Glossary of Scouting Terms
Introduction
Scouting has a rich history and its own unique set of terms and phrases, which can sometimes be unfamiliar to newcomers. This glossary is designed to help you understand the language of Scouting in Australia, so you can feel confident and informed as you support your child's journey with Belmont Scouts.
A
Akela
The title used by the leader of a Cub Scout Pack. The name comes from the wolf character in Rudyard Kipling's The Jungle Book.
Australian Scout Medallion (ASM)
The highest award in the Scout section, recognizing a Scout's dedication, leadership, and skill development.
B
Branch
A regional level of Scouts Australia, equivalent to a state or territory. For example, Scouts Queensland (QLD Branch) oversees Scouting activities in Queensland.
Buddy System
A safety practice where Scouts are paired with a buddy during activities to look out for each other.
C
Campfire
An evening gathering at a camp where Scouts sing songs, perform skits, and share stories around a fire.
Chief Scout
The Chief Scout is a ceremonial position often held by a state governor or other prominent figure, representing Scouts Australia at official functions.
Code of Conduct
A set of guidelines that outlines acceptable behavior for Scouts, leaders, and volunteers, ensuring a safe and respectful environment.
Cub Scouts
The section for young people aged 8 to 11 years, focusing on fun, adventure, and learning new skills.
D
Den
The meeting place for a Scout group. The Belmont Scout Den is where our sections gather for their weekly meetings.
District
A District is a smaller geographical area within a Region, typically consisting of several Scout Groups. The District is managed by a District Commissioner (DC), who provides leadership and support to the Scout Groups within the District. The District Commissioner is responsible for ensuring that each Group follows the Scouting program, supports leaders, and facilitates District-wide events and activities. Other key roles within a District might include the District Leader (who oversees specific sections such as Cubs or Scouts) and District Support Team members who provide additional assistance.
Duty Patrol
The patrol assigned to specific responsibilities during a meeting or camp, such as flag-raising, setting up equipment, or leading activities.
E
Endeavour Award
A special award for Venturer Scouts, recognizing outstanding effort in a particular area of the program.
Expedition
A planned journey or adventure undertaken by Scouts, often involving camping, hiking, or other outdoor activities.
F
First Aid Badge
A badge awarded to Scouts who have demonstrated proficiency in first aid techniques.
Founder's Day
A day celebrated on February 22nd, commemorating the birthday of Lord Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of the Scouting movement.
Fundraising
Activities organized by the Scout group to raise funds for equipment, activities, and events.
G
Gilwell Park
The international home of Scouting leadership training, located in England. The term "Gilwell" is often associated with Wood Badge training for leaders.
Group
A "Group" in Scouts Australia refers to the organizational unit that encompasses all the different sections (or Units) within a specific geographical or community area. A Group typically includes multiple Units, such as Joey Scouts, Cub Scouts, Scouts, Venturer Scouts, and Rover Scouts. Each Group operates as a cohesive entity under the leadership of the Group Leader (GL), who is responsible for coordinating the activities, administration, and overall management of the Group. The Group Leader works closely with the Unit Leaders and the Group Committee to ensure that the Scouting program is delivered effectively across all age groups.
Group Committee
The Group Committee is a body of volunteers, often composed of parents and supporters, who assist in the administration and governance of the Scout Group. They handle tasks such as fundraising, maintaining the Scout Den, managing finances, and supporting the leaders in delivering the program.
Group Leader (GL)
The Group Leader is the senior adult leader within a Scout Group, responsible for overseeing the entire Group and ensuring that each Unit functions smoothly. The Group Leader provides support and guidance to Unit Leaders and coordinates with the District and Region leadership to align the Group's activities with the broader objectives of Scouts Australia.
H
Hike
A walking journey, often undertaken by Scouts as part of their outdoor adventure program. Hikes can range from short day walks to multi-day expeditions.
Honour Board
A display board in the Scout Den that lists the names of Scouts who have received special awards or recognition.
I
Investiture
The ceremony in which a new Scout makes their Promise and is officially welcomed into the troop. During the investiture, the Scout receives their scarf and other symbols of membership.
J
Jamboree
A large gathering of Scouts, usually at the national or international level, where Scouts participate in a variety of activities and meet other Scouts from different regions.
Joey Scouts
The section for young people aged 5 to 8 years, focusing on fun, friendship, and introductory Scouting experiences.
K
Knotting
The skill of tying knots, which is a fundamental part of Scouting. Knotting skills are often required for earning badges and awards.
L
Link Badge
A badge earned by a Scout when they transition from one section to another, such as moving from Cubs to Scouts.
Lone Scouts
Scouts who are unable to attend regular troop meetings due to geographic or other constraints, but who still participate in the Scouting program individually.
M
Meeting Night
The regular weekly gathering of a Scout section, where activities, games, and training are conducted.
Mentor
An experienced Scout or leader who provides guidance and support to younger or less experienced Scouts.
N
Neckerchief (Scarf)
A triangular piece of cloth worn around the neck as part of the Scout uniform, often in the colors of the Scout group or region.
Night Hike
A hike conducted at night, often involving navigation challenges and requiring Scouts to use their night vision and other skills.
O
Outdoor Adventure Skills (OAS)
A program within Scouts Australia that allows Scouts to develop and be recognized for their outdoor skills across nine categories, such as bushcraft, camping, and water activities.
Order of Australia
A prestigious award that may be given to individuals in the Scouting movement for outstanding service to the community and the nation.
