A patrol is commonly a group of personnel, such as law enforcement officers , military personnel , or security personnel , that are assigned to monitor or secure a specific geographic area.
115-662: The Scout Association is the largest Scout organisation in the United Kingdom . Following the rapid development of the Scout Movement from 1907, The Scout Association was formed in 1910 and incorporated in 1912 by a royal charter under its previous name of The Boy Scouts Association . It is a founding member organisation of the World Organization of the Scout Movement . The organisation
230-483: A Beret instead of the Campaign hat . The Advance Party Report was not welcomed by all involved and a rival report, A Boy Scout Black Paper , was produced in 1970 by The Scout Action Group. This provided alternative proposals for the development of the organisation and asked for groups that wished to continue to follow Baden-Powell's original scheme to be permitted to do so. The rejection of these proposals resulted in
345-415: A khaki button-up shirt, shorts, and a broad-brimmed campaign hat . Baden-Powell also wore shorts, because he believed that being dressed like a Scout helped to reduce the age-imposed distance between adult and youth. Uniform shirts are now frequently blue, orange, red or green and shorts are frequently replaced by long trousers all year or only under cold weather. While designed for smartness and equality,
460-406: A military organization by land, sea or air for the purpose of combat, reconnaissance , or a combination of both. The basic task of a patrol is to follow a known route with the purpose of investigating some feature of interest or, in the assignment of a fighting patrol (U.S. combat patrol ), to find and engage the enemy. A patrol can also mean a small cavalry or armoured unit , subordinate to
575-485: A police car , crewing a police watercraft , or piloting a police aircraft , depending on the unit they are assigned to or their agency 's capabilities. They may or may not be armed or uniformed. A study conducted by Temple University and the Philadelphia Police Department in the mid-2000s has shown that foot patrols reduce crime more than other methods. Some elementary schools utilize
690-474: A troop or platoon , usually comprising a section or squad of mounted troops, or two armoured fighting vehicles (often tanks ). In non-military law enforcement , patrol officers are police officers (or, for private entities, security guards ) assigned to monitor specified geographic areas. In this instance, patrol refers to the action of patrolling —that is, to move through their assigned areas at regular intervals to detect or prevent violations of
805-437: A badge that illustrated a combined compass point and spearhead . The badge's logo was similar to the fleur-de-lis shaped arrowhead that Scouting later adopted as its international symbol. The siege of Mafeking was the first time since his own childhood that Baden-Powell, a regular serving soldier, had come into the same orbit as "civilians"—women and children—and discovered for himself the usefulness of well-trained boys. In
920-462: A close-knit fraternal atmosphere. These experiences, along with an emphasis on trustworthiness and personal honor, help to develop responsibility , character , self-reliance , self-confidence, reliability, and readiness ; which eventually lead to collaboration and leadership . A program with a variety of progressive and attractive activities expands a Scout's horizon and bonds the Scout even more to
1035-653: A copy of his 1902 book The Birchbark Roll of the Woodcraft Indians . Seton, a British-born Canadian-American living in the United States, met Baden-Powell in October 1906, and they shared ideas about youth training programs. In 1907 Baden-Powell wrote a draft called Boy Patrols . In the same year, to test his ideas, he gathered 21 boys of mixed social backgrounds (from boy's schools in the London area and
1150-471: A different name, the Girl Guides for girls. From December 1916, following the introduction of the organisation's Wolf Cubs programme for 8 to 10 year olds, in which Vera Barclay played a pivotal role, the organisation permitted women to take on limited volunteer roles, working with the younger boys. In 1976, girls were allowed to join the organisation's Venture Scouts for 16 to 20 year-olds. In 1991,
1265-421: A faith. There are variations of the organisation's Scout Promise to accommodate all religions or beliefs. While originally requiring a promise of "Duty to God", following criticism, in October 2013, the organisation announced that an alternative version of the promise would be available from January 2014 to admit those without a pronounced faith. Disability The organisation is open to all abilities. Flexibility
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#17327721193771380-478: A group specifically for adults, such as ScoutLink or a Trefoil Guild. Scout units are usually operated by adult volunteers, such as parents and carers, former Scouts, students, and community leaders, including teachers and religious leaders. Scout Leadership positions are often divided into 'uniform' and 'lay' positions. Uniformed leaders have received formal training, such as the Wood Badge , and have received
1495-522: A local area or region camping together for a weekend. The events usually have a theme, such as pioneering . World Scout Moots are gatherings, originally for Rover Scouts , but mainly focused on Scout Leaders . Jamborees are large national or international events held every four years, during which thousands of Scouts camp together for one or two weeks. Activities at these events will include games, Scoutcraft competitions, badge, pin or patch trading , aquatics, woodcarving, archery and activities related to
1610-457: A love and appreciation of the outdoors and outdoor activities is a key element. Primary activities include camping , woodcraft , aquatics , hiking , backpacking, and sports . Camping is most often arranged at the unit level, such as one Scout troop, but there are periodic camps (known in the US as " camporees ") and " jamborees ". Camps occur a few times a year and may involve several groups from
1725-407: A major review in the 1960s. The Chief Scouts' Advance Party was formed in 1964 and was sent to survey the organisation to see why participation was falling. Their report was published in 1966 and changes were implemented later that year and throughout 1967. As a result, the word "boy" was dropped from the organisation's name which was changed to The Scout Association and major changes were made to
