Scout groups in Melbourne’s outer north, backed by the state government, are planning to forge partnerships with Muslim schools.
The state government has given Scouts Victoria $457,000 for programs to extend its reach into new communities.
Epping North Scouts group leader Cara Horner said she had been talking with Al Siraat College, an Epping school which teaches in the Islamic tradition, about developing a partnership.
“It’s certainly something I’m keen to pursue … to engage that part of the community in a culturally appropriate way.”
Youth Affairs Minister Jenny Mikakos said the intention was to engage young people who face barriers, such as those from new multicultural communities and those experiencing social and economic disadvantage.
“Engaging young people in their communities will help empower them to develop and grow in a positive environment that opens up opportunities for them down the track,” she said.
Scouts Victoria chief executive Brendan Watson said the new programs would facilitate new friendships and develop children’s leadership skills, through outdoor fun and adventure.
“The learning-in-doing educational Scout method prepares young people for life as they work in teams with people they may otherwise not have had the chance to work with.”
