8. Getting Started & Adult Training

Getting Started

There are some modules that all volunteers are obliged to complete within the first few months of volunteering, which are known as our getting started modules. Once you complete this training, your role will become ‘Full’, meaning you can lead independently. A member of the District Team will also present you with a Gilwell Woggle, to wear with your necker.

Click the link below to get to the Getting Started learning package:

Adult Training

To support adults in scouting we provide a comprehensive programme of training to build on your existing skills and knowledge and help you develop new competencies. All adults in scouting have an opportunity to develop their skills and knowledge through our national modular Adult Training Scheme. Once you complete your training, you will be award a Adult Training ‘Wood Badge’, showing your achievement.

When you start as a volunteer, you will be allocated to a Training Adviser, who will keep in touch you about your learning and development, help you and give support and advice as you progress towards your Wood Badge.

Our Adult Training Scheme is designed to support you in your role, so the training provided is relevant and tailored to what you do in scouting. We recognise there may be learning and skills you have gained through your work and life experiences, and our training scheme is designed to complement these with further opportunities to enhance your individual skills.

Our Adult Training Scheme is based on a number of key principles:

  • the scheme is modular, with a total of 19 modules need to be completed by those in leadership roles
  • we aim to make training accessible to all
  • there are at least two methods of completing each module
  • the scheme recognises your prior learning, experience and existing knowledge
  • training provides opportunities for you to interact with other adults; this can often be an effective way of learning and building contacts
  • the scheme is UK-wide so that the training and modules that you complete in one district or county will be recognised in another
  • there is the opportunity for you to work towards an externally recognised award through the training that you do in scouting.

The training and development opportunities available to you range from skills-based training such as first aid, risk assessment, safeguarding and public relations through to experience in leadership, management, communication, organisation, safeguarding, executive training and experience of working with young people.