Between the ages of 9½ and 10½, it’s usually time for Cubs to move up to Scouts. Here’s what to expect when the time comes.
I’m a Cub moving on to Scouts. What will happen?
Moving on to Scouts is a really exciting time, but you might also feel a little sad about saying farewell to some of your fellow Cubs. This is an understandable reaction to change and it’s okay to feel nervous and unsure. Remember though that some of your friends will already be Scouts, which will help make the transition easier.
In the run up to your last night at Cubs, your Cub leader will talk to your new Scout leader – who you may have already met during joint activities. Together, they’ll make the move as easy as possible for you.
Although most Cubs move up to Scouts between the ages of 9 ½ and 11, leaders can be flexible in cases where a Cub may need a bit more time due to additional needs or exceptional circumstances. Generally, they’ll also have a think about when your friends are moving, and time things so that you can start your new adventure together where possible.
To get you extra prepared, your leader might tell you about the Moving on Award. Completing it involves spending at least three weeks with a Scout section, while keeping up your normal routine at Cubs. During that time, you’ll see what Scouts is really like – getting to know your new leaders, making new friends and participating in lots of new and exciting activities. Keep an eye out, as you might even spot some familiar faces from when you first started at Cubs!
I’m the parent of a Cub with additional needs. I’m not sure they’re ready for Scouts. Is there flexibility around the age they move on?
In the right circumstances, yes. Everyone at Scouts should face a similar amount of challenge, and everyone’s individual needs are always taken in account when making decisions. More information on flexibility and reasonable adjustments can be found at Inclusion and Diversity | Scouts. Generally, leaders will keep to the suggested age ranges, unless young people need a little extra time due to additional needs or exceptional circumstances.
When the time to take the leap does come, our visual resources are ideal for those who need a bit of extra help. They’re particularly useful for young people with additional needs – and young people on the autism spectrum – especially if prone to increased anxiety around change.
If you’re a Cub leader saying goodbye
- Regularly link up with the sections above yours regardless of if you’re working on the moving on process together – doing so will help you build relationships, plan joint activities and share ideas.
- Remind Cubs of former members who have since moved on to Scouts, to reassure them familiar faces are waiting on the other side.
- Encourage young people to complete their Moving On Award, which involves spending three weeks with their potential new group while keeping up their regular routine. Doing so helps them make friends and familiarise themselves with how things will work in their new section.
- Consider having a moving on ceremony to celebrate all the skills & adventures Cubs have learned during their time with you, and to help them process the change.
- For more information there is The Scouts Website
If you’re a Scout leader welcoming new faces
- Regularly link up with the sections above yours regardless of if you’re working on the moving on process together – doing so will help you build relationships, plan joint activities and share ideas.
- Go to Cub meetings, joint camps or outings to get to know everyone – leading on games and activities where possible.
- Work with Cub leaders to move new starters together, rather than by themselves.
- Keep new starters in pairs, so they always have a friend by their side.
