Comfortable clothes that you don’t mind possibly getting a little bit dirty. We are often outside or using paints or other messy craft items, so don’t wear anything brand new or precious. Trainers are great and in the winter months please do bring a coat as we may be heading out for some of the meeting. You can see what we’re planning to do each week by looking at the front page of our website and scrolling down to the programme section.

Nothing! Just come along wearing comfortable clothes and shoes that you don’t mind getting a bit grubby – just in case.

We don’t charge for the first week or so. Your leader will let you know when to start paying and you’ll get an email from our membership system with instructions on how to set it all up. You can find out lots more about costs here.

The Scouting Centre, Shepway Close, CT19 5SJ.

We’re along a short alley way at the end of the old Youth Club field (looks like a waste land at the moment!). There is a brown sign on the sign post pointing to us (says Scouting Centre) and the alley is lit. The building is very large, so I’m sure you’ll see it from the road.

If driving, park in Shepway Close – please do not park in Peto Close as this is for residents only.

Sounds silly, but the front door may not open! It has a security/safety door entry system. If it’s not open, please press the buzzer (choose Reception from the menu) and someone will be with you.

You’ll walk into the shop area first. Head through the shop and turn left into the ‘airlock’. You can then head straight into the main hall. This area can be busy, so don’t worry, just head to the other end. Come into the main hall and you’ll see the reception desk to the right. They’ll be a leader (one of our volunteer adults) waiting here to greet you.

You’ll be greeted and the leader will introduce themselves and some of the other leaders. They’ll ask parents to complete a few bits of information on our joining paperwork and then they’ll sort out the young person and get them involved in the programme.

‘Newbies’ will usually be buddied up with another young person who’s been around for a while. We try to match people that the newbie may know from school or goes to the same school where possible. If there are a large number of newbies, leaders will often run an activity and encourage them to join in together.

You are very welcome to stay and watch for as long as you like – a few minutes or the entire evening, it’s up to you. We do recommend leaving the older young people a bit quicker as this really does usually help them settle. We know it can be a bit disconcerting for parents though, so we do understand!

Come back a little bit before the end of the meeting time and come back into the hall. They’ll often be tea/coffee that you are very welcome to help yourself too. We’ll only let Beavers & Cubs leave the hall if we can see an adult to collect them, so please do come in.

Hopefully we’ll then see you next week and everything will be a little less scary!