By Cameron Belling, Chair National Rover Programme
From the 1st of June 2019, SCOUTS South Africa will progressively be reducing the upper age for Rovers from 35 to 30 years over the next two years. South Africa is the only country worldwide that has, until now, continued the Rover programme to age 35. Many other NSO Rover Programmes only run Rovers for people up to 25 years. The reduction in the age limit will bring our Rover programme in line with WOSM standards and international Rover programmes. This proposal was approved in Principle by the National Rover Advisory Council (NRAC) and ratified by MANCO at the end of 2018.
The changeover procedure is set out below:
With effect from 31st July 2019 you will only be able to join Rovers if you are under 26.
Are you between the ages of 28 – 33 and still want to get your B-P Award? Please complete the B-P Project Plan Form and submit it to your RTC-Rovers / Regional Commissioner before the 31st of July 2019. You will need to commit to completing your B-P Award within the next 24 months i.e. before 31st July 2021, or you turn 35.
You will continue to be a Rover until you complete your BP Award or 31st July 2021, or until you turn 35.
Click here to access the B-P Project Plan Form.
What if you are you under 26 and still want to get your B-P Award?
You will continue to be a Rover until you turn 30, make sure you set aside plenty of time to plan on getting your B-P Award.
Are you between the ages of 28 – 33 but do not see yourself completing the B-P Award?
You will still be able to be part of Rovering until 31st July 2021, we do however suggest you take a look at what other role you would be interested in taking on within Scouting. There are many positions that you can all tackle in Scouting, while still a Rover, or after leaving Rovers: Scouter, Support Team Member (Meerkats, Cubs, Scouts, Rovers), Trainer, Mentor, Commissioner or join a Regional or National Team. Visit the vacancies page to learn more about the other opportunities.
If you are not ready to take on a new role, join our Alumni Network by emailing alumni@scouts.org.za to stay updated and to be invited to events in your Region.
Yours in Rovering,
Cameron Belling, Chair National Rover Programme
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