- NESA - Orange County Council
- International Committee OCC
- Training Schedules
- Venturing News
- Orange County Council
- Training Home
- Why Training?
- Parent Information
- What Makes a Trained Leader?
- Training Documents
- Youth Protection Training
- District Training Chairs
- Introduction to Training Schedules
- Course Descriptions
- LTC2011 Documents
- Lone Scout
- Registration
- Documents
- Be Prepared
- Scout Check List for Success
- Staff Information
- Whistle Stop
- Special RR Workbook
- Blue Card Prep
- Website Updates
Training Course Descriptions
All Cub Scout Training is now available on line except Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO).
Yes it's true. Online Cub Scout Training flyer pdf, 250 kb
Fast Start
Fast Start - Cub Scout Leader - Available Online at: National Counsel's Online Learning Center
This is the first step toward training for any volunteer new to Cub Scouting.
This course should be taken immediately after you register but before you begin youth activities.
The course introduces the aims and purposes of the Boy Scouts of America's foundational program, then zeroes in on the job. Subsections of the course will brief anyone new to the job of Tiger Cub Leader, Den Leader, WEBELOS Den Leader, or Cubmaster.
We also cover the standard parts of the meeting and tell where additional resources can be found.
This program typically takes no more than an hour to complete. Those taking it for credit in local council records must provide their official BSA registration number as part of their user profile.
Fast Start - Boy Scout Leader - Available Online at: National Counsel's Online Learning Center
This is the first step to take for any volunteer new to Boy Scouting.
This course should be taken before beginning youth activities.
You'll learn the aims and purposes of the Boy Scouts of America's core program, then zero in on the job.
You'll cover the seven parts of the unit meeting, the unit committee, outdoor program, and other basic concepts of Scouting, all in one short online experience.
It's the best way for someone new to the program to quickly grasp how Troop Scouting works and where additional resources can be found.
This online training typically takes no more than an hour to complete. Those taking it for credit in local council records must provide their official BSA registration number as part of the user profile.
Fast Start - Venturing Advisor - Available Online at: National Counsel's Online Learning Center
This is the first step for any volunteer new to Venturing.
This course should be taken immediately after you register but before you begin youth activities.
The course introduces the aims and purposes of the Boy Scouts of America's coeducational program for youth from 14 to 20 years of age, and goes on to explain how the program works to deliver a relevant and compelling program.
The highly graphic and interactive program typically takes no more than an hour to complete. Those taking it for credit in local council records must provide their official BSA registration number as part of their user profile.
Fast Start Videotapes
Fast start videotapes and DVDs are available free at the Council Service Center and the same material is now available on-line.
BSA Training Online Education Center
Fast Start training is very basic. It is intended for anyone who's interested in the program. By getting the very basic information to a wide audience in an easy-to-use format, the goal is that we'll be able to attract more prospective adult volunteers in the program.
Basic Leader Training [All Adults]
Basic Leader Training
The new Basic Leader Training comprises two parts: This Is Scouting for all unit-level leaders and Leader Specific training, which is based on the leader's unit-level position.
Basic Leader Training is designed for maximum flexibility. The sessions can be delivered over time—training on one or more evenings a week or month—or in a one-day training event that incorporates all program areas. It is suitable for large or small groups and may be presented to leaders of one or more units each time. Each council and district may decide the appropriate delivery method, keeping in mind that the focus is to remove roadblocks and achieve 100 percent trained leaders.
This Is Scouting
This Is Scouting is an online interactive learning experience that is divided into six modules. It picks up where Fast Start left off and introduces participants to the following areas of the Scouting program.
* Mission, Vision, and Values
* Programs for All Ages and Abilities
* Scouting Is Fun!
* Scouting in the Community
* Protecting Our Youth
* Scouting’s Legacy
This Is Scouting has replaced New Leader Essentials, and can be found on the BSA Online Learning Center. It takes about an hour to complete, and it is also available on DVD (No. 36118). Participants must correctly answer questions at the end of each module, and upon successful completion, they will receive a certificate of completion. The training code for This Is Scouting is WAO1.
Leader Specific Training
Once a volunteer has a solid overview of the BSA's values-based program, he or she can begin training for a specific Scouting position through Leader Specific training. This training provides the specialized knowledge a new leader needs to assume a leadership role. Because each course is designed for a specific leadership position, the training time varies. Leader Specific training has been developed for the following positions and their assistants:
Basic Leader Training
The new Basic Leader Training comprises two parts: This Is Scouting for all unit-level leaders and Leader Specific training, which is based on the leader's unit-level position.
Basic Leader Training is designed for maximum flexibility. The sessions can be delivered over time—training on one or more evenings a week or month—or in a one-day training event that incorporates all program areas. It is suitable for large or small groups and may be presented to leaders of one or more units each time. Each council and district may decide the appropriate delivery method, keeping in mind that the focus is to remove roadblocks and achieve 100 percent trained leaders.
This Is Scouting
This Is Scouting is an online interactive learning experience that is divided into six modules. It picks up where Fast Start left off and introduces participants to the following areas of the Scouting program.
