Fundamentals of Scouting
Purpose of Scouting
Develop the whole person
Scouting provides young people, of all ages, gender and ability, with challenging and adventurous opportunities so they may grow and develop in the five areas of personal growth outlined in the Purpose of Scouting.
The Purpose of Scouting is to contribute to the development of young people in achieving their full physical, intellectual, emotional, social and spiritual potentials as individuals, as responsible citizens and as members of their local, national and international communities.
Scouting is non-formal education and complements the formal education of young people. Scouting aims to assist with the development of the whole person. The Mission of Scouting supports this.
The Mission of Scouting is to contribute to the education of young people through a value system based on the Scout Promise & Law to help build a better world where people are self-fulfilled as individuals and play a constructive role in society.
Spices
Taken directly from the Purpose of Scouting, the areas of social, physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual make up the fundamental basis of a person’s character, making six areas in total. This concept is called SPICES. It is about fostering personal growth in all the key components of development.
Social
development
One’s relationships with others and understanding differences between people in small groups of peers, as well as issues of diversity and inclusion in larger communities.
Intellectual development
One’s ability to think, plan, innovate, review and be creative, applying information, knowledge and skills in new and different circumstances.
Emotional development
One’s understanding of emotions. It includes awareness, expressing emotions in a positive manner, as well as respecting and supporting the emotional needs of others.
Physical development
One’s understanding of their body, including active care for health, wellbeing and the pursuit of physical skills and fitness.
Characte development
One’s pursuit of their personal best. It includes positivity, responsibility, respect and making an effort beyond what benefits the self.
Spiritual development
One’s development of their beliefs regarding their purpose in life, connection to others and place in the world around them, while respecting the spiritual choices of others.