Scouts try their hand at entrepreneurship

Scouts UK have launched a new award for its young participants to work towards that rewards and encourages entrepreneurship.

To earn a badge, scouts must develop an aptitude and understanding of business principles, and demonstrate these by mastering challenges such as creating a successful scouting enterprise as part of a small group, presenting as a case study of a successful business that they are involved in running, or pitching a business idea to a panel of local business people, just like real entrepreneurs on the BBC programme, Dragons’ Den.

This is the first time the Scout Association has actively promoted business skills. However, values such as persistence, innovation and hard work are intrinsic to both enterprise and scouting, as Scouts UK’s Programme and Development Adviser, Steve Moysey, explains: “Scouting has always existed to promote leadership, creativity and effort and we want to apply these values to today.

“There has never been a more important time to encourage entrepreneurship in this country.

“We hope this scheme and awards will foster the business leaders of tomorrow that our country needs.”

The scheme has already been trialled in various districts across London. Emily from North London, is enthusiastic about the scheme: “I am really enjoying working towards this new award.

“Although it is hard work, it is well worth it. It’s given me great experience for the future. Richard Branson had better watch out!”

The new scheme has been delivered in partnership with Homeserve. The organisation’s Chief Executive, Richard Harpin, says the new award will drive future industry: “Homeserve is delighted to support the new Scouting Entrepreneur Award.

“I look forward to helping scouts across the UK develop the skills that they will need to drive the businesses of tomorrow.”