TEXTS FOR SCOUT HISTORIANS.

The Boy Scout Tests.


BADEN-POWELL SCOUT TESTS ISSUED JANUARY 1908.

Second Class Test.
1. Tie four of the following knots in less than thirty seconds each knot: Bowline, fisherman's bend, reef knot, clove hitch, sheet bend.
2. Track a deer's 'spoor' (made with tracking irons) or a horse's track for a quarter of a mile in not more than fifteen minutes; or, in a town, to describe satisfactorily the contents of one shop window out of four, observed for one minute each.
3. Go at scout's pace for one mile in not more than thirteen minutes.
4. Know the scout's laws and signs.
5. Know the composition of the Union Jack, and the right way to fly it.

First Class Test.
6. Point out the direction of different points of the compass where he stands.
7. Make a journey alone of not less than fifteen miles from point to point by walking, riding, boat, or bicycle.
8. Describe or show the proper means for saving life in case of one (selected by the Court) of the following accidents (allotted by the examiners); Fire, drowning, runaway carriage, sewer gas, ice-breaking; or bandage an injured patient, or revive apparently drowned person.
9. Be able to read and write.
10. Have at least sixpence in the savings bank.
11. Show that he has brought a recruit to the Boy Scouts, and has taught him ti tie the six principle knots.
12. To lay and light a fire, using not more than two matches, and cook a quarter of a pound of meat and two potatoes without cooking utensils.

BRITISH BOY SCOUT SECOND & FIRST CLASS TESTS.

Second Class Tests. Issued 8th September 1909. Used until 6th October 1909.
1. Each second-class scout must understand the composition of, and how to fly, the two flags of the British Empire: The Royal Standard and the Union Jack.
2. At least four of the following knots must be tied and untied rapidly, and four knots are to be recognised and untied blindfold. The knots are: Reef-knot, sheetbend, half hitch, clove hitch, bowline, sheepshank, overhand knot, middleman's knot, fisherman's bend, and rolling hitch.
3. The Morse alphabet must be known sufficiently well to enable the candidate for the second-class badge to transmit the whole of it in five minutes.
4. Certain tests will be made, the lad being told to report on some incident which he is required to observe in company of his Scoutmaster. The subject matter of the report, and the manner in which the report is given, must be satisfactory. As a suitable test the candidate might be taken along a street or road, not less than a quarter of a mile long, and he must report on what he has observed during that walk.
5. The boy's powers of observation will be tested by giving him a tray containing twelve articles. He is allowed to look at this for thirty seconds, and must then write down all that he observed on the tray after this has been removed. If three quarters of the articles are correctly described he is considered to have satisfied the examiner in this test.

First Class Test. Issued 15th September 1909. Used until 6th October 1909.
1. To find the points of the compass by means of a watch and observations on the position of the sun.
2. To be able to swim 50 yards and ride a bicycle with confidence to the satisfaction of the examiners.
3. To be able to read and send 15 letters a minute by both morse and semaphore signalling, with flag or lamps.
4. To have a good knowledge of cooking, with ordinary camp utensils, viz., billy, camp kettle, and wood fire. Cooking to include eggs (three ways, boiling, frying, and poaching), to cook potatoes and stew of meat and vegetables thickened with flour and seasoned; also to prepare tea, coffee, and cocoa.
5. To have a good general knowledge of first aid to the injured.
6. To give the proper methods and to illustrate them for saving life when endangered by drowning; suffocation due to gas, or smoke; fire and exposure. Two of these to satisfy the examiners. He should also be able to describe how to stop a runaway horse.
7. To be able to drill a squad in elementary infantry movements, picking out any faults in the drill positions, etc.

 
B-P SECOND & FIRST CLASS TESTS ISSUED 6th OCTOBER 1909 (ALSO USED BY THE BBS)
 
Second Class Test.
1. Have at least one month's service as a tenderfoot.
2. Elementary first aid and bandaging.
3. Signalling, elementary knowledge of semaphore or Morse alphabet.
4. Track half a mile in twenty-five minutes; or, if in a town, describe satisfactorily the contents of one shop window out of four, observed for one minute each.
5. Go a mile in twelve minutes at 'scouts pace.'
6. Lay and light a fire, using not more than two matches.
7. Cook a quarter of a pound of meat and two potatoes without cooking utensils other than the regulation billy.
8. Have at least sixpence in a savings bank.
9. Know the sixteen principle points of the compass.
 
First Class Test.
1. Swim fifty yards. (N.B.-This may be omitted where the doctor certifies that bathing is dangerous to the boy's health, in which case he must run a mile in eight minutes or perform some equivalent selected by the Scoutmaster.)
2. Must have one shilling at least in the savings bank.
3. Signalling. Send and receive a message in either semaphore or Morse, sixteen letters per minute.
4. Go on foot, or row a boat, alone, to a point seven miles away, and return again; or, if conveyed by any vehicle or animal, go a distance of fifteen miles and back, and write a short report on it. It is preferable that he should take two days over it.
5. Describe or show the proper means for saving life in case of two of the following accidents (allotted by the examiners); Fire, drowning, runaway carriage, sewer gas, ice-breaking; or bandage an injured patient, or revive apparently drowned person.
6. Cook satisfactorily two out of the following dishes, as may be directed: Porridge, bacon, hunter's stew: or skin and cook a rabbit, or pluck and cook a bird. Also make a 'damper' of half a pound of flour, or a twist' baked on a thick stick.
7. Read a map correctly, and draw an intelligible sketch map. Point out a compass direction without the help of a compass.
8. Use an axe for felling or trimming light timber, or, as alternative, produce an article of carpentry or joinery or metal work made by himself satisfactorily.
9. Judge distance, size, numbers, and height within 25 per cent. error.
10 Bring a tenderfoot trained by himself in the points required for a tenderfoot. (This may be in special cases be postponed when recruits are not immediately desired, but must be earned out within three months, or the badge withdrawn.)
 
