Fundamentals in every-day Scouting

We have to be realistic about how our fundamentals are viewed, used and understood.

For those involved in considering, writing or training about them, they are deeply important.

For those trying to run interesting and stimulating programmes for young people on a wet Wednesday night – they seem a little more distant.

If the fundamentals are understood by our adult volunteers, then they become a very powerful force that helps volunteers to understand the programme and why we do things in a certain way. It empowers volunteers to make decisions about how Scouts is delivered to young people by understanding what we are trying to achieve.

We must accept that we have a range of people in Scouts. Some will find the concept of fundamentals appealing and helpful; others will use an intuitive sense of what it means. Many will have their own, personal way of describing what Scouts is all about. 

Some will use different vocabulary, but precisely pin down what Scouts exists to achieve; others will use a different vocabulary and some might not be able to express our fundamentals.

It's therefore very important for trainers to help our adult volunteers to gain a personal insight and understanding of the fundamentals of Scouting.

The Purpose of Scouting

Scouts exists to actively engage and support young people in their personal development, empowering them to make a positive contribution to society.

Our Scout Values

As Scouts, we are guided by these values:

Integrity: We act with integrity; we are honest, trustworthy and loyal.
Respect: We have self-respect and respect for others.
Care: We support others and take care of the world in which we live.
Belief: We explore our faiths, beliefs and attitudes.
Cooperation: We make a positive difference; we cooperate with others and make friends.

The Scout Method

Scouts takes place when young people, in partnership with adult volunteers, work together based on the values of Scouts and:

• enjoy what they are doing and have fun;
• take part in activities indoors and outdoors;
• learn by doing;
• share in spiritual reflection;
• take responsibility and make choices;
• undertake new and challenging activities; and
• make and live by their Promise.