THE Boys’ Brigade was the first voluntary uniformed youth movement in the world and many of today’s organisations for young people can trace their roots back through history to The Boys’ Brigade.

The brigade was founded in Glasgow on 4th October 1883 by Sir William Alexander Smith, who was born in the Scottish town of Thurso. From this one company the brigade has grown in to a worldwide movement having worked with millions of children and young people for well over a century.

Widespread organised camping for adolescents was something completely new in the late 19th century. The founder’s introduction of camping into the programme in 1886 was an innovation and helped to sow the seeds of one of the most popular recreational pastimes still enjoyed today.

From the first camp held in 1886 at Tighnabruiach, a village on the Kyles of Bute in Argyll and Bute, thousands of members still enjoy holidays and residential activities as part of their company programme each year.

Across the UK The Boys’ Brigade engages with over 50,000 children and young people.

It provides a balanced programme of events, challenges and fun for children and young people from the age of five to 18.

In Bradford the brigade has retained its popularity over the years. These photographs from years gone by, show how the various groups looked then. The smart-looking boys and their leaders are proudly lined up for group photographs.

Currently, in the Bradford district the brigade works with young people in three companies - 1st Craven (Sutton-in-Craven), 19th Bradford (Sunbridge Road) and the 2nd Bradford (Nelson Street, Manchester Road).

Activities include sport, games, arts and crafts and outdoor pursuits. Each child and young person attending the Boys’ Brigade will work through a detailed programme of activities and be awarded badges to help recognise a sense of achievement.

The youngest boys join an ‘Anchor’ section, learning new skills. They develop the dexterity required for arts and crafts, as well as following simple instructions for games and activities.

Boys grow in confidence and have opportunities to do things for themselves such as taking part in simple role-play, mime and drama.

They develop physical skills through co-ordination games, hopping, skipping and balancing games.

These opportunities lead to them becoming more independent, developing an awareness of the needs of others and learning to share and co-operate.

Juniors’ meetings are full of challenges, games and activities. many of which they have suggested. There are hundreds of activities catering for almost every interest.

Juniors move on to the ‘Company’ section in which they learn new skills, make decisions and have fun. It is up to each young person to work out which opportunities are relevant for them, whether it is improving their football skills, podcasting or recycling.

Seniors take part in projects organised by young people. They focus on activities that could be undertaken by individuals or groups, from climbing mountains to reviewing the food from a local take-away. They could get involved in useful activities such as sport officiating, fundraising or DIY.

Taster sessions act as an introduction to a topic and are then followed by a longer project that is designed and led by the young people.

Projects are grouped into three programme zones: community, life skills and recreation and leisure.

There are also opportunities for young people to work towards goals including The Duke of Edinburgh Award, a Young Volunteer Award and the Queen’s Badge.

Boys all have a say and are listened to. Importantly, they are respected and their opinions are valued.

The brigade - which partners with local churches and other community groups - is important socially, with boys encouraged to make new friends and build relationships.

Each company charges a different amount for subscriptions each week, usually ranging between an affordable £1 and £2. The aim is to keep the costs as low as possible to ensure that there are no barriers to new members joining.

If children enjoy The Boys’ Brigade and decide to become a regular member they can purchase a uniform from their local company. There are different coloured tops for the different age groups - dark-coloured trousers and a coloured polo shirt for Anchors and blue for juniors. Company section wear a dark blue shirt and tie.

The Boys’ Brigade is dependent on over 13,000 volunteer leaders who come from all walks of life to share their time, skills, passion and faith.

Many leaders come from within the church and see the work within The Boys’ Brigade as an expression of their Christianity.

One of the photographs also features the local Girls’ Brigade, which occasionally took part in activities alongside the boys.

For more information on Bradford Boys’ Brigade, or to join, visit

boys-brigade-bradford.co.uk or email: info@boys-brigade-bradford.co.uk

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