Overview

Young Leaders (YLs) are 14–18 year old Explorers who volunteer in Beaver, Cub and Scout sections. They complete training modules and missions as part of their development. The scheme is managed at District level through the Young Leader Unit.

This page explains what Group Lead Volunteers (GLVs) and Section Team Leaders (TLs) need to know.

Structure of the Scheme (Wimbledon & Wandle)

• All YLs must be registered on the District OSM Young Leader Unit.
• All YLs must complete Module A within 3 months of starting.
• A parent consent form must be completed and returned before they begin.
• YLs wear an Explorer shirt to show they are members of Scouts.
• Membership fees:
  • If they are Explorers → paid via their Explorer Unit.
  • If they are YLs only → paid for by the Group.
• Young people volunteering as part of DofE are exempt from fees/uniform.

What GLVs & Section Team Leaders Need to Do

• Welcome them into the section as part of the team, but remember they are youth members.
• Inform the District that a new young person is working on the YL scheme and share their details to the District OSM.
• Check Module A is completed (District YL Team runs this). No YL continues beyond 3 months without it.
• Provide opportunities for missions (running games, planning activities, leading parts of the programme).
• Sign off missions using forms provided by the District YL Team.
• Safeguard:
  • YLs are under 18 and count in young person ratios, not adult ratios.
  • They must always be supervised by an adult volunteer.
• Communicate with the District YL Team about progress, issues, or support needed.

What GLVs & Section TLs Don’t Need to Do

• Deliver the YL Module training (District handles this).
• Treat YLs as “extra leaders” – they are learning, not a substitute for adults.

Why This Matters

• YLs bring energy, ideas and extra support to sections.
• They gain leadership skills that often lead to becoming adult volunteers at 18.
• A consistent District approach means fairness and clarity for YLs, parents and section leaders.

Quick FAQ

• Can YLs attend camps? → Yes, but they count as Explorers (youth) not adults.
• Do YLs need DBS? → No, they are under 18.
• Who do I contact for help? → The District Young Leader Team Leader.