The Scout Troop may consist of a number of Patrols. Each Patrol consists of a Patrol Leader, an Assistant Patrol Leader and up to six other Members.
If the Membership is mixed (see Rule 3.6) it is good practice to have at least one male and one female Leader. Guidance to Scout Troop Leaders with mixed Membership is available from the Scout Information Centre.
The age range of the Scout Section is from 10½ to 14 years old. There can be flexibility at the lower age to 10 years old and at the upper age to 15 years old.
Patrol Leaders are appointed by the Scout Leader in consultation with the Troop Leadership Forum and Members of the Patrol concerned.
Assistant Patrol Leaders are appointed by the Patrol Leader with the approval of the Scout Leader and the Troop Leadership Forum.
A Senior Patrol Leader may be appointed by the Scout Leader after consultation with the Troop Leadership Forum.
The Troop Leadership Forum may consist of the Patrol Leaders or older members of the Troop, led by the Senior Patrol Leader if one is appointed. Scouters are members of the Troop Leadership Forum.
The Forum arranges the programme of Troop activities and attends to Troop administration and expenditure.
The Patrol Forum is a meeting of all the Members of the Patrol called by the Patrol Leader to discuss Patrol matters.
Scouts wear the approved Scout, Sea Scout or Air Scout uniform with distinguishing emblems and scarves as described in Chapter 10.
The following minimum standards are laid down for Scout Troops:
Leaders - there should be at least two adults for the Troop, at least one of whom must hold a Warrant.
Training - the training of Scouts must be in accordance with the Association's official publications for the Section.
Camping - every Member of the Troop must have the opportunity of attending at least one Patrol or Troop camp every year.
The District Commissioner, with the District Team, is required where necessary to assist Troops to reach the required standard.
If a Troop fails to reach the minimum standard for two consecutive years it may be closed by the District Commissioner with the approval of the District Executive Committee.
If a Troop fails to reach the minimum standard for three years it must be closed.
