Blackwater Valley Explorer Scouts

Explorer Scouts are young people aged between 14 and 18 years old – although you can join from 13.5 and you move to Scout Network at the age of 18,

With the support, direction and guidance of Unit leaders, you’ll be encouraged to lead yourselves, design your own programme and work towards the top awards that Scouting offers. With exciting prospects like being a part of camps and expeditions both home and abroad; adventurous activities such as mountaineering, parascending and off shore sailing; Explorers offers fun and adventure for all.

Mike Baxter, the 14-25 Lead is responsible for the Explorer Scout Section and can be contacted with any general enquiries about the section:

Email: mike.baxter@bvscouts.org.uk for info

The Units

The Explorer Section in Blackwater Valley is made up of four Units which meet across the District in Aldershot, Ash and Farnborough.  You’ll get to take part in joint meetings, expeditions, camps and other events.  Our Units meet on either a Wednesday, Thursday or Friday evening.

Farnborough

Wednesday 1945-2145 – Phantoms Explorer Scout Unit meet at 8th Farnborough, Rectory Road Email: phantoms@bvscouts.org.uk 

Friday 1930-2130 – Spitfire Explorer Scout Unit meet at 3rd Farnborough, Sand Hill email spifires@bvscouts.org.uk

Aldershot

Thursday 1900-2100 – Apache Explorer Scout Unit meet at 14th Aldershot Scout HQ – email apache@bvscouts.org.uk 

Ash

Currently Friday, will be meeting on Wednesday from September 2026 – email mike.baxter@bvscouts.org.uk for information.

Uniform 

Explorer Scouts wear a beige Explorer Scout shirt, unless they have come from an Air Scout or Sea Scout Group in which case they may wear a blue Explorer Scout shirt.  The district scarf is red and yellow.  All items of uniform, as well as other items, can be purchased from the District Scout Shop based at Runways End Activity Centre.  All profits from the district shop go back into supporting the District.

Activities

Explorers are encouraged to learn by doing, so our Explorer Scout Programme is jam-packed with adventurous activities that will help develop their skills.

With the support, direction and guidance of Leaders, Explorer Scouts are encouraged to lead themselves, design their own Programme and work towards the top awards that Scouting offers.  This is referred to as Youth Shaped Scouting.

International

Explorers are encouraged to start having a look at some of the International Trips which are available to take part in.  Blackwater Valley is part of the Hampshire County who regularly run international opportunities which Explorers can participate in.  Information on current opportunities can be found at the link below:

https://international.hampshirescouts.org.uk/

Explorers can also take part in international activities such as the Explorer Belt – one of the Top Awards – a 10–day expedition that provides them with a real understanding of a different country, its culture and way of life.

Top Awards

Explorers get to start to work towards to top awards in Scouting, you can see details on them at the link below:

https://www.scouts.org.uk/explorers/awards/

Skills for Life

Explorer Scouts expand on and develop important life skills that will set them apart from the crowd as they enter adulthood and face the challenges that come along with it. These important character skills include:

  • The ability to work as part of a team
  • Leadership skills
  • Problem solving skills
  • Communication skills
  • A sense of responsibility
  • Independence

Peace of Mind

To ensure your child is safe, Leaders adhere to our anti-bullying, equal opportunities, safety and child protection policies.

Explorer Scouts take part in activities and learn new skills under the supervision of adult volunteers. They work effectively and safely with young people to deliver the Scout Programme and have access to training to support them in their role.

If you have any questions, get in touch with your Unit’s Leaders.