Changes to King’s Scout Award

Scouts UK has announced updates to the King’s Scout Award (KSA), effective from 1st June 2024, aiming to make achieving the award easier and clearer for young participants. The KSA, which is the top achievement for Explorers and Network members, now features simplified criteria designed to enhance accessibility.

Updated Requirements

From 2nd June 2024 onwards, participants aged 24 or younger must follow the new requirements outlined on the Scouts UK website. This includes completing 24 nights away, with at least 12 involving camping. Those who turned 24 before 1st June 2024 can still follow the previous criteria, available on a dedicated information sheet online.

Reason for the Changes

The updates aim to streamline the award process, reduce delays, and ensure more young people can achieve the award successfully. These changes also align the KSA more closely with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award, offering participants a clear path to both achievements.

Implementation and Transition

The new requirements came into effect on 7th June 2024. Scouts NI has updated their website to reflect these changes, providing clear guidance on which logbook and checklist to use depending on whether participants are following the old or new criteria.

Support and Resources

To assist young Scouts in adapting to the new requirements, Scouts UK has provided updated logbook templates and completion forms on their website. These resources are designed to help participants track their progress accurately and achieve the award smoothly.

Future Outlook

We expect that these updates will simplify the award process for current participants and attract more young people to strive for the King’s Scout Award! By making the requirements clearer and more straightforward, we aim to maintain the award’s prestige while making it accessible to a wider range of youth.

For more information and detailed guidance on the updated King’s Scout Award requirements, Scouts and Leaders are encouraged to visit the Scouts UK website or talk to your Sectional Team Lead.