For just over a century, Graaff-Reinet Scouting has been dedicated to development of the young people of our town, district and country. By learning new skills and forming lasting friendships through the Scout program, generations of Scouts have left Graaff-Reinet and become some of our nation's leaders in their various vocations. BRIEF HISTORY ON SCOUTING
Robert Baden-Powell used boys during the
siege of Mafikeng in 1899 to do various tasks. He found them reliant and able to perform most tasks without question. At the conclusion of the siege he put his ideas in a book called 'Scouting for Boys' which became an all-time best seller in the English speaking world, second only to the Bible. Scouting for Boys is a manual of self-instruction to the youth of the world and constitutes one of the most influential manuals ever published. At present there are more than 40 million Scouts in 165 countries throughout the world belonging to the World Scout Organisation. The Graaff-Reinet Troop has been proud of its contribution to the lives of so many young people. Nationally, membership is open to all boys and girls irrespective of their race or religious beliefs. Unfortunately until such times as a lady volunteers her services as a lady Troop Scouter, girls cannot be part of the Troop in Graaff-Reinet. Membership is divided into two age groups: Cubs 8 to 11 years and Scouts 11 to 18 years. Adult leaders are all volunteers. AIM OF SCOUTING
The aim of Scouting is to add to the development of young people in achieving their full potential as individuals. As responsible citizens and members of their local, national and international communities by:
1) Developing their leadership skills
2) Developing their character
3) Training them as responsible citizens
4) Making them fit in body, mind and spirit
In Scouts, we use a unique self-education method by means of committing to the Scout Law and Promise...
THE PROMISE
On my honour I promise that I will do my best:
To do my duty to God, and my country;
To help other people at all times;
To obey the Scout Law. THE SCOUT LAW IS:
1) A Scout's honour is to be trusted
2) A Scout is loyal
3) A Scout's duty is to be useful and help others.
4) A Scout is a friend to all and a brother to every other Scout
5) A Scout is courteous
6) A Scout is a friend to all animals
7) A Scout obeys orders
8) A Scout smiles and whistles under all difficulties
9) A Scout is thrifty
10) A Scout is clean in thought, word and deed. SYSTEM OF THE TROOP
Scouts work in small groups called Patrols - the Patrols make up a Troop. Scouts achieve by following a progressive test and badge system - Learning by Doing. The Top Award in Scouting today is the Springbok Badge.