BOYS BRIGADE GLASGOW BATTALION PROVISIONAL SCOUT SCHEME JANUARY 1909.
 
Before receiving an Enrollment Card a Boy must:-
1. Have attended 6 organised meetings (indoor and outdoor) of the Patrol he is to join, or of the group of Boys whom it is proposed to form into a Patrol.
2. Be able to write out the object of The Boys' Brigade, as laid down in Article II. of its Constitution, and
3. Have had the following oath administered to him by the Scoutmaster, viz:-
"On my honour I promise I will do my duty to God and the King, and will do my best to help others, whatever it may cost me."
 
To gain a Second Class Certificate a Scout must obtain 20 marks in the Following tests, viz:-
1. Know the composition of the Union Jack and the right way to fly it 5 marks.
2. Tie four of the following knots in less than 30 seconds each knot, viz,:- Bowline, fisherman's bend, reef knot, clove hitch, sheet bend - 5 marks.
3. Be able to swim one length of bath, (about 25 yards). - 5 marks.
4. Be able to name 15 out of a collection of 20 assorted articles observed for 30 seconds - 5 marks.
5. Be able to read and send the alphabet and figures by Semaphore Signalling at the rate of 40 letters per minute - 5 marks.
6. Be in possession of a Savings Bank Book, showing at least 6 payments in. - 5 marks.
 
A Second Class Scout cannot undergo the tests to be passed for a First Class Certificate within 6 months of obtaining a Second Class Certificate. A First Class Certificate can only be gained by a Scout who already holds a Second Class Certificate.
 
To gain a First Class Certificate a Scout must obtain 40 marks in the following tests, viz:-
1. A Scout who obtains 30 marks in the test for a second class certificate and who goes up for a First-Class Certificate within one year of gaining the Badge, may count 5 marks.
2. Be in possession of the St Andrew's B.B. Ambulance Certificate - 5 marks.
3. Be in possession of The Boys' Brigade Non-Commissioned Officers Proficiency Certificate. - 5 marks.
4. Be able to swim two lengths of the bath, (about 50 yards). - 5 marks.
5. Be able to name 32 points of the Compass - 5 marks.
6. Be able to name and state the whereabouts of twelve British Colonies and Dependencies, or the Counties of Scotland. - 5 marks.
7. Be able to name and describe satisfactorily 6 wild animals, or birds, and 6 trees common in Scotland. - 5 marks.
8. Be able to name 6 statues erected in Glasgow, and say why the persons represented are famous. - 5 marks.
9 Be able to read and send correctly a message in Morse at the rate of 25 letters per minute, or in Semaphore at the rate of 40 letters per minute - 5 marks.
10. Have taken part in at least 12 outdoor expeditions 6 of them while a second class Scout, or have spent a week in Camp - 5 marks.
11. Be able to draw a rough sketch of a route not less than one mile long, showing the principle side streets or roads passed, with noticeable objects, en route, and the compass bearing on the sketch - 5 marks.
 
BOYS' BRIGADE SECOND CLASS & FIRST CLASS SCOUT TESTS.  JUNE 1909.
 
Second Class
To gain a Scout's Badge a Scout must obtain 20 marks in the following tests:-
1. Be able to write from memory the Object of The Boys' Brigade, as laid down in the Membership Card-5 marks.
2. Know the composition of the Union Jack and the right way to fly it 5 marks.
3. Tie four of the following knots in less than 30 seconds each knot, viz,:- Bowline, fisherman's bend, reef knot, clove hitch, sheet bend - 5 marks.
4. Be able to swim 25 yards - 5 marks.
5. Be able to name 15 out of a collection of 20 assorted articles observed for 30 seconds - 5 marks.
6. Be able to read and send the alphabet and figures by Semaphore Signalling at the rate of 30 letters per minute - 5 marks.
 
First Class
A Certificate as a First Class Scout can be gained only by a Scout who already holds the Scout Badge, and obtains 30 marks in the following tests:-  
1. A Scout who obtains 30 marks in the test for a Scout's Badge and who goes up for a First-Class Certificate within one year of gaining the Badge, may count 5 marks.
2. Be in possession of the B.B. Ambulance Certificate - 5 marks.
3. Be able to swim 50 yards - 5 marks.
4. Be able to name 32 points of the Compass - 5 marks.
5. Be able to name and state the whereabouts of twelve British Colonies or Dependencies - 5 marks.
6. Be able to name and describe satisfactorily 6 wild animals, or birds, and 6 trees common in the United Kingdom - 5 marks.
7 Be able to read and send correctly a message in Morse at the rate of 25 letters per minute, or in Semaphore at the rate of 40 letters per minute - 5 marks.
8. Have taken part in at least 6 outdoor or Scouting expeditions, or have spent a week in Camp - 5 marks.
9. Be able to draw a rough sketch of a route not less than one mile long, showing the principle side streets or roads passed, with noticeable objects, en route, and the compass bearing on the sketch - 5 marks.
 
