Red Squirrels
1st Drey
- When we meet
- Thursdays during term time, 16:30–17:30
Ages 4–6
Squirrels
Squirrels are open to young people aged 4 and 5. During weekly sessions the Squirrels can enjoy outdoor activities, fun, games, stories and songs (and so much more!). They can also earn activity and challenge badges and the Chief Scout's Acorn Award. This is a great way to introduce young people to the Scouting movement before they go on to Beavers at 6.
Where the adventure begins
Squirrels is the very first stage of Scouts, open to children aged 4–6. It was introduced in 2021 to give younger children the chance to experience everything Scouts has to offer — friendship, fun, and a sense of adventure — right from the start.
Sessions are short, playful, and packed with things to do. Whether it's meeting exotic animals, exploring a local farm, or taking on a climbing wall for the very first time, every meeting is designed to spark curiosity and build confidence in the gentlest way.
The highest award a Squirrel can earn is the Chief Scout's Acorn Award — a fantastic achievement that sets them up perfectly for moving on to Beavers.
What Squirrels get up to
Our programme covers six areas of life — so every Squirrel finds something they love.
Outdoor & Adventure
Nature trails, farm visits, and exploring the outdoors — rain or shine.
World
Learning about animals, the environment, and the wider world around them.
Skills for Life
Simple crafts, games, and hands-on activities that build confidence and curiosity.
Creative
Drawing, making, and imagining — every session has something to create.
Teamwork
Fun group challenges that help little ones learn to share, listen, and cooperate.
Wellbeing
Building self-confidence, making friends, and feeling safe and included.
A typical meeting night
Meetings last around 45 minutes to an hour — the perfect length for little ones.
Gathering
Squirrels arrive, say hello to their friends, and get ready for the evening together.
Opening
The Drey comes together, leaders share the plan, and the fun begins.
Activity
The main activity — a craft, a game, an animal visit, or an outdoor adventure.
Snack & chat
A short break to recharge, talk about what they've been up to, and make friends.
Closing
The Drey wraps up, any badges are celebrated, and Squirrels head home happy.
Our Dreys
The 73rd Allestree has two Squirrel Dreys, each with their own character and meeting night.
Grey Squirrels
2nd Drey
- When we meet
- Mondays during term time, 16:30–17:30
How to join
Getting started is straightforward — here's what happens when you reach out.
Get in touch
Fill in our contact form and tell us your child's age and preferred Drey.
Come along
We'll invite you and your child to a taster evening — no commitment, just come and see.
Join the Drey
If everyone's happy, your child joins, makes the Squirrel Promise, and the adventure begins.
Common questions
- When can my child join?
- Squirrels is open to children aged 4–6. If your child is approaching 4, we can add them to our waiting list so they can join as soon as they're ready.
- How often do they meet?
- Each Drey meets once a week for around 45 minutes to an hour. Check the individual Drey pages for specific nights and times.
- What does it cost?
- There is a termly subscription fee covering 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.
- My child is quite young — will they cope?
- Squirrels is designed specifically for 4–6 year olds. Sessions are short, gentle, and full of play. Leaders are experienced at helping little ones settle in and feel at home.
- What if my child has additional needs or allergies?
- Let us know when you get in touch. Our leaders are trained to be inclusive and will work with you to make sure Squirrels is a great experience for your child.
Ready to join Squirrels?
Children from age 4 can join. Get in touch and we'll find the right Drey for your child and invite you to a free taster evening.