- Mission, Vision, and Values
- Programs for All Ages and Abilities
- Scouting Is Fun!
- Scouting in the Community
- Protecting Our Youth
- Scouting’s Legacy
This Is Scouting is replaces New Leader Essentials, and can be found on the BSA Online Training Center. It takes about an hour to complete, and it is also available on DVD (No.6118). Participants must correctly answer questions at the end of each module, and upon successful completion, they will receive a certificate of completion. The training code for This Is Scouting is WAO1.
Leader Specific Training
Once a volunteer has a solid overview of the BSA's values-based program, he or she can begin training for a specific Scouting position through Leader Specific training. This training provides the specialized knowledge a new leader needs to assume a leadership role. Because each course is designed for a specific leadership position, the training time varies. Leader Specific training has been developed for the following positions and their assistants:
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
- Tiger Cub Den Leaders
- Cub Scout Den Leaders
- WEBELOS Den Leaders
- Cubmasters
- Pack Committee Members
- Scoutmasters
- Troop Committee Members
- Venturing Committee Members
- Venturing Advisors
Tiger Den Leader Specific Training - Available Online at: National Counsel's Online Learning Center
Tiger Cub Den Leader Position Description
The responsibilities of the Tiger Cub Den Leader can be summarized as:
1. Work directly with other Den and Pack Leaders to ensure that their Den is an active and successful part of the Pack.
2. Coordinate shared leadership among the Tiger Cub adult partners, ensuring that Den meetings and outings are planned, prepared for, and conducted by all adult partners on a rotating basis, and that the Den activities provide advancement opportunities for the Boys in the Den.
3. Attend Pack Leaders' meetings.
4. Lead the Den at the monthly meeting and Pack activities.
5. Ensure the transition of Boys in the Tiger Cub Den into a Wolf Den at the end of the year.
See the Cub Scout Leader Book for additional information concerning the responsibilities of this position.
Elements of a Good Tiger Cub Den Meeting
1. The meeting begins and ends on time.
2. The meeting should last no longer than an hour unless it is a “Go See It” outing.
3. The meeting should include all eight parts of the Tiger Cubs Den meeting.
4. The Den Leader and the host adult partner conduct the meeting.
5. The Den Leader and the host adult partner should be properly uniformed. The Den Leader should wear a Cub Scout Leader uniform with the orange neckerchief, while the host adult partners are encouraged to wear the orange Tiger Cub T-shirt.
6. Before the meeting begins, all equipment and materials are ready for use.
7. A well-planned, written program is conducted.
8. Activities are related to the monthly themes and the next Pack meeting.
9. Opportunities for self-expression are provided through ceremonies, songs, skits, games, stunts, puzzles, and crafts.
10. The adult partners manage Boy behavior. The Boys show respect for the adult partners, the Den Leader, and the other Boys.
11. Tiger Cubs and their adult partners bring their Tiger Cub Handbook to the meeting.
12. Den records are accurate and kept up to date.
13. The Tiger Cub ideals of Search, Discover, Share, and family involvement are emphasized in meetings, activities, and outings.
14. The Tiger Cubs and their adult partners have fun.
Cub Scout Den Leader Specific Training - Available Online at: National Counsel's Online Learning Center
Cub Scout Den Leader Position Description (Wolf & Bear Dens)
The responsibilities of the Cub Scout Den Leader can be summarized as:
1. Work directly with other Den and Pack Leaders to ensure their Den is an active and successful part of the Pack.
2. Plan, prepare for, and conduct Den meetings with the assistant Den Leader and Den Chief.
3. Attend the Pack Leaders' meetings.
4. Lead the Den at the monthly Pack meeting and Pack activities.
See the Cub Scout Leader Book for additional information concerning the responsibilities of this position.
Elements of a Good Cub Scout Den Meeting
1. The meeting begins and ends on time.
2. The meeting lasts no longer than an hour and 15 minutes.
3. The meeting includes all seven parts of a Den meeting.
4. A trained Den Leader conducts the meeting with help from the trained assistant Den Leader and the trained Den Chief.
5. Cub Scouts and leaders are properly uniformed.
6. Before the meeting begins, all equipment and materials are ready for use.
7. A well-planned, written program is conducted.
8. Activities are related to the monthly theme and the next Pack meeting.
9. Projects are started, to be finished at home with help from family members.
10. Opportunities for self-expression are provided through ceremonies, songs, skits, games, stunts, puzzles, and crafts.
11. The meeting program allows for a change in pace, alternating loud and quiet activities.
12. The leaders manage Boy behavior. The Boys show proper respect for the leaders and the Den Chief.
13. Boys bring their handbooks to each meeting.
14. Den records are accurate and kept up-to-date.
15. The Cub Scout ideals, including the Cub Scout Promise and the Law of the Pack, are emphasized.
16. The Cub Scouts have fun.
WEBELOS Den Leader Specific Training - Available Online at: National Counsel's Online Learning Center
WEBELOS Den Leader Position Description
The responsibilities of the WEBELOS Den Leader can be summarized as:
