The Harry Potter FTE of 2019 was my first experience with a training of this caliber, and I will admit, I registered because of the theme! I wasn’t sure what to expect: I was nervous about what the kids would do and where they would be, and I was apprehensive, as I was a relatively new and unseasoned Scouter, with little to share, but I had an amazing time!
Everyone was very welcoming, the sessions were small enough that I was not socially overwhelmed, and there was such a sense of camaraderie and openness with the idea sharing, the story sharing, and the sharing of successes and flops, that I felt quite comfortable and not only learned all sorts of tips and tricks, and met some amazing Scouters, but I left camp feeling revitalized and excited for the fall!
The most amazing part, however, was the experience my kids had: not only did they participate in awesome scouting activities, but they experienced a level of freedom they did not have at home: I felt comfortable letting them head off to the canteen, meet us at the movie, drop their friends off at their campsite and meet us back at ours, and I didn’t worry (much!) as they were in a community of ever-watchful Scouters! And the stories they told of their adventures - we weren’t even off-site at the end of the week, and they were already talking about NEXT FTE!
(and I maybe was, too!)
I cannot recommend FTE enough, and if you have the time, I suggest you come experience it for yourself!