Explorers

Explorers is the stage after Scouts, run by the local Scout District, that takes teenagers to the next level of adventure. 1st Clanfield Scout Group are partnered with Attenborough Explorer Scout Unit. 

The program is specifically designed for teenagers aged 14-18 years old of any gender to develop important life skills, build upon friendships, and get active outdoors. As older members of Scouting, Explorers have the freedom to participate in activities with other units in different areas, and opportunities to participate in exciting national camps and challenges.

Sessions run from 19:00-21:00 on Fridays during term time at the Clanfield Scout Hut.

What we do

Get Outdoors

Some of Attenborough Unit’s previous physical activities have included the local mudrun, paddle boarding, expeditions and rock climbing. There are opportunities to join exciting district and national camps such as Gilwell 24 or Theme Park camp.

Learn new skills

Explorers are on the verge of adulthood and leaving school, so Explorers aims to provide members with both fun and key life skills to prepare them for the future. The Attenborough Unit have previously visited a car mechanic shop, planned their own camp and built survival shelters – among much more!

Serve the community

It is important for Explorers to build relationships and grow as leaders within their community. Attenborough unit have previously done many fundraising activities including car boot sales and hikes to raise money for charity.

Achievements

Duke of Edinburgh Awards

 Explorers can start their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award (DofE) at 14 years old, but must be 16 years old to complete their DofE Gold Award. Scouts can complete their DofE while they’re in Explorers or Network, linking their achievements to the Chief Scout’s Platinum, Diamond and King’s Scout Awards, as well as the Young Leaders’ Scheme.

Chief Scout Diamond and Platinum Award

 Explorers can complete two of the highest Scouting Awards available. For these awards they must complete 12 nights away, various community activities and participate in different challenges (which can include the Silver and Bronze DofE).

Kings Scout Award

 From the age of 16 Explorers can complete the highest Scouting Award – The Kings Scout Award, which is awarded by a representative of the royal family at Windsor Castle. The award requires various stages including 18 nights away, community tasks and a presentation. 

Young Leader Award

Explorers can start giving back and getting involved as active leaders for younger sections – which can contribute to other awards such as the DofE volunteering requirements. For this award they must complete 11 Scout Leader training modules and run various activities within their chosen section. 

Explorer Belt

Complete the biggest adventure yet! For this award Explorers undertake a 10-day expedition as part of a team outside of the UK with a minimum travelling time of 50 hours over the 10 days, by foot, cycle, horse, canoe, boat or dinghy.

Staged Badges

Staged Badges are achieved by members of Scouting throughout their Scouting journey. They can start earning them from Beavers onward and all the way through to Explorers. There are 15 Staged Badges members can earn. From Stage 1 First Aid all the way to Stage 50 Hikes Away.

Activity Badges

Become an expert in something you love, or try something shiny and new. From media relations and street sports to instructing, caving and motor sports, there’s something for everyone. There are 27 Activity Badges Explorers can complete. 

FAQs

Where can I buy the uniform? 

Uniform can be purchased at our local scout shop, second hand or online from the scout website. Explorers require an Explorer shirt and the Explorer smart trousers. As Explorers are run by Hawk District, Explorers will need to purchase the the Hawk District scarf (black and gold). The belts and other merchandise are not required, however Explorers should wear practical shoes to their sessions. 

Do I need to buy the badges? 

There is no need to buy badges as these are provided by the section as part of the termly budget. The Unit Leaders will do their best to ensure all members have a chance to complete their Chief Scout Diamond Award by the time they are ready to move onto Network or become Scout Leaders themselves. Explorers are encouraged to sew their own badges on!

How much does the membership fee cost? 

Fees will be kept as low as reasonably possible whilst allowing for fun activities. The fee will go towards adventure activities, supplies, amenities and badges. Camps will incur an extra cost, which we try to keep as low as possible whilst providing the most fun and adventure. 

Get In Touch

Hyden Lodge, Little Hyden Lane, Clanfield, PO8 0RU