In 1909 the BB issued a Silver Badge for Second Class and a Certificate for First Class. In 1911 a Gold Badge was issued for First Class in addition to the Certificate, the same tests still in use.
 
B-P SECOND & FIRST CLASS TESTS ISSUED OCTOBER 1911.

Tenderfoot.
A boy on joining the Boy Scouts must be between the ages of 11 and 18 and pass the following tests before making the promise:
Know the Scout Law, Signs, and Salute.
Know the composition of the Union Jack and the right way to fly it.
Tie the following knots:- Reef knot, sheet bend, clove hitch, bowline, fisherman's, sheepshank.
He is then enrolled as a Tenderfoot, and is entitled to wear the buttonhole badge in buttenhole of coat or left pocket buttonhole of shirt when in uniform.
 
Second Class Test.
1. Have at least one month's service as a Tenderfoot.
2. Have a knowledge of elementary first aid and bandaging.
3. Know the semaphore or Morse sign for every letter in the alphabet.
4. Follow a track half a mile in twenty-five minutes; or, if in a town, describe satisfactorily the contents of one shop window out of four, observed for one minute each, or Kim's Game, to remember sixteen out of twenty four well assorted small articles after one minute's observation.
5. Go a mile in twelve minutes at 'Scout's pace.' (20 paces walking and 20 paces running alternately.)
6. Lay and light a wood fire in the open, using not more than two matches.
7. Cook a quarter of a pound of meat and two potatoes without cooking utensils other than the regulation billy.
8. Have at least sixpence in a savings bank.
9. Know the sixteen principle points of the compass.
 
First Class Test.
1. Swim fifty yards. (N.B.-This may be omitted where the doctor certifies that bathing is dangerous to the boy's health, in which case he must pass the test for the Stalker's badge.)
2. Must have one shilling at least in the savings bank.
3. Send and receive a message in either semaphore or Morse, sixteen letters per minute.
4. Go on foot, or row a boat, alone or with another scout to a point seven miles away, and return again, or, if conveyed by any vehicle (railways not allowed) or animal go a distance of fifteen miles and back. He must write a short report of the journey.
5. Describe the proper method of dealing with two of the following accidents (allotted by the examiners); Fire, drowning, runaway carriage, sewer gas, ice-breaking, electric shock. Bandage an injured patient, or revive apparently drowned person.
6. Cook satisfactorily (over camp fire if possible) two out of the following dishes, as may be directed: Porridge, bacon, hunter's stew: or skin and cook a rabbit, or pluck and cook a bird. Also make a 'damper' of half a pound of flour, or a twist' baked on a thick stick.
7. Read a map correctly, and draw an intelligible rough sketch map. Point out a compass direction without the help of a compass.
8. Use an axe for felling or trimming light timber, or, as alternative, produce an article of carpentry or joinery or metal work made by himself satisfactorily.
9. Judge distance, size, numbers, height and weight within 25 per cent. error.
10 Bring a tenderfoot trained by himself in the points required for a Tenderfoot Badge. (This may be postponed when recruits are not immediately desired, but must be carried out within three months of it being required, or the badge withdrawn.)
 
Service Mark.
For each year's service a six-point star may be worn above the cuff on the left arm.
 
King's Scout is one who has qualified by efficiency badges to help in defence of the country.
King's Scout.
To be a King's Scout a boy must be a First class Scout and Pathfinder, and pass three of the following efficiency tests:
Ambulance, Bugler, Cyclist, Marksman, Seaman, Signaller.
He then receives a crown as badge to wear on the left arm above his First class Badge surrounded by the qualifying badges.

Silver Wolf.
Silver Wolf, a King's Scout who has passed 12 tests for efficiency, and who has performed some special piece of Scout work.

 
B-P SECOND & FIRST CLASS TESTS ISSUED 1930.
 
Tenderfoot.
1. Know the Scout Law, Signs, and Salute.
2. Know the composition of the Union Jack and the right way to fly it.
3. Tie the following knots:- Reef knot, sheet bend, clove hitch, bowline, fisherman's and sheepshank and understand their special uses and how to whip the end of a rope.
 
Second Class Test.
1. Have at least one month's service as a tenderfoot.
2. Pass the following test in First Aid:-
(i) Know the general rules of health as given in 'Scouting for Boys.'
(ii) Be able to deal with the following simple accidents:
Cuts and Scratches.
Bruises and Sprains.
Burns and Scalds.
Grit in the Eye.
Bleeding from the Nose.
Stings and Bites.
(iii) Know how to clean a wound and apply a clean dressing.
(iv) Have a knowledge of triangular bandage and how to apply it to different parts of the body (not fractures).
3. Know the Semaphore or Morse sign for every letter in the alphabet and for numerals.
4. Follow a track half a mile in twenty-five minutes; or, if this is impossible, describe satisfactorily the contents of one shop window out of four, observed for one minute each, of Kim's Game, to remember sixteen out of twenty-four well assorted small articles after one minute's observation.
5. Go a mile in twelve minutes at 'scouts pace.'
6. Lay and light a wood fire, in the open, using not more than two matches.
7. Cook a quarter of a pound of meat and two potatoes without cooking utensils other than the regulation billy, in the open over camp fire if possible.
8. Have saved, and paid into a savings bank account a sum consistent with is opportunities of saving (minimum sixpence).
9. Know the sixteen principle points of the compass.
 
