Scouting is an incredible worldwide movement that shapes young people into responsible, confident, and capable members of society. If you’re a parent or guardian in Seychelles, and want to provide your child with opportunities for growth, adventure, and lifelong impact, then joining the Scouts might be the perfect answer!

Seychelles has a rich and vibrant Scouting tradition. Through a structured program of activities, games, challenges, and community service, the Seychelles Scout Association teaches important values like:

1. Leadership
2. Resilience
3. Self-reliance
4. Respect for others and the environment
5. Commitment to making a positive difference

Think of Scouts as a launchpad for your child’s personal journey. The experience goes far beyond camping trips and earning badges. Scouting builds young people from the inside out, helping them:

• Develop essential life skills: Scouts gain practical knowledge, critical thinking abilities, and a spirit of problem-solving.
• Embrace adventure: There’s nothing quite like the thrill of the outdoors, building survival skills, and exploring the beauty of Seychelles alongside fellow Scouts.
• Create lasting friendships: Scouting cultivates a powerful sense of community and camaraderie that often lasts a lifetime.
• Give back to the world: Community service is at the heart of Scouting, instilling in children the importance of contributing to a better future.

The Scout movement in Seychelles dates back to 1927, and throughout its history, has always emphasised serving the community and fostering growth in young Seychellois.

The Seychelles Scout Association strives to create a better world by helping young people realise their full potential—physically, intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually.

• Enhanced self-confidence
• Stronger moral compass
• Exposure to diverse perspectives
• Improved social and communication skills
• Opportunities for outdoor exploration
• A chance to develop leadership abilities

Scouting is open to both boys and girls within specific age ranges. Different programs operate for various age groups catering to specific developmental needs.

Here’s what you need to do to enrol:

Step 1: Finding Your Nearest Scout Group

The Seychelles Scout Association website (https://scouts.sc/) can help you locate a Scout group near you.

Step 2: Contacting the Group Leader

Get in touch with the Scout Leader for your chosen group to express your interest. They’ll provide you with details and answer any questions.

Step 3: Attending an Introductory Meeting

Your child and yourself can attend a Scout meeting to get a feel for the environment and activities.

Step 4: Understanding the Membership Fees

The Group Leader will clarify any membership fees or costs associated with equipment. (There is a annual membership fee of 50SCR)

Step 5: Filling Out the Application Form

You’ll need to complete an application form and provide relevant information about your child.

Step 6: What to Expect During the Induction

A simple induction ceremony marks your child’s official entry into the Scouts!

Let the adventure begin!  Becoming a Scout in Seychelles is more than just membership—it’s a passport to a world of enriching experiences and enduring lessons.

Seychelles Scout Association offers age-appropriate programs catering to a child’s growing abilities and interests. Each program offers specific activities and challenges:

• Cub Scouts (Ages 6-9): Emphasis on play-based learning, basic outdoors skills, and developing character values.
• Scouts (Ages 10-13): Increased emphasis on self-reliance, teamwork, and more complex outdoor skills like camping and hiking.
• Venture Scouts (Ages 14-17): Focus on greater challenges, personal development, and leadership within the community.
• Rover Scouts (Ages 18-24): Opportunity to apply scouting skills in the real world, including self-led expeditions and mentorship roles.

Scouting isn’t just fun and games – it’s a deliberate way to teach and enrich:

• Camping and Outdoor Adventures: Learning survival skills, appreciating nature, building resilience, and teamwork.
• Community Service Projects: Helping others, understanding social responsibility, and making a positive impact on the community.
• Leadership Development Programs: Gaining confidence, learning to guide others, and understanding the importance of taking initiative.
• Environmental Conservation Efforts: Instilling love for Seychelles’ unique environment, fostering sustainable practices, and contributing to conservation projects.

• Embrace the Scout Motto: “Be Prepared” signifies both a practical and a mental state of readiness.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions: Scout leaders are always there to guide and support.
• Step outside your comfort zone: Challenge yourself, and you might discover hidden talents!
• Make friends and have fun: Scouting is about belonging and creating shared experiences.

Scouting rewards progress through achievements. Scouts work towards achieving ranks and badges that symbolise their growth.

From guiding younger Scouts to organising projects, there are plenty of opportunities for leadership development as a Scout progresses.

Camps, jamborees, and competitions with Scouts from Seychelles and even worldwide broaden horizons and create unforgettable memories.

Aiding Scout leaders, mentoring younger members, and volunteering in the community keep the spirit of Scouting alive.

Parents and guardians are not mere observers in this journey! You can:

• Volunteer at events
• Help with fundraising
• Share your skills or expertise
• Encourage and support your child’s Scout journey

The Scouting journey in Seychelles is a vibrant adventure with a lifelong impact. By enrolling your child, you empower them to grow into the best version of themselves and contribute to shaping a better world.

Your active support of your child’s Scouting journey makes a huge difference. Here’s how:

• Attend meetings and events: It shows your child their journey matters to you.
• Volunteer with the troop: Help organize activities, chaperone excursions, or share your knowledge.
• Be a cheerleader: Celebrate achievements, big and small, and encourage continued participation.
• Discuss their experiences: Ask open-ended questions about what they’re learning and how they feel.

Family provides the foundation upon which Scouts thrive. Your guidance and involvement help children make the most of Scouting:

• Reinforcing values: The Scout Promise and Law align with the values you likely teach at home. Discuss their application in everyday situations.
• Facilitating conversations: Ask about their challenges and triumphs, helping them process these experiences.
• Celebrating victories: Recognizing badges and achievements boosts a Scout’s sense of accomplishment.

It’s understandable to worry about time. Here’s how to ensure a positive balance:

• Open communication: Talk to your child about their interests and workload to find healthy participation levels.
• Prioritisation: Help them plan their week, incorporating study time and Scouting activities for sustainable involvement.
• Flexibility: Encourage Scouts to prioritize schoolwork during exam periods, demonstrating that education comes first.

Seychelles is part of a massive international movement spanning cultures and continents. This  provides the potential for:

• International exchange programs: Scouts have opportunities to travel and interact with fellow Scouts worldwide.
• Global perspective: Fosters the understanding that people share common goals despite different backgrounds.

Scouting isn’t just a childhood activity – it shapes the person your child becomes, setting a trajectory for future success.

What is the minimum age to join Scouts in Seychelles?

• Most programs begin around age 6, check the website for specific age groups.

How much does it cost to join Scouts in Seychelles?

• There might be modest fees. The Scout Leader will have this information.

Can girls join the Scouts in Seychelles?

• Absolutely! Scouting in Seychelles is open to everyone.

How can I volunteer as an adult in the Seychelles Scout Association?

• Contact your local Scout Group Leader or the Association directly to offer your time and skills.

What are the major scouting events in Seychelles I can participate in?

• Our website and local calendar will list camps, Jamborees, and competitions.