Being an Explorer

When you join Explorers, you’ll be introduced to lots of new activities, people and things.

Right from the time of Baden-Powell, there have been arrangements for young people who wanted to continue after their time in the Scout Section, and in 1967, Venture Scouts were formed from the existing Senior Scout and Rover Scout Sections. During the late 1990s it was decided that, to meet the changing needs of young people, there should be two sections for the over-14s: Explorer Scouts for 14 to 18-year-olds, and the Scout Network for 18 to 25s.

Structure

A group of Explorer Scouts is called a unit.

There is also a Young Leader Section, where from 14-18 the Explorer can join another section and help out as a Young Leader – with support and training from the Young Leader Team.

Activities

Explorer Scouts often get the chance to work with other Explorer Scouts in their district, not just their own unit, so can take part in an even wider spectrum of activities. Activities include hikes, camps, bowling, shooting, archery, climbing, and a wide range of community service activities.
There is also a range of ambitious badges and awards, through which Explorers can demonstrate their proficiencies and expand their interests, including Duke of Edinburgh award (DofE) Bronze, Silver and Gold.

What Explorers wear

Once they’ve had time to settle in to the group, Explorers get their own set of uniform to wear during meetings and on trips away. Usually, this consists of a beige shirt or blouse with their badges sewn on, which they pair with their necker.

Alongside their shirts, Explorers might wear the accompanying blue uniform trousers or skirt, or they might save their uniform bottoms to wear for special occasions like awards ceremonies and public events – choosing to wear something more casual with their shirt during the sessions. Optional accessories such as hats, hoodies, etc. are also available.

You can purchase uniform from the shop at The Quarries, open Saturdays 10am to 4pm.