P
Parent Patrol
A "Parent Patrol" is a group of parents within a Scout Group who are organized to assist with various activities, events, and administrative tasks. While not an official Scouting term, the concept of a Parent Patrol leverages the idea of teamwork and shared responsibility, similar to how Scouts work together in patrols. The Parent Patrol might help with fundraising, transportation, event planning, or even providing additional supervision during camps and activities. This involvement ensures that parents actively contribute to the success of the Scout Group and that there is sufficient support for leaders and Scouts alike
Patrol
A small group of Scouts within a Unit, typically consisting of 6 to 8 members, led by a Patrol Leader. Patrols work together on activities, challenges, and camps.
Peak Award
The Peak Award is the highest award a Scout can achieve in their section, recognizing outstanding achievement, leadership, and commitment. In the different sections, these awards are known as the Joey Scout Promise Challenge, Grey Wolf Award (Cubs), Australian Scout Medallion (Scouts), Queen's Scout Award (Venturers), and Baden-Powell Scout Award (Rovers).
Promise and Law
The foundational principles of Scouting, which every Scout commits to during their investiture. The Promise reflects a Scout's commitment to doing their best, while the Law outlines the values and behaviors expected of Scouts.
Q
QBSI (Queensland Branch Scouting Instructions)
QBSI stands for Queensland Branch Scouting Instructions, which are the official guidelines and policies governing Scouting activities in Queensland. These instructions cover a wide range of topics, including safety protocols, program delivery, uniform standards, and leader responsibilities. The QBSI ensures that all Scout groups within Queensland operate consistently and adhere to the standards set by Scouts Queensland.
Queens Scout Award
The highest award in the Venturer Scout section, recognizing outstanding achievement, leadership, and community service.
Quartermaster
The person responsible for managing and maintaining the equipment and supplies for a Scout group or camp.
R
Region
A Region in Scouts Australia is a larger geographical area that encompasses several Districts. Each Region is managed by a Region Commissioner (RC), who is responsible for overseeing the Scouting activities within the Region, supporting Districts, and ensuring that the Scouting program is delivered effectively. The Region Commissioner works with other leaders and volunteers to coordinate events, training, and support across the Region.
Rover Scouts
The section for young adults aged 18 to 25, focusing on leadership, service, and adventure. Rovers often undertake challenging projects and community service initiatives.
Rovers Moot
A large gathering of Rover Scouts, usually held at a regional, national, or international level, involving a mix of social, service, and adventurous activities.
S
Scout Law
A set of principles that guide the behavior and decisions of Scouts, forming the foundation of the Scouting movement.
Scouts
The section for young people aged 11 to 14 years, where they develop leadership skills, outdoor adventure skills, and teamwork.
Scout Promise
The promise made by every Scout during their investiture, reflecting their commitment to Scouting values and principles.
Section
A group within a Scout group that corresponds to a specific age range, such as Joeys, Cubs, Scouts, Venturers, or Rovers.
SIA (Special Interest Areas)
Special Interest Areas (SIAs) are a key component of the Australian Scouting program, allowing Scouts to explore and develop skills in areas of personal interest. Scouts choose topics within areas such as Adventure & Sport, Arts & Literature, STEM & Innovation, and more, setting goals and working towards achieving them.
SPICES
SPICES is an acronym used in Scouts Australia to represent the six areas of personal growth that the Scouting program aims to develop in each youth member. The six areas are:
- Social Development: Building relationships, teamwork, and a sense of belonging.
- Physical Development: Improving physical health, fitness, and coordination.
- Intellectual Development: Expanding knowledge, problem-solving skills, and creativity.
- Character Development: Developing resilience, responsibility, and a sense of identity.
- Emotional Development: Understanding and managing emotions, fostering self-esteem.
- Spiritual Development: Exploring beliefs, values, and a sense of purpose.
The SPICES framework ensures that the Scouting program offers a holistic approach to the development of young people, preparing them for life beyond Scouting.
T
Troop
A group of Scouts, usually organized by age, that meets regularly to engage in Scouting activities. A Scout troop is typically divided into patrols.
U
Uniform
The standardized clothing worn by Scouts, representing their membership and commitment to the Scouting movement.
Unit
In Scouts Australia, a "Unit" is synonymous with a "Section" within a Scout Group. Each Scout Group is composed of several Units, which are divided by age group and program focus, such as Joey Scouts, Cub Scouts, Scouts, Venturer Scouts, and Rover Scouts. Each Unit operates as an independent section with its own leadership and activities, tailored to the development needs of that specific age group.
Unit Council
The Unit Council is a leadership group within a Unit, responsible for planning and coordinating the Unit's activities. This council is composed of members of the Unit, such as Patrol Leaders in the Scout section or elected representatives in the Venturer and Rover sections. The Unit Council ensures that the Unit's program aligns with the goals of its members and the broader objectives of Scouts Australia.
V
Venturer Scouts
The section for young people aged 14 to 18 years, focusing on leadership, outdoor activities, and personal development.
W
Wood Badge
An advanced training course for Scout leaders, culminating in the award of a Wood Badge and beads. The course emphasizes leadership and Scouting skills.
Y
Youth Leadership
The practice of giving Scouts leadership roles and responsibilities within the group, fostering personal growth and decision-making skills.
For more detailed information on any of these terms, or to suggest additional terms to include in this glossary, please contact your section leader.