The Scout Section is for young people, usually aged between 10½ and 14 years. A young person can come in to the Troop at 10 and may stay until they are 15 years old, which is the time for moving on to Explorers. The Scout Troop is the third and final Section in the Scout Group.
Scouts are encouraged to take part in a wide range of activities as part of their programme. “Participation” rather than meeting set standards is the key approach and for the Scout who wants to be recognised for his or her achievements there are a number of Challenges Awards and Activity Badges. 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
Being outdoors is important and half the Programme is given over to taking part in both the traditional Scouting skills, such as camping, survival and cooking as well as the wide range of adventurous activities, anything from abseiling to yachting.
The international aspect gives Scouting a special appeal and many Scouts now travel abroad during their time in the Section. In 2002/3 25,000 Scouts from around the World attended the World Jamboree in Thailand. Even more are expected to attend the World Jamboree in The United Kingdom in 2007.But before this we have the European Jamboree in 2005, Eurojam. This will be for Scouts and Explorer Scouts between the ages of 11 and 18 and will provide a fantastic opportunity for young people, from different parts of Europe, to share a unique experience.
Scouting is about being with friends, as part of a team, participating fully in the adventure and opportunities of life.
Generally, children can join Scouts when they are 10 and a half, and move on to Explorers when 14.