Explorer Scouts

In Basingstoke West, Explorer Scouts are a District led section offering a wide variety of activities and chances to meet new friends. Explorer Scouting is about Activity, Adventure, Excitement and Flexibility. We understand that for many of you this is a time of studying, exams, part-time jobs and other interests. Once invested with a Unit you will be able to move around and join with the other Units activities to suit your changing circumstances.

 Who are Explorer Scouts?

All young people aged between 14 – 18 years old may become Explorer Scouts.

You may have been a Beaver, Cub or Scout so this is the next step on for you OR You may be joining the Scout Association for the first time.

 Activities

Explorer Scouts contribute to the planning of activities and programmes. Since they opened in September 2002 members of the Explorer sections have taken part in archery, swimming, map exercises, cooking, air rifle shooting, camping and climbing. With a little organisation and forward planning most things are possible.

 Award Schemes

The main target for Explorers is to work towards and gain the Chief Scouts Platinum and Diamond Awards, the Queens Scout Award awards. These are the highest youth awards available in Scouting with the Queen Scouts invited to take part in the annual St. George’s Day Parade at Windsor.

Our Explorers also have the option to participate in the the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme which combines nicely with the awards mentioned above.

The Explorer Belt is another option and 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.

There is also a number of Activity Badges available to Explorers.

Young Leaders

A Young Leader is an Explorer Scout who works with Beavers, Cubs and Scouts and their Leaders. It is a way of gaining valuable leadership experience. Once you have become invested as an Explorer Scout with one of the Units you can take part in the Young Leaders Training Scheme.

 Which Unit?

We would encourage you to visit all the Units to find the one that suits you best. You are welcome to take a friend along (even if they are not currently in scouting) – you never know, they may join as well.

Explorer Scout Units

Denali: Monday – 8:00 to 10:00pm (Worting: St Thomas)
Mosi-oa-tunya: Thursday – 8:00 to 10:00pm (Overton)
Pafupi: Friday – 7:30 to 9:30pm (Kempshott)
Creative Explorers: Wednesday 20:30 to 22:00 (Alternate Weeks, Winklebury)

For more information about Explorer Scouts speak to your Scout Leader or Group Scout Leader.

You can also e-mail the District Explorer Scout Commissioner: explorers@bwds.org.uk