1840-542: A manner appropriate to their age. The Scout method is the principal method by which the Scouting organizations, boy and girl, operate their units. WOSM describes Scouting as "a voluntary nonpolitical educational movement for young people open to all without distinction of origin, race or creed , in accordance with the purpose, principles and method conceived by the Founder". It is the goal of Scouting "to contribute to
1955-407: A much larger Boer army. The Mafeking Cadet Corps was a group of youths that supported the troops by carrying messages, which freed the men for military duties and kept the boys occupied during the long siege. The Cadet Corps performed well, helping in the defence of the town (1899–1900), and were one of the many factors that inspired Baden-Powell to form the Scouting movement. Each member received
2070-435: A programme for even younger children. Its programmes include Squirrels (aged 4–6), Beavers (aged 6–8), Cubs (aged 8– 10 + 1 ⁄ 2 ), Scouts (aged 10 + 1 ⁄ 2 –14), Explorer Scouts (aged 14–18) and adult Network members (aged 18–25). The organisation's current aim is to provide "fun, adventure and skills for life and give young people the opportunity to enjoy new adventures, experience outdoors and take part in
2185-518: A range of creative, community and international activities, interact with others, make new friends, gain confidence and have the opportunity to reach their full potential". Membership is open to male and female participants, of all abilities, and of any religion including people outside any faith. Gender From 1912 to 1967, the organisation was called The Boy Scouts Association, and until 1976 only boys were admitted to its programmes. In 1910, Baden-Powell created an entirely separate organisation with
2300-498: A renewed emphasis on outdoor adventure and it now offers over 200 fun and adventurous activities from abseiling and archery while also offering a wider range of development opportunities, from coding to music and drama. In 2004 the organisation appointed television presenter Peter Duncan as its Chief Scout, who was succeeded by adventurer Bear Grylls in July 2009. The organisation appointed its first UK Chief Commissioner, Wayne Bulpitt , on
2415-838: A section of boys from the Poole , Parkstone , Hamworthy , Bournemouth , and Winton Boys' Brigade units) and held a week-long camp in August on Brownsea Island in Poole Harbour , Dorset. His organizational method, now known as the Patrol System and a key part of Scouting training, allowed the boys to organize themselves into small groups with an elected patrol leader. In late 1907, Baden-Powell went on an extensive speaking tour arranged by his publisher, Arthur Pearson , to promote his forthcoming book, Scouting for Boys . He had not simply rewritten his Aids to Scouting ; he omitted
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#17327721193772530-519: A separate organisation, the Girl Guides were created by Baden-Powell and his sister, Agnes , to provide a more "proper" programme of activities. In 1916, the organisation launched its Wolf Cubs , for boys aged 8 to 11. In 1918, the organisation launched its Rovers for those over 18 who had grown out of being Scouts but wanted to be remain connected. During the First World War , more than 50,000 Scouts participated in some form of war work on
2645-625: A sling or triangular bandage by a Scout in need. Scouts were encouraged to use their garters for shock cord where necessary. Distinctive insignia for all are Scout uniforms, recognized and worn the world over, include the Wood Badge and the World Membership Badge. Scouting has two internationally known symbols: the trefoil is used by members of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS) and
2760-555: A strong upturn, with the organisation claiming its highest rate of growth in UK since 1972, with total claimed participation reaching just under half a million. In 2014, the organisation claimed an increase in youth enrolments of 100,000 in the ten years since 2004. In 2016 it claimed eleven years of consecutive growth and an increase in female enrolment, with 25% of participants now female in the 25 years since girls were first welcomed in 1976. The organisation claims one of its biggest challenges
2875-435: A volunteer leader for the organisation with a Scout Group near her Anglesey home. In the decade up to 2014, the number of adult volunteers increased by 14,596 to a total of over 104,000. A new Strategic Plan entitled Scouting for All was launched in 2014 to outline the organisation's focus to 2018. It proposed four key areas of activity: growth, inclusivity, youth-shaped Scouting and community impact. As part of this, in 2014,
2990-492: A warrant for a rank within the organization. Lay members commonly hold part-time roles such as meeting helpers, committee members and advisors, though there are a small number of full-time lay professionals. A unit has uniformed positions—such as the Scoutmaster and assistants—whose titles vary among countries. In some countries, units are supported by lay members, who range from acting as meeting helpers to being members of
3105-518: Is a major element of both the WOSM and WAGGGS programs, WAGGGS includes it as an extra element of the Scout method: service in the community. The Scout Law and Promise embody the joint values of the Scouting movement worldwide, and bind all Scouting associations together. The emphasis on "learning by doing" provides experiences and hands-on orientation as a practical method of learning and building self-confidence . Small groups build unity, camaraderie, and
3220-419: Is a widely recognized characteristic of Scouting. In the words of Baden-Powell at the 1937 World Jamboree, it "hides all differences of social standing in a country and makes for equality; but, more important still, it covers differences of country and race and creed, and makes all feel that they are members with one another of the one great brotherhood". The original uniform, still widely recognized, consisted of
3335-464: Is built-in to badge and award requirements for those with special needs. Some counties and areas have a specialist commissioner or adviser to support inclusion. Robert Baden-Powell was keen to allow young people with disabilities to take part in Scouting. The disabled branch (later called Extension Scouting ) was formed in 1926. However, in more recent years, emphasis has been placed on integrating young people with disabilities into mainstream Groups. After
3450-478: Is encouraging more adults to volunteer to reduce the number of young people on waiting lists (cited at around 40,000). However, by its reported figures (above) it has a high ratio of more than 1 adult volunteer to 4 participant young people (see above), and "young people" includes adults aged 18 to 25. The effort to attract new volunteers received a boost when the Duchess of Cambridge announced her intention to become
