Gain Skills For Life

Parents: Frequently Asked Questions

When can my child join Scouting?

• Squirrels is the starting point for young children to join Scouting, from age 4.
• Beavers typically start from age 6, though the exact starting age may vary depending on the Scout Group's policies and available space.
• Cubs begins at around the age of 8.
• Scouts is for children aged 10½ to 14 years.
• Explorers is for young people aged 14 to 18. 
• Young Leader Scheme is for young people aged 14 up to 18, who are interested in helping out with the younger sections in Scouting. Young Leaders receive training and support and volunteer alongside the adult volunteer leadership team in a local group to contribute to Scouting activities while developing their own leadership skills and having fun.
• It is possible to be both an Explorer and a Young Leader at the same time, or to get involved with one, and not the other.

How much does membership cost?

• The cost of membership is set by the locally, and can vary between different Groups. Some Scout Groups may charge weekly, monthly, or termly fees, and some use direct debit systems.
• If the cost is a concern, please speak to the volunteer leadership team of the group you would like to join — assistance may be available to help with fees  in confidence.

How will my child benefit from joining Scouts?

• Parents often tell us that their children benefit greatly from Scouting by gaining confidence, social skills, and independence.
• Scouting also provides unique opportunities for personal development, teamwork, and leadership. Your child will make lasting friendships and have access to fun, exciting, and memorable experiences that will help them grow and learn.

Why is there a waiting list for my local Scout Group?

• At present, there are more than 60,000 young people waiting to join Scouting due to a shortage of volunteers.
• If your local Group has a waiting list, consider becoming a volunteer! Your time and skills, however big or small, can make a significant difference and help more young people experience the adventure and benefits of Scouting.

Young People

Try over 200 activities

From archery and acting to street sports and zorbing, being a Scout gives you the chance to get stuck into loads of activities you wouldn’t normally get to do.

Make new friends

Our last Chief Scout, Bear Grylls, said that life is about grabbing opportunities! We agree! Above everything else, Scouting is all about enjoying yourself, whatever you're doing – and there'll always be plenty to do!

Get outdoors

As a Scout, you get to explore the big outdoors and travel to new places and try new things. Sounds better than being stuck in the house with nothing to do, right?

Learn exciting things

Not many people know about the stars at night, how to sail a dinghy or make a sausage stew on a campfire, but you soon will! Scouting helps you learn lots of new and amazing skills – and you get to earn badges and rewards along the way.