How to Apply as an Adult Helper

Any adult (18 years or older) who participates in Scouting activities is required to hold a valid NSW Working With Children Check (WWCC). 

If you plan to attend overnight camps, assist on a recurring basis, or join specific District, Region, or State events, Scouts NSW also requires you to register as an Adult Helper.

Step 1: Apply for a Working With Children Check (WWCC)

A volunteer WWCC is free of charge and valid for 5 years. If you are 17 years and 9 months old, you may apply early in preparation for turning 18.

Already have a WWCC?
If you already hold a valid volunteer or paid WWCC, do not apply for a new one. You can use your existing number and expiry date.

1. Apply Online: Visit the NSW Office of the Children’s Guardian portal (wwccheck.ocg.nsw.gov.au/Apply) to submit an online application:
   • Select Volunteer (fee-free).
   • Select Clubs or other bodies as the sector/category.
   • Enter your identity document details and submit.
2. Obtain Application (APP) Number: Upon submission, you will receive an application receipt containing an APP number (this is a temporary tracking number, not the final clearance).
3. Verify Identity in Person: Take your APP receipt and required proof-of-identity documents to a Service NSW Centre.
4. Receive Your WWC Clearance: Processing generally takes 1 to 4 weeks. Once cleared, you will receive an email confirmation containing your official clearance number and its expiry date.

Step 2: Register as an Adult Helper

1. Go directly to the Ryde Scout Group Registration Page.
2. Select New Member or Returning Member as appropriate.
3. Select Full Membership, then choose Adult Helper.
4. Confirm the fee breakdown (there is no cost for an Adult Helper).
5. Complete your member details:

   • Enter your finalised WWCC clearance number and expiry date (avoid using an APP number, as this will delay your application).

   • If you have an existing National Police Check certificate, enter those details to help expedite processing.

6. Review and accept the Terms of Registration, then submit your registration.

Step 3: Complete the National Police Check

• As part of Adult Helper onboarding, Scouts NSW will trigger a background check request via email.
• Follow the instructions in the email from the screening agency/Police Force promptly (usually within 7 days) to verify your identity online.
• Once processed, Scouts NSW will finalise your Adult Helper profile and issue login credentials for the online training portal.

Step 4: Mandatory e-Learning Modules

Before taking part in leadership or support duties, you must complete three core child-safety modules via the Scouts online training platform (typically takes under 4 hours total):

• WHS for Scouting
• Child Safe Scouting
• Adult Code of Conduct

Note: Scouts NSW requires these modules specifically tailored to Scouting principles; training completed through other external organisations cannot be substituted.

Questions?

If you run into any issues during the application or need an update on your member registration, please reach out to the Ryde Scout Group Leader at Elizabeth.Garratt@nsw.scouts.com.au or speak to a section leader at the hall.