Boys and girls aged 5 to 11 who are looking for excitement, fun, and to make new friends are invited to sign up for Cub Scouts this weekend at The British School of Beijing, Shunyi (BSB Shunyi).

Cub Scouts work through a series of “adventures”, earning awards until they’ve succeeded in graduating their year group. The emphasis is on age-appropriate activities which challenge the kids to learn practical skills, develop their self-confidence and leadership, encourage them to help others, and foster the positive values encapsulated in the Scout Law:

A Scout is: Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty, Brave, Clean, and Reverent.

The registration takes place at noon on Saturday, June 2, but don’t worry if you can’t get to BSB Shunyi then. There’s a second event on August 18, 10am, at International School of Beijing (ISB). Or you contact them via their website, www.beijingcubscouts.com.

Membership is open to all boys and girls, regardless of nationality or school attended, with one important proviso: under Chinese law, the child must hold a foreign (non-Chinese) passport with a valid visa in order to join. This rule is strictly enforced and there are no exceptions. You’ll also need evidence of your health insurance, and annual fees of RMB 1,100 (RMB 1,200 at the August event.)

Photos: courtesy of Beijing Cub Scouts

On Saturday, January 30, the International School of Beijing (ISB) hosted the Cub Scout Olympics.

Over 50 boys took part in a variety of events, including the 50m sprint, long jump and high jump, soccer skills, and an obstacle course. There were also some more unusual games which are yet to gain recognition at the official Olympics: Oreo stacking and dropping clothes pegs into a jar!

During the closing ceremony gold, silver, and bronze medals were awarded for each event, and there were also prizes recognizing good sportsmanship.

This annual event is run by Cub Scout Pack 3944, of Scouting America. Cub Scouts is open to boys aged 7 to 10, who hold a foreign passport and valid visa. (This is a requirement of the Chinese government and unfortunately cannot be waived in any circumstances.) Dens (divided by age group) meet weekly, and the whole pack meets once a month. Parents are required to remain with their children and actively participate in the meeting, taking turns to lead sessions.

Cubs learn important skills such as first aid, and take part in a wide range of fun activities: hiking, camping, wildlife conservation and community service. If your son is interested in joining you can contact Pack 3944 via their website.