Frequently Asked Questions
We are always happy to answer questions, but below are some of the questions we are most commonly asked about joining and taking part in Scouting at 1st Chalfont St Giles Scout Group.
Where do meetings take place?
Most meetings take place at the Scout Hut on Silver Hill, Chalfont St Giles. If a meeting is taking place elsewhere, section leaders will notify parents in advance.
What age can young people join?
- Beavers: 6 to 8 years
- Cubs: 8 to 10½ years
- Scouts: 10½ to 14 years
- Explorers: 14 to 18 years
How much does Scouting cost?
Subscriptions are paid termly via Online Scout Manager (OSM) by direct debit.
Subscription costs help cover activities, badges, equipment, insurance, Scout Association membership costs and the running of the Scout Group.
Please see our Subscriptions page for the latest information on fees and what subscriptions include.
Additional events such as camps, trips and activities away from the regular programme may have separate charges.
We believe cost should not be a barrier to taking part in Scouting. If this is ever a concern, please contact us in confidence.
How do payments work?
We use Online Scout Manager (OSM) to manage administration, events, communications and payments.
Parents and carers receive access to the Parent Portal, where they can manage contact details, event responses, payments and other information online.
Can I manage more than one child on OSM?
Yes. OSM allows parents and carers to manage multiple children through a single account.
How are parents kept informed?
Most communication is sent through Online Scout Manager (OSM) by email. Parents can also access the OSM Parent Portal for programme information, events and payments.
What should my child wear to meetings?
Young people should wear their Scout uniform once invested. For some activities, leaders may ask young people to wear casual or outdoor clothing instead.
Please ensure clothing is suitable for the weather and activities planned.
Where can I buy Scout uniform?
When young people first join, they are welcome to wear comfortable clothing until they are invested.
We normally look to invest new members after around 4 weeks, once they feel settled, understand the Scout Promise and would like to continue with Scouting. Leaders will let parents know when the investiture ceremony will take place.
During the investiture ceremony, young people are presented with the 1st Chalfont St Giles Scout Group necker and their first badges.
Beavers
Cubs
Scouts
Where do badges go on the uniform?
Official badge placement guides can be found below:
Beavers
Cubs
Scouts
My child has lost their necker, woggle or badges. What should I do?
Please speak to your section leaders first, as lost items are often handed in after meetings or camps.
If replacement items are required, replacement neckers and woggles can be purchased using the QR codes displayed in the entrance hall of the Scout Hut.
Replacement badges may also be available from section leaders for a small charge.
Do sections go camping and on trips?
Yes. Camps, hikes, sleepovers, outdoor activities and trips are an important part of Scouting.
Activities vary by section and age group, with opportunities increasing as young people progress through the Group.
Can my child try Scouting before joining?
Depending on section capacity and waiting lists, young people may be invited to attend a taster session before joining.
Is there a waiting list?
Yes. Due to demand and volunteer capacity, most sections operate waiting lists.
Please see our Waiting List Policy page for more information about how places are allocated.
How long is the waiting list?
This depends on current section capacity, volunteer availability and the number of young people already waiting for places.
Additional adult volunteers often allow us to support more young people within the Group.
Can children join the waiting list before they are old enough?
Yes. Parents and carers are welcome to register interest before their child reaches the relevant section age.
Can parents help or volunteer?
Yes. As a volunteer-led charity, additional adult support helps us provide more opportunities for young people.
Parents can help regularly, occasionally or behind the scenes, depending on their availability and interests.
Do I need previous Scouting experience to volunteer?
No. Many of our volunteers join with no previous Scouting background. Training, guidance and support are provided.
How can I support or donate to the Group?
If you would like to support the Group through donations, sponsorship or volunteering, please contact us using the contact form or by email.
Still have a question?
Please contact us via gsl@csg-scouts.org or use the contact form on this website and we will be happy to help.
