Scouts Then...
Lord Robert Baden Powell started Scouts in 1907 by taking 4 patrols of boys to Brownsea Island based on a book he had written called "Scouting For Boys". The following year Scout movements sprang up world wide. "Scouting For Boys" was based on a previous book he had written called, "Aids For Scouting" which was being adopted for boys 11-20 to use for training. B.P. had originally intended for "Scouting For Boys" and the program he created to be used by other youth organisations such as Boy Brigade, however it was boys who were buying the books, creating patrols then finding somebody to lead them. It didn't take long for B.P. to realise that these groups needed some form of guidance and Scouts was officially born.
Scouts Now...
The Scout program emphasizes having fun while encouraging youth to feel good about themselves, their friends and family, God, and the environment. The Scout program helps youth expand their leadership skills and gain self confidence.
Scouting promotes activities that encourage youth to:
express and respond to their own spiritual values and beliefs while showing concern for others
develop self reliance
pursue hobbies and personal interests
develop self discipline and the skills of working cooperatively with others
cooperate in setting and achieving small group and personal goals
practise leadership skills
relate with adults
be of service to others
camp, explore the outdoors, and develop good conservation practices
The Scout program is designed around a lively variety of activities based on personal and group interests. Scouts emphasizes outdoor and environmental activities, citizenship and community service, leadership, and personal development. Individual interests and skills are recognized through an awards system.
The outdoors is an essential part of the Scout program. Weekend events, extended hikes, no trace camping and seasonal sports opportunities round out the Scout experience. Developing an active, healthy lifestyle is the prime goal.
Scouts meet in a group called a troop. The troop is split into smaller groups called patrols. There is one leader for every six Scouts. Each Scout learns a promise, law and motto to help guide their personal development.
Scout Promise:
On my honour
I promise that I will do my best
To do my duty to God and the Queen
To help other people at all times,
And to carry out the spirit of the Scout Law.
Scout Law:
A Scout is helpful and trustworthy,
kind and cheerful,
considerate and clean,
wise in the use of all resources.
Scout Motto:
Be Prepared