Badges are a huge part of Scouting. They recognise skills, effort, and personal development — not competition. Every badge earned is a story of something learned.
Activity Badges
These cover a huge range of interests — from Astronomy and Cooking to Digital Maker and Martial Arts. Young people choose which badges to pursue based on what excites them. There are over 60 to choose from!
Staged Activity Badges
These work across all sections (Beavers through to Explorers) with progressive stages. Examples include Hikes Away, Nights Away, and Swimming. As young people progress through stages, they build on previous achievements.
Challenge Awards
Challenge Awards are themed sets of activities that encourage young people to push themselves. They cover areas like Outdoor, Skills, World, and Teamwork. Completing all Challenge Awards is a requirement for the top award.
Chief Scout’s Awards
The highest award in each section: Chief Scout’s Bronze (Beavers), Silver (Cubs), Gold (Scouts), Platinum (Explorers), and Diamond (Network). These prestigious awards are presented by the District Commissioner.
Where do badges go?
Activity Badges go on the right sleeve. Challenge Awards and Chief Scout’s Awards go on the left breast. Staged Activity Badges have a special blanket or can go on the sleeve. Section leaders will help new members know where everything goes!
