Scouting is a worldwide youth development Movement, currently active in 216 countries and territories with a global membership of over 31 million.
It was started in 1907 by Robert Baden-Powell to give boys the opportunity to try activities which they would not otherwise have the chance to do, with the aim of helping them expand their horizons.
In 1976 the Movement started accepting girls as well, and today Scouting has evolved and changed considerably to meet the changes in society and the world in general.
SCOUTING IN THE 21ST CENTURY
Scouting provides challenge and adventure for young people aged between 6 and 25, for both genders. It is a relevant and modern pursuit for those who enjoy adventure and want to meet new friends while developing new skills.
Scouting is all about fun with a purpose - helping members to fulfil their potential as individuals and as active members of society.
WHAT DO SCOUTS DO?
Scouts learn by doing, thinking for themselves, working in teams and taking responsibility. This includes everyday adventure at weekly or less regular meetings, as well as exciting outdoor activities or trips away.
Scouting offers a huge range of activities and experiences to suit all ages, abilities and interests. This is guided by a balanced Programme which is a continuous progression of training, activities, badges and awards for young people from 6 to 25.
Some of the activities that Scouting includes are:
- Badge work - we award badges to recognise personal achievement and progression, with lots of subjects to choose from including traditional badges such as Camp Cook to modern ones like Global Conservation or Public Relations.
- Awards and challenges - young people can work towards a range of these to reward participation, commitment and achievement. Some are individual and others for group efforts.
- Outdoors - camping and outdoor activities are a very important part of Scouting for all our members. This includes anything from a Beaver experiencing their first ever night away from home at a sleepover, to an Network Scout going on an expedition to Mount Everest.
- International experiences - lots of young people will have their first taste of foreign travel or meet people from other countries with the Scouts. There are opportunities to travel abroad to international camps and events, and many Scout Groups also go abroad to do voluntary work in developing countries.
- Service to the community - Scouts involved in local communities in many ways, from cleaning up the local beach to helping out at big festivals and events.
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