1. Work directly with other Den and Pack Leaders to ensure the Den is an active and successful part of the Pack.
2. Plan, prepare for, and conduct Den meetings with the assistant and Den Chief.
3. Attend Pack Leaders' meetings.
4. Lead the Den at the monthly Pack meeting and Pack activities.
5. Plan and conduct WEBELOS Den parent/son overnight campouts.
6. See the Cub Scout Leader Book for additional information concerning the responsibilities of this position.
Elements of a Good WEBELOS Den Meeting
1. The meeting begins and ends on time.
2. The meeting lasts no longer than an hour and 15 minutes.
3. The Den meeting program includes all seven parts of a WEBELOS Den meeting.
4. A trained WEBELOS Den Leader conducts the meeting with help from the trained assistant WEBELOS Den Leader and the trained WEBELOS Den Chief.
5. The WEBELOS Scouts and leaders are properly uniformed.
6. Before the meeting begins, equipment and materials are ready for use.
7. A well-planned written program is conducted.
8. Activities are related to that month's activity badge area and the next Pack meeting.
9. Activity badge counselors are involved in teaching activity badge work.
10. Activities are geared to helping the Boys prepare to become Boy Scouts.
11. Leaders manage Boy behavior. The Boys show proper respect for the adult leaders, the Den Chief, and each other.
12. The Boys bring their handbooks to each meeting.
13. Den records are accurate and kept up-to-date.
14. Inspiration and motivation are provided through ceremonies and discussion of activity badge projects.
15. The WEBELOS Scouts have fun.
Cubmaster Specific Training - Available Online at: National Counsel's Online Learning Center
Cubmaster: In general, the Cubmaster (sometimes referred to as the unit leader) is the guiding hand behind the work of other Pack Leaders and serves as program adviser to the Pack Committee. He or she is a recruiter, supervisor, director, planner, and motivator of other leaders.
The Cubmaster's main responsibilities are to Work directly with the Pack Trainer, Tiger Cub Den Leaders, Cub Scout Den Leaders, WEBELOS Den Leaders, Den Chiefs, and Pack Committee chair and members to make sure that all Dens are functioning well.
* Plan the Den and Pack programs with the help of other leaders.
* Lead the monthly Pack meeting with the help of others. Involve all Dens in some way.
* Coordinate the total Cub Scout program in the Pack.
Everything that the Cubmaster does is aimed at helping the individual boy. Securing strong leaders, planning Den and Pack activities, advising other leaders and adult family members-these are all ways in which the Cubmaster affects the kind of Cub Scouting each boy in the Pack is offered. The Cubmaster directly influences the lives of individual boys by keeping in mind that boys can become better through Cub Scouting.
Assistant Cubmaster(s): Assists the Cubmaster in his duties, as well as, monthly Pack meetings. The Assistant Cubmaster also helps to coordinate Pack activities, promote training within the Pack Leadership and encourage participation in special Scout programs, such as the religious emblem program.
Pack Committee Member Specific Training - Available Online at: National Counsel's Online Learning Center
PACK COMMITTEE & PACK COORDINATORS AND TEAMS
Committee Chair: Responsible for organizing the Pack Committee, filling Committee positions, and the annual re-chartering of the Pack.
Treasurer: Responsible for monitoring Pack finances, depositing money from registration and fund raising, and paying for Pack expenses. Also serves on the Pack Committee.
Secretary: Takes minutes of the Pack Committee meetings. Also serves on the Pack Committee.
Chartered Organization Representative: Serves as a liaison between our Chartered Organization, Saint Bridget's Church, and the Pack Committee. Also serves on the Pack Committee.
Publicity Coordinator: Responsible for contacting the local newspapers with information regarding future Pack events and stories of past Scouting activities.
Newsletter Coordinator: Responsible for developing a monthly newsletter to be distributed at the Pack Meetings, which includes information on upcoming Pack events and advancements. Solicit information for the newsletter from the Pack Leaders, the Pack Committee and the various Pack Coordinators. Type or import the information into a newsletter form. Copy and make the newsletter available for parents at the Pack Meetings.
Advancement and Patch Coordinator: Track the advancement of each Cub in the Pack. Discuss advancement with the Den Leaders both so the Coordinator will know what advancement patches will be needed. Be a coach to the Den Leaders to answer their questions about advancement. Determine what advancement-related patches are needed for each Pack or Den Meeting and acquire those patches, normally through the Scout Shop. Coordinate and purchase the non-advancement related patches needed for each Pack Meeting and Den Leader. Obtain the patches and make them available for pickup by to the Den Leaders. This includes patches for special events such as the Pinewood Derby, shoulder patches for Pack 130, and any other non-advancement patches. These are often ordered in advance from various suppliers and are not generally available at the Scout Shop.
Equipment Coordinator: Maintain a list of current Pack Equipment, where it is located, and who is currently borrowing it or using it. Help secure storage locations for Pack Equipment.
Entertainment Coordinator: Identify potential programs and entertainers for Pack Meetings in consultation with the Scoutmaster. Make the arrangements for the guest visitors and entertainers for the Pack Meeting. Meet the guest visitors at the beginning of the Pack Meeting and help them get set up if necessary.
