Welcome to the adventure!

Scouting exists to actively engage and support young people in their personal development, empowering them to make a positive contribution to society.

Explorer Scouts experience life-changing opportunities and develop important skills by working towards badges and top awards.

Explorer Scouts is the fourth section in the Scout Movement for 14 to 18-year-olds. In this section, young people enjoy the independence of planning their own incredible adventures with their Explorer Unit.

When an Explorer joins their Unit, they make a Promise to do their best and to follow the values of Scouting; integrity, respect, care, belief and cooperation.

When Explorers turn 18, they move onto the Scout Network, the fifth and final Scouting section. They could also choose to take on a role as an adult volunteer.

Activities

Earn badges, achieve awards and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime!

Explorers are encouraged to learn by doing, so our Explorer Scout Programme is jam-packed with adventurous activities that will help develop their skills.

With the support, direction and guidance of Leaders, Explorer Scouts are encouraged to lead themselves, design their own Programme and work towards the top awards that Scouting offers.

Explorers can expect to get involved in activities such as:

  • Water-based activities
  • Community impact projects
  • Hiking
  • Digital skills
  • Camping
  • Sports

Explorers can also take part in international activities such as the Explorer Belt, a 10–day expedition that provides them with a real understanding of a different country, its culture and way of life.

Young Leaders’ Scheme

One of the many exciting perks of the being an Explorer Scout is the opportunity to take part in the Young Leaders’ Scheme.

The Young Leaders’ Scheme helps Explorer Scouts develop their leadership and communication skills. As a Young Leader, Explorer Scouts will volunteer to help run a Beaver, Cub or Scout section. They will work with the Leader to plan the section’s Programme, run activities and share their Scouting skills with younger Scouts.

When Explorers complete the Scheme, they receive the Young Leader Service Award which they can reference in university and job applications.

Skills for Life

Explorer Scouts expand on and develop important life skills that will set them apart from the crowd as they enter adulthood and face the challenges that come along with it.

These important character skills include:

  • The ability to work as part of a team
  • Leadership skills
  • Problem solving skills
  • Communication skills
  • A sense of responsibility
  • Independence

Find out more

Put your phone down and what are you left with? Just teamwork, courage and the skills to succeed.’
Bear Grylls, Chief Scout Bear Grylls