Information for Leaders
Working alongside an Explorer Scout Young Leader (ESYL) opens up many great opportunities for a section. ESYLs bring a range of different skills and experience to the section they support and can help invaluably with the planning and running of the section. It also benefits the ESYLs themselves to develop skills for later life, equipping them for successful careers, and to take on other future roles within Scouting.
The Scheme
ESYLs take on a training scheme that consists of 11 modules and four missions. These cover a variety of topics such as programme planning, inclusive Scouting and first aid. This training is done with other ESYLs, completing modules together. Missions are similar to the validation section in the adult training scheme, putting the learning into action.
The section leader is responsible for the ESYLs safety and welfare. It is important to remember that an ESYL is still a young person, regardless of their responsibilities. The same Young People First (Yellow Card) guidance you apply to your section should also be applied to ESYLs.
When ESYLs start the Scheme, they will be given a copy of the Young Peoples First (Orange Card). This is the Young Leaders version of the yellow card. They must also complete Module A of the Scheme within three months, this provides information about safeguarding and child protection.
What you need to know about missions:
The ESYLs will need to complete four missions, these should be carried out within the section and would require your support to achieve these.
After completing a mission, the ESYL may ask you to complete a short statement or makie a comment on how they got on. You can log this in their ESYL Logbook. Feedback helps them to evaluate what went well and what they wish to focus on developing further. Remember the right support and opportunities, ESYLs can be valuable part of the leadership team, and can help provide even better quality Scouting for more young people.
What do they get out of the Scheme?
Like a adult volunteers, ESYLs will get to see young people develop, have fun and give back to their communities, all while developing useful and transferrable life skills.
Camps and residential trips
When the ESYL takes part in a camp or residential, consideration should also be given to the sleeping arrangements. The ESYL should have their own separate accommodation. They should not share with adult leaders, or with the young people in the section.
Further Information
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