First Class Test.
1. Swim fifty yards. (N.B.-This may be omitted where the doctor certifies that bathing is dangerous to the boy's health, in which case he must pass one of the following badges:- Ambulance, Firemen, Marksman, Pathfinder, Signaller, or Stalker.)
2. Have saved, and paid into a savings bank account a sum consistent with is opportunities of saving (minimum one shilling).
3.Send and receive a message either in Semaphore at rate four (twenty letters a minute) or in Morse at rate three (fifteen letters per minute). He must also understand the use of the calling up sign VE, and its answer K, the general answer, the end of message sign AR and its answer R, alphabetical check for numerals and erase signal.
4. Judge distance, area size, numbers, height and weight, within 25 per cent error.
5. 1. Be able to explain the functions of the principle organs of the body.
2. Know the position of the main arteries (names uneccesary) and be able to stop bleeding
3. Know how to apply First Aid to fractures.
4. Know how to restore the apparently drowned by Schafer's Method.
5. Understand the treatment of unconsciousness and fainting.
6. Describe the proper method of dealing with any of the following accidents (as may be allotted by the examiners); fire, drowning, runaway carriage, sewer gas, ice breaking, electric shock.
6. Cook satisfactorily (over camp fire in the open, if possible) two out of the following dishes, porridge, bacon, hunter's stew; or skin and cook a rabbit, or pluck and cook a bird. Also, make a 'damper' of half a pound of flour, or a twist' baked on a thick stick.
7. Read the conventional signs of a map correctly, and draw an intelligible rough sketch map. Point out a compass direction without the help of a compass.
8. Use an axe for felling or trimming light timber, or, if this is impossible, produce an article of carpentry or joinery or metal work made by himself
satisfactorily, or make a working model of any kind of machinery in metal or wood.
9. Go on foot, or row a boat, alone or with another Scout, to a point seven miles away, and return again; or, ride an animal, or bicycle (not motor) a distance of fifteen miles and back; he must write a short report of the journey. It is preferable that he should take two days over the journey.
10. Bring a tenderfoot trained by himself in the points required for a Tenderfoot Badge. (This may be postponed if recruits are not immediately desired, but must be carried out within three months of its being required, or the badge given up.)
 
B-P SECOND & FIRST CLASS TESTS ISSUED 1931.
 
Tenderfoot.
1. Know the Scout Law, Signs, and Salute.
2. Know the composition of the Union Jack and the right way to fly it.
3. Tie the following knots:- Reef knot, sheet bend, clove hitch, bowline, fisherman's and sheepshank and understand their special uses and how to whip the end of a rope.
 
Second Class Test.
1. Have at least one month's service as a tenderfoot.
2. Pass the following test in First Aid:-
(i) Know the general rules of health as given in 'Scouting for Boys.'
(ii) Be able to deal with the following simple accidents:
Cuts and Scratches.
Bruises and Sprains.
Burns and Scalds.
Grit in the Eye.
Bleeding from the Nose.
Stings and Bites.
(iii) Know how to clean a wound and apply a clean dressing.
(iv) Have a knowledge of triangular bandage and how to apply it to different parts of the body (not fractures).
3. Know the Semaphore or Morse sign for every letter in the alphabet and for numerals.
4. Follow a track half a mile in twenty-five minutes; or, if this is impossible, describe satisfactorily the contents of one shop window out of four, observed for one minute each, of Kim's Game, to remember sixteen out of twenty-four well assorted small articles after one minute's observation.
5. Go a mile in twelve minutes at 'scouts pace.'
6. Lay and light a wood fire, in the open, using not more than two matches.
7. Cook a quarter of a pound of meat and two potatoes without cooking utensils other than the regulation billy, in the open over camp fire if possible.
8. Have saved, and paid into a savings bank account a sum consistent with is opportunities of saving (minimum sixpence).
9. Know the sixteen principle points of the compass.
 
First Class Test.
1. Swim fifty yards. (N.B.-This may be omitted where the doctor certifies that bathing is dangerous to the boy's health, in which case he must pass one of the following badges:- Ambulance, Firemen, Marksman, Pathfinder, Signaller, or Stalker.)
2. Have saved, and paid into a savings bank account a sum consistent with is opportunities of saving (minimum one shilling).
3.Send and receive a message either in Semaphore at rate four (twenty letters a minute) or in Morse at rate three (fifteen letters per minute). He must also understand the use of the calling up sign VE, and its answer K, the general answer, the end of message sign AR and its answer R, alphabetical check for numerals and erase signal.
4. Estimate, without apparatus, distance, numbers, height and weight, within 25 per cent error.
5. Pass the following test in First Aid:-
(i) Know the position of the main arteries (names unnecessary) and be able to stop bleeding
(ii) Know how to apply First Aid to fractures.
(iii) Know the proper method of dealing with any of the following emergencies: Fire, drowning, runaway carriage, fainting, ice breaking, electric shock.
6. Cook satisfactorily (over camp fire in the open, if possible) two out of the following dishes, porridge, bacon, hunter's stew; or skin and cook a rabbit, or pluck and cook a bird. Also, make a 'damper' of half a pound of flour, or a twist' baked on a thick stick.
7. Read the conventional signs of a map correctly, and draw an intelligible rough sketch map. Point out a compass direction without the help of a compass.
8. Use an axe for felling or trimming light timber, or, as alternative, produce an article of carpentry or joinery or metal work made by himself satisfactorily, or make a working model of any kind of machinery in metal or wood.
9. Go on foot, or row a boat, alone or with another Scout, to a point seven miles away, and return again; or, ride an animal, or bicycle (not motor) a distance of fifteen miles and back; he must write a short report of the journey. It is preferable that he should take two days over the journey.
10. Train a recruit in the Tenderfoot Test (This may be postponed if recruits are not immediately desired, but must be carried out within three months of its being required, or the badge given up.)
 
