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Ages 6–8

Beavers

Beaver Scouts are open to young people aged 6–8 years. During weekly sessions Beavers will play games, make things, master new skills, try new things and learn about themselves, their community and the world around us. This includes parties, visits, meeting interesting people and even sleepovers! Most of all Beaver Scouts (and their leaders and helpers) have FUN!

The start of something great

Beavers is the second stage of Scouts, open to children aged 6–8. It's where curiosity is celebrated, friendships are made, and young people discover what they're capable of — often for the first time.

Each week brings something new. One evening they might be building a rocket; the next, learning to cook over a campfire or visiting a science museum. Every activity is designed to be fun first — the skills and values follow naturally.

The highest award a Beaver can earn is the Chief Scout's Bronze Award — a nationally recognised achievement that marks the completion of their Beaver journey before moving up to Cubs.

Our Colonys

The 73rd Allestree has two Beaver Colonies, each with their own character and meeting night.

Mohawks

1st Colony

When we meet
Thursdays during term time, 18:00–19:30

Cherokees

2nd Colony

When we meet
Mondays during term time, 18:00–19:00

What Beavers get up to

Our programme covers six areas of life — so every Beaver finds something they love.

  • Outdoor & Adventure

    Camping, hiking, pond dipping, and exploring the natural world around Derby.

  • World

    Learning about different cultures, faiths, and how we can make a difference globally.

  • Skills for Life

    Cooking, first aid basics, tying knots — practical skills that stay with them forever.

  • Creative

    Arts, crafts, music, and hands-on building projects that spark imagination.

  • Teamwork

    Working together on challenges, games, and community projects builds real confidence.

  • Wellbeing

    Understanding emotions, staying active, and caring for themselves and others.

A typical meeting night

Meetings last around an hour and follow a simple, familiar rhythm that Beavers quickly love.

  1. Opening

    The Colony gathers, says the Beaver Promise, and leaders share what's planned for the evening.

  2. Activity

    The main event — a game, a craft, a challenge, or something completely unexpected.

  3. Break

    A few minutes to catch their breath, have a drink, and chat with friends.

  4. Second activity

    A second activity, often linking to a badge or upcoming adventure.

  5. Closing

    Beavers share what they enjoyed, badges are awarded, and the Colony closes for the evening.

How to join

Getting started is straightforward — here's what happens when you reach out.

  1. Get in touch

    Fill in our contact form and tell us your child's age and preferred Colony.

  2. Come along

    We'll invite you and your child to a taster evening — no commitment, just come and see.

  3. Join the Colony

    If everyone's happy, your child joins, makes the Beaver Promise, and the adventure begins.

Common questions

When can my child join?
Children can join Beavers from age 5¾ and stay until they move up to Cubs at 8. If your child is younger, we can add them to our waiting list.
How often do they meet?
Each Colony meets once a week for around an hour. Check the individual Colony pages for specific nights and times.
What does it cost?
There is a termly subscription fee which covers programme activities, badge materials, and insurance. The main upfront cost is the uniform. We never want cost to be a barrier — please ask us about support if needed.
Do they need to be able to swim or have any prior skills?
Not at all. Beavers is for everyone, whatever their abilities. Leaders plan activities that are accessible and fun for all.
What if my child has allergies or additional needs?
Let us know when you get in touch. Our leaders are trained to be inclusive and will discuss how we can make Beavers work for your child.

Ready to join Beavers?

Children from age 5¾ can join. Get in touch and we'll find the right Colony for your child and invite you to a free taster evening.