Cake Sale Coordinator: Responsible for the Cake Sales at the Pack Meetings. Set up a schedule of which Den is responsible at each Pack Meeting to make the cakes, to sell tickets, etc. Coach and assist the Den Leaders in setting up for and conducting the ticket sales at each Pack Meeting. Ensure a smooth hand-off of cake-sale-related paraphernalia from one Den to the next after the Pack Meetings.
Fund raising Coordinator: Responsible for organizing the annual fund raising event to offset registration costs. This includes ordering or obtaining the fund raising items, distribution to the Cubs and their parents at registration and the first fall Pack meeting, and collection of money from the fundraiser. In recent years, this fundraiser has involved the sale of candy bars. Additional fund raising events may be held during the course of the year.
Food Drive Team: Responsible for running the Cub Scout Food Drive. This includes coordinating with the food pantries, getting the bags from Council, making up the announcements and handout sheets, and distributing the bags and information sheets to the Dens. It also includes coordinating the collection of the bags of food and transfer to the food pantries. One member of the team will be designated as the Team Coordinator and will serve as the liaison with the Pack Committee.
Overnight Trip Team: Responsible for coordinating fall and spring overnight events. This includes copying and distributing the information and registration sheets to the Cubs, answering questions, coordinating the Cub Scout sign ups, coordinating the adult attendance & supervision, making sure the registration money is collected and turned in, and coordinating transportation.
Race Team: Responsible for organizing and running the Pinewood Derby, Space Derby and Raingutter Regatta. This includes planning the event, creating and distributing the information sheets, announcing the event at Pack Meetings, obtaining and distributing the Derby Kits, running the pre-race inspections, setting up the race paraphernalia, running the event (racing, and judging, and awards,) and cleaning up after the events. Different members of the team usually take responsibility for overall coordination of the different races. One member of the team will be designated as the Team Coordinator and will serve as the liaison with the Pack Committee.
Blue and Gold Banquet Team: Responsible for organizing and running the Blue and Gold Banquet. This includes planning the event, creating and distributing the information sheets, announcing the event at Pack Meetings, helping determine the role that each Den will play, lining up the entertainment, obtaining special prizes for the Cubs, setting up the room, running the event and cleaning up after the event. One member of the team will be designated as the Team Coordinator and will serve as the liaison with the Pack Committee.
Scoutmaster Specific Leader Training including Assistant Scoutmaster
Job Description
The Scoutmaster is the adult leader responsible for the image and program of the Troop. The Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmasters work directly with the Scouts. The importance of the Scoutmaster's job is reflected in the fact that the quality of guidance will affect every youth and adult involved in the Troop. The Scoutmaster can be male or female, but must be at least 21 years old. The head of the chartered organization appoints the Scoutmaster.
Duties
o Train and guide boy leaders
o Work with other responsible adults to bring Scouting to boys
o Use the methods of Scouting to achieve the aims of Scouting
o Meet regularly with the Patrol Leaders' Council for training and coordination in planning Troop activities
o Attend all Troop meetings or, when necessary, arrange for a qualified adult substitute
o Attend Troop Committee meetings
o Conduct periodic parents' sessions to share the program and encourage parent participation and cooperation
o Take part in annual membership inventory and uniform inspection, charter review meeting, and charter presentation
o Conduct Scoutmaster Conferences for all rank advancements
o Provide a systematic recruiting plan for new members and see that they are promptly registered (This is a direct responsibility of the Assistant Scoutmaster for new Scouts)
o Delegate responsibility to other adults and groups (Assistant Scoutmasters, Troop Committee) so that they have a real part in Troop operations
o Supervise Troop elections for the Order of the Arrow
o Make it possible for each Scout to experience at least 10 days and nights of camping each year
o Participate in council and district events
o Build a strong program by using proven methods presented in Scouting literature
o Conduct all activities under qualified leadership, safe conditions, and the polices of the chartered organization and the Boy Scouts of America
Assistant Scoutmasters
Job Description
To fulfill obligations to the Troop, the Scoutmaster, with the assistance of the Troop Committee, recruits Assistant Scoutmasters to help operate the Troop. Each Assistant Scoutmaster is assigned specific program duties and reports to the Scoutmaster. They also provide the required two-deep leadership standards set by the Boy Scouts of America. An Assistant Scoutmaster may be 18 years old, but at least one in each Troop should be 21 or older, so he or she can serve in the Scoutmaster's absence. A Troop should recruit as many Assistant Scoutmasters as possible. It has been found that many successful Troops have three or more.
BSA Training Online Education Center Courses
Cub Scout Leader Fast Start
Boy Scout Leader Fast Start
Scout Unit Coordinator
Venturing Adviser Fast Start
Unit Commissioner Fast Start
Troop Committee Challenge
Youth Protection Training
Safe Swim Defense
Safety Afloat
Hazardous Weather
Staffing the District Committee
Trek Safely
Climb On Safely
Venturing Crew Orientation
This site provides a variety of materials, from quick references to complete courses, all designed to help our members improve leadership skills and deliver a quality program.
