Our Leaders

Meet the Team Behind the Adventure

Behind every great Scout group is a team of dedicated volunteers who make it all happen.

At 1st Parkstone, our leadership team works together to create a safe, welcoming and inspiring environment where young people can grow in confidence, learn new skills and have unforgettable experiences.

We’re a friendly and supportive group, and we’re always happy to welcome new faces – so if you’re thinking about getting involved, you’ll be in great company.

Meet our Volunteers

Group Lead Volunteer

Steffan Griffiths | Trustee

Hi, I’m Steffan! I’ve been scouting here at 1st Parkstone since 2014

I started in 2014 as Group Chairman before taking over as Group Lead Volunteer in 2019. I have a background in business management and recruitment giving him the skills to effectively lead and develop our team of volunteers.

Outside of Scouting, I am a passionate rugby fan.

Section Leads

Joanna James | Squirrels, Beavers & Trustee

Started 2019

Dave Trent | Cubs & Trustee

“Hi, I’m Dave! I’ve been scouting here at 1st Parkstone since 1992.

I joined as a Beaver Scout and started my adult volunteering when I turned 18 back in 2004 after two years as an Explorer Scout young leader. After starting in the Scout section, I then spent several years as Group Scout Leader (now Group Lead Volunteer) before becoming the Cub team leader in 2019 as I settled into my own family life.

The best part of being a volunteer is watching the young people grow and develop through the exciting programme we deliver. It’s great to be able to give them the opportunities I had as a Beaver, Cub and Scout and I’m very fortunate to be part of a great team at 1st Parkstone who all share the same passion. My favourite activity has to be the camps – I love waking up early and listening to the whistle of the kettle for the first brew of the day!”

Amanda Wise-Hall | Scouts & Trustee

Hi, I’m Mandy! I‘ve been scouting since 2018.

Like many leaders, I first stepped into Scouting because of my child. Very quickly, I realised how much my life experience could make a difference, so starting as an occasional helper felt natural.From there, the journey unfolded and what a journey it’s been! Watching young people grow in confidence, learn new skills, and let their personalities shine is truly inspiring.

Honestly, becoming a leader is the best decision I’ve ever made. You soon discover not only how much you can give, but also how much you gain in return. Here’s something to remember: even as a leader, you’re still a Scout – so have fun!

Team Members

Claire Trent | Squirrels

Started 2023 (Scouting since 2008)

Chloe Notton | Squirrels

Started 2024

Tom Griffiths | Beavers / Scouts

Started 2020

Tracy O’Connor | Beavers

Started 2003

Abi Hanmore | Beavers

Started 2023

Lindsay Innes | Cubs

Started 2008 (Scouting since 1996)

Rhian Lister | Cubs

Hi, I’m Rhian!. I’ve been actively scouting for 23 years

I joined Scouting to get my daughter a place and am still active 23 years later! I moved from Buckinghamshire to Dorset in 2024 and joined 1st Parkstone immediately. It is a great group – wonderful leaders and fantastic young people.

Working with the cubs is satisfying and very rewarding. Seeing their faces light up when they experience something new, or achieve something that has been challenging them, is all the reward I need to keep me volunteering.