Our Mission
Baden Powell Scouts Malta, its aims and mission
The primary aim of the Baden Powell Scouts Malta Association is not to compete with any other Scout Association, either in Malta or abroad. Instead, it shares the same ideals of the global Scout Movement as envisioned by its founder, Lord Robert S. Baden-Powell of Gilwell, the Chief Scout of the World.
The key distinction between Baden Powell Scouts Malta and other Scout Associations lies in its approach and application of the Scout Method. While other associations may have evolved, Baden-Powell Scouts Malta remains committed to Traditional Scouting. This association, though small, does not seek to grow rapidly but prefers to develop naturally, much like the original Scout Movement did over 100 years ago.
Commitment to Traditional Scouting
Baden Powell Scouts Malta upholds the principles of Traditional Scouting, which remain relevant, engaging, and effective in today’s world. Traditional Scouting preserves the original teachings outlined in ‘Scouting for Boys’, the foundational text written by the Founder.
We aim to educate both young people and adults through informal, hands-on learning, staying true to the principle of “learning by doing.” This approach promotes teamwork, community building, and leadership while encouraging Scouts to serve others and become responsible citizens.
The Training Approach – The Scout Method
In today’s Maltese society, where illiteracy persists despite significant social and economic progress, it is a misconception that one must be literate or proficient in modern technology to be a Scout, a Scout Leader, or a good citizen. The Founder himself surrounded himself with individuals from all walks of life, believing that experience shapes a person more than formal qualifications. This inclusive philosophy helped the Scout Movement grow rapidly during its first century.
Baden Powell Scouts Malta follows this same philosophy, emphasizing that Scouting is for everyone.
Preserving Non-Formal Learning
Training is a core element of Scouting. Unfortunately, some Scout Associations have drifted towards more formal, academic methods of education in recent years. This shift has resulted in a decline in essential Scouting skills and knowledge. Baden Powell Scouts Malta remains committed to the Founder’s original model of informal and non-formal learning, which is accessible to everyone and fosters social inclusion.
Quality Scouting for the 21st Century
Baden-Powell Scouts Malta is dedicated to offering quality Scouting rather than focusing on membership numbers. By adhering to traditional methods of instruction, which have stood the test of time, we ensure that Scouting remains a valuable and enduring experience. We also aim to cooperate with other youth organizations, with like-minded objectives, to further our mission.
A Lasting Legacy
Baden Powell Scouts Malta believes in diversity, the right to free association, and freedom of expression. In a world where creativity and innovation thrive through diversity, we continue to uphold these values.
In the spirit of our Founder’s final farewell, we strive to leave the world a better place when we are ready and ‘prepared’ to ‘Go Home.’