Penguin Programme - For all young people aged 6 to 8 years
Having fun, discovering new things, building confidence and working together
Penguins are the youngest group within St John and are headed by 'Primo the Penguin' - the programme's mascot. He's always getting up to all sorts of fun and adventure, so look out for him throughout our quick tour!
How it works
Youth Divisions
Penguins meet once a week during the school term at a local division. Meetings can include things such as games, badge work, drill and sometimes special themed nights.
Offsite Activities
Although a lot of the Penguin Programme is based at a local division, there are many activities throughout the year where Penguins can make contact with other divisions.
Activities can include visits, fun days, competitions and camps. Be sure to have a look at our online gallery at the end of this tour to see photos of the latest Penguin events!
Achievements
Penguin badges
Become a Super Penguin. Penguins follow a course of nine badges, each divided into main topics. For each badge that is completed a Penguin is awarded a colourful sew-on badge and matching certificate.
It usually takes two years to complete all nine badges. Penguins who succeed in completing all the badges become a 'Super Penguin' and are presented a sew-on badge and certificate to mark their achievement.
Equipment
Penguin Starter Pack
When Penguins join St John they receive a starter pack that includes a uniform, a folder for their badge material, as well as some fun items for them to keep.
Examples of our penguin material:
- Penguin badge & certificates
- St John Youth cap
- Badge brassard
- Penguin jersey
- Penguin polo shirt
- Name badge
Membership Costs
Member contribution
St John asks parents or caregivers for a contribution towards their child belonging. This contributes towards the general running costs of attendance such as stationery, hall hire and badge resources.
The contribution requested is:
- $10 a term ($40 a year) for the first family member;
- $5 a term ($20 a year) for each additional family member.
Additional costs
- We may charge extra activity fees for camps, visits or other activities on a case by case basis.
- A non-refundable contribution of $25 is required before we can issue a uniform. The uniform remains St John property and must be returned in a good condition upon members leaving the organisation.
* St John has funds available to meet costs in cases of hardship
How to Join
It's easy to become a member of St John Youth.
We recommend using the Youth Map to find your closest division that meets on your preferred night. Come along and visit to see if the Penguin Programme could be right for you.
Even if you might have already decided you want to join, we encourage young people to come along a couple of times and only join when you are absolutely sure you want to.
You can download the enrolment form by clicking HERE, or you can pick one up at your local division.