Being a Squirrel
We’re starting a new provision for four and five year olds called Squirrels, to help young people gain skills for life at a time when it matters most and where it's most needed.
Who are Squirrels?
Squirrels is a completely new provision for 4–5 year olds. There are plenty of reasons to get stuck in, as Squirrels gives young people the chance to:
- Make friends
- Have fun outdoors
- Learn new things
- Earn badges through fun activities
This new programme is currently open in 200 areas, with Squirrels Dreys launching throughout autumn 2021. We’ll get in touch when there's a group near you. Squirrels might not be open in your community just yet, but you can still register your interest in volunteering with Squirrels now.
Activities and what you’ll get up to?
As the programme grows, we’ll have hundreds of activities for 4 and 5 year olds. There are already plenty of fun Squirrels activities within our activity finder, if you’re looking for something to keep young people occupied. Check out the activities and be inspired to give something new a go.

Awards
Completing awards challenges you to do more, learn more and be more. See what’s on offer and start your journey to the top.
Uniform and Badge Placement
You don’t need a uniform to join. But once you’ve settled in, you’ll start speedily earning badges, and you’ll need to know where to put them!
Moving up to Beavers
Completing awards challenges you to do more, learn more and be more. See what’s on offer and start your journey to the top.
Squirrel Leaders
All of our leaders are trained volunteers, working to make sure Scouting is safe, inclusive and accessible. Some lead the Dreys week in and week out. Others visit occasionally to help run a session or drop in the share their skills. No matter how much time you nave to spare, find out about volunteering on your own terms.