This is the online version of the introductory information pack that is provided for prospective members. It assumes that you would have read our introduction to Scouting pages.

WELCOME

When a child enters a Beaver Colony, they are joining the exciting world of Scouting. The Scout Association started Beavers in 1982.

MEMBERSHIP OF OUR BEAVERS

Beavers are usually mixed Colonies, for 6 – 8 year olds and generally meet one evening per week during term time, usually at local HQ’s. Some specialist venues are occasionally used and prior notice is always given.

Beaver numbers are limited and whilst Colonies are inevitably full, there can be a waiting list.

Please E-mail us for more information. bristolsouthdmt@avonscouts.org.uk

When places become available, generally through progression to a Cub Pack, they are offered to children from the waiting list.

BEAVER PROMISE AND MOTTO

The basic principles and values of Beaver Scouting are contained within the promise and motto.

WHAT DO BEAVERS DO?

The principles of the Beaver Scout programme are: -

LODGES

Our Colony members are arranged into lodges, each named after a colour. Each lodge member wears a woggle (the fastening for the neckerchief) of their lodge colour and this is supplied at enrolment. Each lodge consists of approx. six children, ranging in age with the lodge leader helping the younger members.

UNIFORM

Scouting is an uniformed organisation and Beavers are expected to wear their uniforms to all Colony meetings, when arriving and departing from events (camps etc) and for parades. They are encouraged to take a pride in their uniforms and do their best to look clean and smart. 

It is not necessary for them to have a uniform until they are enrolled.

All new members are expected to purchase theirs from the local shop click hear for a list of shops.

You can also order on-line from the Scout Shops web site at

Please label all items!

BEHAVIOUR and DISCIPLINE

LEADERS

All adults associated with Beaver Scouts, including all uniformed leaders are volunteers. The Beaver Scout Leader has overall responsibility for the Colony including all activities. The services of other adults are used as necessary especially for particular skills or activities. All leaders and adult assistants are checked for their suitability when working with children.

Each section (Beavers, Cubs and Scouts) has it’s own team of volunteers and run largely independently. There are close links with other sections that are co-ordinated by the Group Scout Leader and their Assistants. They provide vital support to all sections, develop scouting locally and liaise with the Group Executive Committee.

SPECIAL EVENTS (including District activities)

Beavers and their parents are automatically contacted about special events.

BEAVER SCOUT’S COMMITMENT

Members of the Bristol South District Beaver Scouts are required to participate, where possible in all the activities of the Colony. i.e.

·        Regular and punctual attendance to all Colony meetings (unless ill or holidays etc)

·        Attend St George’s Day Parade

·        Attend all Church Parades

·        Support all Group fund raising activities

·        Support all District events.

If a Beaver has to miss meetings e.g. due to schoolwork or sports events, this should be explained to the Section Leader. When other events are arranged (e.g. within the district) it is expected that Beavers will want to take advantage of various opportunities.

PARENTS OBLIGATIONS / SUPPORT

Parents/carers are required to bring their children directly into the HQ building and make sure that a leader knows that they have arrived. A child should never be left without a leader being present. Please ensure that your child understands that they should not leave our premises during a meeting.

At the end of a meeting or activity please be prompt when collecting your child. If you have made separate arrangements for your child to be collected by someone else, please ensure that a leader is aware of this.

The health and safety of all our members is of up most importance and a level of supervision to ensure that this is fulfilled is always required. This is best achieved with the help of the parents and carers of our young members. Please volunteer to assist at Colony meetings. Your children will benefit from your demonstration of commitment to their Colony. 

All new parents/carers will be required to complete the appropriate forms to ensure the safety of our young members.

It is hoped that parents /carers will assist us as often as possible.

There are many ways that other types of support can be given: -

 ·        By completing a form for ‘Gift Aid’ (where tax is claimed back)

·        By supporting the Groups fund raising events

·        By offering transport to various events and activities

·        By attending the Groups AGM and social events

·        By volunteering to assist on one of the Groups committee’s

 A great deal of work carries on ‘behind the scenes’. If you have some time to spare and/or have a particular skill please contact any leader. All offers of help are always gratefully received.

INSURANCE

A portion of the monthly subscription provides personal accident and medical expenses insurance for all uniformed members. 

There is also another policy that provides cover for persons authorised to be in charge of, or assisting with Scout activities against claims made by members under their control, or their parents/guardians, or by third parties, alleging legal liability out if accidents occurring during any authorised Scout activity. The policy also extents to protect those responsible for Scout fund raising events. It does NOT cover legal liability arising out of the ownership and/or driving of a motor vehicle.

MOVING ON TO CUBS

When approaching 8 years of age all our young members are required to take part in a 3-4 week link period where they attend both Beaver Colony and Cub Pack meetings. More information will be available at the appropriate time.

MTE 29-06-06