Scouting in our area is very popular which unfortunately means we can’t always offer a space to potential members as soon as we would like. To try to be transparent and open, we have defined the way we choose people off our waiting list.
We operate within the equal opportunities policy of The Scout Association and are open to all Young People, aged from 6 to 14 years, subject to spaces being available, and the Section having sufficient adults to run.
Single waiting list
We operate a single waiting list for the entire Group. So, this means that if someone is unlucky not to get a space in Beavers, they will however move straight onto the Cubs waiting list.
Getting onto the waiting list:
To be added to our list, please complete the Contact Us form on our website, choosing “I Would Like My Child To Join”. We will contact you in advance of a place becoming available so that we can complete the joining process and discuss any additional needs.
Selection criteria
When selecting names from our waiting list, we consider the following, in this order:
- Existing members of 78th Kingwood Scout group:
Young People who are already a member of the Group, moving up to the next Section, i.e. Beavers to Cubs, Cubs to Scouts. - Families who help run the Group:
Ultimately the Group does not exist without volunteers, and we feel it’s reasonable that someone who’s willing to invest time in helping to support the Scout Group should be able to include their child (or children) in that experience. So, Young People whose parents/guardians are prepared to become Section Leaders, Section Assistants, or take another formal role in supporting the Group. - Older or younger siblings of children who are Members of 78th Kingswood Scout Group.
- Children moving into the area who are already members of another scout group, directed via our District Headquarters
- Time on waiting list.
With the exception that newcomers will not usually be invited to a Section if their age means they cannot spend at least 9 months with that Section – however they will be given priority to the next Section up where possible.
If a place is offered to a Young Person on the waiting list and declined (or not acknowledged within one month), or the Young Person leaves the group and subsequently asks to return they will re-join the waiting list at the bottom.
If a Young Person fails to meet the standards required by their Section (in particular regularly attending meetings and events, but also other factors such as behaviour and paying membership fees) then their place may be withdrawn and be offered to someone on the waiting list.
If you feel your application has not been treated fairly, you are welcome to send us a message, addressed to the Group Scout Leader, who will make the ultimate decision about Group Membership. They will generally delegate responsibility for admissions to the Leader in charge of the Section concerned, but in exceptional circumstances may refer to the Executive Committee for guidance.