Wood Badge

Established in 1919 by Robert Baden-Powell, Scouting's founder, Wood Badge has been the training ground for hundreds of thousands of Scouters around the world. As the challenges in the world have changed, Wood Badge has evolved to give leaders the skills they need to strengthen Scouting in meaningful ways.

What Is Wood Badge?

Wood Badge is Scouting's premier training course. Baden-Powell designed it so that Scouters could learn, in as practical a way possible, the skills and methods of Scouting. It is first and foremost, learning by doing. The course is designed to cover the entire spectrum of Scouting. The members of the course are formed into patrols and these into a troop.

The uniqueness of Scouting is the patrol method. The use of the natural group of six who elect their own leader and plan and carry out many of their own activities is a democracy in microcosm. Here young men learn the give and take of working with people, as they must surely do all their lives. Here, too, they are given leadership and learning opportunities that prepare them for their future roles as citizens. It is for this reason that it is so crucial that all adults understand thoroughly the patrol method.

But Wood Badge is more than just mechanical Leadership course work. Wood Badge is the embodiment of Scouting spirit. Like many intense training experiences, it has always relied on a busy schedule forcing the participants to work together, to organize and to develop an enthusiasm and team spirit to accomplish the tasks and challenges placed before them. Carried out in context of Scouting ideals and service to young people, the course brings out a deep dedication and spirit of brotherhood and fellowship in most participants. Certainly were it not for the common goal of the movement and its program for young people, it would be hard to get grown men and women to endure the 16-hour days required by a program that runs from early morning to late at night.

The course is designed to be a highlight --"a mountaintop experience" -- for the course participants. Careful planning and strict attention to detail provides a physical/logistic support and program second to none. Add to this a thoroughly prepared and enthusiastic staff and it is little wonder that most Scouters return from Wood Badge inspired and prepared to do an even better job of providing Scouting to boys. In addition to a fine course, all the traditions and heritage of Scouting are stressed and used to inspire those attending. Wood Badge in one form or another is used throughout the Scouting world. Tens of thousands of Scouters proudly wear the Gilwell neckerchief, woggle, and beads of Wood Badge-trained leaders. Wood Badge is then, a great force for world brotherhood, for though it uses the local traditions in each country, it emphasizes the international aspects of the movement and the heritage of Baden-Powell and Gilwell Park.

Wood Badge Course dates will be October 1-3, 2010 and October 22-24, 2010. This Course will be hosted by the Palmetto Council.