B-P SECOND & FIRST CLASS TESTS ISSUED 1936.
 
Tenderfoot.
1. Know the Scout Law and Promise and understand their meanings.
2. Know the Scout Signs and Salutes.
3. Know the Composition and History of, and How to Fly the Union Jack.
4. Know certain uses of the Scout Staff.
5. Tie the following knots:- Reef Knot, Sheet Bend, Clove Hitch, Bowline, Round Turn and Two Half Hitches and Sheepshank, and understand their respective uses.
 
Second Class Test.
1. Have at least one month's service as a tenderfoot.
2. Pass the following test in First Aid:-
(i) Know the general rules of health as given in 'Scouting for Boys.'
(ii) Be able to deal with the following simple accidents:
Cuts and Scratches.
Bruises and Sprains.
Burns and Scalds.
Grit in the Eye.
Bleeding from the Nose.
Stings and Bites.
(iii) Know how to clean a wound and apply a clean dressing.
(iv) Have a knowledge of triangular bandage and how to apply it to different parts of the body (not fractures).
3. Know the Semaphore or Morse sign for every letter in the alphabet and for numerals, and be able to send and read a simple message.
4. Follow a trail half a mile in twenty-five minutes; or, if this is impossible, describe satisfactorily the contents of one shop window out of four, observed for one minute each, of Kim's Game, to remember sixteen out of twenty-four well assorted small articles after one minute's observation.
5. Go a mile in twelve minutes at 'scouts pace.'
6. Lay and light a wood fire, in the open, using not more than two matches.
7. Cook a quarter of a pound of meat and two potatoes without cooking utensils other than the regulation billy-can, over a wood fire in the open.
8. Have saved, and paid into a savings bank account a sum consistent with is opportunities of saving (minimum sixpence).
9. Know and point out with the aid of a compass the sixteen principle points of the compass.
 
First Class Test.
1. Swim fifty yards. If a doctor certifies that bathing is dangerous to the boy's health, he must, instead of this, pass for one of the following badges:- Camper, Handyman, Healthyman, Naturalist, Pioneer, Stalker, Starman or Tracker.
2. Understand the meaning of thrift and be practicing it, and must have saved, and paid into a Savings Bank account, a sum consistent with is opportunities of saving (minimum one shilling).
3.Send and receive a message either in Semaphore at rate four (twenty letters a minute) or in Morse at rate three (fifteen letters per minute). He must also understand the use of the calling up sign VE, and its answer K, the general answer, the end of message sign AR and its answer R, alphabetical check for numerals and erase signal.
4. Estimate, without apparatus, distance, numbers, height and weight, within 25 per cent error.
5. Pass the following test in First Aid:-
(1) Know the position of the main arteries (names unnecessary) and be able to stop bleeding
(2) Know how to apply First Aid to fractures.
(3) Know the proper method of dealing with any of the following emergencies: Fire, drowning, runaway carriage, fainting, ice breaking, electric shock.
6. Cook satisfactorily (over camp fire in the open, if possible) two out of the following dishes: Porridge, bacon, hunter's stew - as may be directed; or skin and cook a rabbit, or pluck and cook a bird; also, make a damper or a twist baked on a thick stick.
7. Map Reading. - Read and be able to use a 1-inch Ordnance Survey Map (or its local equivalent) and draw an intelligible rough sketch map. Use a compass and point out a compass direction by day or night without the help of a compass.
8. Use an axe for felling or trimming light timber, or, as alternative, produce an article of carpentry or joinery or metal work made by himself satisfactorily, or make a working model of any kind of machinery in metal or wood.
9. Train a recruit in the Tenderfoot Test.
10. Go on foot, or row a boat, alone or with another Scout, to a point 7 miles away, and return again; or, ride an animal, or bicycle (not motor) a distance of 15 miles and back; he must write a short report of the journey with special attention to any points to which he may be directed by the examiner or his Scoutmaster (a route map of the journey is not required). The journey should occupy about twenty-four hours, and camping kit for the night must be taken and used, though, in abnormal circumstances, the Local Association may give permission for this paragraph to be made easier to meet exceptional cases. This test should normally be the final one taken for the First Class Badge.
 
B-P SECOND & FIRST CLASS TESTS ISSUED 1939.
 
Tenderfoot.
1. Know the Scout Law and Promise and understand their meanings.
2. Know the Scout Salutes.
3. Know the Scout Signs.
4. Know the Composition and History of, and How to Fly the Union Jack.
5. Know certain uses of the Scout Staff.
6. Tie the following knots:- Reef Knot, Sheet Bend, Clove Hitch, Bowline, Round Turn and Two Half Hitches and Sheepshank, and understand their respective uses.
 
