Explorer Units are the fifth Section of the Scouting family after Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs and Scouts. They are young people aged between 14 and 18 years old. There is flexibility in the age range: young people can join from age 13½ but cannot move to Scout Network until 18. Young people must have left the Explorer Scout section before the date of their 18th birthday.
As an Explorer Scout, you'll have a dynamic schedule that often includes exciting activities on weekends and during holidays, so weekly meetings might not always happen. Balancing your scouting adventures with other commitments like exams is part of the experience.
One of the great benefits of being an Explorer Scout is the opportunity to collaborate with other Explorer Scouts across your District. This broader network means you'll have access to a wider range of activities beyond those organized by your Unit, enriching your scouting journey even further.
In Redditch, there is a district-wide Explorer unit that meets twice a week:
Explorer Scouts can attend on either or both nights, depending on their schedules.
Training takes place at a county level while also participating in the district's overall program.
We also have a Young Leader's Explorer Scout section for those interested in assisting with meetings for younger Scouts. The Young Leaders’ Scheme is a thrilling part of the Explorer Scout experience. As a Young Leader, you'll join the leadership team of a younger Scouting section - Scouts, Cubs, Beavers, or Squirrels - to develop leadership skills and collaborate with adult leaders.
This scheme enables Explorer Scouts to grow personally and make meaningful contributions to their community, fulfilling service requirements for prestigious awards like the Platinum, Diamond, King’s Scout, and Duke of Edinburgh.
Training is offered at a county level to ensure a blended and enhanced experience while interacting with other Young Leaders from other Units.
Training Course Information – click HERE
For more details, visit the Young Leaders’ Scheme page on the national Scout website.
If you are interested in joining Explorers then visit the Scout Association's website to join the adventure.