How Scouting Works

Scouting is the world’s largest provider of non-formal education for young people. It empowers young people to develop new skills and responsible independence through the Scout Method, which involves learning by doing, learning in small teams, learning in the outdoors and as part
of the local community.

Young people involved in Scouting learn at their own pace and progress through achievement areas that match their interests. As they proceed through the Sections of Scouting, young people become increasingly self-managing, with the support of their volunteer adult Leaders.

The Award Scheme

Scouts still earn badges for a wide variety of skills and some of these are pre-requisites for participating in more advanced activities like canyoning. The Award Scheme has changed significantly in recent years and is now a continuous progression through all sections, enabling youth to start at whatever skill level is appropriate and progress from there. Details can be found at https://www.scoutsnsw.com.au/info-for-parents/badges-and-awards. 

Award progress is managed using the Terrain online portal.

Adult Leadership

All of our adult leaders are volunteers. Some were Scouts when they were younger, but many weren't. Some have children who are Scouts; some had children who have since left Scouts; some just love doing Scout stuff and showing our young people how much fun it is.

All leaders are screened and must have a Working With Children Check. They complete a number of online training modules over their first year and then some in-person training. They can then complete further training to gain qualifications in more advanced levels of skills such as hiking, kayaking, abseiling and more. This training can also be used to gain nationally-recognised qualifications in Management, Outdoor Leadership and more.

Youth Leadership

The Scout Method develops leadership skills within the weekly programme, however there are also many opportunities to grow those skills beyond the group and to shape the future of Scouting at the District, Regional or National level. Check out the Youth Team home page for more information.

Adult Helpers

Adult Helpers may help out at meetings, weekends away or major Scouting events. They could have particular skills or interests and run an activity, help in the kitchen, maintain group equipment or just be there to ensure that we have enough adults to safely run a night. Adult Helpers are screened before being allowed to work with young people and must complete some basic online training modules. Adult Helpers don’t wear a Scout uniform.

Adult Helpers may also contribute through a position on our Committee - giving our leaders more time to lead by managing things like hall hires, finances, hall maintenance and events.

Term Programmes

Each section of our Scout Group develops its own term programme with significant input from the youth members. If you have any suggestions or ideas for an activity please feel free to discuss these with your Scout's leaders. 

More Information

Further information on Scouting can be found in the Welcome to Scouting booklet, the Scouts NSW Website or just ask a leader!