Supporting a Successful Transition - Explorers to Network

The move from Explorer Scouts into Scout Network, or other post‑18 involvement, is an important step in a young person’s journey in Scouts.

At this stage, young people are often balancing significant changes in their lives, such as exams, work, further education or moving away from home. Scouts can continue to play a valuable role, but the next steps need to feel clear, flexible and welcoming.

A positive transition helps young people stay connected in a way that works for them, both now and in the future.

Understanding this stage of transition

Approaching 18 can feel like a turning point. Alongside personal milestones, a young person’s role within Scouts also changes.

Some young people are ready and excited to continue straight away. Others may be unsure how Scouts fits alongside new commitments.
Support at this stage is about maintaining connection, offering clarity and helping young people see how Scouts can adapt to their lives.

Starting conversations early

Conversations about what comes next are most helpful when they begin early and continue over time.

Rather than a single discussion close to a young person’s 18th birthday, regular, informal conversations give space to explore options and ask questions.

These conversations can include:

• Explaining what Scout Network is and how it works locally
• Talking about how involvement can fit around study, work or other commitments
• Highlighting opportunities in adult volunteering and leadership roles
• Reassuring young people that involvement can be flexible

Clear, honest conversations help young people feel informed and able to make decisions that suit them.

Making opportunities visible and accessible

Young people are more likely to stay involved when they can clearly see what their next step looks like.

Scout Network and other post‑18 opportunities feel more approachable when young people can experience them or meet the people involved.

This can include:

• Inviting Network members to connect with Explorer Units
• Offering opportunities for older Explorers to experience Network‑style activities with appropriate support
• Running joint Explorer–Network activities, such as social events, skills sessions or projects, to build familiarity and shared experiences
• Sharing simple, clear information about what is available locally
• Building connections with the wider 18–25 community in Scouts

Joint activities allow young people to build relationships naturally, helping them feel part of the wider community before they move on.
When young people can picture themselves in the next stage, it becomes much easier to take that step.

Supporting the move at 18

The transition at 18 is a natural progression, but it can still feel abrupt if young people are unprepared.

Preparing in advance and keeping communication open helps make this step feel like a continuation of their journey rather than an ending.
Supportive approaches include:

• Making sure young people understand what will happen as they approach 18
• Helping them plan their next steps in advance
• Staying in touch during periods of change, even if they step back temporarily
• Offering encouragement and support when they are ready to re‑engage

A strong message at this stage is that Scouts remains open and available, even if involvement changes over time.

Recognising different pathways

There is no single “right” next step at 18. Some young people will move into Scout Network and take part regularly. Others may choose to volunteer, support younger sections, or stay involved more informally. Some may take a break and return later. All of these are positive outcomes.

Support can focus on:

• Presenting a range of options, including Network and volunteering
• Valuing different levels of involvement
• Avoiding pressure to commit to more than feels manageable
• Keeping relationships positive, regardless of the path chosen

When young people feel trusted to choose what works for them, they are more likely to stay connected in the long term.

Keeping the door open

A young person’s involvement in Scouts may change as their life changes. Periods of increased commitment may be followed by times when they need to step back.

Maintaining a welcoming, flexible approach helps ensure that young people feel comfortable returning when the time is right.

Simple actions can make a big difference:

• Keeping in touch, even when young people are less active
• Sharing opportunities that may fit their current circumstances
• Welcoming returning members without expectation or judgement

Scouts does not need to be continuous to be meaningful. Staying connected over time is what matters most.