The basics
You may know that parts of the Cub Scout system are based loosely on Rudyard Kipling's The Jungle Book. The Cub Scout pack is usually led by Akela (the wolf pack leader), and assistants may also take names from the story, such as Kaa, Chil, Bagheera etc.
The Pack is split into smaller groups, called Sixes, each one led by a Sixer, and an assistant leader, called a Seconder. The Sixers and Seconders are chosen for their experience, competence and good behaviour. Each six has their own colour, and each Cub wears a woggle of that colour to denote his/her six.
At the beginning of each meeting, after inspection and before any games/work can begin, there is a ceremony called the 'Grand Howl' and flag break. At the end of each meeting the flag is taken down.
Awards and badges
Cubs will work towards lots of badges during their time in the pack, probably without realising it they will take part in Scouting's progressive training programme which will teach them new skills and improve existing ones. Badges will be worked on in meetings, at camps and events, and sometimes they will need some work done at home. There are two distinct types of badge, activity badges and challenge badges. The activity badges are the opportunity to pursue hobbies and interests further, the challenge badges give a basic set of activities and training to be completed. There are 36 activity badges,14 staged badges and 7 Challenge badges, Cubs need to complete 6 challenge badges to complete their Chief Scout's Silver Award. This is the highest award a Cub Scout can get, and when a Cub achieves it they are invited to a special ceremony to receive their certificate.
If you want more information on badges click here. If your child wishes to work on any badges please speak to a leader, they may have resources or plans to do it already!
Camps and Trips
Every Cub will be offered the opportunity to camp at least once per year, this is often the highlight of their Scouting year and we encourage as many as possible to attend. Payments are usually asked for in the form of an initial non-returnable deposit, and then the balance nearer to the time of the trip or camp.
Cub Scout Promise
I promise to do my best
to do my duty to God and to the Queen
to help other people
and to keep the Cub Scout Law
Cub Scout Law
Cub Scouts always do their best
think of others before themselves
and do a good turn every day
Cub Scout motto
Be prepared