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What are Explorer Scouts?

Explorer Scouts are young people, usually aged between 14 and 18 years old. They make up the fourth Section of the Scouting family. There are many types of Explorer Scout Units, some may be linked to your local Scout Group, others may be based around different activities.

As an Explorer Scout you get to take part in all the usual great Scouting activities such as kayaking, climbing, orienteering... as well as work on projects helping to support your local community. You can also, if you choose, get more closely involved in working with the younger Sections as a Young Leader.

Explorer Scouts are encouraged to take part in a wide range of activities as part of their programme. Meeting personal challenges rather than meeting set standards is the key approach and for the Explorer who wants to be recognised for his or her achievements there are a number of Challenges Awards and Activity Badges, leading to the Queen's Scout Award. As well as the Scouting badges, Explorers can also work towards their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards.

Being outdoors is important and there are a wide range of adventurous activities, anything from abseiling to yachting. Many Explorer Scouts also help at other section meetings as Young Leaders assisting the adults in running the games, activities and training at all levels in Scouting.

The international aspect gives Scouting a special appeal and many Explorer Scouts now travel abroad during their time in the Section. In 2007 40,000 Scouts from around the World attended the World Jamboree in the UK, and Explorer Scouts regularly participate in International camps and experiences both on home soil and abroad, each of them a unique experience in its own right.

Scouting is about being with friends, as part of a team, participating fully in the adventure and opportunities of life.

You can find out more about the Explorer Scout section on the national Scout website.

Explorer Scouts at Cheddington

Our Explorer Unit is extremely active and takes its members from both the local Scout Troops and from outside existing members. Members come from a wide area, not just Cheddington, and take part in our weekly meetings, many of which are outside of the headquarters. As well as the weekly meetings, the Explorer Unit takes part in many camps and other activities anywher in the country, and beyond.

The Unit meets throughout term times and has other activities during school holidays.

For more information about the Explorer Unit, please select the appropriate section from the menu on the left.