Second Class Test.
1. First Aid.-Pass the following test in First Aid:-
(i) Know the general rules of health as given in 'Scouting for Boys.' Camp Fire Yarn 18.
(ii) Be able to deal with the following-
Cuts and Scratches.
Sprains.
Burns and Scalds.
Bleeding from the Nose.
Stings and Bites.
Sunburning, avoidance and treatment.
(iii) Know how to clean a wound and apply a clean dressing.
(iv) Have a knowledge of triangular bandage as a large and small sling and as applied to knee, head, and foot; and understand the importance of summoning adult help and treating for shock (not electric).
2. Signalling.-Know the Semaphore or Morse sign for every letter in the alphabet and for numerals, and be able to send and read a simple message. He must also understand the use of the calling up sign and its answer, the general answer, the end of message sign and its answer, and the erase signal.
3. Observation. Follow a trail half a mile in 25 minutes; or, if this is impossible, describe satisfactorily the contents of one shop window out of four, observed for one minute each, of Kim's Game, to remember sixteen out of twenty-four well assorted small articles after one minute's observation; and an efficient performance of Scout's Pace.
Note.-It is wise that boys should be trained in both following a trail and Kim's Game.
4. Pioneering.-Demonstrate correctly the following :-
(a) Square and diagonal lashings.
(b) Timber hitch, rolling hitch and fisherman's knot.
5. Firelighting.-Lay and light a wood fire, in the open, using not more than two matches, natural tinder to be used wherever possible.
6. Cooking.-Cook a quarter of a pound of meat and two potatoes without cooking utensils other than the regulation billy-can, over a wood fire in the open.
7. Axemanship.-Know the safety rules and care of a hand axe and knife. Demonstrate the correct ways of chopping firewood.
8. Compass.-Demonstrate the practical use of a compass and know the sixteen principal points.
9. Service.-Have at least one month's satisfactory service as a Tenderfoot and satisfy the S.M. that he can repass his Tenderfoot tests.
 
First Class Test.
1. Swimming.-Swim fifty yards. If a doctor certifies that bathing is dangerous to the boy's health, he must, instead of this, pass for one of the following badges:- Camper, Handyman, Healthyman, Naturalist, Pioneer, Stalker, Starman or Tracker.
2. Pioneering.-Demonstrate correctly the following-
(a) sheerlashing.
(b) Back and eye splices.
(c) Fireman's chair knot and man harness knot.
3.Signalling.-Send and receive a message either in Semaphore at rate four (twenty letters a minute) or in Morse at rate three (fifteen letters per minute). He must also understand the alphabetical check for numerals.
4. Estimation.-Estimate, without apparatus, distance, numbers, height and weight, within 25 per cent error each side.
5. First Aid.-Know the position of the main arteries (names unnecessary) and be able to stop bleeding; How to recognise and apply first aid to fractured arm, forearm, and collar bone, and the importance of not moving other suspected fractures; and the proper method of dealing with any of the following emergencies:-
Fire, drowning, fainting, ice breaking, electric shock, grit in the eye, fits.
6. Cooking.-Cook satisfactorily (over wood fire in the open) two out of the following dishes: Porridge, bacon, hunter's stew - as may be directed; or skin and cook a rabbit, or pluck and cook a bird; also, make a damper or a twist baked on a thick stick.
7. Mapping.-Read and be able to use a 1-inch Ordnance Survey Map (or its local equivalent) and draw an intelligible rough sketch map. Use a compass and point out a compass direction by day or night without the help of a compass.
8. Axemanship.-Use an axe for felling or trimming light timber, or, if this be impracticable, be able to log up a piece of timber and demonstrate the theory of felling a tree.
10. Journey.-Go on foot, or row a boat, alone or with another Scout, for a total distance of 14 miles, or ride an animal, or bicycle (not motor) a distance of 30 miles; he must write a short report of the journey with special attention to any points to which he may be directed by the examiner or his Scoutmaster (a route map of the journey is not required). The journey should occupy about twenty-four hours, and camping kit for the night must be taken and used. Whenever practicable, the camp site must be of the Scout's own choosing, and not where other Scouts are camping. His S.M. or Examiner may indicate the route and suggest the approximate area but not the actual position where he will make his camp. In abnormal circumstances, the L.A. may give permission for this paragraph to be made easier to meet exceptional cases. This test should normally be the final one taken for the First-Class badge.
 
B-P SECOND & FIRST CLASS TESTS ISSUED 1946.
 
Tenderfoot.
1. Know the Scout Law and Promise and understand their meanings, in accordance with his age.
2. Know the Salutes, as given in Camp Fire Yarn 3 of 'Scouting for Boys'.
3. Know the composition of the Union Flag, and how to hoist, break and fly it.
4. Clean a wound, and make and apply a dressing.
5. Make the Woodcraft Signs given in Camp Fire Yarn 4 of 'Scouting for Boys'.
6. Demonstrate with rope how to tie the following knots: reef, sheetbend, clove hitch, bowline, round turn and two half hitches, sheepshank, and explain their respective uses. Whip the end of a rope.
7. Must know how to whip the end of a rope.
 
