❓ North St Ives Scouts – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

🏕️ About Scouting & Our Group

Q: What is Scouting?
A: Scouting is a worldwide youth movement that develops young people’s confidence, resilience, leadership, and teamwork through fun, challenging, and adventurous activities.

Q: What age groups does North St Ives Scouts cater for?
A:

• Joey Scouts: 5–8 years

• Cub Scouts: 8–11 years

• Scouts: 11–14 years

• Venturers: 15–18 years

Q: Where is the North St Ives Scout Hall located?
A: The North St Ives Scout Hall is located at Warrimoo Oval, Warrimoo Avenue, St Ives Chase NSW 2075

👩‍👩‍👦 Joining & Membership

Q: How do I join North St Ives Scouts?
A: Visit our 'How to Join' page for a step by step guide to joining North St Ives Scouts.

Q: Can girls join Scouts?
A: Yes! Scouting is open to all young people, regardless of gender.

Q: How much does it cost to join?
A: Membership fees are set by Scouts NSW, plus a Group fee to cover hall maintenance and activities. The Registrar  can provide current fee details.

Q: Is there a waiting list?
A: Some sections may have waiting lists if they are at capacity. Contact our Registrar for current availability. Typically units are restricted by the need for adult leaders - if you are interested in becoming a leader or joining in a committee member capacity, please review openings in the 'Parent Volunteering' section.

👕 Uniforms & Equipment

Q: What uniform do Scouts wear?
A: Each section wears a navy blue shirt with section-coloured sleeves (tan for Joeys, yellow for Cubs, green for Scouts, red for Venturers). All members wear the North St Ives Scout Group scarf (green with gold and red trim).

Q: Where can I buy a uniform?
A: From the Scouts NSW Scout Shop (online and in-store). Some second-hand items may be available within the group.

Q: What equipment does my child need?
A: A water bottle, hat, closed-toe shoes, and activity-appropriate clothing. For camps, a gear list will be provided (e.g., sleeping bag, backpack, etc.).

📅 Activities & Programs

Q: What kind of activities do Scouts do?
A: Activities vary by section but include camping, bushwalking, science and environmental projects, community service, cooking, games, badgework, and outdoor challenges. Older youth also participate in State and National events like Cuboree, ScoutHike, State Rally, and Australian Jamboree.

Q: When do sections meet?
A: Each section meets weekly during school terms, on weeknights at the Scout Hall or outdoors - our homepage has a list of days and times for each unit. 

Q: Do Scouts camp overnight?
A: Yes. Camps are an important part of the program, giving youth independence, teamwork skills, and adventure. Overnight activities are carefully supervised and age-appropriate.

👨‍👩‍👧 Parents & Volunteering

Q: Do parents need to volunteer?
A: Scouting is run by volunteers, so parent involvement is essential. Opportunities include becoming a Leader, joining the Parent Committee, helping at fundraising events, or supporting hall maintenance.

Q: How are volunteers supported?
A: Leaders receive accredited training through Scouts NSW. Parents can also take on small helper roles. Volunteering is flexible and rewarding. For details of open roles and an estimate of the time involved, please review our 'Parent Volunteering page.

🏠 Hall Hire

Q: Can I hire the Scout Hall for community use?
A: Yes. The hall is available for regular or casual hire, such as fitness classes or training sessions. Contact our Hall Hire Manager for details and available times.

🛡️ Safety & Child Protection

Q: How are children kept safe in Scouts?
A: All Leaders and adult volunteers must complete Working With Children Checks, Scouts NSW child safety training, and adhere to strict child protection policies.

Q: What happens if my child has special needs?
A: Scouting is inclusive. Speak to the section leader about your child’s needs — we’ll work with you to make adjustments so they can take part.

📬 Contacts

• Group Leader – overall leadership and program

• Chairperson / Parent Committee – group support and governance

• Registrar – membership enquiries

• Treasurer – fees and payments

• Hall Hire – venue bookings

• Fundraising / Webmaster – events and communications

All contacts can be reached via the dedicated emails listed on our About page.