Young Leaders Scheme

Are you ready to step up, lead, and inspire?

The Young Leaders Scheme is an exciting opportunity for young people aged 14 to 18 to develop leadership skills, confidence, and experience while supporting younger sections within the 33rd Oxford (Kidlington) Scout Group. Whether you are an Explorer Scout, a Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) volunteer, or simply looking for a rewarding challenge, this programme is designed to help you grow and make a real difference.


Why Join the Young Leaders Scheme?

Being a Young Leader is more than just volunteering – it is a chance to:

  • Develop leadership, teamwork, and communication skills that are valuable for life and future careers.
  • Gain recognised training and qualifications, including first aid and safeguarding.
  • Contribute to the Scouting community by helping deliver exciting activities.
  • Complete the volunteering section of DofE awards or other youth achievement programmes.
  • Earn the prestigious Young Leader Belt, a nationally recognised award.

Many Young Leaders go on to become adult Scout leaders or use their experience in college, university, and job applications.

For more details, visit the official Scout website:
Young Leaders Scheme Overview


How the Young Leaders Scheme Works

Who Can Join?

  • Explorer Scouts (automatically eligible).
  • Non-Explorer Scouts (DofE participants, volunteers, or those not in an Explorer Unit).
  • Existing Scouts (14+) can become Young Leaders but must wait six months before assisting their own section.

What Will You Do?

  • Support leaders in Beavers, Cubs, or Scouts by helping to plan and deliver activities.
  • Work towards training modules and missions that develop leadership skills.
  • Take on real leadership responsibilities, such as running games and teaching skills.
  • Complete four core training modules, plus additional optional ones.

For more information on training modules, visit:
Young Leader Training and Missions


Training and Missions: What You Need to Know

The Young Leaders Scheme provides a structured training programme designed to develop leadership skills through a combination of Modules and Missions. These work together to build confidence, knowledge, and practical experience.

Training Modules

There are eleven training modules, covering key topics such as leadership, behaviour management, programme planning, and safeguarding. While it is not compulsory to complete the full set of modules, we require Young Leaders to complete at least five modules:

  • Module A: Prepare for Take-off (Compulsory within three months) – Covers essential safeguarding, risk assessment, and expectations.
  • First Aid (Stage 4 – 4-hour training) – Develops basic first aid skills for working with young people.
  • Leadership and Programme Planning – Introduces leadership skills and how to organise section activities.
  • Two additional modules (to be agreed with leaders) – Based on interest and relevance to your role.

More details on all training modules can be found here:
Young Leaders Training Modules

Missions: Applying Your Learning

In addition to the training modules, Young Leaders complete four practical missions, which allow them to put their skills into action:

  • Mission 1: Game – Plan and run a game for a section meeting.
  • Mission 2: Activity – Plan and lead an activity, ensuring engagement and learning.
  • Mission 3: Programme Planning – Take part in planning the section’s programme.
  • Mission 4: Delivery – Organise and run a full session with minimal leader input.

These missions help Young Leaders gain real-world leadership experience, preparing them for future leadership roles. More details on the missions can be found here:
Young Leaders Missions

Recognition and Awards

Young Leaders receive badges and awards as they progress through the scheme. The ultimate goal is the Young Leader Belt Award, which recognises full completion of the training and missions.

For more details on awards and recognition, visit:
Young Leader Awards


What is Expected?

  • Commitment – Attend regularly and take the role seriously.
  • Participation – Engage with training and contribute to activities.
  • Teamwork – Work alongside section leaders and support younger members.
  • Wear Full Uniform – Young Leaders are part of the leadership team and should be identifiable in uniform.

Support is provided throughout the programme to ensure every Young Leader gains confidence and experience.


How to Get Started

Step 1: Express Your Interest

Interested? Contact your section leader or email: info@kidlingtonscoutgroup.org.uk

Step 2: Meet and Discuss

A short meeting will be arranged to explain how the scheme works and assign a section.

Step 3: Complete Module A Training

All Young Leaders must complete Module A within three months.

Step 4: Start Leading

Young Leaders will be assigned to a section and can begin their leadership journey.


Join Today and Start Your Leadership Journey

The Young Leaders Scheme is a valuable opportunity to develop skills, give back, and gain recognised qualifications.

For further details or to sign up:

Contact: Your section leader or email: info@kidlingtonscoutgroup.org.uk