Second Class Test.
1. Must be able to re-pass the Tenderfoot Tests.
2. (a) Know how to deal with the following common minor accidents:-Minor Cuts and Scratches; Sprains; Bruises; Bleeding from the Nose; Stings and Bites; Burns and Scalds; Avoidance of Sunburning.
(b) Demonstrate the use of the triangular bandage as a sling. Demonstrate how to summon help and to treat for shock (not electric).
3. Know the general rules of health as given in 'Scouting for Boys.' Camp Fire Yarn 18.
4. Demonstrate the Six Exercises described in Camp Fire Yarn 17 of 'Scouting for Boys'.
5. Describe, in writing 16 out of 24 well assorted articles following one minute's observation, or follow a trail half a mile long containing not less than thirty woodcraft signs, in 25 minutes.
6. Be able to recognise and name, from a list submitted by the Scout, six common trees, and know the values of their wood for fires.
7. Tie the following knots and know their uses: timber hitch and fisherman's: demonstrate square and diagonal lashings by constructing a trestle of Scout staffs.
8. Know the safety rules and care of a hand axe and knife. Demonstrate how to chop firewood.
9. Know the Morse or Semaphore sign for every letter in the alphabet and for the numerals; also the table of Miscellaneous Signals in Camp Fire Yarn 7 of 'Scouting for Boys'. Be able to send and receive a simple message accurately out of doors.
10. Know the 16 points of the compass and how to set a map.
11. Lay and light a fire out of doors with natural materials, using two matches only. Cook over this fire porridge for two, and a twist or damper.
12. Show that he understands the Highway Code. Paras. 1,2,5 and 7 (To all road users). Paras. 89 to 100 (To all pedestrians). Paras. 55 to 88 (To cyclists).
13. If he has the use of a bicycle, demonstrate that he is keeping it properly maintained and that he is able to effect minor repairs.
 
First Class Test.
1. Must be able to re-pass the Second Class Tests.
2. Must have camped, as a Scout, for a total of 10 nights before completing his First Class tests. One week-end camp at least must be included in the total.
3. (a) Demonstrate the proper method of dealing with the following emergencies: fire, drowning, fainting, ice breaking and electric shock.
(b) Know the position of the main arteries and how to stop external bleeding from veins and arteries.
Demonstrate how to deal with fractures of the collar-bone, arm, and fore-arm. Understand the importance of not moving other suspected fractures.
Demonstrate how to deal with shock at all stages.
4. Swim fifty yards. If a doctor certifies that bathing is dangerous to the boy's health, the latter must, instead of this, pass for one of the following badges:- Camper, Handyman, Naturalist, Pioneer, Stalker, Woodcraftsman, Backwoodsman, Starman or Astronomer.
5. Read the meaning of a series of simple tracks made in sandy or other suitable ground. These should include running, limping, carrying a weight, walking backwards and blind gaits.
6. Be able to recognise and name, from lists submitted by the Scout 12 common trees and 6 common birds.
7. Using improvised apparatus, such as a Scout Staff, estimate three distances not more than half a mile, and three heights not more than a hundred feet. In each case the estimate to be within ten per cent error above or below the actual.
8. Demonstrate the following: sheerlashing; back and eye splice; fireman's chair knot; manharness knot; rolling hitch.
9. Use a felling axe for felling or trimming light timber, or, if this be impracticable, be able to log up a piece of timber and demonstrate the theory of felling a tree.
10.Send and receive a message out of doors, either in Semaphore at rate four (twenty letters a minute) or in Morse at rate three (fifteen letters per minute). He must also understand the alphabetical check for numerals. Where it is desired to pass the text in Morse, by buzzer, the test may be taken indoors provided the sender and receiver are out of sight of each other.
11. (a) Have a comprehensive knowledge of the Highway Code, including appendices and supplementary notes and be able to answer questions and give demonstrations in relation to any part of it.
(b) Demonstrate the principle of controlling traffic.
(c) Understand the procedure for reporting Road Accidents.
12. If he has the use of a bicycle, demonstrate that he is keeping it properly maintained and that he is able to effect all reasonable repairs.
13. Read and be able to use a 1-inch Ordnance Survey Map (or its local equivalent) and draw an intelligible rough sketch map. Use a compass and point out a compass direction by day or night without the help of a compass.
14. Go on foot, alone or with another Scout, a 24 hours' journey of at least 14 miles.
In the course of the journey he must cook his own meals, one of which must include meat, over a wood fire in the open, find his camp site and camp for the night.
He must carry out any instructions given by the Examiner as to things to be observed en route.
He must hand to the Examiner within one week of his return his completed log together with any rough notes made on the journey.
A Sea Scout may do this journey partly be water and partly by land-at least 5 miles of the 14 to be done on foot.
This Test should be taken last.
 
B-P SECOND & FIRST CLASS TESTS ISSUED 1956.
 
Tenderfoot.
1. Know the Scout Law and Promise and understand their meanings, in accordance with his age.
2. Know the Salutes, as given in Camp Fire Yarn 3 of 'Scouting for Boys'.
3. Know the composition of the Union Flag, and how to hoist, break and fly it.
4. Clean a wound, and make and apply a dressing.
5. Make the Woodcraft Signs given in Camp Fire Yarn 4 of 'Scouting for Boys'.
6. Demonstrate with rope how to tie the following knots: reef, sheetbend, clove hitch, bowline, round turn and two half hitches, sheepshank, and explain their respective uses. Whip the end of a rope.
7. Must know how to whip the end of a rope.
 
