Squirrels Leader and Assistant Leader

Great Barford & Colmworth Scouts

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Advice, Information & Support,Befriending, Buddying & Mentoring,Caring,Community Work,Entertainment,Fundraising,Teaching & Training,Youth Work,Building & Construction,Environmental,Volunteer Management

Basic IT skills - internet & email, Managing People, Organising & Planning, Reading & Writing

1. Working with Children: * Patience, understanding, and empathy. * Ability to engage children aged 4–6 (Squirrels) * Strong communication and listening skills. 2. Leadership & Teamwork: * Ability to motivate, guide, and support volunteers and helpers. * Teamwork and collaboration with other leaders and parents. * Organisational skills to plan meetings, activities, and events. 3. Creativity & Enthusiasm: * Energy and enthusiasm to deliver fun, engaging, and age-appropriate programmes. * Creativity in planning games, crafts, outdoor activities, and challenges. 4. Safeguarding & Wellbeing: * Awareness of safeguarding responsibilities and commitment to child protection policies. * Ability to maintain a safe and inclusive environment for all children. 5. Personal Development: * Willingness to learn and undertake training opportunities. * Adaptability to different situations, including outdoor adventures. Scouting provides training for leaders to run adventurous activities safely, often requiring permits or certifications. Some examples: 1. Outdoor Activities & Adventure Skills: * Camping & Hiking: Training in outdoor skills, campsite management, and risk assessment. * Water Activities: Permits for canoeing, kayaking, or water rafting through BCU (British Canoeing) or Scout permits. * Climbing & Abseiling: Indoor and outdoor climbing training, including safety, belaying, and first aid. * Hillwalking / Expedition Leadership: Training for longer walks or overnight trips. 2. Specialist Training Courses Available: * Safety & First Aid: Paediatric first aid, outdoor first aid, and emergency response. * Activity Permits: Leaders can train and gain permits for specific adventurous activities through the Scout Association (e.g., kayaking, archery, climbing, caving). * Leadership Development: Section Leader and Assistant Leader training modules, including programme planning, youth engagement, and team management. The key point is that Leaders do not need prior experience in adventure activities to start. The Scout Association provides training and support, so volunteers can gradually gain qualifications and permits to safely run exciting experiences.

Volunteering as a Squirrels, Beaver or Cub Leader is a chance to have fun, develop new skills, gain adventure experiences, and make a real impact—all while boosting your future career or university prospects. Becoming a Leader (or Assistant Leader) isn’t just about giving back—it’s an opportunity to grow, learn, and have fun while making a real difference. Here’s what you’ll gain: 1. Personal Fulfilment * The joy of seeing children gain confidence, achieve badges, and discover new skills. * The satisfaction of helping young people make lifelong friendships and memories. * A sense of purpose and pride in being part of their development journey. 2. Transferable Skills for University & Career * Leadership & Teamwork: Lead a team of volunteers, manage activities, and work collaboratively. * Communication: Learn to communicate effectively with children, parents, and colleagues. * Organisation & Planning: Develop programmes, manage schedules, and coordinate events. * Problem-Solving & Creativity: Think on your feet, adapt plans, and come up with fun, engaging activities. * Event & Risk Management: Gain experience planning safe and successful outdoor adventures and challenges. 3. Adventure & Specialist Experiences * Opportunities to gain permits for outdoor and adventurous activities like kayaking, climbing, or hillwalking. * Experience running camps, expeditions, and other exciting challenges that many people never get to try. * Build confidence in practical skills—from camping and cooking to first aid and outdoor safety. 4. Recognition & Career Boost * Volunteering is highly respected by universities and employers—showing initiative, leadership, and commitment. * You’ll have concrete achievements and experiences to include on your CV, personal statements, or job applications. * Training and awards (like the Wood Badge or activity permits) demonstrate tangible skills and commitment. 5. Fun, Friendship & Community Join a supportive team of volunteers who share your passion for adventure and youth development. Enjoy laughter, games, and challenges alongside the children and fellow leaders. Be part of a wider community that values teamwork, creativity, and making a positive difference.

Term time - Friday: 5 - 6 pm Occasional camps, activity days, parades - This will normally be on a Saturday / Sunday.

Further location details may be provided below.

Christopher Hutton

Jordans Close, New Road, Great Barford

MK44 3LQ

This is something that can be discussed should it be required and will accommodate any specific access requirements where we can.