The Scout Association : Official UK Website

What are Section Leaders?

Colette – Beaver Leader

“I have experience of working with Special Needs children through my job and so when a child with Special Needs wanted to join his local Colony, I was asked if I could help out.

I didn’t have a Scouting background but I thought it was important the child was able to join in, so I agreed. That was two years ago and since then I have progressed from being a helper to a Leader because I enjoy the teamwork and companionship so much.

In terms of juggling my job with being a Leader, I find that if you want to do both you will find time to do them. In a typical meeting, the helpers and I will look after about 20 6-8 year olds. We play games, run activities and work towards badges.

Seeing the children grow in their confidence, self-belief and happiness is more than payback for me. I would say to anyone who is potentially interested – just do it – it’s great fun!”

Section Leader
With your energy, enthusiasm and ability to inspire young people you will be responsible for making Scouting happen. Every Section (Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Explorers and Network) has a Leader. The Leader has overall responsibility for the running of the Section. This means planning and delivering the Balanced Programme with the help of Assistant Leaders and Section Assistants.

Section Leaders can choose to lead one of the following Sections:

Beavers (aged 6-8)
Cubs (aged 8-10½)
Scouts (aged 10½-14)
Explorers (aged 14-18)
Network (aged 18-25)

Leaders are responsible for the young people in the Section and for any adults helping to deliver the programme.

Assistant Section Leader
Assistant Leaders support the Section Leader in delivering the Balanced Programme. This can mean anything from helping to plan and run games or activities, or helping to keep records up to date. The responsibilities of an Assistant Leader will depend on their own interests and on what they agree with the Leader.

Assistant Leaders are supported by Section Assistants, as well as by other Assistant Leaders.

How do I become a Section Leader?

If you want to take part in the fun of Scouting, simply fill in and submit this form.