Scouts is for big kids too
Scout Leaders are responsible for helping to devise and deliver programs that support young people in reaching their potential. Not only do Leaders help youth members develop valuable skills in an environment of responsible risk-taking, but they themselves develop a variety of skills in leadership, project management and event planning.
No prior experience is necessary to become a Scout Leader, but they are required to be of good character and need to pass a police check and obtain a Working With Children Check number.
All Leaders undergo training on all aspects of youth leadership, program planning, safety, outdoor skills and other requirements.
Wood Badge and Gilwell Scarf
On completing the Advanced Leadership Course and project, Leaders are presented with their Wood Badge and invested into the Gilwell Scout Group by being presented with their Gilwell Scarf.
The Wood Badge was invented by Baden-Powell in 1919 using beads he obtained during military service in (now) South Africa in 1888 while the Gilwell Scarf bares a patch of Maclaren Tartan in honour of the Maclaren decendent who donated the money used to purchase Gilwell Hall in England for Scouting purposes.
Leaders are required at every section meeting where youth are present but also fulfil roles of support and guidance as
-
Regional Commissioners
-
Group Leaders
-
District Leaders
-
District Commissioners
as well as using expertise in other niche roles such as Bushwalking, Archery, Abseiling, Environment, Pilots, Sailing and any other role that the youth benefit from expert guidance in.
“Being a Leader is a great way for me to participate in Scouts alongside my children, not to mention the feeling of pride I get in making a positive impact on the lives of young people.”