1st Holgate Scout Group: Information for Parents and Carers

Welcome to 1st Holgate Scout Group! We’re delighted you’re considering joining our vibrant and active community. We understand that as a parent, you want to know what your child will gain from Scouting, and how we ensure their safety and well-being. This page aims to answer your key questions and provide you with all the information you need.

What is Scouting?

Scouting is a global movement dedicated to developing young people’s character, skills, and confidence. We provide fun, challenging, and adventurous activities that encourage teamwork, leadership, and personal growth. Through a diverse programme, your child will:

  • Develop life skills: From camping and cooking to first aid and navigation, we equip young people with practical skills they’ll use throughout their lives.
  • Build confidence and resilience: We encourage children to step outside their comfort zones, try new things, and learn from their experiences.
  • Make friends and build lasting relationships: Scouting fosters a sense of belonging and community, creating a supportive environment where children can thrive.
  • Explore the outdoors: We believe in the power of nature, and our activities often take place outdoors, allowing children to connect with the environment.
  • Learn about citizenship and community: We encourage young people to be active and responsible members of their communities.

Our Sections:

1st Holgate Scout Group caters to young people aged 4 to 18, divided into the following sections:

  • Squirrels (4-6): Our youngest section, focuses on fun and figuring the world out by exploring, playing and doing. 
  • Beavers (6-8 years): A fun, safe, and engaging environment where young children can learn, grow, and make lifelong friends.
  • Cubs (8-10.5 years): Building on the foundations of Beavers, Cubs engage in more adventurous activities and work towards badges.
  • Scouts (10.5-14 years): Scouts develop their leadership skills, participate in expeditions, and tackle more challenging activities.
  • Explorers (14-18 years): Explorers often get the chance to work with other Explorers in their District, not just their own Unit, so can take part in an even wider spectrum of activities.

Safety and Safeguarding:

Your child’s safety is our top priority. We adhere to the Scout Association’s strict safeguarding policies and procedures, which include:

  • Trained Leaders: All our leaders are volunteers who have undergone thorough background checks and training in safeguarding and first aid.
  • Risk Assessments: We conduct comprehensive risk assessments for all activities to ensure the safety of our members.
  • Ratio of Leaders to Young People: We maintain appropriate ratios of leaders to young people to provide adequate supervision.
  • Open Communication: We encourage open communication between parents, leaders, and young people.
  • The Scout Association’s Safeguarding Policy: We adhere strictly to the policies laid out by the Scout Association.

Parental Involvement:

We value parental involvement and encourage you to participate in your child’s Scouting journey. There are many ways you can get involved, including:

  • Volunteering: We are always looking for enthusiastic volunteers to assist with activities, events, and administrative tasks.
  • Supporting fundraising efforts: We rely on fundraising to provide our activities and maintain our equipment.
  • Attending events: We host various events throughout the year, such as camps, hikes, and social gatherings.
  • Providing feedback: We welcome your feedback and suggestions to help us improve our group.

What to Expect:

  • Regular Meetings: Each section meets weekly during term time.
  • Outdoor Activities: We aim to incorporate outdoor activities into our programme as much as possible.
  • Camps and Expeditions: Throughout the year, we organise camps and expeditions, providing opportunities for adventure and teamwork.
  • Badge Work: Young people work towards various badges, recognising their achievements and skills.
  • A Fun and Supportive Environment: We strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and supported.

How to Join:

If you’re interested in joining 1st Holgate Scout Group, please:

We look forward to welcoming you and your child to 1st Holgate Scout Group!