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Compass is offline while we prepare our new tools

Compass is offline while we prepare our new tools

Compass is now offline. Read more

Discover what this means

Running an Explorer Unit

Week by week, thousands of ordinary people show up at Explorer meetings to empower young people to learn new skills, make new friends and learn to stand on their own two feet. No two weeks are the same, but the impact you make is always great.

Running your Unit

Getting to grips with the basics? We’ve put together everything you need to keep your section running smoothly.

Read our guidance on running your unit >
Programme planning for Explorers

Our new tool is a one-stop programme planning shop. You can use it to get organised and get going.

Start planning >
Welcoming Explorers and moving on

Whether you’re welcoming the shyest of new Scouts, or need help preparing the eldest for leadership roles or Network, we’ve got you covered.

Check out our advice >
Recruiting Volunteers for Explorers

We have tools, tips and templates to help you with the recruitment of volunteers for your Explorer Unit.

Read our top tips >

New to an Explorer Scout Unit?

If you're a new volunteer to an Explorer Scout Unit why not join one of our Welcome to Explorers online calls?

This hour-long webinar will take you through the basic information that you need to know about opening an Explorer Scout Unit.

Welcome to Explorers sign up

Programme Updates

Explorers starter programme

To get you started with your Explorer meetings, we’ve put together a ready-made programme that you can run for 12 weeks (a full term). Your Unit will explore different aspects of the Explorers programme. They’ll get to know each other, gain new skills and try a range of different activities. Check out our new programme!

You Shape Award

The YouShape Award makes it even easier to embed being youth shaped into your programme. At the same time, it’ll help young people work with their volunteers to learn leadership skills that they’ll use for the rest of their lives.

Where to find programme resources

There are lots of resources now available to support volunteers to deliver amazing programmes, here’s a list of places to find information and things you could try.  

Explorer Scout Young Leaders' Scheme

Explorer Scout Young Leaders are Explorer Scouts who volunteer alongside adult leaders in a Beaver Colony, Cub Pack or Scout Troop. 

Find out more about the scheme >
Our Strategy - Skills for Life

Help support our goal to deliver more young people the skills they need in life

Discover our strategy >