The Rainbows started in the UK in 1987 as a branch of the Guide Association for girls aged five to seven years old. Girlguiding is a charitable organisation and helpers at the weekly meetings are all volunteers. Christina Brown, 16, is a Young Leader at one local unit, the 1st Chislehurst Rainbows, who meet every Monday. I had the chance to ask her some questions about the role she plays within the group…

Young Reporter: How did you become a Young Leader?

CB: I was due to leave Guides when I was asked if I would like to become a Young Leader. I could either do it for fun or work towards a qualification.

Young Reporter: What sort of things do you do with the Rainbows?

CB: I help organise games at the beginning of sessions if the Leader is doing any admin work, and occasionally I’ll plan sessions.

Young Reporter: Why would you recommend becoming a Young Leader?

CB: It looks quite good on your CV and you gain quite a lot of skills like leadership and working with young children – it’s also quite fun and gives you some time away from schoolwork!

Young Reporter: What do you think the Rainbows gain from having you help out?

CB: I’m younger than the other leaders so they might feel more comfortable around me, I remember being that age. It’s easier to get things done because I’m an extra helper.

Young Reporter: Were you a Rainbow yourself? If so, what can you remember about being one?

CB: Yes, I was. I remember my pack did a lot of arts and crafts.

Young Reporter: What would you say is the most enjoyable aspect of helping out?

CB: I like working with children and I think it helped with my confidence because I’m comfortable around the Rainbows.

Young Reporter: Obviously you’ve got a lot of exams coming up – if someone was interested in becoming a leader but was worried it would take up too much time, what would you say?

CB: It doesn’t take much time away from revision or homework – it just offers a break really!

Young Reporter: Finally, do you plan to become an adult leader within Girlguiding?

CB: I haven’t really thought about that! Maybe, but it depends on whether I have time!

Young Reporter: Thank you for the interview Christina!

Rachel Claxton, Chislehurst and Sidcup Grammar School