3565-423: Is often the first responder on the scene of any incident, and their actions can greatly affect the outcome of the investigation, as well as the lives and safety of themselves and others. Patrols are often done with the intent of community policing , to improve relations between police and the public. Patrol officers may conduct patrols on foot , while mounted , riding a police motorcycle or bicycle , driving
The Scout Association - Misplaced Pages Continue
3680-529: Is organized into neighborhood Scout Groups , or Districts, which contain one or more sections. Under the umbrella of the Scout Group, sections are divided according to age, each having their own terminology and leadership structure. Adults interested in Scouting or Guiding, including former Scouts and Guides, often join organizations such as the International Scout and Guide Fellowship . In
3795-759: Is the Scout uniform , by intent hiding all differences of social standing in a country and encouraging equality , with neckerchief and campaign hat or comparable headwear . Distinctive uniform insignia include the fleur-de-lis and the trefoil , as well as merit badges and other patches. In 1907, Robert Baden-Powell , a lieutenant general in the British Army held a Scouting encampment on Brownsea Island in England . Baden-Powell wrote Scouting for Boys (London, 1908), partly based on his earlier military books. The Scout Movement of both Boy Scouts and Girl Guides (renamed to Girl Scouts in some countries)
3910-613: Is the largest national Scout organisation in Europe , representing 35% of the participants of the European Scout Region . As of 2024, the organisation claimed to provide activities to 444,682 infants to youths (aged 4–18) in the UK, with 83,792 direct adults leaders but 68,974 adults in "governance", "support" and other roles, which is more than one adult for each 3 children. The organisation's participation declined 22% from 464,700 in 2018 and has not recovered despite commencing
4025-654: The 3rd World Scout Jamboree at Arrowe Park in Cheshire ; some 56,000 Scouts from 35 countries attended, making it the largest World Scout Jamboree to date. The first Gang Show , produced by Ralph Reader , opened at the Scala Theatre in London in October 1932. Following the outbreak of World War II , over 50,000 Scouts trained under the National War Service scheme. Tasks undertaken included police messengers and stretcher bearers. In January 1941,
4140-680: The International Conference of the Boy Scout Movement now called the World Organization of the Scout Movement, of which the organisation was a founding member. The Boy Scouts Headquarters Gazette was first published in July 1909, as a publication for adult Scouters and administrators, alongside The Scout , a magazine for youths which had been launched in April 1908. In 1929, the organisation hosted
4255-782: The Matobo Hills , Burnham augmented Baden-Powell's woodcraft skills, inspiring him and sowing seeds for both the programme and for the code of honour later published in Scouting for Boys . Practised by frontiersmen of the American Old West and indigenous peoples of the Americas , woodcraft was generally little known to the British Army but well known to the American scout Burnham. These skills eventually formed
4370-569: The Rangers and Young Leaders , Rover Scouts , Senior Scouts , Venturer Scouts , Explorer Scouts , and the Scout Network . Many organizations also have a program for members with special needs. This is usually known as Extension Scouting , but sometimes has other names, such as Scoutlink . The Scout Method has been adapted to specific programs such as Air Scouts , Sea Scouts , Rider Guides and Scoutingbands. In many countries, Scouting
4485-535: The Second World War , specialist Agoonoree camps were run to cater for those unable to camp with their own Scout Groups, with some still running today. For the origins of Boy Scouts and the Scout Movement, before the formation of The Scout Association, see Scouting . The organisation was formed in 1910, in order to provide a national body in the United Kingdom which could organise and support
4600-654: The fleur-de-lis by member organizations of the WOSM and most other Scouting organizations. The swastika was used as an early symbol by the Boy Scouts Association of the United Kingdom and others. Its earliest use in Scouting was on the Thanks Badge introduced in 1911. Lord Baden-Powell's 1922 design for the Medal of Merit added a swastika to the Scout Arrowhead to symbolize good luck for
4715-517: The home front . Scout buglers sounded the "all clear" after air raids or air strike, others helped in hospitals and made up aid parcels; Sea Scouts assisted the Coastguard in watching the vulnerable East coast. In 1920, the organisation organised the first World Jamboree , held in Olympia , London , together with an international conference for leaders which led to the formation, in 1922, of
The Scout Association - Misplaced Pages Continue
4830-410: The "council" in its incorporating charter. The majority of the council are elected by the council itself with the council or its board also appointing all its officers and all commissioner members. Even those nominated by Scout Counties to the council require previous appointment to their positions or approval by the council's board or officers appointed by the board. The council elects a board (called
4945-450: The Boys' Brigade, from the founder William A. Smith . However, because of the popularity of his person and the adventurous outdoor games he wrote about, boys spontaneously formed Scout patrols and flooded Baden-Powell with requests for assistance. He encouraged them, and the Scouting movement developed momentum. In 1910 Baden-Powell formed The Boy Scouts Association in the United Kingdom. As
5060-629: The British Empire. In 1910, the organisation approved special uniforms for Sea Scouts and formally adopted use of the name in 1912. On 4 January 1912, the organisation was incorporated throughout the British Empire by Royal charter for "the purpose of instructing boys of all classes in the principles of discipline loyalty and good citizenship". The organisation's programme was originally just for boys aged between 11 and 18. However, many girls and younger boys wanted to join in. In 1910,
5175-485: The English-speaking world are the Boys' Brigade and the non-militaristic Woodcraft Folk ; however, they never matched the development and growth of Scouting. Aspects of Scouting practice have been criticized as too militaristic . Local influences have also been a strong part of Scouting. By adopting and modifying local ideologies, Scouting has been able to find acceptance in a wide variety of cultures. In
