Becoming a Leader FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Do I really have the skills you need?

You don’t have to be an adventurer like Bear Grylls to get involved with Scouting. Do you have first aid knowledge? Are you good with numbers? Handy in the kitchen? are you really good at crafts? We all have useful skills and you can volunteer and help in many ways.

2. What will Iget out of volunteering?

As well as gaining externally recognised skills and having a brilliant time, Scouting also offers the chance to build on personal skills, like teamwork, confidence and leadership. A study found that over 90% of our volunteers believe that the skills and experiences they have gained through Scouting have been of relevance to their working or personal lives.

3. What training do I need?

To support adults in Scouting, the Association provides a comprehensive programme of training to build on existing skills and knowledge and develop new competencies. The scheme recognises the prior learning, experience and existing knowledge of adults. It is not necessary for adults to attend training if they can clearly show that they are able to meet module objectives by demonstrating their skills in their Scouting role; this is done through validation.

You will need to undertake “Getting Started” modules 1, 2 and 3 within the first 5 months of your appointment.

Module 1, Essential Information. This is the basic information that all adults in Scouting need to know. It briefly covers the fundamentals of Scouting, the key policies of The Scout Association and the support available to adults in Scouting.

Module 2, Personal Learning Plan. This module consists of creating a plan to meet the training requirements of the role, taking into account existing knowledge and skills

Module 3, Tools for the Job. This contains some basic information about the role and practical help for working within a section. The module covers the key features of the section and how to run suitable games and activities.

You will be appointed your own training advisor who will assist you in planning how you achieve your training. If you have previous and relevant experience, this can accredited, which will mean less training is required. Some Modules are applicable to Beavers, Cubs and Scouts, and others relate to each specific Scout section. Once all their training has been completed the leader receives their wood beads and a certificate.

2. How much time will it take?

In general, a Leader does not have to attend every meeting, some of our leaders work shifts and we plan accordingly. Each term, the Leaders of a section meet together to plan the terms schedule. There are also termly Leaders’ meetings. There will also be the odd weekend event (Dinosaur Derby, Camps, competitions etc.)

3. Do I need to be there every week?

No.

4. How long do I need to be a Leader for?

The average Leader signs up for between one and two and a half years. If you only want to be a leader during your child’s time in Scouting that’s fine.

6. Do I need to be under 65 or a parent?

No. Leaders need to be over 18 but there is no upper age limit.

7. Do I have to join the Executive Committee?

As a Leader, you have the option of being a member of the Committee but it is not mandatory.

8. Do I have to camp every weekend or at all?

No – Beavers do not camp but usually run an overnight stay in a building each year. Cubs run 3 camps a year, one of which is indoors and Scouts and Explorers run several camps during the year but there is no requirement for you to camp.

9. What does the Group provide for me?

Uniform, personal liability insurance, training, improved CV, some excellent life skills and experiences & new friends!

10. Will it cost me anything?

You should not be out of pocket by being a leader. All uniform and training are provided free and any other out of pocket expenses are covered by the group eg. petrol and phone calls