More than 150 Scouts and Guides from over 30 countries gathered in Westmalle, Belgium, from 3 to 8 November for The Academy 2026, a joint learning and networking event organised by the European Scout Region and the Europe Region of WAGGGS.
Supported by the European Youth Foundation of the Council of Europe and the European Union, the event brought together young leaders and volunteers to exchange experiences, develop new skills and explore ways to strengthen their organisations. Combining structured training with non-formal education and peer learning, The Academy offered participants an opportunity to learn from one another and take new ideas back to their organisations.
The programme was built around three learning paths: Unity, Resilience and Innovation. Each offered a different perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing Scout and Guide organisations across Europe.
Across more than 25 sessions, participants explored topics including safeguarding, peace education, youth participation, volunteer and membership journeys, organisational resilience, funding, climate action and artificial intelligence. The programme also encouraged participants to reflect on how to turn new knowledge into practical improvements within their organisations.
Beyond the training sessions, ‘Marketplaces’ provided opportunities to share good practices, exchange resources and discover tools developed by other organisations. International and Belgian evenings added a more informal dimension to the programme, allowing participants to discover the cultures and traditions represented at the event.
Behind the programme was a team of more than 30 facilitators who supported participants throughout their learning journeys, creating opportunities for discussion, experimentation and collaboration. Their contribution was also part of a wider effort to strengthen facilitation skills across the European Scout Region.
In September 2026, World Scouting brought together Rovers and volunteers for a Training of Trainers in Lithuania. Supported by the European Youth Foundation of the Council of Europe, the training equipped participants with practical facilitation tools and experience in designing and delivering non-formal education sessions. The training prepared volunteers to contribute to major regional activities, including The Academy 2026 and the European Agora in 2027, while helping build a stronger pool of young facilitators who can share their knowledge and experience across the Movement.
The Academy 2026 brought together people, ideas, and different perspectives beyond Westmalle, as participants take their experiences home and put them into practice within their Scout and Guide organisations. The Academy 2027 will take place in Hungary, with dates to be announced at the beginning of next year.