Adult leader training is vital to the success of Scouting programs and ensures that a fun, safe and fulfilling experience is provided to each Scout. Some courses may be completed online through my.scouting.org. All other courses are provided by the council and each district on a regular basis.
Beyond required training, we encourage adult leaders to take supplemental training such as University of Scouting or Wood Badge as well as a variety of our other training courses throughout the year.
Check out our Training Calendar for more information on how to become the trained leader every scout deserves
Adult Training Specific Events:
Youth Protection Training
This event is available through my.scouting.org
Youth Protection Training (YPT) — is required for all adults who wish to camp or otherwise volunteer with youth and must be renewed every 2 years. It is recommended all parents complete this training so everyone assisting to keep our youth safe.
BALOO: Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation Pt. 2
Registration is Now Open
Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO) — is a one-and-a-half day course designed as an introduction to the Cub Scout outdoor program. The training has two components: online pre-requisite and an outdoor overnight hands on component.
Baloo training will cover:
- Cub Scout gear selection
- Cub Scout cooking
- Cub Scout knife safety
- Outdoor ethics, first aid and more…
All Cub Scout units must have a Baloo trained leader to host any camping. Baloo training is offered each Spring.
Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills
Registration is Now Open
Outdoor Leader Skills and Scoutmaster Training (IOLS) — This hands-on course provides adult leaders the practical outdoor skills they need to lead Scouts in the out-of-doors. Upon completion, leaders should feel comfortable teaching Scouts the basic skills required to obtain the First Class rank.
All volunteers registered as an Assistant Scoutmaster or Scoutmaster must complete this training.
IOLS is offered once each Fall and Spring and, typically, during Scouts BSA summer camp.
Wood Badge
Wood Badge -Wood Badge is the highest level of Scout leadership training and provides you with the tools to be a superior leader. The leadership skills taught are for leaders from all Scouting areas including Cub Scouting, Scouts BSA, Venturing and the district and council. The 1st half of the course utilizes a classroom environment and practical exercises to teach the essentials of leadership. You’ll learn what makes leadership work for you in Scouting and your personal life. The 2nd half offers classroom and outdoor experiences to help you learn the application of leadership skills. Finally, you will write and complete a “Ticket”. The “Ticket” consists of five written goals. These goals connect your new leadership knowledge to your role in Scouting.
Any Scouter who has attended basic training for their registered position and serves in a leadership role in Scouting or in a position that directly supports a unit is encouraged to attend.
Wood Badge is offered every 2 years.
Supplemental Training
Rainbow Council Roundtable
Registration Information
Roundtable – Roundtable is exactly what it implies – it is an opportunity for Scouters to receive quality resources, knowledge, and skills and work as a group to have an opportunity for an equal exchange of ideas. Roundtables focus on program highlights for upcoming months and are held in all districts. The objectives of roundtables are to provide leaders with program ideas; information on policy and events; and training opportunities. It is a forum for sharing experiences and enjoying fun and fellowship with other Scout leaders. Roundtable will inspire, motivate, and enable you to provide a stronger program for your Scouts.
Wilderness First Aid
Registration is Now Open
Wilderness First Aid -This training is NOT a Boy Scouts of America Training. It is only required for Troops and Crews if they are attending one of our 4 National High Adventure Bases (Philmont, Sea Base, Northern Tier, or The Summit) or if you will be conducting a Scouting activity 60 minutes away from definitive medical care.
This training is offered Spring and Fall but must meet a minimum class size to be held.
Range Instructor
Registration is Now Open
Range instructor – Range instructor training is for any adult interested in hosting a shooting program for their unit which includes Tomahawk throwing for Scouts BSA and Slingshots for Cub Scouts. Range instructors are also needed to volunteer at the range at RSR on weekends when units request an Archery, Shotgun or Rifle program.
Classes are held in the Spring and Fall for various certifications.
Cope Instructor
Registration is Now Open
COPE Instructor – Be a volunteer with the Challenge Course team! Volunteers, age 18+, are needed on weekends and during summer camp to offer high ropes, climbing tower and low cope challenges to youth ages 5-21. Level 2 certification is offered in the Spring during a Saturday course.
Leave No Trace
Registration is Now Open
This introduction to Leave No Trace is for ALL Scouts BSA, Venturers and adult leaders (including Cub leaders) who use the outdoors. It is the minimum recommended training for ALL adults and older scouts who will be teaching Leave No Trace in their troops and/or signing off on the 2nd Class, First Class, or merit badge Leave No Trace requirements.
BSA Youth Training
NYLT
Registration Now Open
National Youth Leader Training (NYLT) – is a six day, five night course designed to teach youth ages 13+ and First Class advanced leadership skills using the patrol method. The coursework is designed to engage scouts in hands on activities simulating an entire month of unit leadership including communication, goal setting, conflict management, and planning. Over the course of 6 days and 5 nights, youth are equipped with transferable skills to make them stronger leaders in their units and in life.:
· Must be a registered member of a Scouting unit.
· Scouts must be at least 13 years old and should have completed Introduction to Leadership Skills for Troops, Crews or Ships. .
· It is important that each participant have basic camping and outdoor cooking experience.
· Must be under age 18 by the last day of the course if in Scouts BSA or under 21 if in Venturing or Sea Scouts
NYLT is typically offered in the Summer but subject to coordinator availability.
Den Chief
Den Chief
-Den Chiefs are very important leadership roles for youth in Scouts BSA, Crews and Ships.
Serves as a Scouting role model for the Cub Scouts in the den, as well as the entire pack;
Promotes Scouting in general and the local troop in particular;
Encourages the transition of Webelos Scouts into Scouts BSA;
Holds a leadership position in the troop or crew, thus fulfilling an advancement requirement in the unit.
Den Chief Training is held at council merit badge days, summer camp and online.