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. These five themes are:

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

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.

Scouters may apply if they have met the following prerequisites:

Cub Scout Leaders:

• Leader Specific Training
• Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills recommended

Boy Scout/Varsity Leaders:

• Leader Specific Training
• Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills required

Venturing Leaders:

• Position specific training
• Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills recommended

District and Council Volunteers:

• Position specific training
• Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills recommended

Upcoming Wood Badge courses are held locally at various Circle Ten camps. Additionally, one course is scheduled annually to be held at Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico for those who desire a mountain setting for this experience. Click on the links below for more info on upcoming courses: 

Teams of Circle Ten Scouters with Wood Badge training will serve as the faculty for the courses and each course will include overnight camping experiences, team-building exercises and other learning opportunities for those who strive to do their best delivering the promise of Scouting for young people.

To find out more about a specific course and to let course directors know you might consider an invitation, print and fill out the form then mail it to the address on the form.

Or complete the on-line interest form.

If the course list above appears in blue, you may click on that course number and be connected directly to a web page that provides specific information about that course.

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This site was edited on 08/06/2008