Our Scout Sections & Activities
Adventure for every age. From Beavers to Explorers, there's a place for every young person in Salam Bedford Scouts.
Beavers
6â8 years
Beavers
Beavers is the first section in our Scout journey. Young people aged 6â8 explore the world around them through play, creativity and making new friends. Our Beaver colony meets weekly with salah breaks and includes akhlaq themes (good character) in themed programmes, crafts, games and community activities.
- Arts & crafts projects
- Outdoor nature walks
- Visits and trips
- Group games and challenges
- Community service activities
- Badge earning and celebrations
- Weekly themed meetings
- Seasonal events and fairs
Cubs
8â10ÂŊ years
Cubs
Cubs move into a more structured programme, building on skills and independence. They work in small teams called 'Sixes' and take on new challenges each week. With salah breaks and character-building akhlaq themes integrated throughout, Cubs develop confidence, practical skills and a love of adventure.
- Overnight camps and sleepouts
- Cooking on open fires
- Basic first aid
- Map reading and navigation
- Cycling and water sports
- Creative badge challenges
- Community projects
- Award ceremonies
Scouts
10ÂŊâ14 years
Scouts
The Scout section is where the real adventure begins. Young people aged 10ÂŊâ14 take on bigger challenges, earn Chief Scout's Gold Award, lead their own activities and develop into confident young leaders. Our programme includes salah breaks, Islamic stewardship of nature values, and akhlaq-focused leadership development. Scouts has some of the best adventures on offer.
- Multi-day hiking expeditions
- Kayaking and watersports
- Rock climbing and abseiling
- Leadership and teamwork
- World Scout events
- Duke of Edinburgh preparation
- International trips and jamborees
- Community impact projects
Explorers
14â18 years
Explorers
Explorers run their own programme under the guidance of their Explorer Scout Leader. Young people aged 14â18 plan their own expeditions, manage their own meetings (with salah breaks) and work towards prestigious national awards. With akhlaq themes guiding leadership and service, many Explorers go on to volunteer as Young Leaders.
- Plan and lead own expeditions
- Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award
- Volunteering in the community
- Network events and summits
- International adventures (Roverway, Jamboree)
- Young Leader qualification
- Emergency services liaison
- Entrepreneurship and social action
Frequently Asked Questions
When do sections meet?
All sections meet weekly during school term time. Specific days and times vary by section â contact us for details. We typically run during evenings on weekdays, with occasional weekend camps and events.
How much does it cost?
There's a small annual Scout Association membership fee (around ÂŖ45/year) plus weekly subs of approximately ÂŖ3-5 per session. This covers insurance, badges, materials and activities. Camp costs are separate but we keep them affordable. Financial assistance is available â speak to us confidentially.
What happens at the first meeting?
Your child will be warmly welcomed by our leaders and paired with a buddy. They'll join in games, meet other young people, and get a feel for the section. No uniform needed for the first visit â just comfortable clothes. Parents are welcome to stay for the first session.
What do scouts wear?
Each section has a colour-coded uniform: Beavers (teal), Cubs (dark green), Scouts (teal), Explorers (navy). You'll need a section shirt, group scarf (necker) and woggle. Uniform can be ordered through us or online. Don't worry about getting everything immediately â we'll help you build it up gradually.
Is my child safe at Scouts?
Absolutely. All adult volunteers undergo enhanced DBS checks and complete mandatory safeguarding training. We follow strict Scout Association safeguarding policies, maintain proper adult-to-child ratios, and risk-assess all activities. We're fully insured and regularly inspected.
What if my child has additional needs?
We're committed to inclusive Scouting and welcome young people of all abilities. Please let us know about any additional needs so we can make appropriate adjustments. Our leaders are trained in reasonable adjustments and we work closely with parents to ensure every child can participate fully.
Can parents get involved?
Yes! We always need volunteers â whether you can help weekly, occasionally, or with specific events. No experience needed â we provide full training. You could be a leader, assistant, executive committee member, or occasional helper. Even a few hours a term makes a huge difference.
Is it faith-based?
We are Muslim-friendly and our programme reflects our values. However, we warmly welcome young people of all faiths and backgrounds. We respect all beliefs and our programme focuses on shared values of respect, kindness and community service.
What if my child doesn't like camping?
That's okay! While camping is a big part of Scouting, it's not compulsory. We have plenty of indoor activities, day trips, and community projects. Many young people who were nervous about camping grow to love it with encouragement and peer support, but we never force participation.
Can my child join mid-year?
Yes! While most join in September, we accept new members throughout the year subject to availability. We'll help your child catch up and settle in. Some sections may have waiting lists, so register as early as possible.
What's the time commitment?
Weekly meetings run for 60-90 minutes depending on the section. There are occasional camps (usually 1-2 per term), day trips, and special events. Attendance is flexible â we understand family commitments â but regular attendance helps young people get the most out of Scouting.
How do badges work?
Young people earn badges by completing activities and challenges across six areas: outdoors, adventure, world, skills, community, and creative. Leaders track progress and badges are awarded at ceremonies. Parents sew badges onto uniforms (or we can help!). It's about developing skills and having fun, not just collecting badges.
Found the Right Section?
Join the waiting list today and start your Scouting adventure with us.
Join the Waiting List