An Introduction to Scouting

The Scout Association is the UK’s largest youth organisation, we believe in preparing young people with skills for life. We encourage our young people to do more, learn more and be more. Each week, we give over 460,000 young people aged between 6 – 25 the opportunity to enjoy fun and adventure while developing the skills they need to succeed. We’re talking about teamwork, leadership and resilience – skills that have helped Scouts become everything from teachers and social workers to astronauts and Olympians. We believe in bringing people together. We celebrate diversity and stand against intolerance, always. We’re part of a worldwide movement, creating stronger communities and inspiring positive futures.

Not only are we age UK’s largest youth organisation, the Movement as a whole, is the largest co-educational youth organisation in the world, with over 32 million members in 216 countries and territories.

About our work

Even if we can’t solve all the problems in the world, we can help to make it a better place. Scouting makes a positive contribution to society by helping young people to develop as active members of the community:

  • who are self-reliant
  • who are caring
  • who are responsible
  • who show commitment

Scouting works well when young people enjoy learning by working in partnership with adults. They do this by:

  • taking part in a variety of activities and new experiences
  • exploring the outdoors
  • participating in teams
  • taking responsibility.

Our method for giving young people the opportunity to learn by doing is called, “The Programme”. The Programme is a continuous progression of training, activities and awards that covers everything that young people do in Scouting from the age of 6 to 25.

Did you know?

Compared to those not in the movement, Scouts are:

  • 17% more likely to demonstrate leadership skills
  • 11% more likely to be better problem solvers
  • 19% more likely to show emotional intelligence
  • 17% more likely to be able to work well in teams
  • 32% more likely to be physically active

In Scouting, our adults have a responsibility to make sure that the Programme is fun and exciting. We must also make sure that it is safe. The Scout Association’s policies, rules, code of behaviour, advice on Child Protection and safety policy are there to ensure our young people stay safe while they enjoy themselves and learn.

Who can be a Scout?

Scouting is open to all young people aged 6 to 25 of every faith and background.

There are also plenty of opportunities for adults to become involved as Leaders, Assistants or Administrators.