THE BOYS’ BRIGADE METHOD

Method can be defined as a way, pattern or skill of doing things. The aim of The Boys’ Brigade is to train the boys by moulding their character and to win him for Christ and as to such The Boys’ Brigade has developed several methods which are eight (8) in numbers which include:

1. THE CHURCH: – The Company must belong to the Church. The Church provides the Company with Christian Education and Spiritual backing. The Chaplain which in most cases the head of the Church is the Spiritual Head of the Company.

2. THE COMPANY: – This is the smallest; basic and important unit of The Boys’ Brigade and every member of The Boys’ Brigade must be attached it. The basic teaching of The Boys’ Brigade is taught within the Company and is the primary character builder or moulders of Boys.

3. UNIFORM: – This is the set of clothes worn by all members of the organization, The Boys’ Brigade. However, varies from section to section within The Boys’ Brigade. The uniform serves as a form of Public Relation to The Boys’ Brigade. It encourages self-respect, bring about sense of belonging, attract people and encourage them to join the organization and also bring about smart appearance of members.

4. DISCIPLINE: – The ability to have affirm control over our behaviour and attitude and been able to take responsibility for our actions. This is imbibed through drill and physical exercise.

5. AWARDS: – This is a reward given to maintain progressive, encourage or show appreciation to the boy. It brings about holy and healthy rivalry and gives zeal to the recipient e.g. in The Boys’ Brigade there are series of activities lined up for the boy for the progression of his skill and haven completed this, he is given an award before moving to the next level. For Junior Section, it is called J.S. Achievement Scheme which revolves around Spiritual, Physical, Educational and Social, while in the Company Section; we have Target, Specialized, service and Special Award.

• TARGET AWARD: – This is divided into two stages i.e. Target I & 2. Three months for the first-year members, this is to encourage him to keep coming. Lectures taught include BB History e. t. c. The progression is more important not the test.

• SPECIALIZED AWARD: – This is divided into three stages. He gets his badge at the end of the 3rd stage. The lectures include First Aid e. t. c.

• SERVICE AWARD: – This is for boys who have been loyal to the Company and coming regularly at least for three (3) years and 70% attendance.

• SPECIAL AWARD: – These awards include Presidents’ Badge for boys who have excelled in the previous categories

6. DRILL: – Drill is a system used in The Boys’ Brigade whereby boys are trained in manner similar to that of the military. It is the tool used to imbibe discipline in The Boys’ Brigade. It is often said to be a means to an end. E.g. makes us smart, brings about self-control, team work, self-reliance, leadership etc.

7. ACTIVITIES: – These are various programs done in The Boys’ Brigade Company. This should be centred on the four cardinal points of The Boys’ Brigade which are Spiritual, Physical, Educational and Socials e.g. drill, camping, parent’s day, enrolment service etc.

8. LEADERSHIP: – This can be regarded as ability to control, direct or coordinate the affairs of a group or organization. Here we allocate leadership rules to the boys. These will encourage them to do more and healthy rivalry