Venturing Youth Protection Training
E-LEARNING COURSES
These courses can help adult leaders deliver quality Scouting experiences to youth. A log-in is required, however anyone may create a user account and view the courses. Registered members of the BSA may provide their member numbers (as part of the user profile) to receive credit.
Click any of the pictures below to start your online training.
MULTIMEDIA
These online exercises are available for informational purposes. No log-in is required.
OTHER RESOURCES
Additional training materials are available online, in print, on audiovisual media, or as live courses taught at our BSA Training Online Education Center.
SUPPLEMENTAL TRAINING
Supplemental training modules are designed to provide orientation beyond the basic training offered in New Leader Essentials and leader-specific training.
Troop Committee Challenge is available at the BSA Training Online Education Center.
Overview
The Troop Committee Challenge training for Boy Scout Troop Committees has been developed to help Troop Committee members better understand their roles and responsibilities. Through hands-on experiential learning, this training will also enable Troop Committee members to better deliver the promise in support of the Troop, Scoutmaster, and Scouts.
This training is best when delivered to all members of the Troop Committee at once. It should also include the Scoutmaster and, if possible, assistant Scoutmasters. It has been designed to meet the learning needs of all participants, no matter what their role. It incorporates the use of hands-on learning tools and activities to keep everyone involved. The games, case studies, and discussions -- along with the Troop Committee Guidebook -- combine to make this a learning experience that will enhance every individual's ability to deliver a quality program.
This fun and interactive training serves as a vital tool for new Troop Committee members as well as for veterans. The mission of the Troop Committee Challenge training is to help each Troop Committee work as a team to improve the Scouting experience for adult and youth members. It helps build the commitment of individual committee members as well as cultivates a better Troop Committee team.
The fast-paced three-hour session begins with the introduction of the philosophy of Scouting. Key areas of discussion include the mission and values of Scouting and its aims and methods. Participants review newspaper clips that illustrate how the Scouting spirit abounds in everyday life.
The mission of the Boy Scouts of America is to prepare young people to make ethical choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law.
In the Big Picture, participants become familiar with the organization of Scouting. Participants put together a puzzle that provides insight into how the various organizational pieces of Scouting depend upon one another for the complete picture of Scouting to unfold -- the purpose of the Troop Committee and how each individual role fits into the overall scheme.
The training ends with a focus on real-life situations, teamwork, and how to conduct an effective Troop Committee meeting -- all toward the goal of delivering a quality program to Boy Scouts. All participants have an opportunity to share with the group their perspectives on the purposes of the Troop Committee. This discussion may include topics such as recruitment and Troop oversight and operations support. The roles and responsibilities of Troop Committee members are defined through an interactive game -- the Troop Committee Challenge. Players learn about the different roles as they answer questions that move them closer to completing the game. Position descriptions and the value of each role unfold as players face questions that may sometimes stump even the veterans. As the game progresses, participants better understand the critical interrelationships of each Troop Committee member. As committee members work together to solve the case studies, they answer the question "Who does what?"
The Scouting organization is complete now, and for one very important reason -- to provide a great Scouting experience for the Scout.
Venturing Advisor & Crew Committee Specific Training
Venturing Crew Leaders Introduction
This training is designed to introduce adult Venturing Crew Leaders to the basic information needed to operate a Crew. The training is divided into five sessions:
1. Here's Venturing
2. Understanding and Protecting Youth
3. Leadership and Organization
4. Awards and Recognitions
5. Resources and Program Planning
Venturing Leader Specific Training
What Is Venturing?
Venturing is the young-adult program of the Boy Scouts of America for young men and women who are aged 14 (and have completed eighth grade) to 20. Venturing units are called Crews; adults are called Advisors. The youth leader is the president. The program is developed by local community organizations such as churches, civic groups, and educational and business institutions that match the interests of young adults with the program resources of the organization. These organizations are called chartered organizations. Chartered organizations support Venturing Crews in three major ways by providing the following:
1. A program inventory of adults who are willing to provide program help with hobbies, skills, careers, facilities, and ideas.
2. Adult leaders who organize the program inventory and serve as Advisors to the Crew's elected youth leaders.
3. Meeting facilities.
Venturing Crew
The Venturing Crew is a youth-led organization that recruits members, elects officers, and plans programs based on the organization's program inventory. Adult Advisors provide training and guidance for the Crew's elected officers.
The Methods of Venturing
The aims of the Boy Scouts of America are to build character, develop citizenship, and foster personal fitness. The Venturing methods have been carefully designed to achieve the aims of the Boy Scouts of America and meet the needs of young adults.
Advisor's Responsibilities
The specific responsibilities of an Advisor include:
1. Fostering an environment within the Venturing Crew that has a true sense of community and encourages everyone's growth and responsibility to one another.
2. Developing Crew officers to lead-to plan, make decisions, and carry out a program of activities over an extended period.
3. Encouraging participation and support for the Venturing Crew from the chartered organization, associate Advisors, Crew Committee, parents, and other adults in the community.