5290-646: The Girl Guides in 1920 in favor of Robert's wife Olave Baden-Powell , who was named Chief Guide (for England) in 1918 and World Chief Guide in 1930. At that time, girls were expected to remain separate from boys because of societal standards, though co-educational youth groups did exist. By the 1990s, two-thirds of the Scout organizations belonging to WOSM had become co-educational. Baden-Powell could not single-handedly advise all groups who requested his assistance. Early Scoutmaster training camps were held in London and Yorkshire in 1910 and 1911. Baden-Powell wanted
5405-677: The Indian subcontinent, because that region was a significant focus in the early years of Scouting. Baden-Powell's personal experiences in India led him to adopt Rudyard Kipling 's The Jungle Book as a major influence for the Cub Scouts; for example, the name used for the Cub Scout leader, Akela (whose name was also appropriated for the Webelos ), is that of the leader of the wolf pack in
5520-694: The Matobo Hills Baden-Powell first started to wear his signature campaign hat like the one worn by Burnham, and acquired his kudu horn, the Ndebele war instrument he later used every morning at Brownsea Island to wake the first Boy Scouts and to call them together in training courses. Three years later, in South Africa during the Second Boer War , Baden-Powell was besieged in the small town of Mafikeng (Mafeking) by
5635-447: The Scout Movement (WOSM), for boys-only and co-educational organizations: World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS), primarily for girls-only organizations but also accepting co-educational organizations, World Federation of Independent Scouts , World Organization of Independent Scouts , Order of World Scouts , International Union of Guides and Scouts of Europe , and Confederation of European Scouts . The trigger for
5750-451: The Scout uniform is also practical. Shirts traditionally have thick seams to make them ideal for use in makeshift stretchers—Scouts were trained to use them in this way with their staves, a traditional but deprecated item. The leather straps and toggles of the campaign hats or Leaders' Wood Badges could be used as emergency tourniquets , or anywhere that string was needed in a hurry. Neckerchiefs were chosen as they could easily be used as
5865-499: The Scouting movement was the 1908 publication of Scouting for Boys written by Robert Baden-Powell . At Charterhouse , one of England's most famous public schools , Baden-Powell had an interest in the outdoors. Later, as a military officer, Baden-Powell was stationed in British India in the 1880s where he took an interest in military scouting and in 1884 he published Reconnaissance and Scouting . In 1896, Baden-Powell
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#17327721193775980-437: The UK and the negative stereotype as being old fashioned. To keep up with trends and appeal to audience new generation, a new uniform, designed by Meg Andrew, was launched in 2001. The uniform included a variety of bold colours, with the younger sections wearing sweatshirts and activity trousers. In 2002 the organisation launched its new vision towards 2012, which heralded another period of change. The Venture Scouts programme
6095-561: The United Kingdom, the public, through newspapers, followed Baden-Powell's struggle to hold Mafeking, and when the siege was broken he had become a national hero . This rise to fame fuelled the sales of the small instruction book he had written in 1899 about military scouting and wilderness survival, Aids to Scouting, that owed much to what he had learned from discussions with Burnham. On his return to England, Baden-Powell noticed that boys showed considerable interest in Aids to Scouting , which
6210-630: The United States and the Philippines, university students might join the co-ed service fraternity Alpha Phi Omega . In the United Kingdom, university students might join the Student Scout and Guide Organisation , and after graduation, the Scout and Guide Graduate Association . In some countries, it is possible to join scouting and guiding organizations as a show of support without accepting an active volunteering position, one option being joining
6325-419: The United States, Scouting uses images drawn from the U.S. frontier experience. This includes not only its selection of animal badges for Cub Scouts, but the underlying assumption that American native peoples are more closely connected with nature and therefore have special wilderness survival skills which can be used as part of the training program. By contrast, British Scouting makes use of imagery drawn from
6440-466: The Wood Badge training. Important elements of traditional Scouting have their origins in Baden-Powell's experiences in education and military training. He was a 50-year-old retired army general when he founded Scouting, and his revolutionary ideas inspired thousands of young people, from all parts of society, to get involved in activities that most had never contemplated. Comparable organizations in
6555-678: The admission of girls to all the organisation's programmes became optional. Since 2007, this has been compulsory. As of 2018, girls made up 71% of all new members, with approximately 2.5 girls for every boy. Girls also made up 27% of all the organisation's participants, with a total of 99,989 female participants, aged between 6 and 25. 69,460 adult women were involved in volunteer roles (being more than 1 adult female for every 2 female young people). The organisation's programmes are open to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and other (LGBTQA+) young people and adults. Religion The organisation's programmes are open to those of any religion or without
6670-521: The age sections and their respective programmes. The youngest section were now named Cubs , the Boy Scout section was renamed simply as the Scout section and the Senior Scouts and Rovers sections were replaced with Venture Scouts for 16- to 20-year-olds. The uniform were also changed with the inclusion of optional long trousers, as opposed to the compulsory wearing of shorts, and the wearing of
6785-532: The associations efforts, membership in the early years of the 2020s did not rise as quickly as they had expected, requiring further staff redundancies in April 2024 to cover missing membership fees. Announced as part of the Skills For Life strategic plan in May 2018, from 2019 the organisation trialled an early years programme section. The name initially chosen for the pilots, involving children aged 4–6 years,
