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Specific issues for explorers moving to network

When an explorer scout turns 18-years-old, they are faced with some exciting options. They will automatically become part of the UK scout network and are encouraged to join their district scout network. There are also a wide range of different volunteer roles available, suited to different skill sets, preferences and time commitments. 

Remember, on turning 18, Explorers must move on. There is no flexibility in this upper age limit.

 

The role of the explorer scout team

  • Organise frequent events with the local network taking part alongside older explorers e.g. 16+

  •  Invite network members to your explorer scout leader meetings to improve communication and understanding of what network does

  • Provide local network with information about members that are due to leave explorers and their progress in achieving awards

  • Appoint a named person to pass on information about explorers approaching 18 and continue to build links with the local network by attending meetings and events with explorers and network members

The role of the local network team

  • Contact the district explorer scout administrator (or each unit’s leadership team), each term for a list of members approaching 17½

  • Send an introduction to the scout network to explorers approaching 17½

  • Send a birthday card with a welcome pack with the latest programme to explorers on their 18th birthday

  • Visit explorer scout meetings to get to know the explorers, this will help them move up, as they will know the members already. Take a copy of your latest programme along with you

  • Run an annual event for explorers 16+.

  • Make a follow up phone call a couple of weeks after sending any information on for that personal touch

Some great ideas

  • A young person who has taken part in the young leaders' scheme will have the right skills and experience to take on an adult leadership role. Remember, any prior learning gained in the young leaders' scheme can be recognised in the adult training scheme, see advice here.  This progression advances their leadership skills, boosting their career prospects.

  • Being part of the UK scout network, as well as a volunteer, means that members can continue to develop their skills and experience by planning projects and events whilst making time for themselves to take part in the network programme. There are opportunities to complete top awards such as Queen's Scout Award, Scouts of the World Award and Explorer Belt. The scout network website is a great tool where members can plan, connect and keep up to date with opportunities as well as achieve virtual badges.

  • Explorers can meet network members by attending combined events. Making friends and meeting like-minded people will help explorers moving on to set up and gather support for their future network projects.

  • As an explorer leader, facilitating connections with the district scout network, will help the transition process flow smoothly. Because local scout networks operate on a district level, your district scout network commissioner, district scout network leader or district commissioner will be the best people to speak to. 

  • You could work with members to put together a one-off event with explorers. This could be hiking for a day followed by a camp, a friendly canoeing competition, or a themed quiz night. The idea is to help initiate a relationship between the two sections and get the explorers excited to continue taking part in the Programme with their peers.      

  • Throughout the process it's important to highlight the differences between the sections and particularly the fact that the network is run by its members. Links between the explorer leaders and scout network are particularly important, as effective communication between them will make it easier for young people to move between these two sections. Scout networks may meet less frequently or less formally than explorer scout units. International camps, World Scout Jamborees, and Explorer Belt expeditions can be used to highlight the things to come as a network member.