General Enquiries:

Bill Marshall
(County Organising Commissioner)
47 Western Road, Brentwood, CM14 4SU

What is the Scout Association?

The Scout Association is a world wide voluntary youth organisation founded by Lord Baden-Powell. The United Kingdom has over 650,000 members as Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Explorer Scouts, Scout Network and Adult Leaders. Scouting is about being with friends, as part of a team, participating fully in the adventure and opportunities of life.

Mission Statement

The aim of the Association is to promote the development of young people in achieving their full physical, intellectual, social and spiritual potential, as individuals, as responsible citizens and as members of their local, national and international communities.

The Method of achieving the Aim of the Association is by providing an enjoyable and attractive scheme of progressive training, based on the Scout Promise and Law, and guided by adult leadership.

History

Scouting began with 20 boys and an experimental camp held during the first nine days of August 1907, at Brownsea Island, Dorset. The camp was a great success and proved to its organiser, Robert Baden-Powell, that his training and methods appealed to young people and really worked. In January 1908, he published the first edition of 'Scouting for Boys', issued in six fortnightly parts at 4d each. It was an immediate success. Scouting is today - the world's leading voluntary youth Movement.

Timeline (PDF)