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Wood Badge Training

The history of Wood Badge Training begins with the assemblage of the first course at Gilwell Park, England in 1919. Scouting’s founder, Sir Robert Baden-Powell, taught this original Scoutmaster’s training course. A simple wooden bead on a leather thong was presented as the symbol of successful completion of that training. Because of those beads the training has from that day forward been called the ”Wood Badge Course”.

We are now in the 21st Century, and though Wood Badge has evolved into the teaching of contemporary concepts in leadership, it is still taught in an atmosphere of fellowship and in the out of doors, much as Baden Powell envisioned it should be.

The primary purpose of Wood Badge Training is to strengthen Scouting in our units, districts and local council. The Wood Badge Course brings together leaders from all areas of Scouting: Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Varsity Scouts, Venturing, and District and Council volunteers. The course content and leadership principles apply to all Scouters in all leadership positions and will provide a common foundation of leadership skills to be used throughout all BSA program areas.

Why Wood Badge?

Many Scouters consider Wood Badge to be a peak experience in their Scouting careers. The linkage between Scouting’s traditional past and the relevant need today for Scouting’s character and values based program are apart of the Wood Badge legacy. To many, though we speak in 21st century terms, we still hear the words as spoken by Baden-Powell ‘round the campfire through Wood Badge. Wood Badge has served as a source of training and inspiration to thousands worldwide. In return, Wood Badge participants have had a profound, positive influence on the lives of millions of America’s youth.

Lastly, through your Wood Badge Training, you will gain a broader view into the spirit of the global Scouting family, as an interrelated movement based on providing value-based, age-appropriate programs for youth around the world.