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.

Try more. See more. Do more. At Explorers, you’ll stand on your own two feet, and make memories to last a lifetime.

With exciting prospects like being a part of camps and expeditions both home and abroad; adventurous activities such as mountaineering, parascending and offshore sailing; Explorers offers fun and adventure for all. Explorers also have the opportunity to be a part of The Explorer Scout Young Leaders’ Scheme which develops their leadership skills and sense of responsibility, by helping to run meetings for younger sections.

Explorer Units are the fourth Section of the Scouting family after Beavers, Cubs and Scouts. Explorer Scouts are young people aged between 14 and 18 years old.

Find your local Explorer Scout Unit
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Structure and meetings

A group of Explorer Scouts is called a Unit. The key to running a successful Explorer Unit is flexibility. Due to the other commitments that crop up in a teenager’s life, such as exams, it is important that the programme reflects this. For example, Units may not meet every week, or carry out the majority of activities at weekends.

Activities

Explorer Scouts are encouraged to take part in a wide range of activities as part of their programme including traditional Scouting skills, such as camping, survival and cooking, as well as a wider spectrum of adventurous activities, from abseiling to sailing.

Activity badges

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

Challenge Awards

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

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Find out where to place Explorer badges and awards on the uniform.

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