Who are we?
The 1st Bryanston Scout Group is proudly based in the Braamfontein Spruit region of Bryanston, Johannesburg. Established in 1958, our group has over 60 years of rich Scouting heritage and continues to thrive as part of Scouts South Africa. We fall under the Sandton District within the Gauteng Region.
Our group welcomes both girls and boys across all age branches: Meerkats (ages 5–7), Cubs (ages 7–11), Scouts (ages 11–18), Rovers (ages 18–30)
Each branch is guided by a dedicated team of trained adult leaders, known as Scouters, who bring passion, experience, and mentorship to every activity.
If you’re interested in joining our vibrant community, please visit our “Contact Us” page and reach out—we’d love to hear from you!
Scouting develops
- Character and confidence
- Practical life skills
- A spirit of outdoor adventure
- Leadership training
- Teamwork
- Citizenship and community service
- Environmental awareness and stewardship
The History of Scouting
Scouting is more than a movement—it’s a way of life shaped by adventure, service, and community. Our story begins with Lord Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of Scouting, whose experiences in Southern Africa between 1884 and 1905 laid the foundation for what would become the world’s largest youth organization.
During the Siege of Mafeking (1899–1900), Baden-Powell was deeply inspired by the Mafeking Cadet Corps—young boys who courageously supported the town’s defense. Their spirit of responsibility and resilience became a cornerstone of his vision for youth development, later captured in his handbook Scouting for Boys.
In 1907, Baden-Powell hosted the first experimental Scout camp on Brownsea Island in Britain. That humble gathering sparked a global phenomenon, and by 1908, Scouting had already reached South Africa. Early Scout Troops formed in Cape Town and Johannesburg, with the 1st Belgravia Troop among the pioneers. Today, its legacy lives on through groups like the 1st Kengray BK Scout Group, proudly continuing a tradition of leadership and service.
At 1st Bryanston, we honour this rich heritage while embracing the future. Our programs are designed to ignite curiosity, build character, and empower young people to make a difference—locally and globally. Whether hiking through the bushveld, mastering new skills, or serving our community, we live the Scout Promise with pride.
For more information, visit the History of Scouting.
The History of 1st Bryanston
Bryanston was originally farmland, and infrastructure development in the area only began in the late 1940s. The 1st Bryanston Scout Group was formally registered on 26 March 1958 and has been an active part of the local community ever since.
Early Scout meetings were held in what is now the Cramerview Shopping Centre on Main Road. A few years later, the group moved into its own purpose-built Scout hall, located at 40 West Herford Road, adjacent to the Braamfontein Spruit. At the time, the surrounding area was open veld, with River Club yet to be developed as a suburb.
Over the decades, the group has celebrated several memorable milestones. In 1969, the troop awarded its first Springbok Scout—the highest honour a youth member can achieve in South African Scouting. Earning this prestigious award requires completing a series of challenging projects, including a construction project, a 40-hour community service initiative, and an overnight expedition. Since then, a further 33 Springbok Scout awards have been presented to members of the group.
The 2nd Bryanston Scout Group was established in the 1960s but was later closed, with its members absorbed into surrounding Scout groups in the area.
Scouting in Gauteng is organized into 11 districts. The 1st Bryanston Scout Group is part of the Sandton District, alongside 1st Fourways, 1st Midrand, 1st Morningside, 1st Parkmore, 1st Peter Place, and 1st Rivertrail—highlighting the growth and vibrancy of Scouting in Johannesburg’s northern suburbs.
Today, 1st Bryanston is one of the largest and most active Scout groups in the region, with a combined membership of over 120 youth. The group currently runs:
- Two Meerkat Dens
- Two Cub Packs
- Two Scout Troops
- One Rover Crew
With a strong legacy and a dynamic present, the 1st Bryanston Scout Group continues to inspire young people through adventure, leadership, and service.