Seniors 

 

The core age range of the Seniors Section is from 15 to 18 years. Young people in this age group are encouraged to lead their own programme, supported by volunteer leaders. It’s all about the young people deciding what they would like to do and organising it for themselves. The Challenge Plus programme for this age group is based on projects and challenges, encouraging young people to complete one-off challenges and more in-depth projects both of which can be tackled individually or as part of a team. Activities may include ‘Homelessness’, ‘Conservation’, ‘Driving’, ‘Preparing for Work’ amongst many more. 

There are opportunities to go away on camps and residentials, which are often the highlights in the annual programme. In addition there may be international opportunities open to the Seniors Section, ranging from attending BB events abroad to volunteering on community projects in developing countries. 

  

Awards 

Throughout their time in this age group young people can gain badges and recognition for their participation in the programme. Seniors can get involved in a wider range of awards and qualifications including the internationally recognised Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme (Gaisce in Republic of Ireland), as well as a number of awards within the organisation including Young Volunteer Award, the President’s Badge and the highest award in the BB, The Queen’s Badge (Founder’s Badge in Republic of Ireland). 

  

Volunteering 

Many young people in the Seniors Section age group are interested in getting involved with helping with the younger members in addition to getting involved in the Seniors programme. Training and support is provided for those young people who wish to volunteer in this way. 

  

Uniform 

Children in the Anchor Section wear a core uniform of a blue polo shirt and navy blue sweatshirt. On some occasions members will wear school trousers and footwear as part of the uniform, but check with your local group. Where do the badges go? You can find a diagram showing the positions of badges for this age group here. 

  

Safe & Caring 

All our adult volunteers undertake a disclosure (criminal records) check as part of their registration with The Boys’ Brigade, and are trained to provide a safe and caring environment for all children. 

  

Costs 

Most groups charge a subscription which may be collected weekly, termly or annually and will usually be around £1-£2 per week. This said, we don’t want any child to miss out because of cost, so if you have any concerns about finance please speak to a leader in the local group in confidence about this. 

  

How do I join? 

The best way to get involved is to find your local group (also known as a ‘Company’) and pop along on the day and time which the group meets.