Leaders Login
Who are Banderlogs???
So what is 1st Rotherfield Banderlog Explorer Unit?
Banderlog is one of a number of Explorer Units based at different Scout HQs around the 
Rotherfield District forming the district 1st Rotherfield Explorer Section. Each unit is attached to a local Scout Group and Banderlog is based at 3rd Alton Den in Chawton Park road. Banderlog has been continuously active since the start of Explorer Scouting in 2003. Our members are aged from 14 to 18 and come mainly from 3rd Alton, 8th Alton and 1st Medstead and so we come from different backgrounds and bring new ideas and experiences. Although we are a district unit we pay subs to 3rd Alton which means we have the use of the HQ and use of a wide range of camping and activity equipment, some of which has been bought specifically for Banderlog Explorers (Cycle carriers, Lightweight Tents and Cookers).
So what do we do?
Our motto is the old Rover Scout Motto ‘Look Wide’. This means broadening your outlook and trying new activities (Diving, Caving, Kayaking, Cycle Camping), gaining new skills (Shooting, Software, Pioneering, Mountaineering), exploring new countries (Europe), making new friends, taking advantage of 21st century technology (Radio, Computer building, Software, Web site construction) and putting something back into Scouting through joining the Young Leaders scheme. Joint meetings with other district units help us meet new friends. We also like to hone our social skills with an occasional BBQ and an annual curry evening, at a restaurant, to end the autumn term.
There is a proficiency badge scheme available similar to Scouts, but our members concentrate mainly on gaining DoE awards through the Hampshire Scout Scheme. This integrates the skills, outdoor activities and service gained within the Banderlog explorer programme with the DofE Bronze and Silver awards.
Through Hampshire Scout County, we provide training for Young Leaders, First Aid, Mountaineering and practical skills and many of our Young Leaders help with the various Beaver, Cub and Scout Groups within the District. County activities have seen our members in the Lakeland Fells and as far away as Malawi.
We remain committed to the great outdoors and our expeditions have included Scotland, Ireland, France, Cycling camping in the Belgian Ardennes, Camping in the Italian Appenine Mountains and Exploring Sweden and Norway.
So what happens after Explorers?
Many of our Explorers have gone on to combine their Gap Year and University with holding warrants as leaders. Banderlogs also go on to the join the Scout Network. We try to keep in touch with our ex-members and always welcome old faces at our Annual Curry Evening.