14 – 18 Year olds…
“To anyone who hasn’t tried Scouting before, I’d say come on up and have a go! I think that most people don’t really know that Scouting is about activities, friendship and meeting people from other countries. I’ve been coming a long since I was a Beaver and I still love it!” – Lesley, aged 16.
Explorer Scouts, often referred to simply as Explorers, represent a dynamic and adventurous section of The Scout Association, welcoming young people aged 14 to 18. Established in 2001 to succeed the Venture Scout section, Explorers embark on a journey filled with diverse activities, leadership opportunities, and personal development.
Programme and Activities
Explorers engage in a wide array of activities designed to challenge and inspire:
- Adventurous Expeditions: Engaging in activities such as hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, sailing, caving, and shooting, Explorers develop resilience and a profound appreciation for the outdoors.
- Skill Development: Opportunities to learn practical skills, including navigation, first aid, and survival techniques, empower Explorers with competencies that serve them throughout life.
- Community Involvement: Participating in local service projects fosters a sense of responsibility and community spirit.
These experiences are meticulously crafted to promote leadership, teamwork, and self-reliance.
Awards and Badges
To acknowledge their achievements, Explorers can pursue a variety of awards:
- Activity Badges: Covering diverse interests, these badges encourage Explorers to explore new areas and hone specific skills.
- Staged Activity Badges: Designed to be undertaken by any member aged 6 to 18, these badges are completed in stages, allowing Explorers to progress through various levels of a particular skill or activity.
- Top Awards: Explorers have the opportunity to achieve prestigious awards such as the Queen’s Scout Award, the highest youth award achievable in Scouting.
Structure of an Explorer Unit
Explorers are organized into groups called Units, which are typically managed at the District level, offering a broader range of activities and resources. This structure encourages leadership, responsibility, and mentorship among the Explorers.
Regular meetings, often held weekly, provide a structured environment where Explorers can engage in a balanced programme of activities. These gatherings are led by a team of dedicated volunteers who plan and facilitate the sessions, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all members.
Uniform and Identity
Explorers wear a distinctive beige shirt or blouse, paired with a neckerchief (or ‘necker’) in their Unit’s colours. This uniform fosters a sense of belonging and pride among the members, symbolizing their commitment to Scouting values.
Joining the Adventure
Paisley & District Scouts proudly host several Explorer Units, each offering a welcoming environment for young people to continue their Scouting journey. We are committed to providing a supportive and enriching space where Explorers can develop essential life skills while embracing adventure.
Embark on this exciting journey with us and watch your child grow into a confident and capable individual!