4. Upholding the standards and policies of the chartered organization and the Boy Scouts of America.
5. Providing the necessary framework for protecting the members of a Crew from abuse.
6. Ensuring that activities are conducted within BSA safety guidelines and requirements. Advisors should be trained by the BSA..
7. Seeking to cultivate within the members of a Crew a capacity to enjoy life-to have fun through the Venturing experience.
Varsity Coach Specific Leader Training
Varsity Coach Specific Training: Varsity Coach specific includes three sessions designed to provide coaches with a good working knowledge of Team Operation. Offered at the District level.
Basic Adult Leader Adult Orientation (BALOO) [Cub Scouts]
Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO) is a one-day training event that introduces leaders and parents to the skills needed to plan and conduct Pack outdoor activities, particularly Pack camping.
Participants who complete this training course will
* Understand the focus of the Cub Scout level of the BSA outdoor program.
* Gain the skills needed to plan and carry out a successful Cub Scout-level overnight activity.
* Learn more about the resources available from the BSA for carrying out this activity.
This training is required for any adult who is in charge of planning a Pack campout and at least one BALOO trained adult is required to attend any Den or Pack camping activity. This is checked by Council on your Trip Report.
Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills Training (IOLS) [Boy Scouts Leaders]
Welcome to “Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills” training. This hands-on program gives adult leaders the practical outdoor skills they need to lead Scouts in the out-of-doors. Imagine having hands-on knowledge setting up a campsite, pitching a tent, hiking, outdoor cooking -- all the skills necessary to see the outdoor program of the Boy Scouts of America come to life.
The skills sessions presented in Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills closely follow the Boy Scout Handbook and are meant to serve as an adult training outline. By using these skills sessions in conjunction with the Boy Scout Handbook, trainers can be sure new leaders are proficient in the basic outdoor skills through First Class rank. Each skills session references specific chapters in the handbook.
Hands-on participation makes the best learning tool, so participants should leave the training experience knowing they can show their Scouts how to accomplish outdoor skills while fulfilling rank requirements. Back home, we want leaders to feel comfortable working with and instructing their Scouts. From pitching a tent to starting a cooking fire, they should feel confident in helping their youth leaders plan and carry out their own unit campouts and exciting Troop programs using these skills. With that comes great satisfaction.
Areas of Focus
Be aware that “Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills” focuses on outdoor camping skills and does not cover all advancement requirements.
The program does not encompass practical swimming skills (although it does briefly address Safe Swim Defense and Safety Afloat). These procedures should be covered in more detail separately and apart from this program by certified and/or professionally trained instructors as authorized or approved by the BSA.
In addition, unit leaders and Troop Committees are responsible for encouraging positive citizenship and physical fitness habits. In all cases, the Boy Scout Handbook, 11th edition, serves as the primary resource for the Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills training.
Training Techniques
Every Scout needs and deserves trained leaders. Leaders should understand their responsibilities, the aims of the program, and how to deliver it with enthusiasm and fun. In short, a Scout's participation in the program should have a positive influence on his life.
“Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills” training helps leaders gain confidence in their ability-through hands-on practical application of skills and proven methods of influencing growth in positive ways to achieve the purposes of the Boy Scouts of America. As leaders help their Scouts grow physically, mentally, emotionally, and morally, they gain satisfaction in knowing their efforts are truly worthwhile.
The program structures participation much like a Boy Scout Troop. From the buddy system (as explained in the Boy Scout Handbook) to the patrol method, the course uses familiar techniques to help convey the fun and fellowship of Scouting and the knowledge leaders need to fulfill their roles successfully and to reinforce safety issues properly. Scouters delight in sharing their personal experiences, and each individual benefits from the interaction and group enthusiasm. Leaders feel reassured knowing that others have the same interests, needs, and concerns in delivering the best possible Scouting program to their units.
Leaders and trainers alike should understand that "training" is a process that will continue as long as you are active in Scouting. Trainers should also be aware that adult learning takes place from experience. Adults learn when there is a need to learn and when they see that there is an application to their learning effort. A leader's motivation for learning stems from wanting to become good enough with "hands-on" practice to teach and set an example for Scouts.
This program works best when implemented by having participants pair off with a buddy to do each skill. Since skills-training involves, among other things, memorization, the buddy system allows you to teach (with sufficient instructors to ensure learning and participation) and have each participant practice the task with enough repetition to learn the skill well. Adults have a fear of failure, so working with a buddy teaches with positive reinforcement and helps eliminate the possibility of nonparticipation or embarrassment in a large group.
The focus on learning by doing makes the buddy system approach the key difference between this course and merely showing how to accomplish a skill.
Each participant must be able to complete and check each item from a task list, just like a Scout does. It eliminates superficial participation and truly builds confidence in leaders through accomplishment. Leaders should also encourage this method when instructing in their own units -- let the Scouts work and learn together.
