GUIDES: Modern Guiding Principles

In its quest for a modern image, Girlguiding's revamp also included a snappy new slogan, "Surprise yourself", and an update of its activities.

Girls still wear uniforms - albeit casual mix-and-match ensembles - but the modern-day Guides emphasise their diversity. The organisation is multi-faith with no imposed religious aspect, although Guides can still go to church parade, and the Guide Promise still includes "loving your God" as one of its tenets, along with serving your country and keeping the Guide Law.

Susan Kay-Williams, Girlguiding UK deputy chief executive, says: "We're about active fun and taking part in the real world: helping girls fulfil their potential. Guides isn't like a swimming or gym club: it gives girls more variety. In the increasingly pressurised world of school, it's a safety valve - it helps girls let off steam."