How we work
How did Explorer Scouting begin?
Scouting has always been a dynamic and forward-looking Movement. In the early days of Scouting, Baden-Powell saw the need to provide a programme for young people who wanted to continue after their time in the Scout Section. Senior Scouts was developed to meet this need, and the Section continued to evolve over the years. In 1967, Venture Scouting was formed from the existing Senior Scout and Rover Scout Sections.
During the late 1990s (a period of demographic change that brought about a decline in members) a programme review found that in order to meet the changing needs of new generations and legislation such as the Childrens Act, Scouting was going to have to change and modernise.
As well as a uniform update, two new district-based sections were created for young people
Explorer Scouts launched as a new section in Andover in September 2002 after several months of preparation and planning. Explorers is slightly different to normal Scouting in that the section is District based instead of being Group based.
It is designed like this to give young people over 14 the extra development opportunities and challenges of working with new peers and leaders across the district, and to provide a programme that is appropriate for their age and development.
Whilst the section is still leader-led, it features an 'opt-in' programme where the Explorer Scouts can choose what to participate in, can get involved in programme planning and delivery, and can set their own achievement targets for awards.