FAQs about Adventure Service Challenge

1. How much does it cost to begin using ASC?

There is no registration fee to join, or annual fee to use Adventure Service Challenge. However, you will need a Leader's Handbook and a Record Card of the relevant Stage for each participant. For a current price list/order form, send for an Information Pack.

2. Do I need special training to run an ASC group?

No. Anyone qualified to run a youth group would be capable of operating the ASC scheme. However, you may well wish to bring in local expert assistance to deal with areas where you are not qualified, "First Aid" for example, if you are not a qualified First Aider.

3. Must young people stop using ASC when they reach age 15?

No. The ages stated for the various Stages of Adventure Servcie Challenge merely indicate the 'target' age, if more time is needed to finish a Stage, take it. There are no set age limits; as an example, ASC Junior Stages have been used successfully by a special needs adult group.

4. Are the target requirements for the various activities "absolutes"?

No, they are those we believe to be suitable in an 'average' situation. Adventure Service Challenge is intended to be very flexible, and can be 'tailored' by the leader as appropriate given the freedoms and limitations of the young people concerned and their local environment. It is up to the leader to set targets, on an individual participant basis if necessary, which fully stretch the young people but give them attainable goals - if they accept the challenge of ASC.

5. Is the ASC scheme part of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award?

No, it is a totally separate award and organisation. But the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Headquarters does recommend the Adventure Service Challenge for young people below the starting age for the DoE Bronze Award (14 years minimum) and we do liaise closely with them.

6. What is the "Shield" activity about?

We cannot give a short answer to this one, so there is a special page on this subject.

 

Details of Stages,
History of ASC Scheme,
What others say,
Information Pack,
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