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About Us

 

Founded in 1908, The Scout Association of Malta has always maintained a high and respectable scouting tradition. Its leaders and members are committed to further the ideals of Scouting in line with those as traditionally established by the Founder, Lord Baden Powell and as further developed by the  World Scout Movement. The Association is a forward looking organisation that enjoys great respect both locally and internationally.

The Scout Association of Malta is a member of the World Organisation of the Scout Movement as well as a  member of the European Scout Region.

 

Rediscover adventure!

Whether you are completely new to Scouting or you were a Scout yourself, you will probably enjoy sharing your child’s Scouting experience. Scouting is a great way for families to participate in new adventures and activities together – why not encourage older siblings, grandparents or other relatives to get involved as well?

Many parents become trained Leaders, but there are also plenty of other ways that parents can get involved or contribute to the Group without committing to a uniformed Leadership role.
Parents can help by:

  • Showing interest and encouragement
  • Providing transport
  • Helping to fundraise for the Group
  • Volunteering for duties such as Scout Hall set up or clean up
  • Joining the Group Committee and/or assisting with administration
  • Helping with DIY jobs or gardening at the Scout Hall
  • Organising a Group excursion to your workplace
  • Offering your unique talents and skills for a Group theme night

Don’t be afraid to offer your practical support, or to ask the Leaders at your Group how you can contribute.

The benefits of Scouting for your child and your family

There is no doubt that parents value what Scouting does for their children. Parents say Scouting gives their children more confidence, responsibility, a broader set of friends, a chance to pursue things they might not get to do otherwise, adventure and an extended family.

“They have fun and learn discipline too. It’s a good combination.”

“It’s not just factual; they learn social skills and about interacting. They have to remember things to bring the following week so they have to take a bit of responsibility for their own stuff!”

Many parents feel that their child attending Scouts gives them another reason to be proud of their achievements. Parents said:

“I don’t normally let Thomas carry dinner plates through – he can be clumsy…but when he cooked me a meal from scratch, I was so proud.”

“I think I probably wouldn’t let Ella do as much as she does, but when I see her at Cubs, doing things for herself and her friends, I’m so impressed. It helps you step back and let them get on with it.”

“Scouting helps parents prepare their kids for life.”

“It helps parents let go of their children.”

Gains to children were seen to be both immediate and long-term and all agreed that Scouting had made family life easier and they were nicer children to live with.

Personal growth through adventure

Children grow fast and revel in new activities. At a relatively young age they quickly become ready to look for new challenges beyond the family and school. Therefore, Scouts encourages all its members to ‘Be Prepared… for new adventure’!

Adventure means different things to children and young people of varying ages. For example, for a Beaver Scout, adventure could be as simple as their first day out in the country or attempting an obstacle course. For Cub Scouts it might mean camping in tents, attending an event such as a Cuboree, or tackling a half-day walk. As young people progress through Scouts, Venture Scouts and Rover Scouts, they can experience adventure through more challenging outdoor activities, performing arts, public speaking, leadership roles, service activities (at home or overseas), attending large-scale national and international events, and so much more!!!

In Scouts, children learn independent thinking, social interaction, leadership skills, problem-solving and responsibility. Girls and boys are equally involved, and as Scouts progress through the age-based Sections, developing independence, reasoning and physical strength, they take on more responsibility for organising and running their own activities and challenges. Non-competitive activities where children can develop at their own pace are terrific for building their self-esteem and confidence.

Caring for ourselves, each other, and the environment

A great milestone for children is when they learn to take responsibility for themselves and become concerned for others. Scouting provides an environment which fosters leadership and encourages tolerance, respect and consideration of others. ‘Helping other people’ is an important aspect of the Scout program, and Scouts are encouraged to give back to the community by participating in local, national and international events and service projects.
Environmental awareness and care has been an integral part of Scouting since it began in 1907. Numerous Scouting activities take place in the outdoors, which gives children and young people myriad opportunities to connect with and make the most of the wonderfully environmental diversity. Every year, Scouts organise and participate in a huge number of environmental activities. Many Scout Groups are also involved with national events such as Clean Up Day.

All parents are concerned about the well-being of their children, which is why Scouts gives child safety the highest priority.

The Scout Association of Malta must be satisfied that prospective Leaders are suitable role models for young people and are not likely to expose them to any physical or emotional harm. Suitability is assessed through interviews, reference checks and background police checks. Approved adult Leaders receive comprehensive and ongoing training in dealing with children and the various aspects of Scouting.

Scouting caters for medical, physical and dietary requirements by obtaining all the necessary information to allow Leaders and other helpers to take appropriate action. At least one person trained in first aid attends all major events.

There are lots of organisations in Malta that offers activities for young people, so why choose Scouts? Scouts’ age-related progressive program is unique – no other organisation offers such a diverse variety of activities and experiences across such a broad age-range. Children and young adults aged from 5 to 26 can join at any stage of Scouting and participate in a program that encourages them to grow through adventure by experiencing new challenges, making new friends, building confidence, taking responsibility for themselves, and being provided with opportunities to explore their own abilities and interests. Perhaps the most important thing, however, is that Scouts have fun!

Scouting encourages young people to become well-rounded young adults who believe in their current abilities and future potential, who are well-equipped to face life’s challenges, who are strong leaders as well as effective team players, and who can make a constructive contribution to the community in which they live.

The Scout program is based on the wisdom of over a century of Scouting experience from around the world, combined with a dynamic and contemporary approach which ensures that the program remains engaging and relevant to today’s youth, their families, and the wider community. Emphasising peace, education and understanding, Scouting transcends all cultural, religious, racial, political, age and gender barriers. The Scout Association of Malta also welcomes membership enquiries from those with intellectual or physical disabilities.