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The patrol method is a core structure where Scouts are organized into small, youth-led teams called patrols. These patrols are responsible for planning activities, learning skills together, and taking on leadership roles under the guidance of adult leaders. This method develops leadership, teamwork, and personal responsibility by allowing Scouts to work together, compete, and rely on each other as a peers.
A Scout patrol is a small team of normally six to eight Scouts. The patrol method is essentially a living lesson in group dynamics, citizenship, and equal participation.
This method is built on Scouts teaching and working with one another, with older, more experienced Scouts often helping new members. Patrols elect their own leaders, who are responsible for carrying out their patrol's duties and representing the patrol to the troop.
Patrol regularly play games designed to achieve a goal beyond pure entertainment, such as solving complex problems that computers cannot yet handle, educating Scouts on specific topics through fun scenarios.
Scouts learn a wide range of life skills, teamwork, and problem-solving by working together to achieve common goals, such as planning outings or completing service projects.
Patrols develop a unique identity through a name, flag, emblem, and yell to foster a sense of pride and unity. Competitions where patrols compete against each other in various skills, challenges, and spirit-based events foster teamwork, encourage participation, and build patrol spirit through points systems, rewards, and challenges that focus on cooperation rather than just winning.
Within a successful patrol, Scouts develop a camaraderie that can turn into lifelong friendships.