Frequently Asked Questions
New to Scouting?
Got a burning question that you think is probably obvious?
Don't worry! Have a look through our FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS below...
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Q- What is the scouting movement?
A- Good question, let's start at the beginning. You have probably heard of the founder of the scouting movement, Lord Bayden Powell. He founded the scouting movement in 1907. The movement slowly grew, and spread throughout the world. A timeline of scouting milestones can be found here. In 1947, 40 years after the founding of scouting, 7th Banbury was founded, and that is where our story begins!
Taken from the UK Scouting website,
Scouts is all about fun, challenges and adventure.
We are the UK's biggest mixed youth organisation. We change lives by offering 6- to 25-year-olds fun and challenging activities, unique experiences, everyday adventure and the chance to help others so that we make a positive impact in communities. Scouts helps children and young adults reach their full potential. Scouts develop skills including teamwork, time management, leadership, initiative, planning, communication, self-motivation, cultural awareness and commitment. We help young people to get jobs, save lives and even change the world.
More information on the history of Scouting can be found here, and information on the movement today in the UK can be found here.
Q- Are there really 7 scout groups in Banbury?
A- Put simply, no, not any more. However there used to be 12 numbered groups, and several satellite village-based groups, and we were the 7th group to be founded in Banbury, hence giving us the name of 7th Banbury. You can find out more about the origins of our group here.
Q- How can my son or daughter join 7th Banbury Beavers/Cubs/Scouts?
A- If you would like more details of how your child can get involved, please contact the relevant Section Leader. Their details can be found here.
Q- My local Group has a waiting list, why is this?
A- (Taken from scouts.org.uk)
We have 30,000 young people on waiting lists around the country due to a shortage of adults.
If there is a waiting list for the Group your child hopes to attend you could think about joining us yourself. We always welcome any help from parents. With more adult help our waiting lists for young people would be shorter and more young people will be able to experience the adventure of Scouting.
Q- Will my child be insured when on Scout activities?
A- (Taken from scouts.org.uk)
Yes. All Members are covered under our Personal Accident and Medical Expenses Policy.
Q- How much does it cost to send my child to Scouts?
A- (Taken from scouts.org.uk)
This will vary depending on your Group but it is likely to be between £50 and £100 per year which is collected weekly, monthly, termly or annually depending on local arrangements. This fee usually covers the cost of the hire or upkeep of the meeting place and so on. Trips, camps and activities are usually charged separately. Cost should not be a barrier to anyone taking part in Scouting and if this is an issue, you can speak to the local Section Leader in confidence.
Q- What do Scouts wear and where can I buy it?
A- (Taken from scouts.org.uk)
Scouts wear a uniform of blue trousers and a coloured sweatshirt, shirt or polo shirt (which varies depending on the age range). All Scouts (adults and young people) wear a coloured scarf or necker, the colour of which varies depending on the Group. Uniform can either be bought from Scout Shops Ltd or a local supplier (the adults in your child's Group will be able to give you more information).
Q- Is there a planned programme of activities for Scouts?
A- (Taken from scouts.org.uk)
Yes. Behind the fun of Scouting, there is an educational programme which was completely redesigned in 2001 following years of work with educationalists and youth workers. Whilst Groups will undertake different activities from each other, the main programme areas are: Outdoor and Adventure; Global; Community; Fit for Life; Creative; and Beliefs and Attitudes. Group Leaders are trained to deliver this programme.
Q- My child is a Scout but we are moving house, how can I enrol him in a new Group?
A- (Taken from scouts.org.uk)
Firstly, you will need to tell your child’s current Group that you are leaving the area. Then call the Scout Information Centre on 0845 300 1818 and we will be able to put you in touch with a volunteer in the area you are moving to. If you are moving abroad we will be able to give you the details of the Scout head office in this country.