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Campfire Leader Scout Interest Badge

From SCOUTS South Africa Wiki

Campfires are one of Scouting's oldest and most loved traditions — where songs, stories, skits, and shared laughter bring people together. A great Campfire Leader knows how to plan an exciting programme, keep the energy flowing, and create an atmosphere where everyone feels part of the fun.

The Campfire Leader Scout Interest Badge will develop your skills, confidence, and creativity to lead a memorable campfire from start to finish. You will learn how to prepare, manage, and perform as a Campfire Leader, building on teamwork, leadership, and performance skills.

Badge Requirements

Campfire Leader
Campfire Leader
  1. Campfire Traditions and Purpose
    1. Explain the aim and purpose of a Scout campfire.
    2. Describe the key elements of a successful campfire and outline its place in Scout training.
    3. Explain the differences between formal, informal, indoor, and Cub campfires — noting their typical setting, tone, and purpose.
  2. Fire Building and Safety
    1. Explain and demonstrate fire safety rules for campfires, including site selection, construction, and audience safety.
    2. Demonstrate how to build the following types of campfires suitable for campfire programmes, and explain when each is most appropriate:
      • Cone
      • Pyramid
      • Top-burner
    3. During a campfire, maintain the fire safely and effectively to provide light, warmth, and atmosphere without interrupting the programme.
    4. Build a portable indoor campfire (safe for use in enclosed spaces).
  3. Campfire Notebook
    Produce your own campfire notebook containing a well-organised collection of campfire resources. The notebook should be clear, easy to use during a campfire, and include enough material for a complete campfire programme and should include the following:
    1. Openings and Closings
    2. Applause Actions and Responses
    3. Songs (action, folk, rounds, spiritual, quiet, etc.)
    4. Skits (stunts and sketches)
    5. Yells and Chants
    6. Yarns and Stories
    7. Dances and Games
  4. Assisting at Campfires
    Assist with the programmes of two formal campfires by leading at least three of the following: songs, yells, rounds, dances, or games. Show enthusiasm, audience engagement, and clear instructions.
  5. Song Leading Skills
    During a campfire or at campfire song training in Troop meetings, teach and lead at least three campfire songs — including one action song, one traditional Scout song, and one audience-participation song. Demonstrate clear voice projection and audience engagement.
  6. Planning and Structuring a Campfire
    1. Discuss the principles of planning a formal Patrol or Troop campfire with your Examiner, covering leadership roles, maintaining discipline, setting the mood, and ensuring participation from everyone.
    2. Prepare a complete formal campfire programme lasting 40–60 minutes, featuring a balanced mix of songs, yells, rounds, dances, skits, and a yarn. Include both an engaging opening and a memorable closing.
    3. Discuss your programme with the Examiner, ensuring it flows smoothly, with appropriate high and low energy points to set and control the mood.
  7. Lead Your Own Campfire
    Lead and run a formal campfire from start to finish, using your prepared programme. This must include:
    • An original opening you have devised, using fire-lighting, a story, or both
    • Leadership of the full campfire programme
    • Safe management of the fire
    • Active audience engagement throughout

    Function as Campfire Leader for the entire campfire: keeping energy levels high and ensuring smooth transitions between performances.
    Note: The Examiner must be present for this event.

  8. Reflection and Improvement
    After leading your campfire, discuss with your Examiner what went well, what did not, and why. Explain what you would do differently or try next time, giving reasons for your choices.
  9. Campfire Blanket
    1. Design and produce your own campfire blanket.
    2. Explain the significance of campfire blankets in Scouting and why they are worn at campfires.
    3. Describe your choice of personal or Scouting badges and symbols on your blanket and explain how they represent your journey and story as a Scout.

Recommended Age Range: The Campfire Leader Scout Interest Badge is recommended for Scouts aged 14 years and older. Scouts at this age have the maturity, confidence, and leadership experience to plan and lead a full engaging campfire programme.

Badge Examiner: Training and examination for this badge must be conducted by a suitably qualified individual who has relevant experience or formal training in the specific field of expertise being assessed. The ideal Examiner should be someone experienced in campfire leadership — an adult familiar with Scout campfire traditions, safety, fire craft, and programme planning. This could include a Scout Group Leader, Troop Scouter, or Assistant Troop Scouter with campfire experience; a District or Regional Campfire Leader; or a Scouter known for performance and entertainment skills who has practical experience in leading and managing Scout campfires.

Safe From Harm: Whilst completing the requirements for this badge, Scouts must not be placed in hazardous or dangerous situations under any circumstances. All activities must comply with SCOUTS South Africa Safe from Harm framework and be supervised by responsible adults. Participation should offer meaningful learning or service experiences while ensuring the Scout's safety and well-being at all times.

Badge Requirements in printable PDF format


Last Update

October 2025


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