Explorer Scout Young Leaders' Scheme

An Overview

ESYLs are Explorer Scouts who volunteer alongside adult leaders in a Beaver Colony, Cub Pack or Scout Troop. A valuable asset to any leadership team, ESYLs play an active role in the section, bringing a range of fresh ideas to the table, and acting as positive role models for the young people they work alongside.

Duke of Edinburgh

Young people from outside Scouting can also participate if they are working towards their Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards or Queen’s Guide Award. They can do this by volunteering as non-members for a set period of time. For example, if they are completing their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh's Award, they can volunteer as a non-member for three to six months (the time required for the Bronze DofE volunteering section).

Modules, Missions and Belt Buckle

The ESYLs’ Scheme is the training programme for ESYLs. It contains 11 modules and four missions for ESYLs to work through whilst volunteering in their chosen section. Modules give ESYLs the skills and knowledge to be successful in their role, while missions allow them to put everything into practice with support. As well as developing valuable life skills, the Scheme is an opportunity for ESYLs to make a positive impact in their communities and to fulfil the service elements of many of the top awards in Scouting. Recognition of achievement is available along the way, and on completion of the Scheme, the ESYL is awarded with an ESYL belt buckle.

(Visit the Modules and Mission pages for detailed information)

As an ESYL, I will…

• Act as a positive role model to the Beavers/Cubs/Scouts that I am working with
• Carry my Young People First (Orange Card) and follow the safeguarding standards at all times
• Take an active role in supporting the section leaders during the whole meeting
• Contact at least one of the leaders if I am unable to make a meeting, giving as much notice as possible
• Assist in setting and clearing up the session alongside other leaders

Top tips for ESYLs

■ If you’re an ESYL you can join both an ESYLs’ Unit and any other Explorer Scout Unit in the District. They provide lots of opportunities for self-development, fun, challenge and adventure, so do take advantage.

■ Make sure you contact your Explorer Scout Leader Young Leader (ESLYL) as soon as possible to register and to make sure you complete Module A within three months of joining the Scheme.

■ With the exception of Module A- ‘Prepare for take-off (essentials and expectations), which must be completed within three months of getting started, there is no set order in which to complete modules or missions. It is, however, recommended to complete Module G before Module H.