people growing up, gaining confidence, getting skills for skill for life, appreciating the environment and enjoying outdoor actvities in this country and abroad.

Charlotte Hodgson

Cub Scout Leader

Hello! I'm Charlotte and I've been part of Portobello Scouts for the past four years. As a Cub Leader, I’m passionate about inspiring curiosity, confidence, and teamwork in every young person I work with. By day, I’m the manager of Colliderfest - a science and creativity festival - which means I bring a love of all things science, crafts, and hands on learning straight into our Cub meetings. Whether we're pitching tents on camp, launching rockets, or getting stuck into messy craft projects, I’m always looking for fun, imaginative ways to help Cubs learn and grow.

Jo Pickering

Beaver Scout Leader

Hi, I'm Jo, Beaver leader at portobello and have been for 20 years. We welcome young people to our first section of scouting. It is extremly rewarding to experience the personal development, learning, and team building in preparation for the next section, cubs. The expression "eager beavers" is totally appropriate. Together we learn about ourselves, other people, the community we live in, and begin our outdoor adventure.

Beth Lee

Squirrel Scout Leader,Assistant Beaver Scout Leader

Hi! My name is Beth. I have been in scouting all my life, but only joined Porto as a scout. I am now an assistant leader with the beavers and the Squirrels Leader, I really enjoy my roles and helping the Beavers/Squirrels grow in confidence.

Chris Bell

Assistant Scout Leader

Hi I'm Chris, with Lee I help lead the Scout section. I started with Portobello as one of its first Beavers. After a short break following Scouts I returned to the group as a Leader. I am passionate about Scouting; it allows Young People to challenge themselves through adventure; I also have fun too!

Our Team