6900-464: The basis of what is now called scoutcraft , the fundamentals of Scouting. Both men recognised that wars in Africa were changing markedly and the British Army needed to adapt; so during their joint scouting missions, Baden-Powell and Burnham discussed the concept of a broad training programme in woodcraft for young men, rich in exploration, tracking , fieldcraft , and self-reliance. During this time in
7015-483: The board of trustees and formerly called the committee of the council), which manages the organisation, determines its " Policy, Organisation and Rules " (POR), nominates members of the council and makes all appointments within the organisation. The King is patron of the organisation. Its joint presidents are The Duke of Kent and The Princess of Wales . The council elects the organisation's Chief Scout . In September 2024, Bear Grylls , announced his resignation from
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#17327721193777130-457: The book as Scouting for Boys , it seems natural that the movement adopted the names Scouting and Boy Scouts. "Duty to God" is a principle of Scouting, though it is applied differently in various countries. The Boy Scouts of America (BSA) take a strong position, excluding atheists . The Scout Association in the United Kingdom permits variations to its Promise, in order to accommodate different religious obligations. While for example in
7245-482: The book. The name "Scouting" seems to have been inspired by the important and romantic role played by military scouts performing reconnaissance in the wars of the time. In fact, Baden-Powell wrote his original military training book, Aids To Scouting , because he saw the need for the improved training of British military-enlisted scouts, particularly in initiative, self-reliance, and observational skills. The book's popularity with young boys surprised him. As he adapted
7360-568: The commitment to developing community impact, the organisation launched a three-year community impact project called "A Million Hands" to mobilise half a million Scouts to support four social issues chosen by their young people. Its aim is to build real and lasting relationships in communities that will enable young people to continue taking "social action" long into the future. The project works in partnership with six key charities; Mind , Alzheimer's Society , Leonard Cheshire Disability , Guide Dogs , Water Aid and Canal & River Trust to support
7475-577: The development of young people in achieving their full physical, intellectual, social and spiritual potentials as individuals, as responsible citizens and as members of their local, national and international communities." The principles of Scouting describe a code of behavior for all members, and characterize the movement. The Scout method is a progressive system designed to achieve these goals, comprising seven elements: law and promise , learning by doing, team system, symbolic framework, personal progression, nature, and adult support. While community service
7590-644: The early 1950s, some Boy Scouts were dismissed or marginalized in their Scout Groups due to their involvement with the Young Communist League or related communist activities – the most high-profile case being that of Paul Garland from Bristol in 1954 which resulted in media reports and a debate in the House of Lords, where the organisation's Chief Scout , Lord Rowallan , defended the organisation's political and religious discrimination based on foreign communist regimes' antipathy to Scout organisations and
7705-774: The formation of the Baden-Powell Scouts' Association . Several developments were made over the following years, including the admission of girls, initially restricted to the Venture Scouts section in 1976, but from 1991 junior sections were allowed to become mixed as well, starting in Bradford, West Yorkshire and working its way throughout the UK. Parents of children involved with the organisation in Northern Ireland also began to organise activities for children who were too young for Cubs. Initially, only
7820-538: The four key issues of dementia, disability, mental wellbeing and resilience and clean water and sanitation. Also in 2015, Dr Ann Limb was appointed chair of the organisation, the first woman to hold the post. Already Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE), Limb was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in the 2022 Birthday Honours for services to young people and philanthropy. In September 2016, Tim Kidd replaced Wayne Bulpitt as
7935-580: The front, thumb resting on the nail of the little finger and the other three fingers upright, pointing upwards:— This is the scout's salute and secret sign." The Boy Scout Movement swiftly established itself throughout the British Empire soon after the publication of Scouting for Boys . By 1908, Scouting was established in Gibraltar , Malta , Canada , Australia , New Zealand , Malaya (YMCA Experimental Troop in Penang) and South Africa . In 1909 Chile
8050-574: The group's members. These age divisions have varied over time as they adapt to the local culture and environment. Scouting was originally developed for adolescents —youths between the ages of 11 and 17. In most member organizations, this age group composes the Scout or Guide section. Programs were developed to meet the needs of young children (generally ages 6 to 10) and young adults (originally 18 and older, and later up to 25). Scouts and Guides were later split into "junior" and "senior" sections in many member organizations, and some organizations dropped
8165-473: The group. Activities and games provide an enjoyable way to develop skills such as dexterity . In an outdoor setting, they also provide contact with the natural environment. Since the birth of Scouting, Scouts worldwide have taken a Scout Promise to live up to ideals of the movement, and subscribe to the Scout Law. The form of the promise and laws have varied slightly by country and over time, but must fulfil
8280-439: The individual member or leader whether they can follow a Scout Promise that includes Duty to God. Worldwide, roughly one in three Scouts are Muslim. Scouting is taught using the Scout method, which incorporates an informal educational system that emphasizes practical activities in the outdoors. Programs exist for Scouts ranging in age from 6 to 25 (though age limits vary slightly by country), and program specifics target Scouts in
