The training system

In 2001 the KFUM-Scouts in Denmark created a new training system. We call it 'the tree of scouting' because the structure of the training system resembles a tree.

All scouts will first go through a basic training, adapted to their age group: this will create a foundation on which to build, just like a tree grows branches from its stem. The scout can then specialize his/her knowledge by completing one of the 50 specialized badges. The knowledge will grow to be as extensive and complex as the branches on a tree.

The basic badges in 'the tree of knowledge' are divided into age groups so that each age group is represented by its own type of tree:

This division does not necessarily follow the scout sections and therefore offers the leader the possibility of working on different levels within one section.

Each basic badge has the same 6 categories with which the scout must work to obtain the badge: nature, outdoor life, camping life, faith and fellowship, manage on your own and across.

The idea with the across category is that the scout sets a goal for himself that he must fulfil within a given time period. For the young scout this could be to help clean up after a scout meeting without being told to do so, and for the older scout it could be to plan an activity.

When we choose to have the same categories for all age groups, the purpose is to make progressive learning an important part of our training system.

An example: '

When the scout is 6 years old the requirement in the nature category is that the scout has put up a feeding board for birds. When the scout has turned 14 the requirement in the same category is that the scout has found, described and followed a food chain as far as possible.         

We have more specialized badges. These badges are built on the same categories as the basic badges, but here it is possible to work with only one category at a time. The scout could then choose to work only with ex. pioneering or communication. There are 50 specialized badges, but they are spread out over all the age groups. 19 of these badges are 'tilting badges' - this means that they can be used in more than one age group.