What is Wood Badge?
Wood Badge is BSA’s premier leadership training program that was started in 1919 by Lord Baden-Powell, founder of Scouting and Wood Badge’s first Course Director. This program came to America in 1948 and is continually adapted to reflect current BSA policies and best practices for leadership development, and utilizes the best training techniques available.
Already completed leader-specific training? Do you want to be a better leader? Wood Badge is the next step!
Still unsure of what Wood Badge is about? Download the promotional Gilwell Gazette and hear what the course staff has to say about Wood Badge!
We would like you to join us! What will you get out of Wood Badge? Wood Badge brings together leaders from all areas of Scouting—Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting, Venturing, as well as District and Council volunteers and professionals. The course reflects the best of over 100 years of Scouting experience and also draws upon the most current leadership models used by corporate America, academic circles, and successful outdoor leadership organizations. The practical skills learned in this course may be used in Scouting, your personal life, as well as the workplace, and other volunteer organizations.
How is Wood Badge Presented? Wood Badge consists of two phases. The first is the practical phase. This consists of two weekends—five full days and three nights at camp. The second, or application phase, occurs after the practical phase ends and consists of “working your ticket”.
Wood Badge Ticket: The Wood Badge “Ticket” represents each participant’s commitment to complete a set of personal goals relating to their scouting position. These goals will significantly strengthen the program in which the participant is involved. Recognition: You must complete your Wood Badge ticket no later than 18 months after the course. Upon completion, you will be presented with the Wood Badge certificate, neckerchief, woggle, and beads at an appropriate public ceremony.
Wood Badge participants have positively affected the lives of millions of America’s youth — Will you be one of them?
