ID144 Keele Scouts Engagement Programme

The Idea

I propose that Keele University develops a structured programme of engagement with the UK Scouting Association, enabling Scouts, Cubs, and Explorers as well as similar organisations such as Guiding to attend on‑campus events aligned with their badge requirements. Many Scouting and Guide badges—such as Science, Space, Digital Maker, Environmental Conservation, Media, and more—require young people to undertake activities that universities are uniquely placed to deliver. Keele already hosts a wide range of educational outreach opportunities, specialist facilities, and expert-led workshops, providing an ideal foundation for a scalable and mutually beneficial engagement programme. 

The initiative could include themed activity days, interactive workshops, hands‑on laboratory sessions, and opportunities to meet researchers and students. If successful, phase two could look at the feasibility of a camping component on campus or nearby grounds which could enable multi‑day experiences where Scouts complete badge work alongside learning about university life, sustainability, and future study pathways. This would also support access for groups based nationally rather than just locally.  

This programme would not only support the development of local young people but also enhance Keele’s widening participation and outreach agenda. It would strengthen Keele’s civic and community presence, build long-term relationships with families across the region, and introduce young people to higher education from an early age. Ultimately, the programme would position Keele as a national leader in innovative youth engagement and community partnership.  

Why This Idea Should Be Considered

This initiative supports Keele’s commitment to civic engagement, community partnership, and widening participation by connecting the University with one of the UK’s largest youth organisations. Scouting encourages personal development, STEM curiosity, leadership, and social responsibility—areas strongly aligned with Keele’s values and academic strengths. By welcoming Scouts to campus through badge‑aligned activities, Keele can inspire future learners and strengthen relationships with families and communities. In doing so, the programme also creates a long‑term student‑recruitment pipeline by building early familiarity with Keele’s campus, people, and subject areas. Additionally, it enhances Keele’s corporate social responsibility by investing in young people’s skills and aspirations.   

How We Would Implement This Idea

Keele could establish a working group including Outreach, Estates, Academic Schools, GSRA, Student Ambassadors, and Keele Student Scouts and Guides Organisation (SSAGO) to identify which badges align naturally with existing resources and expertise. Faculties could design short sessions or activity packs tailored to badge requirements, delivered through scheduled events across the year.  Activities can range from Keele lead sessions to providing access to resources, equipment, and the campus for leaders to run their own sessions using predeveloped activity plans.   

The working group can look to develop a partnership with UK Scouting and Guiding to explore the development of a bespoke Keele-branded award or certificate, further supporting the promotion of the University.  

Partnerships with local Scout district lead volunteers would ensure events are promoted effectively and adapted to age ranges. If feasible, Keele could approve designated areas for supervised overnight camping, enabling extended camps that combine badge work with campus tours, talks, and practical workshops. A central booking system and annual calendar would ensure smooth management and long‑term sustainability. 

What Success Would Look Like

Success would be demonstrated by strong and sustained participation from Scouts across Staffordshire and beyond, with clear evidence that young people are completing badge requirements through Keele-led activities. Success will also be measured by an increase in engagement from Scout and Guide Groups located in POLAR4 Q1 and Q2 postcodes (low-participation areas) within a 30-mile radius. 

Through this project, Keele would see increased awareness and positive perception among local families, strengthening pathways into future outreach programmes and higher education. Academic Schools would gain new opportunities for community engagement, while Student Ambassadors would benefit from meaningful leadership experiences. Over time, Keele could become a recognised national partner for Scouting education initiatives and opening opportunities for further partnership within the Scouting family. Ultimately, success means impactful experiences for young people and a strengthened role for Keele as a civic, community focused university.