Scouts

The Scout Section is for young people aged between 10 ½ and 14 years of age.

Scouts take part in a Balanced Programme that helps them to find out about the world in which they live, encourages them to know their own abilities and the importance of keeping fit and helps develop their creative talents.

It also provides opportunities to explore their own values and personal attitudes Scouts are encouraged to take part in a wide range of activities as part of their programme. The emphasis is on taking part and there are a number of badges and awards Scouts can work towards to recognise their commitment and achievements.

Being outdoors is important in the Scout Section and half the Programme is given over to taking part in traditional Scouting skills such as camping, survival and cooking as well as a wide range of adventurous activities, which can include anything from abseiling to yachting.

The chance to take part in international travel is also important for Scouts and many travel abroad during their time in the Section.

In Scotland, Scouts can work towards achieving the Zodiac Award. This award provides increased opportunities for Scouts to enjoy Nights Away experiences and provides some extra fun challenges into the Scout Section Programme, such as camping above 2000 feet or at 0 degrees or below.

There are three levels of Zodiac Award in the Scout Section - Bronze, Silver and Gold, as well as four annual Scottish Headquarters Commissioner Challenges which Scouts can take part in. Zodiac badges are available from Scottish Headquarters, priced at £1.20 each.

Young people may stay in the Scout Section until the age of 14 ½ at the latest before moving on to Explorer Scouts.

More information:

• To contact the Scottish Headquarters Commissioner (Scouts), email scoutsection@scouts-scotland.org.uk.
• For more detailed information on the Scouts Programme, check out the Scouts pages on scouts.org.uk