A Maryport Scout group is to be one of the first in the UK to launch a Squirrel group.
The 2nd Maryport Scout Group is offering children aged 4-6 the chance to join the newly-formed early years section of the Scouts family of Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, and Explorers.
Scouts is the biggest co-ed youth organisation in the world and has been in existence since 1907, so the movement knows quite a bit about working with children of all ages.
This is the first newly-launched section in the last 35 years and in March 2022 the Maryport group will be ready to open its doors and meet potential members.
A spokesman for the 2nd Maryport Scout Group said: “There are plenty of reasons for children to join, as Squirrels give young children the chance to make friends, have fun outdoors, learn new things and earn badges through fun activities.
“The children who join wear a red sweatshirt uniform and the group’s scarf.
“The badges that can be earned are such as: be active, get creative, let’s celebrate, exciting experiments, feel good and storytime.
“It’s the best of Scouts and what we do best – learning by doing and getting into the great outdoors – combined with early years best practice of storytelling, routine and play.
“Just like all our sections, Squirrels helps young people gain skills for life – with a focus on the outdoors.”
Bear Grylls, the Chief Scout said: “We’re helping young people get the best possible start in those previous early years.”
The Maryport group is expecting a very high demand for places in their Drey and are encouraging interested parents to send their child’s name, date of birth and address to: [email protected] as soon as possible as places are expected to be snapped up quickly.
The Maryport Group spokesman said: “We can’t organise all this on our own and we are seeking help from anyone who may like to assist us.
“If you already work in the Early Year setting, please do contact us for more information. Even if you don’t we realise that you might be interested and full and appropriate training will be given as necessary.
“When you volunteer, it is something good for yourself and the community while adults can gain skills for the future, both personal and in the workplace.
“It is an opportunity to spend time with your own children (who are members) or gain experience of working with younger children.”
Appointments will be subject to satisfactory Enhanced DBS checks and appropriate training.
