The Badge Archive

F.O.N. – United Kingdom (Girlguiding)

The United Kingdom (UK) is not just one country; it is a union of four nations: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

While they share a government and a monarch, they each have their own distinct culture, accents, and sometimes even their own languages (like Welsh).

  • Official Name: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
  • Government: Constitutional Monarchy (King Charles III is the Head of State) and Parliamentary Democracy.
  • School: Most children in the UK wear uniforms to school, often including blazers and ties.
  • Tea: Tea is a huge part of the culture. It’s a social activity. (e.g., “Afternoon Tea” with small sandwiches and scones).Driving: People drive on the left side of the road.
  • Slang: They use different English words for common items. A “cookie” is a biscuit, “fries” are chips, “chips” are crisps, and a “sweater” is a jumper.

The WAGGGS Organization:

Girlguiding UK

In the UK, the organization is called Girlguiding, and the members are “Girl Guides,” not “Girl Scouts.” It is the largest youth organization for girls in the UK.

  • The UK is one of the founding members of WAGGGS. The World Bureau (WAGGGS Headquarters) is located in London.
  • One of the five WAGGGS World Centers, Pax Lodge, is located in London, right next to the World Bureau. It is a place where Girl Guides and Scouts from all over the world can stay.
  • Age Levels (Sections):
    • Rainbows (4–7 years): Wear red uniforms. Equivalent to Daisies.
    • Brownies (7–10 years): Wear yellow and brown. Equivalent to Brownies.
    • Guides (10–14 years): Wear blue/aqua. Equivalent to Juniors/Cadettes.
    • Rangers (14–18 years): Wear grey/teal. Equivalent to Seniors/Ambassadors.
  • Since the coronation of King Charles III, the Girlguiding UK promise has been updated to pledge service to “The King” rather than “The Queen.”

Challenge Badges

In the UK, “Challenge Badges” are a massive part of the culture. A local unit (or District/County) will invent a theme (like a “Chocolate Challenge,” “Space Challenge,” or “Hedgehog Challenge”) and write a packet of activity requirements. They then sell these woven badges to other leaders across the UK. It is like the Patch Programs made for GSUSA fun patches, but Challenge Badges are regulated by the Girlguiding UK. All Challenge Badges must be approved by the national organization.

These are used as a fundraiser. A unit might create a badge to raise money for an international trip. Leaders from all over the UK (and even the world) buy them to do with their own units because they are fun, “unofficial” badges that can go on a camp blanket.

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For More Fun Ideas and Plans

Join the Girl Scout Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Leader Help Facebook Group
(Not an official GSUSA Group)

Join the Girl Scout Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Leader Help Facebook Group
(Not an official GSUSA Group)

See other Recommended Facebook Groups for some Scouting Organizations
(No official Groups)

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Published on January 26, 2026, by:

Tia Kennard

Click Here -> To see information References:

Disclaimer: The information published on The Badge Archive is built from the references listed below. These sources demonstrate that our content is grounded in facts and research, not opinion or speculation. Readers may consult them directly when looking for additional material.

Note: This is the complete list of all sources used across every Festival of Nations: United Kingdom resource. And yes, for those wondering, we really did read and watch every single one.

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Short Link: https://tinyurl.com/36wtpzpc

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