Programme overview

Think of the programme as a staircase. It has steps the Badgers climb towards the Super Badger Award - the highest award for Badgers.

Within the first few weeks of joining, Badgers take their first step by achieving their Welcome Paw Award.

There are then 15 Badger subjects available from which a Badger completes 12 to gain their Super Badger Award. These 12 Badger subjects are chosen by the Badgers themselves. The Badger Leader will normally select three or four subjects that most Badgers need to complete and everyone has the opportunity to vote for the subject they would like to do next.

As a Badger takes part in the subjects their efforts are recognised by Paw Awards. One is awarded after every three subjects completed:

  • Bronze paw awardThree badges – Bronze Paw Award
  • Silver paw awardSix badges – Silver Paw Award
  • Gold paw awardNine badges – Gold Paw Award
  • Super Badger paw award12 badges – Super Badger Award

All Badgers also have the opportunity to participate in the Follow-me Badger scheme, once they reach nine years of age. Becoming a Follow-me Badger involves giving back something to the Badger Sett, by taking on a responsibility to help run the Sett.

The final step for all Badgers is to help plan and take part in their Moving-on Ceremony, before moving to Cadets.

Every step of the programme is reflected in the Badger Passport. This allows each Badger to keep their own record of what they have achieved. The passport contains information that helps the Badger decide which subjects they wish to complete.

Badgers also receive certificates as well as badges to wear on their uniform.