Become a Young Leader
Explorer Scout Young Leaders are Explorers who volunteer alongside adult leaders with a Squirrel Drey, Beaver Colony, Cub Pack or Scout Troop. You’ll help run meetings, bring fresh ideas and be a role model for younger members, all while building skills that look great on a CV, college or university application.
Across Midlothian District, our 8 Scout groups in 7 towns welcome Young Leaders. If you’re interested, talk to your Explorer leader. They can help you find a section to volunteer with, or email info@midlothianscouts.org.uk
Who can be a Young Leader?
- Explorers aged from 13½ to 18 who volunteer with a Squirrel, Beaver, Cub or Scout section. All Young Leaders must be members of a Young Leaders’ Unit.
- Young people from outside Scouts can also take part if they’re working towards their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award or Queen’s Guide Award.
The Young Leaders’ Scheme
The Explorer Scout Young Leaders’ Scheme is the learning programme for Young Leaders. It’s made up of 11 modules and 4 missions that you complete while volunteering in your chosen section. It can also count towards the service parts of the Top Awards in Scouts and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
The 11 modules
- Module A – Prepare for take-off (essentials and expectations). Everyone must complete this within 3 months of starting.
- Module B – Taking the lead
- Module C – That’s the way to do it!
- Module D – Understanding behaviour
- Module E – Game on!
- Module F – Making Scouting accessible and inclusive
- Module G – What is a high quality programme?
- Module H – Programme planning
- Module I – What did they say?
- Module J – Communicate it!
- Module K – First aid masterclass
The 4 missions
The missions let you put what you’ve learned into practice in your section, such as helping to plan and run activities. Your Explorer leader and the section leader you volunteer with will help you choose and complete them.
Recognition and the Young Leader Award
Young Leaders are recognised for their achievements as they progress through the scheme. When you finish all 11 modules and 4 missions, you’ll receive the Young Leaders’ Belt and Award, a mark of real achievement in Scouts.
Complete the modules online
Hampshire Scouts offer free e-learning versions of the Young Leader modules. You can do them in your own time and finish each one with a short quiz to get a certificate. Module K must be completed locally in South East Region.
All certificates gained online must be passed to your Explorer Leader, Group Lead Volunteer or info@midlothianscouts.org.uk so your record can be updated at the District OSM.
For parents and carers
Being a Young Leader builds confidence, teamwork and leadership, and Young Leaders are always supported by adult leaders. If you have any questions, please speak to your young person’s Explorer leader.