Sea Scouts
Sea Scouts are part of the wider general network of Scouts. Children can join there local sea scouts at about eleven years old. In case of waiting lists it is advisable to contact your local troop to check the availability of places a while before you wish your child to join. Almost all Sea Scout groups have standard beaver and cub groups as well. It is a good idea for your child to join one of these groups first as they provide a natural progression to Sea Scouts.
Many people may feel that Sea Scout groups have to be based on the coast with ready access to the sea. This is not the case and there are many troops based inland. These groups undertake activities on rivers and also use facilities at local sailing clubs.
Being part of the wider scout network means that anyone joining will do many of the same activities that any other scouts will do. It is just that on top of these more standard activities there are many additional ones that are either water based or related to sailing.
Most Sea Scout troops meet on a weekly basis with terms closely linked to the schools year. Many troops will meet on a more regular basis during the summer months to make the most of longer evenings and better weather. Anyone joining the Sea Scouts can also look forward to annual camps. Not surprisingly many activities at camp are based around sailing and water.
Over 100 Sea Scout troops have developed links with the Royal Navy. This is termed as being "recognised" by the navy. In order to become recognised troops are inspected by the navy to ensure they meet the required standards. The advantage of being recognised is that naval facilities and equipment can be used by the troops. Being a Sea Scout does not offer a career path into the navy, but can help a child to learn more about what being a member of the navy is like.
On joining the Sea Scouts children are likely to find that the troop own a variety of different vessels. These are likely to be a mixture of dinghy, canoes and kayaks. Some will be for one man operation while others will be for groups. Training is supplied in how to use the different boats. Many troops also have windsurfers and training in windsurfing is also provided in these cases.
After joining and becoming proficient in sailing the boats your child may find themselves competing in both local and national competitions. This may be against other sea scouts or in competitions open to other sailing groups.
It goes without saying that emphasis is placed on child safety. Water based activities can be dangerous as well as fun and any child joining the Sea Scouts is expected to listen carefully and act on any instructions given to them. Instructors are often qualified Royal Yacht Association (RYA) and British Canoe Union (BCU) Instructors. Life saving tuition is another area where training can be given. It is also advisable that anyone wishing to join the sea scouts is a strong swimmer.
If you would like more information about joining the Sea Scouts then you can find it at: Finding a sea scout troop
What do you think?
Login or Register to add a comment or ask a question.
Sections
Home
News
Directory
Sports and Activities
Health
Education
Help Centre
Days Out
Holidays
Discuss
Shopping
What's on
Mum's The Word
Directory by County
Your Area
Privacy Policy
Terms and Conditions
Contact Details
| 