8395-408: The largest drop in numbers since 1941. The financial situation of the association declined during the pandemic and in the aftermath, necessitating the selling of an activity centre and hostel and 150 staff being made redundant. Additionally, a recruitment campaign for 10,000 volunteer leaders was launched to replace volunteers who departed and build capacity for the high demand from young people. Despite
8510-433: The law or problems of any kind. Patrol officers are the most recognizable members of the police , and are the government officials encountered most frequently by the public. Their duties include responding to calls for service , making arrests , resolving disputes, issuing tickets , taking crime reports , conducting traffic enforcement , investigating crimes , and conducting crime prevention measures. A patrol officer
8625-469: The leaders of these activities, nicknamed Beavers , were registered and organisation officials, with the children participating not being enrolled by the organisation until it formally adopted the programme in 1986. In the late 1990s, a Muslim Scout Fellowship was formed, which by the end of 2007, had assisted the establishment of 13 Muslim Scout Groups in England and Wales. Despite these and other changes,
8740-501: The military aspects and transferred the techniques (mainly survival skills ) to non-military heroes: backwoodsmen, explorers (and later on, sailors and airmen). He also added innovative educational principles (the Scout method ) by which he extended the attractive game to a personal mental education. At the beginning of 1908, Baden-Powell published Scouting for Boys in six fortnightly parts, setting out activities and programmes which existing youth organisations could use. The reaction
8855-412: The movement grew the need became apparent for leader training and programs for younger boys, older boys, and girls. The first Cub Scout and Rover Scout programs were in place by the late 1910s. They operated independently until they obtained official recognition from their home country's Scouting organization. In the United States, attempts at Cub programs began as early as 1911, but official recognition
8970-429: The movement grew, Sea Scouts , Air Scouts , and other specialized units were added to the program. The scouts law is for boys, as follows; In his original book on boy scouting, General Baden-Powell introduced the Scout promise, as follows: "Before he becomes a scout, a boy must take the scout's oath, thus: While taking this oath the scout will stand, holding his right hand raised level with his shoulder, palm to
9085-613: The organisation celebrated the centenary of its Cub section , named Cubs100. The centenary celebrations marked the launch of the fully developed Wolf Cub programme on 16 December 2016, a date which is regarded as the "official birthday of Cubs". Adventurer Steve Backshall was appointed Cubs100 Ambassador to raise the profile of the anniversary year. A range of events took place throughout 2016, from adventure camps to locally organised "promise parties" on 16 December itself, at which Cubs renewed their promises. One promise [arty in Kings Lynn
9200-406: The organisation for "moving with the times" and others feeling the changes went "against the Scouting ethos of Baden-Powell". Further changes took place in 2003 when the organisation's Adult Training Scheme was relaunched to be more focused and targeted to the volunteers individual role as opposed to the more general training received before. The organisation also began to change in its focus, with
9315-596: The organisation in Northern Ireland. The name is also recognised by many due to its links to the popular children's programme Hey Duggee . Squirrels wear a red sweatshirt uniform and meet in Dreys organised within Scout groups. The initial 200 dreys were targeted to areas previously under-served by the organisation including diverse areas and those comprising a high number of low income households. The organisation consists of between just 300 and 500 members, called
9430-556: The organisation introduced the role of its national youth commissioner. The organisation's national youth commissioner works with its national leadership team; its chief executive, its Chief Scout, its chief commissioner and its chair of the board of trustees, to contribute to discussions on behalf of youths and ensuring key changes are subject to youth consultation. Counties and district units were encouraged to appoint their own youth commissioners for young people to have an opportunity to influence their activities. In October 2015, as part of
9545-581: The organisation launched an online package of activities called "the Great Indoors" and a national fund raising campaign called "Hike to the Moon" in aid of those affected by the crisis, as well as online briefings for adult leaders. Despite these initiatives, in May 2021 it was announced that enrolment numbers had fallen by over 100,000 (from 480,083 to 362,752), with the number of adult leaders falling from 156,000 in 2020 to just under 141,000, reported to be
9660-637: The organisation launched its Air Scout branch, allowing Scout Troops to specialise in activities related to aircraft and flying. The organisation continued to be headed by Baden-Powell, as its Chief Scout and chairman for life until he retired to Kenya in 1938 where he died on 8 January 1941. The organisation then appointed Lord Somers as its Chief Scout. Starting in 1944, the Scout International Relief Service (SIRS) sent teams of Rovers and Scouters to continental Europe to provide humanitarian aid ; ten SIRS teams worked at
9775-505: The organisation's chief commissioner. Kidd has been involved with the organisation his whole life, starting as a Cub and then as a volunteer, in various leadership roles including Scout leader, district commissioner and county commissioner. In the 2016 Birthday Honours , Kidd was appointed an OBE for services to young people. Kidd's term will end in September 2021, with applications open for a replacement in September 2020. Throughout 2016,
9890-425: The organisation's enrolments fell into a decline through the 1990s. This spurred a major review into the causes of the decline in 1999. The organisation found itself competing for young people's time against many other extracurricular activities and schools themselves which were increasingly venturing into the same types of activities. In addition, adult leaders became concerned with the growing litigation culture in
10005-603: The organisation's policy and Scout Promise requiring adherence to an organised religion and not accepting atheists. The matter was withdrawn without a division , and it took 60 more years for the organisation to change its discriminatory policy and accept atheists. In 1957, to commemorate fifty years of Scouting and the centenary of Baden-Powell's birth, the organisation hosted the 9th World Scout Jamboree , which took place at Sutton Park in Birmingham . The organisation's programmes went largely unchanged until it underwent
