Wood Badge is the ultimate BSA Leadership Training.
Today's Wood Badge course brings together Scouters from all walks of life and from all BSA
programs--Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting, Varsity Scouting and Venturing, as well as district
and council leaders.
Originated by Lord Robert Baden-Powell, Scouters learn leadership skills in a fun,
Scouting environment. Through living the scouting program and applying the leadership
skills taught at Wood Badge, you will develop a knowledge and understanding of new skills
you can use in your pack, troop, crew or team.
Wood Badge is advanced training in leadership development, providing skills and
demonstrating the importance of values in leadership. There are two parts to Wood Badge
training: the six days on course and the application phase.
The course is a six day (two weekends) experience consisting of living in an outdoor
environment, learning -- and working with other Scouters, while being exposed to the
leadership skills applicable to the development of both Scouters and Scouts. Through this
living and working experience, you will develop knowledge and practical understanding of
these leadership skills. You will learn how to apply these skills to your pack, troop,
crew or team. Most Participants also discover ways to not only to use the leadership
skills in their Scouting positions but also to better their personal lives. The course
experience also provides meaningful insights into how to create an atmosphere of trust and
openness in Scouting.
During the subsequent application phase you will carry out the plans and commitments
made during the course. Throughout this application phase, you will work with a Troop
Guide, who serves as a resource counselor, and a friend. Your Troop Guide will assist you
in fully understanding what you learned from the course and will help you apply that
understanding to the betterment of your Scouting position. Wood Badge has served as a
source of training and inspiration to thousands of Scouters, who, in their turn have
affected the lives of millions of America's youth.
