Inspire a Generation
Applications Open for October* February, and March!(October spaces only available for UK applicants) |
Ready for an Adventure?
Every year our team of volunteers work hard to support over 100,000 young people to experience adventure. You just need to bring lots of energy, a positive can do attitude and willingness to be outside in the great British weather and we’ll provide the rest!
There are only a limited number of places available on each placement. You’ll get a full training programme in how to instruct activities and work with young people as well as being provided with uniform, food, accommodation, out of pocket expenses and an amazing experience seeing young people develop. Most important though you’ll make lifelong friends and develop some amazing skills that will look great on your CV or university/job application
"Scout Adventures is a great place to volunteer! There is always an opportunity to learn something new and nothing is more rewarding than being in the great outdoors and helping young people!"
The Journey to Volunteering
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Step 1 ApplyingYou can apply using our online application form. You’ll need to include details of someone to write you a letter of recommendation – this should be an adult (who is not related to you) who can provide a statement about your character and suitability to join our team. A scout leader, teacher or sports coach would be ideal as they will understand the type of role you will be volunteering for. When we receive your application and letter of recommendation we will review them and if everything looks good then we’ll invite you to an online interview. The interview takes 15 to 20 minutes and is an opportunity for us to get to know you a little more and for you to ask us any questions – you don’t need to prepare anything, but please try to find somewhere quiet with a strong internet connection. Need a hand? Get in touch with us on volunteering@scoutadventures.org.uk. Step 2 ArrivalAll of our Full Time volunteers start their time with us by completing an initial training course, normally held at Gilwell Park. Once the application process is complete we’ll let you know which course dates we’ve assigned you to. We’ll then work with you to plan your travel arrangements – if you need a visa this includes supplying you with a Certificate of Sponsorship. Normally you would arrive over the weekend before training starts; we'll organise transport to collect you from the airport or train station.
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Step 3 Initial TrainingThe course lasts 10 days and has 30 to 40 participants. You’ll join a team of 11 other volunteers who will be your group – each group has a mentor (normally a returning volunteer), and a trainer (one of our permanent team). The course is very practical and you will be expected to take an active part in all of the sessions. At the end of the course we celebrate with a campfire and we invest you into the Scout Adventures family. See what training is all about
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What would I be doing if I wasn't volunteering?
What will you be doing if you don't volunteer? Find out why some of our previous volunteers chose to volunteer and have the adventure of a lifetime.
Volunteering is not just about helping others – it goes both ways. It improves your wellbeing, gives you skills for life and helps you make new friends and memories to last a lifetime.
"I never thought that I was capable to do all the things that I can do now, I learned more about myself" Domingo, Peru.
"I’m constantly pushed out of my comfort zone in the best way possible. Most of the work is different from anything I’ve ever done before, and that’s the best part!" Andrea, Denmark
Available Placements
To apply you will need to complete an application form and submit copies of the information below as a PDF or JPG file (the form contains instructions for how to do this):
- Membership confirmation from your National Scout/Guide Organisation (only required if you're a current Scout or Girl Guide)
- Reference letter – letter of recommendation from school/university or employer
- A photo of you
- A short 2 minute video of you introducing yourself.
We need all of the items above before we can continue your application - and you can start preparing these now even if you have not filled in the form. Please note you must be over 18 when you apply for your visa - 3 months before you start your training, and must have a good standard of English.
Need a hand? Get in touch with us on volunteering@scoutadventures.org.uk.
October 2023 to September 2024
This 11 month placement (placements currently available for UK applicants only) gives you the chance to be part of our team delivering adventures to thousands of young people - you'll be part of our 2024 story and have the opportunity to both learn and teach loads of new skills surrounded by our volunteering family.
Key dates (some dates may change slightly):
Placement start: 9 October 2023
Placement End: Around 6 September 2024
Arrival on centre: 7 or 8 October 2023
Applications open!
(Shorter placement also available with later start dates!)
February 2024 to November 2024
This 9 month placement gives you the chance to be part of our team delivering adventures to thousands of young people - you'll be part of our 2024 story and have the opportunity to both learn and teach loads of new skills surrounded by our volunteering family.
Key dates (some dates may change slightly):
Placement start: 12 February 2024
Placement End: Around 12 November 2024
Arrival in the UK: 10 or 11 February 2024
Applications open!
(Shorter placement dates also available with the same start date)
March 2024 to September 2024
This is a 6 month placement for people who want a to spend just a few month being part of our amazing team and changing the lives of young people. The length of this placement means visa/travel arrangements often cost less than on our longer placements.
Key dates (some dates may change slightly):
Placement start: 11 March 2024
Placement End: 8 September 2024
Arrival in the UK: 9 or 10 March 2024
Applications open: 1 July 2023
May 2024 to November 2024
This is a 6 month placement for people who want a to spend just a few month being part of our amazing team and changing the lives of young people. The length of this placement means visa/travel arrangements often cost less than on our longer placements.
This placement is for Broadstone Warren only.
Key dates (some dates may change slightly):
Placement start: 6 May 2024
Placement End: 4 November 2024
Arrival in the UK: 4 or 5 May 2024
Applications open: Now!
Find out about our Centres
2. Lochgoilhead, Loch LomondLocated close to Loch Goil and Argyll Forest Park, Lochgoilhead offers hill, forest and water environments. 3. Fordell Firs, EdinburghA beautiful site on the outskirts of Edinburgh. With easy access to the fantastic cultural attractions of Scotland's capital city. 4. Hawkhirst, NorthumberlandLocated in the Kielder forest, in Northumberland national park, and on the shores of Kielder water, the largest manmade lake in northern Europe. 6. Great Tower, Lake DistrictIn the heart of the Lake District, on the shores of Windermere, Great Tower is one of our most stunning locations. Close to the towns of Bowness, Windermere and just a short journey to Kendal. |
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Meet our Volunteers

Volunteering from Spain
Hear from Alvaro what its like to travel from Spain to spend the year volunteering at Scout Adventures
Volunteering from South Africa
Hear from Declan and Tate what its like to travel from South Africa to spend the year volunteering at Scout Adventures
Volunteering from Mexico
Hear from Mariana, Miguel and Sergio what its like to travel from Mexico to spend the year volunteering at Scout Adventures
Volunteering from Brazil
Hear from Rafael, Daniel & Carolina what its like to travel from Brazil to spend the year volunteering at Scout Adventures
Volunteering from South Korea
Hear from Damin & Seojin what its like to travel from South Korea to spend the year volunteering at Scout Adventures