8 – 10 Year olds…
“The best part of Scouting is definitely the camps. I love every activity we do apart from swimming. They told us the pool was 24 degrees centigrade. Minus 24 more like!” – Callum, aged 9.
Cub Scouts, affectionately known as Cubs, form a vibrant and adventurous section of the Scouting movement, welcoming young people aged 8 to 10½. Building upon the foundations laid in earlier sections, Cubs embark on a journey filled with diverse activities, personal development, and community engagement.
Programme and Activities
Cubs participate in a wide array of activities designed to be both enjoyable and educational:
- Outdoor Exploration: Engaging in nature walks, camping trips, and survival skills training fosters a deep appreciation for the environment and instills a sense of adventure.
- Creative Pursuits: Through arts and crafts, music, and drama, Cubs are encouraged to express their creativity and develop new talents.
- Community Service: Participating in local community projects teaches responsibility, empathy, and the importance of contributing to society.
These activities are thoughtfully designed to promote teamwork, build confidence, and develop essential life skills.
Awards and Badges
To recognize their achievements and encourage skill development, Cubs can earn a variety of badges:
- Activity Badges: There are 38 activity badges available, covering areas such as Animal Carer, Artist, Athletics, and Backwoods Cooking. Each badge encourages Cubs to explore new interests and develop specific skills.
- Staged Activity Badges: These badges are designed to be undertaken by any member of the movement between the age of 6 and 18. They are completed in different stages, so after completing each stage, members are awarded the relevant badge and can advance to the next level while still in a younger section.
- Challenge Awards: These awards are often completed as a Colony as part of their normal activities rather than individually, and cover the range and aims of the programme.
The culmination of a Cub’s journey is the Chief Scout’s Silver Award, achieved by completing all seven Challenge Awards and an additional six Activity or Staged Activity Badges. This prestigious award represents a significant accomplishment and prepares Cubs for progression to the next Scouting section.
Structure of a Cub Pack
Cubs are organized into groups called Packs, each typically comprising up to 36 young people. Within a Pack, smaller units known as Sixes are formed, each led by a Sixer (an older Cub) and assisted by a Seconder. This structure encourages leadership, responsibility, and mentorship among the Cubs.
Regular meetings, often held weekly, provide a structured environment where Cubs can engage in a balanced programme of activities. These gatherings are led by a team of dedicated volunteers who plan and facilitate the sessions, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for all members.
Uniform and Identity
Cubs wear a distinctive dark green sweatshirt, paired with a neckerchief (or ‘necker’) in their group’s colours. This uniform fosters a sense of belonging and pride among the young members, symbolizing their commitment to the Scouting values.
Joining the Adventure
Paisley & District Scouts proudly host several Cub Packs, each offering a welcoming environment for young people to continue their Scouting journey. We are committed to providing a supportive and enriching space where Cubs can develop essential life skills while having fun.
Embark on this exciting journey with us and watch your child grow into a confident and capable individual!
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