The Explorer Belt is a challenge of a lifetime. It is a chance to take part in a ten-day expedition that brings you a real understanding of a different country, its culture and way of life. You will develop this understanding by travelling through your chosen country, working as part of a small team to complete a series of projects and most importantly by meeting local people. It is an experience and an achievement that you will remember for the rest of your life.
REGISTRATION
Register your intention to complete the award at https://members.scouts.org.uk/explorerbelt
Explorer belt. Since their launch in December 2013, the Explorer Belt requirements and supporting materials have been reviewed and a number of minor amends have been made.
If aged 16–18 years old, you may only participate in an organised expedition supported by an in-country leadership team, rather than being self-led.
MEMBERSHIP
Be an Explorer Scout aged 16 or over, a Scout Network member, or a member of the Senior Section of Girlguiding aged
16 or over.
EXPEDITION
Undertake a 10-day expedition as part of a team* outside of the UK with a minimum travelling time of 50 hours over the 10 days, by foot, cycle, horse, canoe, boat or dinghy.
The use of public transport is acceptable as part of the travelling time, where opportunities to meet people would otherwise be missed.
*Minimum starting number of young people per team is three with the minimum of two per team completing the expedition.
Covering the following areas during your preparation and expedition:
Competence
Show that you are competent in the following areas:
• Navigation skills
• Expedition cooking
• Lightweight camping
• Language
• Acceptable home hospitality
• Fitness
• Proficiency in mode of travel
• Teambuilding
• First Aid (covering First Response as a minimum)
Once you have an idea of the main project come and speak to the Senior Awards Panel who will approve your expedition and appoint a mentor to support you through the process
Logbook
Keep a logbook of the expedition which records places visited, the route taken, project work undertaken and personal thoughts.
Projects
Complete one major project selected by the team which is undertaken throughout the expedition.
Complete at least ten minor projects which may be chosen by the team, leadership team, peers or a mixture of these.
DEBRIEF
Take part in a debrief of the expedition with your mentor and leadership team. Ideally, this should be within 24 hours of the 10th day of the expedition or within 24 hours of return to the UK.
PRESENTATION
Make a presentation including all elements of your award to the assessment panel and other invited guests of your experiences and achievements.
ASSESSMENT
Your expedition, project work, and presentation will be assessed by an assessment panel including your mentor to determine if you have successfully achieved your Explorer Belt. Final sign off of the award is the responsibility of the Senior Awards Panel.
