Explorer Scouting - what is it?

Explorers, which is the fourth section of the Scouting movement, is for the 14 to 18 year olds, and is for both sexes.

Young people in this age have busy lives and in particular school work and exams will take up a major part of their time - so Explorer Scouting fits around these and other important aspects of life.

Explorer Units are organised and run on a District wide basis. However, individuals are normally associated with one Unit, but are free to participate in the activities of other Units. The Units therefore follow not only their own activity programme, but also a District one, and may not meet every week, as often the scouting activities will take place at the weekends, as well as in the school holidays.

The Explorer Programme and Award Scheme is compatible with the staged Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards. This allows the Chief Scout Platinum & Diamond Awards together with the Queen’s Scout Award to reward participation as well as achievement.

Additionally, there are opportunities for Explorer Scouts to take part in the Young Leader Scheme, by helping the adult leaders at a Beaver Scout Colony, Cub Scout Pack or Scout Troop.