10120-541: The phased roll out of the section over a period of years until it was in a position to introduce the section formally, now under the name Squirrels , in September 2021. The name was chosen after field testing in communities underrepresented in the organisation's programmes, and because of the support of the Northern Ireland Squirrel Association that subsequently merged into the organisation after 25 years of independent operation alongside
10235-467: The predominantly atheist Czech Republic the Scout oath does not mention God altogether with the organization being strictly irreligious, in 2014, United Kingdom Scouts were given the choice of being able to make a variation of the Promise that replaced "duty to God" with "uphold our Scout values", Scouts Canada defines Duty to God broadly in terms of "adherence to spiritual principles" and leaves it to
10350-578: The promotion of international harmony and peace. Various initiatives are in train towards achieving this aim including the development of activities that benefit the wider community, challenge prejudice and encourage tolerance of diversity. Such programs include co-operation with non-Scouting organisations including various NGOs, the United Nations and religious institutions as set out in The Marrakech Charter . The Scout uniform
10465-457: The rapidly growing number of Scout patrols and troops, which had already formed spontaneously following the publication of Scouting for Boys and The Scout magazine in 1908. It was also the wish of Robert Baden-Powell to separate control of the Scout Movement from his book's publisher. It was felt it was not given the status it deserved, as the publisher C. Arthur Pearson controlled much of Scouts. The organisation grew and spread to much of
10580-429: The recently relieved Bergen-Belsen concentration camp . After years of trial schemes, in 1946, the organisation launched its Senior Scout programme for Boy Scouts aged fifteen to eighteen years to form separate patrols or troops, with age appropriate activities and badges. Scouts were prominent in their support of the 1948 Summer Olympics , playing leading roles in the open and closing ceremonies at Wembley Stadium and
10695-571: The recipient. In 1934, Scouters requested a change to the design because of the connection of the swastika with its more recent use by the German National Socialist Workers (Nazi) Party . A new Medal of Merit was issued by the Boy Scouts Association in 1935. Scouting and Guiding movements are generally divided into sections by age or school grade, allowing activities to be tailored to the maturity of
10810-658: The requirements of the WOSM to qualify a National Scout Association for membership. The Scout Motto , "Be Prepared", has been used in various languages by millions of Scouts since 1907. Less well-known is the Scout Slogan , "Do a good turn daily". Common ways to implement the Scout method include having Scouts spending time together in small groups with shared experiences, rituals , and activities, and emphasizing "good citizenship " and decision-making by young people in an age-appropriate manner. Weekly meetings often take place in local centres known as Scout dens. Cultivating
10925-416: The role. The organisation's Chief Commissioner, currently Carl Hankinson, acts as its Deputy Chief Scout and appoints a team of commissioners who are responsible for programmes in their respective fields. The board employ paid staff to implement their directions and policies. The chief executive, currently Aidan Jones October 2024, manages the work of the headquarters staff. In 2014, the organisation created
11040-507: The roles of Youth Commissioner and Deputy Youth Commissioner to work with the national leadership team to advocate on behalf of youth participants. Scouting Scouting , also known as the Scout Movement , is a worldwide youth social movement employing the Scout method , a program of informal education with an emphasis on practical outdoor activities , including camping , woodcraft , aquatics , hiking , backpacking , and sports . Another widely recognized movement characteristic
11155-464: The sailing events at Torbay . The first Bob a Job Week took place in April 1949, in which Scouts did small tasks for the public in return for a " bob " - colloquial name for the shilling coin (5 new pence) - to raise funds for the organisation and for C. Arthur Pearson's fund for the blind. Over the organisation's history, some boys had been challenged to justify their enrolment because of their own or even their parents' religious or political beliefs. In
11270-461: The same day, with a particular remit to support volunteers, grow and develop the organisation. The organisation hosted several major events during this time including EuroJam in 2005, hosting 10,000 Scouts and Guides from 40 countries, the 21st World Scout Jamboree in 2007 as well as playing a major role in the centenary celebrations of Scouting that same year, with celebration events organised on Brownsea Island . By 2010, census figures showed
11385-561: The strategy and change the then 17-year-old logo. The major changes included a new typeface for documents and literature from the organisation, new colours with an updated corporate logo. This was introduced to the organisation on a two-year transition period. As a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic , in March 2020, the organisation's face-to-face activities were suspended and weekly meetings had to be delivered through Zoom . To support this,
11500-423: The term patrol to refer to students who are selected to monitor safety in the classroom or to those students who assist crossing guards with safety of children crossing busy nearby streets . Another common term for this use of patrol is hall monitor . In Scouting , a patrol is six to eight Scouts (youth members) under the leadership of one of their number who is appointed Patrol Leader and supported by
11615-630: The theme of the event. In some countries a highlight of the year for Scouts is spending at least a week in the summer engaging in an outdoor activity. This can be a camping, hiking, sailing , or other trip with the unit, or a summer camp with broader participation (at the council, state, or provincial level). Scouts attending a summer camp work on Scout badges , advancement, and perfecting Scoutcraft skills. Summer camps can operate specialty programs for older Scouts, such as sailing, backpacking, canoeing and whitewater , caving , and fishing. At an international level Scouting perceives one of its roles as
