Between the ages of 14 and 14½, it’s time for Scouts to move up to Explorers. Explorers is a district section which is attached to 5th Cheadle Hulme with a partnership agreement allowing them to continue using the groups facilities. Here’s what to expect when the time comes and some of the common questions we get asked.
I’m a Scout moving on to Explorers. What will happen?
Moving on to Explorers is an exciting time, but you might also feel a little sad about saying farewell to some of your fellow Scouts. This is an understandable reaction to change and it’s okay to feel nervous and unsure. You will hopefully see them again in Explorers when its their turn to move up.
In the run up to your last night, your Scout leader will talk to your new Explorer leader – who you may have already met during joint activities. Together, they’ll make the move as easy as possible for you.
Although most move up to Explorers between the ages of 14 and 14½, leaders can be flexible in cases where a Scout may need a bit more time due to additional needs or exceptional circumstances. They’ll also have a think about when your friends are moving, and time things so that you can start your new adventure together where possible.
To get you prepared, your leader might tell you about the Moving on Award. Completing it involves spending at least three weeks with an Explorer section, while keeping up your normal routine at Scouts. During that time, you’ll see what Explorers is really like – getting to know your new leaders, making new friends and participating in lots of new and exciting activities. Keep an eye out, as you might even spot some familiar faces.
What happens if I move to a new area and need to leave my Troup?
If you move to a new area, the Scout Information Centre can provide what you need to find a new Troup and get settled. Contact them to find out more.
We use OSM (Online Scout Manager) to hold your details and if your new group uses this tool, we can transfer your record to the new group.
I’m the parent of a Scout with additional needs. I’m not sure they’re ready for Explorers. Is there flexibility around the age they move on?
In the right circumstances, yes. Everyone at Scouts should face a similar amount of challenge, and everyone’s individual needs are always taken in account when making decisions. More information on flexibility and reasonable adjustments can be found at Scouts equality, diversity and inclusion. Generally, leaders will keep to the suggested age ranges, unless young people need a little extra time due to additional needs or exceptional circumstances.
You should have already spoken with the Scout leader and have a care plan in place. This can be reviewed during the moving up process to see if anything needs to be changed or adapted for Explorers.
When the time to take the leap does come, our visual resources are ideal for those who need a bit of extra help. They’re particularly useful for young people with additional needs – and young people on the autism spectrum – especially if prone to increased anxiety around change.
Explorer Scouts is for go-getting 14-18 year olds, and it’s all about giving you more freedom to have adventures on your own terms. Scouts move on between the ages of 13 ½ and 14 ½, depending on when best suits.
I’m a Scout moving on to Explorers. What should I expect?
Being an Explorer will give you the opportunity to spread your wings a little wider and climb a little higher.
Explorer Units are run at a District level, covering wider ground than Scout Troops. As a result, it’s not uncommon for some Explorers to travel a little further to meetings, depending on what’s available in their area.
Your Scout Leader will work with your Explorer Leader at Sabre to make sure you’re in the know. They’ll move you alongside your friends where possible. And they might organise a few joint events, activities or camps in the build up to the big move, so you can get to know names and faces.
Completing the Moving On Award is a great way to test the waters before you jump ship. You’ll link up with an Explorer Unit for three weeks, and see what you think.
Some things won’t change when you move. Your shirt might change colour, but you’ll still earn badges and awards. And you’ll still run around and get your hands dirty once in a while, because having fun doesn’t stop just because you’re a little older and wiser.
The main thing that will change is the amount of freedom you have. Between the ages of 14 and 18, you’re fast approaching adulthood, and you’ll be treated as such. You’ll make more decisions. You’ll travel. And you’ll conquer the trickiest of expeditions, supported by a trained team of adult volunteers. You’ll also focus harder on the skills that are most valuable and transferrable in life – regardless of if you’re planning to go to university or not. The activities you take part in will give you many opportunities to grab life with both hands, and see where you end up.
Activities and Achievements
Explorer Scouts are encouraged to take part in a wide range of activities as part of their programme including traditional Scouting skills, such as camping, survival and cooking, as well as a wider spectrum of adventurous activities, from abseiling to zorbing.
The Explorer programme should be supplemented and complemented by events and activities delivered across the District, allowing them the opportunity to socialise and work with other local Explorer Units. In addition, there are a number of activity badges and ambitious top awards that Explorer Scouts can gain to recognise their achievements.