Cub Scout Den Chief
Qualifications: Is an older Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, or Venturing Scout. Selected by the senior patrol leader and Scoutmaster, Varsity Scout Coach, or Venturing Advisor at the request of the Cubmaster. Approved by the Cubmaster and Pack Committee for recommendation to the Den Leader. Registered as a youth member of a Troop, Team, or Crew.
Responsibilities: The Cub Scout Den Chief's responsibilities are to
* Know the purposes of Cub Scouting.
* Help Cub Scouts achieve the purposes of Cub Scouting.
* Serve as the activities assistant at Den meetings.
* Set a good example through attitude and uniforming.
* Be a friend to the boys in the Den.
* Help lead weekly Den meetings.
* Help the Den in its part of the monthly Pack meeting.
* Know the importance of the monthly theme and Pack meeting plans.
* Meet regularly with the Den Leader to review Den and Pack meeting plans. Meet as needed with adult members of the Den, Pack, and Troop.
* Receive training from the Den Leader (and Cubmaster or assistant Cubmaster) and attend Den Chief Training.
* Encourage Cub Scouts to become WEBELOS Scouts when they are eligible.
* Help the Denner and assistant Denner to be leaders.
Youth Protection Training
Child abuse is an increasingly serious, widespread problem in society, affecting every ethnic group, socioeconomic level, and geographic area. The significance of this problem is revealed by the nearly 3 million cases of child abuse reported each year in the United States. The Boy Scouts of America has developed Youth Protection training to prepare its leaders to help children who have been, or are being, abused.
The training program includes information for parents as well as the video It Happened to Me. Materials are for use in Pack, Den, and Troop meetings to show Scouts and their parents what they should do to prevent abuse from happening to them.
In addition, the BSA has adopted a comprehensive set of policies and procedures to help ensure that Scouting continues to be safe for all participants. Background checks are required for all new leaders as of April 2003, and the Boy Scouts of America will not tolerate any form of child abuse in its program and will take all necessary steps to remove any offenders from membership in the BSA.
Every leader in Scouting should complete Youth Protection training, which is delivered by the district or council. Parents will also find this training valuable. In addition to a thorough review of BSA Youth Protection policies, the training develops an increased awareness of Youth Protection issues.
Venturing Youth Protection Training (VYPT) [part of Venturing Leader Specific Training]
Youth abuse is an increasingly serious, widespread problem in society, affecting every ethnic group, socioeconomic level, and geographic area. The significance of this problem is revealed by millions of cases of youth abuse reported each year in the United States. The Boy Scouts of America has developed Venturing Youth Protection training to prepare its leaders to help Youth who have been, or are being, abused.
The training program includes information for parents. Materials are for use in Crew meetings to show Scouts and their parents what they should do to prevent abuse from happening to them.
In addition, the BSA has adopted a comprehensive set of policies and procedures to help ensure that Scouting continues to be safe for all participants. Background checks are required for all new leaders as of April 2003, and the Boy Scouts of America will not tolerate any form of child/youth abuse in its program and will take all necessary steps to remove any offenders from membership in the BSA.
Every Venturing Leader in Scouting should complete Venturing Youth Protection Training, which is delivered by the district or council. Parents will also find this training valuable. In addition to a thorough review of BSA Youth Protection policies, the training develops an increased awareness of Youth Protection issues.
Commissioner College
College of Commissioner Science will inform, educate, energize, and excite you so you can return to your Council better prepared to help meet the challenges on how to recruit, retain, and train. Our continued goal – every unit is delivering the best Quality program for the boys! The extensive College curriculum offers skill development for all Commissioners, from the newest to the most seasoned across every Commissioner role: unit, roundtable, district, and council. We have expanded our course offerings again to meet your continued requests. This is a great training opportunity for all volunteers and professionals, even if you are not a commissioner, yet, many of the College courses will help you better understand the Commissioner duties, and the role they play in district and council operations, no matter what your current role in Scouting is.
Safe Swim Defense and Safety Afloat
Aquatics Training: Computer-based Safe Swim Defense and Safety Afloat has been developed and is now available for councils to include in their training websites. The present version reports back to the local council and updates the member's training records to indicate they have completed the training.
Outdoor Leader Skills for WEBELOS Leaders Training (OLSWL)
[Bear & WEBELOS Den Leaders as well as all parents]
WEBELOS Den campouts serve to move the WEBELOS Scout to the next level of the BSA's ever-increasing challenge in the outdoors. The boy and his parent will be introduced to the basics of Boy Scout camping. A trained WEBELOS Den Leader who has completed position-specific training and Outdoor Leader Skills for WEBELOS Leaders should conduct these events. WEBELOS Dens are encouraged to participate in joint Den-Troop campouts, particularly in the fifth-grade year.
Designed specifically for WEBELOS Den Leaders and their assistants, the Outdoor Leader Skills for WEBELOS Leaders course teaches outdoor-related skills through demonstration and hands-on practice. WEBELOS Den Leaders should attend this training before conducting WEBELOS overnight camping with the boys and parents of the Den. In addition to covering basic camping skills, this training features planning campouts and finding resources.
What is Wood Badge?
