New Badges for Girlguiding: Celebrating a Range of Skills and Interests
Girlguiding has introduced a fresh set of badges that reflect the diverse interests and talents of girls aged four to 18. These new additions, which replace or enhance traditional badges, aim to reward a wide range of activities, from simple daily habits like sleeping and laughing to more complex skills such as mechanics, coding, and environmental conservation. The initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure that the organisation remains relevant and engaging for its members.
The programme includes 72 new badges, co-designed by over 20,000 girls and volunteers. These badges are now available across all sections of the organisation, including Rainbows, Brownies, Guides, and Rangers. Each badge is designed to encourage girls to explore their passions, develop new skills, and contribute positively to their communities.
A Focus on Wellness, Learning, and Adventure
The badges are divided into several categories, each focusing on different aspects of personal growth. These include wellness, self-awareness, learning, and adventure. Girls can earn badges for activities such as critiquing food, discovering a new hobby, planning a holiday, and even learning about entomology or mechanics.
One of the most unique badges is the “bee rescuer” for Rainbows, which encourages young girls to help the environment and share their “guiding sparkle.” Brownies can earn a “celebrations” badge by hosting a party, providing food, and creating decorations. Guides have the opportunity to win a “thrift” badge by customising, repurposing, and recycling objects.
Involvement of Girls and Volunteers
The development of these badges was a collaborative effort involving thousands of girls and volunteers. Over 4,000 badge design ideas were submitted, and more than 11,000 girls from 753 Girlguiding units across the UK tested the badges. This extensive input ensured that the final selection reflects the interests and needs of the participants.
The project was also driven by requests from girls who wanted more choice in the programme. They expressed a desire for activities that address climate change, build confidence, and allow them to discuss their interests and “fandom” groups.
Support from Industry Leaders
To mark the launch of the new badges, broadcaster and presenter Angellica Bell has joined as an ambassador. She praised the initiative, highlighting the importance of providing girls with opportunities to learn and have fun outside of school.
Bell shared her excitement about working with Girlguiding, noting the organisation’s commitment to building confidence and wellbeing among girls. She also emphasised the need to address issues such as online harm, sexism, and misogyny.
Partnerships and Expertise
The badge activities were developed in collaboration with various partners, including The Royal Horticultural Society, which contributed to the Rangers’ gardening badge. The Children’s Book Project helped create the Guides’ bookworm badge, while Bletchley Park supported the codebreaking badge. The Wellbeing of Women charity assisted with the Rangers’ “my health” badge.
Amanda Azeez, acting chief executive of Girlguiding, described the launch as a significant milestone. She highlighted the importance of designing badges by girls, for girls, to ensure they remain relevant and meaningful.
Looking Ahead
With the introduction of these new badges, Girlguiding continues to empower girls to explore their potential and make a positive impact. The organisation is confident that these activities will help build confidence and inspire girls to achieve their goals.
As the programme evolves, it is clear that the focus remains on creating a supportive and inclusive environment where every girl can thrive.
