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Scouting Ireland is developing an Early Years Trial to explore how we can welcome children as young as 4–5 into the Scout family. We are looking for a number of interested Scout Groups to participate in the trial and help to develop its programme.
The framework for the trial will be developed in detail over the coming months working with the selected Scout Groups to ensure that trial outcomes are measurable & comparable while adapting to local circumstances.
The trial itself (the ‘do’ stage in the plan–do–review cycle) is expected to run for several weeks once training and supports are in place. It is likely to take place between September 2026 (starting when feasible within individual Scout Groups) and April 2027. A second trial phase should be anticipated following review.
Early Years Trial - Register Interest Now
What this means for your Group:
The opportunity to allow more young people to join our scouting adventure through your Group.
- Resources provided - age-appropriate trial materials, plans, and training will be provided.
- Dedicated support - Programme and Volunteer & Group Support staff will support you throughout the trial, together with volunteer team support.
- Shape the future - Your experience and feedback will directly influence how early years Scouting develops in Scouting Ireland.
- The trial will run in selected Groups across the Scout Provinces - giving us the opportunity to learn from a diversity of experiences before anything wider is considered.
- Your voice matters - Scout Groups involved will help shape how this works and grows, guided by their own experiences, insights, and feedback.
What now:
- Click here to register you interest
- Applications close on June 12th.
- Expect to hear from the team by June 30th.
- Selected Scout Groups will receive briefings, resources and training before the trial programme commences in their Group.
- Also consider whether you can help to shape the trial framework and programme by joining the Early Years Trial Team:
Open Call: Early Years Programme Team Lead & Team Member
Terms of Reference: Team Lead/ Team Member
Apply Now: Team Lead/ Team Member
This is Scouting at its best: curious, adventurous, and always looking to make a bigger difference in the lives of young people. We can't wait to take this next step, together.
