Info For Parents
Scouting's values are as relevant today as they have always been — helping children and young people grow to their full potential.
Scouting develops and empowers youth by gaining life skills and a value system, based on the Australian Scout Promise & Law, building a better world and playing a constructive role in society. Through fun, friendship and adventure, we provide children and young people the opportunity to:
- Make new friends
- Try new things
- Learn at their own pace
- Challenge themselves
- Discover adventure.
Research shows that Scouts demonstrate higher levels of resilience, a greater sense of belonging and more emotional intelligence than their peers. As a consequence, Scouts have a reputation for displaying the personal maturity, confidence and initiative that put them in good stead for a bright future.
So, what can Scouts expect to gain from the Scouts program?
A Unique Program
Scouting operates its weekly programs during school terms, with additional activities held on weekends and some school holidays. Our program is like nothing else, offering a huge range of activities and experiences for ages ranging from 5 to 25 – and new members can join at any stage of Scouting!
Fun and Adventure
From stories, games and craft to camping, bush adventures and water activities, Scouting offers activities to suit every interest and age group.
Growth and Development
Scouts grow through adventure and new challenges. They make friends, build confidence and explore their abilities and interests. But most of all, Scouts have fun!
Diversity and Inclusion
Scouts NSW values diversity and we warmly welcome members and volunteers from all backgrounds, and those with physical or intellectual disabilities.
Connecting with the Community
While various activities and youth groups teach basic skills and promote teamwork, we go beyond that by encouraging our young people to achieve a deeper appreciation for service to others in their community.
Scouting is typically known for its camping, pioneering and bushcraft. Yes, they form part of our traditional Scouting skills, but there is more to Scouting than that.
We question and listen and form wide open minds. We start small and think big. We plan. Then do. Then review. We get back up and try again. We think about what’s next. We dare to do new things. We jump in, get muddy, give back, get set and go.
Today’s Scouts live and breathe adventure. They lead, assist and participate in an extraordinary variety of outdoor activities, from overnight hikes and bushwalks, through to more extreme challenges such as abseiling, rafting, canoeing, canyoning, snow activities, rock climbing, water skiing, mountain biking, caving, abseiling, normal sailing and even flying a plane!
Our Scouts also have opportunities to get involved in performing arts, leadership development, community service, amateur radio operation, environmental projects, interacting with different faiths and cultures, large-scale events such as Cuborees, Jamborees, international events, and service projects in developing countries.
Regardless of who you are and what your idea of adventure is, there’s an adventure waiting for you at Scouts. And we’ll help you find it.
Our dynamic, challenging and adventurous program gives our youth members the tools to develop into strong, resilient adults and valuable members of their local, national and international communities.
They develop a sense of optimism and strong values as well as the leadership and teamwork skills that are more valuable today than ever before.
For children and young people, Scouting is about fun and adventure, new experiences and making friends. And that’s the magic of Scouting – it helps young people to flourish, to grow in all facets of development and become better people and citizens in their communities. Here are some of the skills our children and young people learn and develop as they progress through their Scouting journey.
- Leadership – Young people have the opportunity to guide a group of people to achieve a common goal, engendering a can-do attitude and positivity in others.
- Motivation and Discipline – Attending regular meetings, completing training and earning badges, proactively organising an event or an activity all demonstrate our young people are conscientious.
- Problem-solving – All Scouts learn to be creative and resourceful, using practical experiences to solve problems in a small team with diverse skills.
- Communication skills – Scouts often have strong interpersonal abilities to be able to engage with people from different ages, backgrounds and perspectives. Being able to communicate effectively in person could be a differentiator from being able to communicate digitally.
- Teamwork – Scouting is all about teamwork and knowing when to take the lead, encouraging everyone to participate and having fun.
- Time management – After a major event like a Jamboree or Venture, most young people have a better appreciation for managing their energy levels, personal resilience and prioritising what’s important.
- Crisis management – All Scouting members learn first aid, but it’s the practical experiences that help them learn how to respond quickly and sensibly in adversity.
- Maturity – With all the adventurous activities on offer, Scouts have the chance to test their abilities, expand their horizons and reflect on their personal growth and development.
Scouting is a passport to experience the world in a way that most travellers can’t enjoy. Scouts NSW is part of a global Movement which unites 47 million people in 172 countries. We have a range of opportunities available for young people who want to travel overseas, gain a broader perspective on Scouting and life or get in touch with their international counterparts.
Hundreds of Scouts travel to international Scouting events each year. An international Scouting event is truly a unique experience – think of it as our version of the Olympics! You get to meet Scouts from around the world, take part in Scouting activities and visit magnificent places others could only dream of. If travel isn’t an option just yet, you can find yourself a pen pal or host an international student. If you are keen for adventure, there are a few ways to go about it including Group friendship or service trips. You can also have an international experience without leaving the Scout Hall by learning about different cultures and backgrounds!
