Leader Training

The Key to a Fun and Successful Scout Program

Trained leaders provide a better program to their Scouts. That is a simple truth. The training that is available for Scout leaders does not take long to complete but the rewards are huge. By being trained, a leader is better prepared to plan and conduct meetings, which keeps the Scouts interested and coming back, which gives Scouting more opportunities to instill the values and principles into the boys, which makes them better young men, which makes them grow to be better people and citizens. Isn't it amazing the return you get for investing a few hours into training?

Why do I need training?
Does your workplace provide or require training? Why would they do this for people who already know their job? It is because they know the value of keeping you up to date on the policies and practices. The same is true for Scouting. The Scouting program is continually evolving and advancing to provide youth with programs which are interesting, informative and fun. By training (and retraining) leaders, Scouting continues advancing and improving its programs. By attending training sessions, you can take these advancements to your unit and enhance the experience of your Scouts.

What is Scout leader training?
Scout leader training programs are designed to be a help to leaders. Below is a list and descriptions of the various courses offered by the Boy Scouts of America.

How do I get trained?
The council and your district have training committees which sets up training opportunities. These are advertised in the Smoke Signals, on the council web site, www.peedeescouts.org and at district roundtable meetings. If you are unable to attend any of the scheduled sessions, you can work with your district training chairman to set up additional training sessions.

Here are some of the key training courses we offer. The first three are the basics that every leader should complete within the first few months of accepting a position

Fast Start Training: Video tape training offered to Cub Scout, Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, and Venturing leaders. One hour or less in length. Gives the very basic information a leader needs to be a leader and to begin conducting unit meetings. Conducted at the unit level.

New Leader Essentials: Ninety minute classroom training for all leaders in any program or position. Gives basic background on the BSA, its purpose, structure, aims, and methods. Conducted at the district or council level, usually in conjunction with a follow-on course.

Cub Scout Leader Specific Training: A 3 ½ hour classroom training for all Cub Scout leaders. Includes breakout sessions on specific positions within a pack. Conducted at the district level. Normally offered in conjunction with New Leader Essentials training.

Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmaster Leader Specific Training: A six hour classroom training for Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmasters. A separate course is offered for troop committee members. Conducted at the council level. Normally offered in conjunction with New Leader Essentials.

Troop Committee Training: A three hour training course for troop committee members with Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmasters encouraged to participate with their committees. Offered at the district level. Could be offered in conjunction with New Leaders Essentials.

Varsity Coach Leader Specific Training: A six hour classroom training course for Varsity Scout leaders. Conducted at the council level. Normally offered in conjunction with New Leader Essentials.

Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills: A weekend training conducted in an outdoor setting for Boy Scout and Varsity Scout leaders. Concentrates on the outdoor skills portion of Boy Scout and Varsity Scout programs. Conducted at the council level.

Venture Leader Specific Training: A five hour classroom training course for all Venture Crew leaders. Conducted at the district level. Normally offered in conjunction with New Leader Essentials.

Woodbadge Training for the 21st Century: A two-weekend or one-week training course for all registered leaders who have completed the specific or basic training for their position. This course includes the development of a set of personal goals to be completed by the individual over the subsequent 18 months. This is the highest level of leadership training offered to adults in the BSA. Concen-trates on good organization, management, and communication skills. It also emphasizes the use of the traditional unit structure and program in Scouting (i.e. patrol method). Offered at the council level.

 

Baloo (Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation) Training: A one day training course for Cub Scout leaders to help them plan a camping trip for their Cub Scouts. Offered at the district or council level.

Webelos Outdoor Leader Training: A one day training course for Webelos leaders and other Cub Scout leaders who may become Webelos leaders. Teaches the outdoor skills necessary to run an effective outdoor program for Webelos. Includes subjects such as knots, cooking, first aid, and woods tools. Offered at the council level.

Pow Wow Training: A one day training course for all Cub Scout leaders. Offers leaders ideas and information on running better den and pack meetings. Includes sessions on song leading, crafts, skits, Blue and Gold Banquets, and woodworking. Offered at the council level.

 

Trainer Development Conference: A one day training course for people who will be conducting other training courses. Teaches basic skills of preparing for and conducting training sessions. Offered at the council level.

Powder Horn Training: A week long training course for Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, and Venture leaders. Teaches high adventure trek preparation and planning. Includes information on equipment, health and safety issues, Leave No Trace Camping, wilderness survival, leading a trek, and identifying local resources. Also includes information on the Venturing Ranger Award program. Offered at the area or region level.