Beavers are usually aged between 6 and 8 years old, though they can join from as young as 5¾. They make up the second section of the Scouting family, coming after Squirrels and before Cubs.

Beavers are full of energy, curiosity, and enthusiasm. It’s the perfect age to start trying new things, learning skills for life, and most of all—having fun!

We run two vibrant Beaver Colonies:

• Three Bridges meet every Monday at the Scout Hut in Gales Drive.
• Maidenbower meet every Thursday at Maidenbower Community Centre.

Our Beavers meet to take part in a wide variety of different games and activities and have lots of fun along the way.

What Do Beavers Do?

Beavers meet each week to take part in an exciting mix of games, challenges, and hands-on activities. They’re always learning and laughing together as they grow in confidence and curiosity.

Being a Beaver is all about:

• Trying new things and building new skills
• Having fun and going on adventures
• Making new friends
• Exploring the world around them
• Helping others and making a difference

Here’s a glimpse of the Beaver experience:

Exploring the great outdoors

Beavers love being outside—building dens at Stanfords campsite, crate stacking, hiking, or even joining in their very first sleepover. The focus is on local adventures that encourage teamwork, independence, and a love for nature.

Trying New Activities and Learning Life Skills

Beavers learn by doing. They might cook a simple meal, craft a bird feeder, or build something out of junk modelling. Along the way, they also develop important personal skills like:

• Integrity – doing the right thing, even when no one’s watching
• Initiative – stepping up and having a go
• Resilience – learning from mistakes and trying again

These skills build the foundation for confident, capable young people.

Helping others

Beavers work as a team to help their local community and learn about the world around them. Whether it’s a litter pick, a charity fundraiser, or writing kindness notes, small actions can make a big impact.

Who Leads Beavers?

Each Colony is run by trained adult leaders—many of whom are parents, grandparents, or carers. They’re supported by other adult volunteers and sometimes older youth volunteers, who help keep activities safe and fun.

Beavers are also divided into smaller groups called Lodges. Each Lodge is led by a Lodge Leader, usually an older Beaver who helps welcome new members, lead simple tasks, or take charge of a game. Everyone gets a chance to lead and feel valued.

At the start and end of each session, Beavers often gather in their Lodges and work together as a team during activities and trips.

Promises and Ceremonies

Joining Beavers is an exciting milestone. Every Beaver makes a Promise—a few meaningful words that help guide how they treat others and approach life.

When a child decides to join the Colony, they’ll chat about their Promise with their leader. A few weeks in, once they’ve settled, they’ll say the Promise out loud in front of the Colony in a short but special ceremony called an Investiture. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend.

Every Beaver’s Promise includes a commitment to be kind, do their best, and (if they wish) to live by their faith. Beavers can choose the version of the Promise that fits them best, and they’ll renew it on key days like St George’s Day.

The Beaver motto is simple and powerful: Be Prepared.

Uniform

Beavers wear core uniform of a turquoise sweatshirt and a group necker.

Uniforms can be purchased from the Scout shop in Crawley or the online Scout Store. You can ask the leader for more information on what and where to buy.

We don’t want anyone to miss out through financial hardship. If concerns about finances may prevent your child taking part in Scouting or some activities, speak to your Colony leader, as some assistance may be available in confidence.

Badges

Badge placement