Embedded Files
FREE taster session on Monday 23rd June 2025
Here's a list of answers to some common questions. Have a read through, and if your question isn't answered then make sure to ask.
We'll update these FAQs as new questions come in.
1. What will my child do at Squirrels?
Squirrels is all about having fun and getting ready for school. It's about making new friends and exploring new ideas in safe and welcoming environment.
Our activities all count towards earning a wide range of activity and challenge badges. By the end of two years with us, you might even have gained your Chief Scout's Acorn Award.
2. My child isn't 4 years old yet. Can they still join?
Absolutely! Although not just yet... The age range for Squirrels is from their 4th birthday until their 6th birthday.
However, you can still register your child on our 'waiting list' to secure their place.
We'll then send you an email a few weeks before your child turns 4, inviting them along for some taster sessions with us.
3. My child is already over 6 years old. Can they still join?
Absolutely! Although the age range for Squirrels is from their 4th birthday until their 6th birthday. So your child would be invited to join one of our older age sections:
Beavers for ages 6−8.
Cubs for ages 8−10½.
Scouts for ages 10½−14.
Young Leaders and Duke of Edinburgh's Award for ages 13½−18.
Adult Volunteers for adults over 18.
You can use the same 'Waiting List' on OSM to register for any age section.
4. What is 'OSM' and is it safe to use?
'Online Scout Manager' (or just 'OSM' for short) is our fantastic digital membership system. We use it to manage our waiting list and our age sections.
It also allows you to follow your child's progress throughout their Scouting journey: from Squirrels to Beavers, to Cubs, to Scouts, and then on to Explorers and Young Leaders.
You're able to:
Look ahead at each term's activity programme.
See all the badges your child has been awarded.
Securely update your child's personal, contact and medical details.
Sign-up for exciting events and camps.
OSM is fully-compliant with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). All our volunteers have completed a criminal record check, and only those with additional GDPR training have access to any personal or sensitive information. You can ask us to permanently delete all the information we hold about you at any time.
5. Can I help out for my DofE Volunteering Challenge?
Yes! We can support anyone aged 13½ to 25 who is doing the volunteer challenge of their Duke of Edinburgh's (DofE) Award.
Depending on your age:
Younger than 18. You'll shadow our Young Leaders (YLs) scheme with other Explorer Scouts of a similar age.
18 or older. You'll do the same learning as our adult volunteers.
Ready to join us on the adventure?
We can't wait to welcome you, and together let's make Squirrels a success! ❤
Report abuse