Wood Badge Bringing the Vision to Life Models for Success Tools of the Trade Leading to Make a Difference Living the Values

Wood Badge is a comprehensive training course started by Robert S. S. Baden-Powell, founder of the Boy Scouts, to help leaders hone their skills, extend their understanding of boys and of other adults, and go on to new levels of personal growth and learning as Scouters. As Scouting has grown and evolved, so too has Wood Badge. Today, Wood Badge provides advanced training in leadership and teamwork for adult leaders in all Scouting programs including Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Varsity and Venturing, as well as district and council volunteers. There are two phases to the Wood Badge program:

• The first phase is the practical phase that involves two 3-day weekends or six consecutive days of training in both conference and outdoor settings. During this phase participants have the opportunity to learn skills and concepts that underlie the five central themes of Wood Badge for the 21st Century (listed above) .

• The second phase of the program is the opportunity to apply the skills learned in the practical phase by carrying out an action plan created during the first phase. This is known in Wood Badge terminology as "working your ticket". When and only when that plan is complete is the candidate awarded the recognition consisting of beads, neckerchief, and woggle that is known as the Wood Badge.

Who should attend?

Adult Scouters initially learn how to do their job through a number of courses offered at the district and council level and these basic training programs for each Scouting position must be completed prior to taking Wood Badge. All Scouters are to have completed the training program that is appropriate for his or her position in Scouting. Additionally, Boy Scout leaders are required to have completed Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills. All other Scouters are encouraged to complete Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills, but it is not required.

Wood Badge is considered by many as a peak experience in their Scouting careers. It has served as a source of training and inspiration to thousands of Scouters. In their turn, these Scout leaders have affected the lives of millions of America’s youth.

Further Information

Further information about Boy Scout Leader Wood Badge is available through your District Training team or at the Mt Baker Council web site.