Try more. See more. Do more. At Explorers you’ll get the chance to dream big, find your place in the world and make memories to last a lifetime.
Explorers are young people, usually aged between 14 and 18 years old. They make up the fourth section of the Scouting family after Beavers, Cubs and Scouts.
Structure and meetings
A group of Explorers is called a Unit.
Not all Units meet every week, partly due to activities, holidays, exams and the other commitments that crop up in a teenager’s life, and also because Explorers tend to get out and about at weekends more often than other sections.
Activities
Explorers often get the chance to work with other Explorers in their District, not just their own Unit, so can take part in an even wider spectrum of activities.
There is also a range of ambitious badges and awards, through which Explorers can demonstrate their proficiencies and expand their interests.
After attending meetings for a few weeks, members will make their promise as part of an investiture ceremony.
Many members also renew their promise on an annual basis, traditionally at a St. Georges Day service, meeting or outdoor activity.
Alternative versions of the promise are available. The core promise, which refers to a ‘Duty to God’, remains intact and Scouting is fully committed as a movement to exploring faith and religion as a core element of its programme.
If you would like your child to make a specific promise, please discuss it with the leader.
Explorer Scouts wear core uniform of a coloured shirt and a group or unit specific scarf.
Uniform can either be bought from Scout Shops Ltd or a local supplier. You can ask the leader for more information on what and where to buy.
We don’t want anyone to miss out through financial hardship. If concerns about finances may prevent your child taking part in Scouting or some activities, speak to your local leader, as some assistance may be available in confidence.
There is a range of badges and awards available to young people in the Explorer Scout Section.
Activity badges
Many of the badges available are activity badges, which represent the pinnacle of achievement in a particular field. Whether their interests lie in Hill Walking or Performing Arts, Aviation or Public Relations, Explorers are rewarded both for developing existing strengths and undertaking new ventures.
Additional badges and awards
In addition, there are a number of extra badges and awards, obtained by taking part in particular challenges or schemes.
Core badges
There are a number of core badges, obtained upon joining or moving on from the Unit, or for time spent in the Scouting movement.