11730-483: The time of The Boy Scouts Association's first census in 1910, it had over 100,000 Scouts. Scouting for Boys was published in England later in 1908 in book form. The book is now the fourth-bestselling title of all time, and was the basis for the later American version of the Boy Scout Handbook . At the time, Baden-Powell intended that the scheme would be used by established organizations, in particular
11845-438: The training to be as practical as possible to encourage other adults to take leadership roles, so the Wood Badge course was developed to recognize adult leadership training. The development of the training was delayed by World War I , and the first Wood Badge course was not held until 1919. Wood Badge is used by Boy Scout associations and combined Boy Scout and Girl Guide associations in many countries. Gilwell Park near London
11960-565: The unit's committee. In some Scout associations, the committee members may also wear uniforms and be registered Scout leaders. Patrol#Scouting The word "patrol" is derived from the French word patrouiller , itself derived from the Old French word patouiller meaning "to paddle, paw about, patrol", which is in turn from patte , "a paw". In military tactics , a patrol is a sub-subunit or small tactical formation, sent out from
12075-473: The young adults' section. The exact age ranges for programs vary by country and association. The national programs for younger children include Lion Scouts , Tiger Scouts, Wolf Scouts, Bear Scouts, Webelos Scouts, Arrow of the Light Scouts, Cub Scouts , Brownies , Daisies , Rainbow Guides , Beaver Scouts , Joey Scouts , Keas , and Teddies . Programs for post-adolescents and young adults include
12190-462: Was Hedgehogs and involved a programme funded by the Department for Education and delivered either as an organisation-led programme, a parent-led programme or a partner-led early years programme. The aim of the pilot was to explore early years provision with children of this age and determine whether this is a route the organisation should take. The organisation decided to proceed with the pilot and
12305-845: Was assigned to the Matabeleland region in Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) as Chief of Staff to Gen. Frederick Carrington during the Second Matabele War . In June 1896 he met here and began a lifelong friendship with Frederick Russell Burnham , the American-born Chief of Scouts for the British Army in Africa. This was a formative experience for Baden-Powell not only because he had the time of his life commanding reconnaissance missions into enemy territory, but because many of his later Boy Scout ideas originated here. During their joint scouting patrols into
12420-478: Was attended by the Duchess of Cambridge. In May 2018, the organisation announced a new 'Skills For Life' strategy as its focus to 2023. Its objectives are similar (with the same outcomes of growth, inclusivity, youth shaped Scouting and community impact), however there is now more of a framework to develop and achieve the objectives. Alongside the new strategy launch, the organisation launched new branding to support
12535-447: Was discontinued and two new sections were introduced: Scout Network for 18- to 25-year-olds, as well as Explorer Scouts for 14- to 18-year-olds. A new programme was introduced, complete with a new range of badges and awards covering a wider variety of topics such as Public Relations and Information Technology, developing practical and employability skills. The new badges drew mixed reactions from several public figures, with some praising
12650-592: Was not obtained until 1930. Girls wanted to become part of the movement almost as soon as it began. Baden-Powell and his sister Agnes Baden-Powell introduced the Girl Guides in 1910, a parallel movement for girls, sometimes named Girl Scouts. Agnes Baden-Powell became the first president of the Girl Guides when it was formed in 1910, at the request of the girls who attended the Crystal Palace Rally . In 1914, she started Rosebuds—later renamed Brownies —for younger girls. She stepped down as president of
12765-506: Was phenomenal, and quite unexpected. In a very short time, Scout Patrols were created up and down the country, all following the principles of Baden-Powell's book. In 1909, the first Scout Rally was held at Crystal Palace in London, to which 11,000 Scouts came—and some girls dressed as Scouts and calling themselves "Girl Scouts". Baden-Powell retired from the Army and, in 1910, he formed The Boy Scouts Association , and later The Girl Guides . By
12880-462: Was purchased in 1919 on behalf of The Scout Association as an adult training site and Scouting campsite . Baden-Powell wrote a book, Aids to Scoutmastership , to help Scouting Leaders , and wrote other handbooks for the use of the new Scouting sections, such as Cub Scouts and Girl Guides. One of these was Rovering to Success , written for Rover Scouts in 1922. A wide range of leader training exists in 2007, from basic to program-specific, including
12995-635: Was the first country outside the British dominions to have a Scouting organization recognized by Baden-Powell. The first Scout rally, held in 1909 at the Crystal Palace in London, attracted 10,000 boys and a number of girls. By 1910, Argentina, Denmark, Finland , France, Germany , Greece , India , Mexico, the Netherlands, Norway, Russia, Sweden, and the United States had Boy Scouts. The program initially focused on boys aged 11 to 18, but as
13110-602: Was unexpectedly used by teachers and youth organizations as their first Scouting handbook. He was urged to rewrite this book for boys, especially during an inspection of the Boys' Brigade (of which he was vice president at the time), a large youth movement drilled with military precision. Baden-Powell thought this would not be attractive and suggested that the Boys' Brigade could grow much larger were Scouting to be used. He studied other schemes, parts of which he used for Scouting. In July 1906 Ernest Thompson Seton sent Baden-Powell
13225-615: Was well established in the first decade of the twentieth century. Later, programs for younger children, such as Wolf Cubs (1916), now Cubs , and for older adolescents, such as Rovers (1918), were adopted by some Scout organizations. In 1910, Baden-Powell formed the Girl Guides , for girls in the United Kingdom which spread internationally as Girl Guides and includes age programs of ( Brownie Guide , Girl Guide and Girl Scout , Ranger Guide ). In 2007, Scouting and Guiding together had over 38 million members in 216 countries. International umbrella organizations include: World Organization of
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