Squirrels (4–6 years)

Squirrels is coming soon! We’re aiming to launch in 2027 (or sooner with enough volunteers).
You can join the waiting list now.

Squirrels is for young people aged 4–6 who love to play, explore and try new things with friends in a safe, welcoming environment.

It’s a gentle first step into Scouting — built around fun, friendship and simple adventures that help young people grow in confidence and independence.

Join the waiting list

We’re excited to be planning a new Squirrel Drey at Stroud Valley Scouts. The section is not currently meeting, but we’re building a waiting list now so we can contact families when we confirm our launch plans.

What do Squirrels do?

Squirrels is all about having fun, making friends and learning through play. When we launch, a typical term is likely to include:

  • Games and active play that build confidence and teamwork
  • Crafts, stories and creative activities
  • Simple outdoor adventures, nature exploring and scavenger hunts
  • Learning basic skills through fun challenges (like tidying up, helping others and trying something new)
  • Seasonal activities and themed evenings
  • Working towards Squirrels activity badges and awards

Squirrels can earn badges and awards by joining in, being kind and giving things a go — with lots of support along the way.

When and where we meet

  • Status: Not currently meeting
  • Target launch: 2027 (or sooner with volunteers)
  • Day: TBC
  • Time: TBC
  • Place: Stroud Valley Scout & Community Centre, Chapel Street, Stroud (expected)

If you’re not sure whether Squirrels is right for your child, you’re very welcome to get in touch and ask questions before joining the waiting list.

Costs, uniform and support

We work hard to keep Scouting affordable and accessible for all families.

  • Subs and payments: Subs for Squirrels will be confirmed once the section is launching, and help cover things like activity materials, badges and hall costs.
  • Uniform: Squirrels usually wear a red Squirrel sweatshirt, along with our group necker.
  • Keeping it affordable: If cost is ever a barrier — for subs, events or uniform — please talk to us in confidence.

Full details about subs, how to pay, uniform and the financial support we can offer are on our Parent Information page.

Moving on to Beavers

As Squirrels get older, they’ll start getting ready to move up to Beavers (ages 6–8).

We’ll make it a smooth, exciting step — with friendly introductions, joint activities where possible, and plenty of time to get to know the Beaver team.

Ready to join the waiting list?

If you’d like to add your child to the Squirrels waiting list or be contacted when we confirm launch plans, please use our online Join & Volunteer form.

Help us launch Squirrels

Squirrels can only launch with enough adult volunteers. Volunteering is flexible — give as much or as little time as you can, and we’ll support you with training and resources.

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Squirrels Section Lead – Vacancy

Could this be you?

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Adult Volunteer – Vacancy

Support the Squirrels team

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Adult Volunteer – Vacancy

Help with activities

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Occasional Helper – Vacancy

Support when you can

Interested in helping? You don’t need to have been a Scout before — just be friendly, reliable and keen to support young people.

Dwayne Fields proudly holds the title of the UK's 11th Chief Scout

An explorer, adventurer and TV presenter, Dwayne's been seen in BAFTA nominated Channel 5 series Race to the Pole, on BBC Springwatch, Countryfile, National Geographic and Disney+.

Find out more