Second Class Test.
1. Must be able to re-pass the Tenderfoot Tests.
2. (a) Know how to deal with the following common minor accidents:-Minor Cuts and Scratches; Sprains; Bruises; Bleeding from the Nose; Stings and Bites; Burns and Scalds; Avoidance of Sunburning.
(b) Demonstrate the use of the triangular bandage as a sling. Demonstrate how to summon help and to treat for shock (not electric).
3. Know the general rules of health as given in 'Scouting for Boys.' Camp Fire Yarn 18.
4. Demonstrate the Six Exercises described in Camp Fire Yarn 17 of 'Scouting for Boys'.
5. Describe, in writing 16 out of 24 well assorted articles following one minute's observation, or follow a trail half a mile long containing not less than thirty woodcraft signs, in 25 minutes.
6. Be able to recognise and name, from a list submitted by the Scout, six common trees, and know the values of their wood for fires.
7. Tie the following knots and know their uses: timber hitch and fisherman's: demonstrate square and diagonal lashings by constructing a trestle of Scout staffs.
8. Know the safety rules and care of a hand axe and knife. Demonstrate how to chop firewood.
9. Know the Morse or Semaphore sign for every letter in the alphabet and for the numerals; also the table of Miscellaneous Signals in Camp Fire Yarn 7 of 'Scouting for Boys'. Be able to send and receive a simple message accurately out of doors.
10. Know the 16 points of the compass and how to set a map.
11. Lay and light a fire out of doors with natural materials, using two matches only. Cook over this fire porridge for two, and a twist or damper.
12. Show that he understands the Highway Code. Paras. 1,2,5 and 7 (To all road users). Paras. 89 to 100 (To all pedestrians). Paras. 55 to 88 (To cyclists).
13. If he has the use of a bicycle, demonstrate that he is keeping it properly maintained and that he is able to effect minor repairs.
 
First Class Test.
1. Must be able to re-pass the Second Class Tests.
2. Must have camped, as a Scout, for a total of 10 nights before completing his First Class tests. One week-end camp at least must be included in the total.
3. (a) Demonstrate the proper method of dealing with the following emergencies: fire, drowning, fainting, ice breaking and electric shock.
(b) Know the position of the main arteries and how to stop external bleeding from veins and arteries.
Demonstrate how to deal with fractures of the collar-bone, arm, and fore-arm. Understand the importance of not moving other suspected fractures.
Demonstrate the use of the triangular badage as applied to the knee, head and foot.
Demonstrate how to deal with shock at all satges.
4. Swim fifty yards. If a doctor certifies that bathing is dangerous to a boy's health, the latter must, instead of this, pass one of the following badges:- For Scouts under 15, Camper, Jobman, Woodcraftman, Backwoodsman, Stalker, Starman. For Scouts over 15, Camp Warden, Handyman, Naturalist, Pioneer, Tracker, Astronomer.
5. Read the meaning of a series of simple tracks made in sandy or other suitable ground. These should include running, limping, carrying a weight, walking backwards and blind gaits.
6. Be able to recognise and name, from lists submitted by the Scout 12 common trees and 6 common birds.
7. Using improvised apparatus, such as a Scout Staff, estimate three distances not more than half a mile, and three heights not more than a hundred feet. In each case the estimate to be within ten per cent error above or below the actual.
8. Demonstrate the following: sheer lashing; back and eye splice; fireman's chair knot; manharness knot; rolling hitch.
9. Use a felling axe for felling or trimming light timber, or, if this be impracticable, be able to log up a piece of timber and demonstrate the theory of felling a tree.
10.Send and receive a message out of doors, either in Semaphore at rate four (twenty letters a minute) or in Morse at rate three (fifteen letters per minute). He must also understand the alphabetical check for numerals. Where it is desired to pass the text in Morse, by buzzer, the test may be taken indoors provided the sender and receiver are out of sight of each other.
10. (a) Have a comprehensive knowledge of the Highway Code, including appendices and supplementary notes and be able to answer questions and give demonstrations in relation to any part of it.
(b) Demonstrate the principle of controlling traffic.
(c) If he has the use of a bicycle, demonstrate that he is keeping it properly maintained and that he is able to effect all reasonable repairs.
(d) Understand the procedure for reporting Road Accidents.
11. Read and be able to use a one-inch Ordnance Survey Map (or its local equivalent) and draw an intelligible rough sketch map. Use a compass and point out a compass direction by day or night without the help of a compass.
12. Go on foot, alone or with another Scout, a 24 hours' journey of at least 14 miles. In the course of the journey he must cook his own meals, one of which must include meat, over a wood fire in the open, find his camp site and camp for the night. He must carry out any instructions given by the Examiner as to things to be observed en route. He must hand to the Examiner within one week of his return his completed log together with any rough notes made on the journey. A Sea Scout may do this journey partly be water and partly by land-at least 5 miles of the 14 to be done on foot. This Test should be taken last.

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The Reverend Michael Foster, MIWO. SSC.
Scout History Association,
The Rectory, Church Hill, Tarrant Hinton,
Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 8JB.

Telephone +44 (1258) 830764