What are Scouts?

On this Page you can find out all about Scouts:

How old are Scouts?       What do Scouts do?       What do they Wear?       What badges do they have?       How do I join?       What is the Scout Promise?       What is the Scout Law?

The Scout Association is in the process of implementing a new training programme for all its' sections. The information below is based on the new programme.

How old are Scouts?

Scouts are currently for boys and girls aged 10½ - 14 yrs.

What do Scouts do?

Scouts . . .
          make their own decisions
          plan their own activities
          challenge themselves
          work as a team
          learn about leadership and commitment
          undertake outdoor activities and challenges
          help others
          undertake advanced proficiency schemes
          become Explorer Scouts

The best way to find out what Scouts get up to is to find your nearest Scout Group and go and see for yourself! Complete our enquiry form or email joinus@avonscouts.org.uk and we will put you in contact with your nearest Scout Troop.

What do Scouts wear?

Scouts wear a full uniform. Scouting is a uniformed organisation and the uniform tells everyone that you are a Scout. For instance, people can tell which Group you belong to by looking at the colour of your neckerchief. The uniform consists of:
           Teal green long sleeved shirt
           Group Neckerchief
           Blue Activity Trousers/Skirt
Order Uniform On-Line

Activities

Scout activities are a combination of learning and having fun. They learn about themselves and how to look after themselves, they get to know people from their local community. They find out about life in other countries and explore through organised activities. They care by helping those around them.

The Scout programme and activities are based on six Programme Zones, these are:
          Scoutcraft & Adventure
          Global
          Community
          Fit for Life
          Exploring Beliefs & Attitudes
          Creative Expression

It is by participating in a Balanced Programme that the Scout experiences Scouting. The Balanced Programme provides opprtunities for growth and development in Six personal development areas. These are:

	Body
	Mind
	Faith & Beliefs
	Relationships
	Community
	Surroundings

What badges Scouts have?

Scouts can gain a wide range of badges and awards. Full details of the new badge scheme will be on-line soon, and the old badge scheme is also still available.

Every Scout wears a set of badges to identify themselves. They have a Membership Badge to show they are in Scouting, a District and County Badge along with a group Name Tape to show which Scout Group they come from.

Every now and then there are special events that allow you to wear a special badge for a short period of time. These normally stay on your uniform for around a year. When the time comes to remove the badge you can add it to your collection. Many Scouts keep a collection of badges and may even add them to a 'camp blanket' which makes a good talking piece when you wear it around the campfire.

How do I join?

Perhaps you know a friend who is a Scout ... ask them if you can come along to a Troop Night meeting and see what all the fuss is about. You can also contact your local Scout Group through our County Office; just complete the on-line enquiry form or email joinus@avonscouts.org.uk and we will contact you with the relevant details.

Most groups will be glad to let you stay for a night or two to see what it is like. If you enjoy Scouting (and many people do!) you can find out how to become a full member from the leaders at your chosen group.

Scout Promise

           On my honour, I promise
           that I will do my best
           to do my duty to God and to the Queen,
           to help other people
           and to keep the Scout Law.

Scout Law

           A Scout is to be trusted.
           A Scout is loyal.
           A Scout is friendly and considerate.
           A Scout belongs to the worldwide family of Scouts.
           A Scout has courage in all difficulties.
           A Scout makes good use of time and is careful of possessions and property.
           A Scout has self-respect and respect for others.