Wood Badge 2025

*Current Course*FAQ After the Course Baden Powell Course History Course Patches

What is Wood Badge?

Wood Badge is advanced leadership training for adult Scout leaders, grounded in the principles of servant leadership. It equips leaders with the skills to guide their units, districts, and councils effectively while fostering commitment to the mission and values of Scouting America.

A Legacy of Leadership

The Wood Badge journey began in 1919 when Baden-Powell held the first course at Gilwell Park, London. Over the decades, the program has evolved to meet the changing needs of Scouting, with a renewed focus on servant leadership and collaborative skills. Today, it continues to inspire and empower adult leaders to make a lasting difference in the lives of youth.

Why Attend Wood Badge?

By participating in the Wood Badge training program, you will:

Learn and practice servant leadership principles, applying them to Scouting’s value-based program.
Understand how Scouting’s interrelated programs support youth development.
Strengthen your commitment to Scouting through a transformative and motivational experience.

“Wood Badge was the best way for me to experience what the program is like. I could never do it as a youth and this course filled that knowledge gap. Anyone who wants to experience Scouting should take this – you will ‘get it.’”

“This course is very well presented and brought me back to my youth. It was a great reminder of what it’s like to be a kid. THANK YOU to the volunteers who made this happen.”

“Wood Badge changed my perspective on how Scouts operate. As an adult, all you see is the program from the outside. This puts you into the role of the Scouts – it should be mandatory training.”

The Wood Badge Experience

Wood Badge consists of two phases:

* Practical Phase

A hands-on, immersive experience spanning two weekends. Participants engage in dynamic team activities, leadership exercises, and real-world scenarios that emphasize servant leadership.

* Reflection Phase

Participants apply the principles learned during the practical phase to their Scouting roles, emphasizing servant leadership and teamwork. This phase strengthens their ability to lead effectively within their units, districts, and communities.

Purpose of Wood Badge

The purpose of Wood Badge is to develop skilled leaders who can strengthen Scouting units in achieving the mission of Scouting America.

Wood Badge-trained leaders are committed to the organization we serve, Scouting America, and to its mission, vision, and values. The training inspires participants to reflect on their personal leadership style, build stronger teams, and guide others in their development.

“I wanted to learn more and be the best I could for my daughter. I am so looking forward to this journey that Wood Badge started. I am infinitely more prepared and met a ton of people I can call on for help.”

“Wood Badge is worth the investment in your time – my one regret is I wish I did it sooner. It was nice to be away for two weekends, having so much fun, learning, and not being called Mom!”