Wood Badge is a training course for Scouters which finally results in their receiving a certificate, a small neckerchief, a leather slide, and two small wooden beads on a leather thong. Lord Baden-Powell, the founder of Scouting, directed the first course in 1919 and gave each of the participants one of the beads which he had captured from the African chieftain Dinizulu. Thus did the course name develop, for its symbol was literally a badge of wood.
Wood Badge is, further, Scouting's premier training course. Baden-Powell designed it so that Scouters could learn, in as practical a way possible, the skills and methods of Scouting. It is first and foremost, learning by doing. The members of the course are formed into patrols and these into a Troop. The entire Troop lives in the out-of-doors for a week, camping, cooking their own meals, and practicing Scout skills.
The uniqueness of Scouting is the patrol method. The use of the natural gang of six or eight boys who elect their own leader and plan and carry out many of their own activities is a democracy in microcosm. Here young men learn the give and take of working with people as they must surely do all their lives. Here, too, they are given leadership and learning opportunities which prepare them for their future roles as citizens. It is for this reason that it is so crucial that all adults understand thoroughly the patrol method.
Thus it was that Baden-Powell developed a practical course built around the operation of a Troop and it's patrols. Yet this is only the most well-known of three parts in the entire Wood Badge experience. The practical course--the week in the out-of-doors--was originally scheduled to follow a "theoretical" part 1, which consisted of answering a series of questions about the aims and methods of the Scouting program. Part 3 then followed the practical course and required a 6-month application period while the Scouter practiced in his home Scouting situation what he had learned in parts 1 and 2. In actual practice, once Wood Badge became available in the United States, the theoretical questions and the application were carried out simultaneously after the practical course was taken.
But Wood Badge is more than just mechanical course work. Wood Badge is the embodiment of Scouting spirit. Like many intense training experiences, it has always relied on a busy schedule forcing the participants to work together, to organize and to develop an enthusiasm and team spirit to accomplish the tasks and challenges placed before them. Carried out in context of Scouting ideals and service to young people, the course brings out a deep dedication and spirit of brotherhood and fellowship in most participants. Certainly were it not for the common goal of the movement and its program for young people, it would be hard to get grown men and women to endure the 16-hour days required by a program that runs from early morning to late at night.
The course is designed to be a highlight --"a mountaintop experience" -- for the course participants. Careful planning and strict attention to detail provides a physical/logistic support and program second to none. Add to this a thoroughly prepared and enthusiastic staff and it is little wonder that most Scouters return from Wood Badge inspired and prepared to do an even better job of providing Scouting to boys. In addition to a fine course, all the traditions and heritage of Scouting are stressed and used to inspire those attending. Wood Badge in one form or another is used throughout the Scouting world. Tens of thousands of Scouters proudly wear the Gilwell neckerchief, woggle, and beads of Wood Badge-trained leaders. Because it was begun by Baden-Powell in England in 1919, it is clearly backed by the finest thought and tradition of the founder and thus carries with it great prestige. Wood Badge is then, a great force for world brotherhood, for though it uses the local traditions in each country, it emphasizes the international aspects of the movement and the heritage of Baden-Powell and Gilwell Park.
Portions excerpted from the History of Wood Badge BSA Publication # 3164, which may be purchased from your Scout Shop or from the National Supply Division.
Life to Eagle Project Workshop/Seminars
Orange County Council Advancement Committee invites Scouts, parents, and leaders to an interactive workshop detailing the Eagle rank process from project inception through preparation for Eagle Character Board of Review. There will be a separate breakout session for Boy Scouts.
Parents, leaders, Star Scouts, and Life Scouts interested in learning about the Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project and Eagle Rank requirements are invited to attend. Boy Scouts will attend a separate breakout reviewing the requirements and helping them to identify potential project ideas. The workshop can be attended at your choice of locations. RSVP is not required, but is appreciated in order to determine the amount of class materials needed.
High Adventure Training (HAT)
See the HAT website for latest High Adventure Training information.
The High Adventure Team is a group of volunteer Scouters who enjoy backpacking and working together to approve and develop trail awards, promote the High Adventure program, and provide training to adult leaders. The Backpack Awareness Training course provides the basics for new Leaders and information updates for those who are veterans.
The High Adventure Team meets at Council Headquarters on the first Tuesday of every month at 7:00 pm. All registered Scouters are welcome to come and join us.
At our Team meetings we discuss problems encountered by Scouters, informational updates, BSA policy changes, governmental policy changes, and improvements in our training programs in an attempt to promote a safe and enjoyable experiences in High Adventure.
Our training courses are designed to help prepare the new Trek Leader for taking scouts into the wilderness and provide updated information for the veteran Trek Leader. Backpack Awareness classroom training is followed with a day hike to provide field experience with map and compass and a weekend overnight hike to let you experience what you've been told about. This training is offered twice a year, the last weekend of February and the last weekend of September. Winter Backpack training is put on in January.
If you have questions about the training contact:
email: peakbaggr@yahoo.com
OR
Joe Bouchard, Training Chairman, at (714) 505-4502.
Typical Schedule: http://training.counciltraining.net/sites/default/files/hat-schedule_0.pdf