🧠What Are Explorer Scouts?
Explorer Scouts are young people aged 14 to 18 who want to push boundaries, gain independence, and take on bigger adventures – all while having fun and making lifelong friends.
It’s where the real adventure begins.
Whether you’re hiking mountains, volunteering in your community, learning new skills, or planning your own international expedition – Explorers do it all.
🚀 Real Challenge, Real Independence
Explorers are trusted to take on more responsibility, lead their own projects, and shape the programme they take part in. Every Unit is different, but you’ll find Explorers:
- Planning and running their own activities
- Working towards awards like the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
- Taking on outdoor challenges, including nights away, survival camps, and international trips
- Supporting younger Scout sections as Young Leaders
It’s all about developing the confidence and resilience to take on the world – while still having an epic time.
💡 Skills for Life (and Work)
Explorer Scouts aren’t just learning to read a map or pitch a tent – they’re building real-life skills that matter.
That includes:
- Teamwork and leadership
- Problem-solving and communication
- Planning and project management
- Volunteering and community action
These experiences give Explorers an edge – whether they’re applying for college, university, apprenticeships, or their first job.
Explorers have the chance to take part in national and international Scouting events, including:
- World Scout Jamborees
- Explorer Belt expeditions
- EuroJam and international camps
- UK-wide competitions and challenges
They also work toward the top awards in Scouting: the Chief Scout’s Platinum and Diamond Awards, the King’s Scout Award, and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards.
🧡 Still Scouts at Heart
Even as they gain independence, Explorers are still part of the wider Scout family. Many get involved as Young Leaders, helping with Beavers, Cubs, or Scouts – building confidence and giving back.
They still live by the Scout Promise and Law, and they still make time for fun, friends, and shared adventure.
📌 Want to Join?
If you’re aged 14 to 18 and ready to challenge yourself, make an impact, and go further than ever before – Explorer Scouts could be the perfect fit.
👉 Get in touch to join our Explorer Unit or find out more.
Adventure. Responsibility. Growth. It starts here.