In UK Brownies, what is a small group within a unit called?

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In UK Brownies, a small group within a unit is called a six.

A Brownie unit is the local group that meets together, while its members are traditionally divided into smaller teams called sixes. The term reflects the usual historic size of the group rather than a building, campsite, or patrol structure.

Each six traditionally has a Sixer, an older or more experienced Brownie who helps lead the group, and a Second who acts as deputy. Sixes may be named after fairies or woodland creatures, giving each team its own identity during meetings, activities, and outings.

This terminology is specifically associated with UK Guiding and can differ across Scouting organisations. A whole group of Brownies is called a unit, not a six; the six is only the smaller working group inside it. The arrangement helps leaders organise activities and gives younger members opportunities to cooperate, take responsibility, and support one another.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Sept. 2026

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