A place where everyone belongs, but nobody has to fit the mould.
Your adventure. Your way.
Explorers gives young people the freedom to take on new challenges, shape their own experiences and prepare for whatever comes next.Every week brings opportunities to do more, learn more and take the lead. Explorers can get involved in adventurous activities, expeditions, camps, projects, skills sessions and community initiatives, with plenty of room to try things their own way.
It’s a chance to build on everything they’ve learned so far while developing real confidence, leadership, independence and practical skills. Whether they’re planning an adventure, leading an activity or working towards an award, Explorers are encouraged to take ownership and make it happen.
And it’s not all about what you achieve. Explorers is also about having a brilliant time with friends, discovering new interests and making memories along the way. You choose the challenge. We’ll help you take it on.
Meet our amazing Explorer Scout Leader's
None of this would be possible without the dedication, care, and planning they put into the section
Tanya "Kaa" Head
Explorer Scout Team MemberTanya is our Explorer Scout Leader, leading the section and taking responsibility for planning and delivering the Explorer programme. She works with our young people to create a programme full of challenge, adventure and opportunities to develop their skills and independence.
She supports our Explorers as they take on new experiences, encouraging them to get involved, take the lead and make the most of their time in Scouting.
Explorer Volunteer Vacancy
Assistant Explorer Scout Team MemberIf you are intrested in helping out the Explorer Scouts each week, please get in contact with us to see what role best fits you.
Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. They give their time, energy and enthusiasm to create opportunities for young people to learn new skills, build confidence, make friends and enjoy adventures. From leading activities and camps to helping behind the scenes, every volunteer makes a difference. Without them, Scouting simply wouldn’t be possible - and we’re incredibly grateful for everything they do.
Take on the challenge.
New challenges, new experiences and more ways to build skills for life.Explorers have the chance to take their Scouting journey further through some of the biggest awards, expeditions and opportunities available to young people. These experiences encourage them to set goals, take responsibility and develop skills that they’ll carry with them long after they leave Explorers.
From the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and Explorer Belt to the King’s Scout Award and Chief Scout’s Platinum and Diamond Awards, there are plenty of ways to challenge yourself. Each one offers something different, whether that’s adventure, leadership, personal development or exploring somewhere completely new.
Explorers can also become Young Leaders, supporting younger members while developing their own confidence, communication and leadership skills. It’s a chance to take on real responsibility, make a difference to others and gain experience that can stay with them for years to come.
Whether they’re working towards an award, preparing for an expedition or taking on a new responsibility, these opportunities give Explorers the freedom to push themselves and discover just how far they can go. There’s always another challenge waiting.
Go further with Explorers
From international expeditions to nationally recognised awards, there’s always another challenge to take on.Explorers have access to some of the biggest opportunities in Scouting, giving them the chance to challenge themselves, develop skills and achieve things they can be proud of. Whether it’s an expedition, supporting younger members or working towards a major award, there’s plenty to get stuck into.
From the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and Explorer Belt to the King’s Scout Award and Chief Scout’s Platinum and Diamond Awards, there are plenty of ways to challenge yourself. Each one offers something different, whether that’s adventure, leadership, personal development or exploring somewhere completely new.
Explorers can also become Young Leaders, supporting younger members while developing their own confidence, communication and leadership skills. It’s a chance to take on real responsibility, make a difference to others and gain experience that can stay with them for years to come.
Whether they’re working towards an award, preparing for an expedition or taking on a new responsibility, these opportunities give Explorers the freedom to push themselves and discover just how far they can go. There’s always another challenge waiting.
How old are Explorer Scouts?
Ages 14 to 18, with some flexibility to make sure every young person moves on when the time is right.Explorer Scouts are usually young people aged between 14 and 18, although we can offer some flexibility within the guidelines issued by Scouts. We can welcome young people from 13½ where they’re ready to join us, and we’ll usually talk this through with you as part of the joining process.
When it comes to moving on from Explorers, we also understand that there isn’t always a single perfect moment. Some young people may choose to continue their Scouting journey with Network, while others may move on to new opportunities as they reach adulthood. Explorers can remain in the section until they turn 18.
If your young person is under 13½, don’t worry - you can still add them to our New Member Waiting List. We’ll be in touch when they reach the right age and we’re ready to offer them a place in our Explorer Unit.
Join the Shire Explorer Unit at 325th Birmingham, 1st Billesley Scouts
All young people between 14 and 18 years of age are welcome to join usJoining Explorers is a great way for your young person to continue their Scouting journey. They’ll have the chance to make new friends, try new things, take on bigger challenges and have more freedom to shape their own experiences, all while being part of a welcoming group.
Explorers is open to everyone, and we’ll always do our best to make sure every young person can take part. If your young person needs any support to get involved, get in touch with us. By talking early, we can work together to help make their experience the best it can be.
What you’ll need to join
The first step is to add your young person’s details to our New Member Waiting List. When they reach the right age and a space becomes available in our Explorer Unit, we’ll get in touch and invite them to their first session.
Their group red polo shirt is included as part of the joining fee. You’ll need to order their remaining uniform through the Scout Store before they’re invested into the section.
Start something they’ll remember
By joining Scouts, your young person becomes part of a worldwide movement where they can build confidence, learn practical skills, make friends and experience new adventures. Their first two sessions are free, giving them a chance to discover what Explorers is all about before deciding to join.
After this, a joining fee and membership fee will apply. We’ll share all the details with you before your young person joins us, so you know exactly what to expect.
Alternatively, if you have any questions, would like to arrange a visit or want to speak to a member of our team before deciding, you can get in touch with us using any of the options below.