As Smith realised the potential of the movement he had begun, he called a meeting of those involved in the two existing companies, on 26 January 1885, when the meeting agreed to designate itself as the ‘Council of The Boys’ Brigade’. A constitution was drawn up and it was confirmed that a company requesting registration required to be connected to a church or other religious body. Thereafter, the Brigade advanced dramatically and by the time the newly formed Council had held its first annual meeting on 12 October 1885, fifteen companies had been enrolled, twelve in Glasgow and three in Edinburgh.

Since 1885, Brigade council has been held annually as part of a council weekend of fellowship, meetings and workshops. Traditionally the council weekend was hosted by a Battalion, with all the arrangements and entertainment being undertaken by the host Battalion. 2015 was the last weekend event to be hosted by a Battalion, and since then it has been organised by Headquarters. The 2015 weekend was also the first time that it was know as Brigade Conference, with the council meeting forming part of the Conference weekend.

On average only 11% of Companies are represented at the meeting, whilst the three meetings with the highest attendance have all been held in Glasgow and formed part of significant celebrations.

1933 – 3410 Officers

1954 – 1453 Officers

1983 – 3678 Officers

The Council meeting was cancelled during both of the World Wars, and was held virtually in 2020 and 2021 due to the Coronavirus Pandemic.