Special Interests
Discover Rover Scout Special Interest Areas and how self-directed projects support personal challenge and service.
Requirements
Special Interest Areas encourage Scouts to try new things and pursue existing interests. Members choose a defined project option or the 'your own idea' option in one of the six areas, then set a goal that interests and challenges them personally.
The Goal
Complete 6 Projects
- Across at least 4 different areas
- Minimum 18 hours per project
- Plan, Do, Review process required
Choose a project option
Each Special Interest Area now has defined project options. Choose one of those options, or choose the your own idea option, then build a goal and project around it.
Unit Council approval
Two Unit Council members can approve either a proposed project or a completed project.
The Six Areas
STEM & Innovation
Explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Develop innovative solutions to problems or learn new technical skills.
Environment
Projects focused on sustainability, conservation, and understanding the natural world around us.
Creative Flare
Express yourself through arts, performance, design, or literature. Push your creative boundaries.
Growth & Development
Personal challenges aimed at improving physical or mental well-being, learning a new language, or developing life skills.
Better World
Community service, advocacy, and projects that actively contribute to peace, justice, and social equity.
Adventure & Sport
Pursuits involving physical exertion, skill, and often risk, in an outdoor or sporting environment.
Local inspiration
These examples can help start a conversation, but they are not the national project-option list. Use the current program resources when choosing the formal option for a project.
Build Furniture
STEM & Innovation: Design and build a functional piece of furniture or equipment.
Biodiversity Study
Environment: Conduct a detailed study on local biodiversity and present findings.
Curate Exhibition
Creative Flare: Curate an art exhibition or publish a collection of stories/poems.
Endurance Event
Growth & Development: Run a marathon or complete a multi-day endurance event.
Manage Fundraiser
Better World: Manage a large-scale community service project or fundraiser.
Get Coaching Qualification
Adventure & Sport: Obtain a qualification as a sports coach or outdoor leader.