Recognition of Achievement

Recognition of individual achievements supports and nurtures the self-esteem of Guides.  It can consist of internal rewards such as knowing she has done her best or increasing her understanding and confidence.  Informal external rewards are varied and can include a: sticker, special blanket badge, button badge, certificate, card, letter, a ‘bravo’, verbal praise or a celebration or ceremony.

Formal external rewards are based on the Girl Recognition System. However as this is an optional system it is entirely up to the girl to choose if she wants to do a challenge or work towards an award. Girls should not be pressured into doing badges by Leaders, parents/guardians/carers or other Guides and they should not feel as if they have failed if they do not choose to follow this path. Many girls achieve great satisfaction from taking part in the Program and enjoying the friendship and fun of Guide meetings.  When you are reviewing the quality of Units in your District or Region avoid the tendency to put too much emphasis on award or challenge completion as a measure of success.

The formal Recognition System consists of two main areas: awards and challenges.  The emphasis of the challenges is on flexibility and choice. Challenges may be approached at several different levels and at any age and can be explored more than once.  Girls may work on the award that is most suitable to their ability and developmental stage, provided they meet the minimum age requirements.  More information is available in the Leader’s Handbook.

The responsibility for assessment lies with the Unit Leader who facilitates peer and self-assessment and, when necessary, ensures external assessment is carried out in accordance with guidelines.  The District Manager’s role is to aid the Leaders in their quest for assessors, keep the list as needed, source assessors using her networks if needed and share that info with all the Leaders in the District.

You may be asked to assist in ceremonies to informally recognise achievement such as giving verbal praise to a Guide or Patrol, or presenting a small token. When you are visiting Units it is a good idea to look out for opportunities to recognise achievements, both by Guides and Leaders.

Traditions for the presentation of awards can vary between Regions and from State to State.  Generally, Junior BP and BP badges are presented at Unit and / or District level.  At Unit level the nature of the ceremony is the girl’s choice and may be part of her badge work.  District Managers should be present for award presentations and may want to consider holding a District ceremony for badges on a regular basis.  Some Regions also have an annual celebration for both Guides and adults who have earned awards during the year.  These events provide an opportunity to demonstrate the value of Guiding to parents and are opportunities to talk to parents about attending the Support Group AGM, becoming involved in the Support Group or maybe considering leadership or Unit Helper opportunities.  The BP Award is normally awarded at a Region or State event and the Queen’s Guide Award is normally presented as part of a formal State event.

 

Last Modified: 31/03/17 at 1:30 PM