Explorer Scout Units are part of a District's provision of Scouting.
Explorer Scout Units may be attached to a Scout Group but are not a formal part of the Group.
An Explorer Scout Unit consists of a number of Explorer Scouts.
They may be divided into smaller groups but these should be flexible.
All Explorer Scout Units are required to be open to male and female membership except in special situations. Special situations include those where there are specific cultural or religious requirements for single sex Explorer Scout Units.
It is good practice to have at least one male and one female Leader.
The age range of the Section is from 14 years to 18 years old. There is flexibility at either end of the age range. The age for moving from the Scout Section is between 13½ and 15 years and moving to the Scout Network between 17½ and 18½ years.
The Explorer Scout Unit should have opportunities for the members to take part in the decision making process. Any forum or committee should have both Explorer Scouts and Leaders working together.
Explorer Scouts wear the approved Explorer Scout, Sea Scout or Air Scout uniform with distinguishing emblems and scarves as described in the Chapter 10.
The following minimum standards are laid down for Explorer Scout Units:
Leaders - there should be at least two adults for the Explorer Scout Unit, at least one of whom must hold a Warrant.
Training - the training of Explorer Scouts must be in accordance with the Association's official publications for the Section.
Camping - every Member of the Explorer Scout Unit must have the opportunity of attending a camp every year.
The District Commissioner, with the District Team, is required where necessary to assist Explorer Scout Units to reach the required standard.
If a Explorer Scout Unit fails to reach the minimum standard for two consecutive years it may be closed by the District Commissioner with the approval of the District Executive Committee.
If a Explorer Scout Unit fails to reach the minimum standard for three years it must be closed.
