The Scout Section is for young people, aged between 10½ and 14 years. The Scout Troop is the third and final Section in the Scout Group.
Scouts are encouraged to take part in a wide range of activities as part of their programme. "Participation" rather than meeting set standards is the key approach and for the Scout who wants to be recognised for his or her achievements there are a number of Challenges Awards and Activity Badges.
Scouts take part in a balanced programme that helps them to find out about the world in which they live, encourages them to know their own abilities and the importance of keeping fit and helps develop their creative talents. It also provides opportunities to explore their own values and personal attitudes.
Being outdoors is important and half the Programme is given over to taking part in both the traditional Scouting skills, such as camping, survival and cooking as well as the wide range of adventurous activities, anything from abseiling to yachting.
The international aspect gives Scouting a special appeal and many Scouts now travel abroad during their time in the Section. In 2007 40,000 Scouts from around the World attended the World Jamboree in the UK, and Scouts regularly participate in International camps and experiences both on home soil and abroad, each of them a unique experience in its own right.
Scouting is about being with friends, as part of a team, participating fully in the adventure and opportunities of life.
To find out where your nearest Scout Troop meets please refer to the Scout Groups section or if you require further information about being a Scout email scouts@gillinghamscouts.org.uk
