The Scout method

The Scout Method is the way we are going to deliver the One Programme to young people. It is an educational framework which is unique to Scouting.

The Scout Method consists of  eight different elements with interact to create a unique educational system.

What makes the Scouting methode unique is the way all those parts are working together. Each element of the Scout Method has a specific function, interacts with the other elements so as to reinforce the effectiveness of each one, contributes to the overall purpose to be achieved and is needed for the system as a whole to function.

The elements of the Scout Method are:

 

Learning by doing

Since its origins over a century ago, scouting has firmly held that young people learn best by actually doing and through practical task-based approaches. Learning by doing involves young people being encouraged to experience things first hand and draw conclusions from what they have experienced later. This also allows the young person to actively engage with the process and take ownership, with the assistance of their peers and adult volunteers.

 

Promise & Law

The Scout Law is personal code of living which young people voluntarily commit to when they make their Scout Promise. Through the practical experience of a code of living applied to daily life, the Scout Law provides a concrete and practical way for young people to understand the values which Scouting proposes as a basis for one’s life. The Promise is a personal pledge to do one’s best to live according to that code which every young person makes before a group of peers when he or she chooses to join scouting. By making the Scout Promise a young person becomes part of a global movement with over 30 million people.

 

Nature and Outdoors

Outdoor activities, adventures and the exploration of nature refer to the immense possibilities that the natural world offers for the development of the young person. Living in the natural world helps us to get back to essentials and helps in discovering things of genuine significance rather than the superficial which can dominate contemporary life. We should explore nature, learn about how the environment works and see ways in which they can make changes in their lifestyle.

 

Small Group System

The small group system is the basic organisational structure in Scouting. Young people experience adventure and challenge in small teams. Each small group, normally comprising 6-8 members, has a team leader with a role for every member. A number of small groups make up a programme section, with a representational/coordinating system. The team system is based on young people’s natural tendency to form small groups. The team system is intended to help young people to understand the concept of democracy through experiencing it in action. The small teams should ensure that the needs and interests of all are taken into account.

 

Personal Progression

This involves the development of knowledge, skills and attitudes in all areas and the development of the whole person as an individual and as a member of society. It can be called your person journey, in which each individual scout can progress in his or her own way at his or her own pace, gain confidence and recognise the progress made.

 

Symbolic Framework

Provides a setting for Scouting; through the use of symbols, themes, stories, notions the young person’s imagination is stimulated and activities are given a purpose. The very name of the Movement, “Scouting”, is an element of a symbolic framework adopted by Baden-Powell. Scouting represented adventure, close-knit groups, developed powers of observation, resourcefulness and a simple healthy life in the great outdoors

 

Young People & Adults

Scouting is a partnership between the young person and the adult, the adult provides support for the young person in groups which become increasingly self-governing. Scouting has long abandoned terms such as Scout Leader or Scout Master for adult volunteers. We emphasis the role of the adult volunteer, called Scouters, as one of assisting, supporting, facilitating and motivating. The Scouter is a role model, rather than a boss. Younger age ranges will require more facilitation and direction but this should be reversed in older age ranges to one of ‘mentor or coach’.

 

Service and Commitment

Service to others is fostered by the habit of individual good turns and simply helping each other out. Scouting does not place its members in a world apart, but strives to increase their involvement in their own community. The concept of commitment is central to scouting. It involves commitment to scouting’s principles, commitment to fellow scouts and to a Scout Group.