Explorers

Explorer Units are the fifth Section of the Scouting family after Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs and Scouts.

Explorer Scouts are young people aged between 14 and 18 years old. There is some flexibility in the age range and young people can join from age 13½, but cannot move on to become a Network Scout until 18. However, young people must leave the Explorer Scout Unit before the date of their 18th birthday.

Structure and meetings

A group of Explorer Scouts is called a Unit and is part of the District’s provision of Scouting. An Explorer Scout Unit and a Scout Group may work together under a Partnership Agreement, which should set out clearly the links between the Unit and the Group, arrangements for communication, use of equipment and facilities.

With the support, direction and guidance of Unit leaders, Explorer Scouts are encouraged to lead themselves, design their own programme and work towards the top awards that Scouting offers. Explorers also have the opportunity to be a part of The Young Leaders’ Scheme which develops their leadership skills and sense of responsibility, by helping to run meetings for younger sections.

The key to running a successful Explorer Unit is flexibility. Therefore the programme reflects the other commitments that crop up in a teenager’s life, such as exams. For example, the Unit may not meet every week or carry out some activities at weekends.

Activities

Explorer Scouts are encouraged to take part in a wide range of activities as part of their programme. These could include traditional Scouting skills, such as camping, survival and cooking, as well as a wider spectrum of adventurous activities, from abseiling to zorbing. The Explorer programme will be supplemented and complemented by events and activities delivered across the District, allowing them the opportunity to socialise and work with other local Explorer Units.

In addition, there are a number of activity badges and ambitious top awards that Explorer Scouts can gain to recognise their achievements.

Uniform & Badge Placement

The Scout Promise

On my honour
I promise that I will do my best
To do my duty to God and to the King,
To help other people
And to keep the Scout Law

Meetings

Explorers will usually meet on Fridays 7.30pm – 9.00pm

Joining

If you would like to enrol as an Explorer Scout please complete our join form.