Be prepared for adventure

Purpose, Principles and Method

Unity requires all members of a movement to adhere to the fundamental elements defined as being the basis for its existence. The Fundamentals of Scouting are the Purpose of Scouting (including the Mission of Scouting), the Principles of Scouting and the Scout Method.

The Fundamentals of Scouting | © Scouts Australia

Purpose of Scouting

Scouting provides young people, of all ages, gender and ability, with challenging and adventurous opportunities so they may grow and develop in the five areas of personal growth outlined in the Purpose of Scouting.

Principles of Scouting

Scouting is based on three broad Principles that represent the movement’s fundamental beliefs. They are known as Duty to God, Duty to Others and Duty to Self. All Scouts commit to a code of living as expressed in the Australian Scout Promise and Law, which embodies the Principles of Scouting.

Scout Method

The Scout Method has eight elements that support the development of young people. The Method is unique to Scouting and Scouting is unique because of the way in which the Method educates and develops young people. The Method is the same across all age sections, providing for continuous development.