Introduction
Adult support is one of the elements of the Scout Method. Scouts Canada engages youth, involving them throughout their formative years in a non-formal educational process, using the Scout Method. Each individual is the principal agent of their development as a self-reliant, supportive, responsible, and committed person.
The selection and appointment of Scouters is an essential element of the Scout Method.
Our Standards
The minimum requirements for Section Scouters are:
1. All Colonies, Packs, and Troops must have at least two registered Scouters who are 18 years.
2. Companies must have at least two registered Scouters. One must be 21 years of age and all must be at least 18 years of age.
3. Rover Scouts are adult participants. Crews do not require Scouters. Where Scouters are appointed, they shall be at least 25 years of age.
4. For Beaver Scout, Cub Scout, and Scout activities,
- There must be at least two Scouters present at all times
- There must be at least one Scouter for every eight youth
5. For Venturer Scout activities, when Scouters are present, there must be two Scouters at all times.
6. Scouters may only serve in one position at any one time where there is direct contact with youth. Any exception to this requirement must be approved by the next senior Commissioner.
7. To count for these requirements, a Scouter must be a registered member who is fully screened and has completed Scouting Fundamentals training.
8. The minimum requirements for Section Scouters apply to all activities with the following exceptions:
- Troop Scouters may approve patrol-size groups of Scouts (two to 10 youth) holding day camps and short-term camps without Scouters present, providing their parents/guardians have signed a Scouts Canada parent consent form giving permission to participate in an activity without Scouters present.
- Venturer Scouts may hold day camps, short-term and long-term camps without Scouters present, providing their parents/guardians have signed a Scouts Canada parent consent form giving permission to participate in an activity without Scouters present.
9. The ratio of Scouters to youth may be increased depending on factors including, but not limited to:
- Location of activity
- Technical skills required of leadership team and participants
- Youth skills, attitude, capabilities, and fitness levels
- Scouter skills, attitude, capabilities, and fitness levels
- Familiarity of surroundings
- Time of year
10. In exceptional circumstances, where one or more Section Scouters are unable to attend a meeting/activity:
- Another registered Scouter shall be recruited to take their place
- If the Contact Scouter is to be replaced, it must be with:
- A Scouter who is 18 years of age or older, in the case of a Colony/Pack/Troop
- A Scouter who is 21 years of age or older, in the case of a Company