Training 101

What Defines a “Trained Leader”?

A Trained Leader is a registered adult volunteer who has completed all required training courses for their specific Scouting position, including current Safeguarding Youth Training and any position-specific learning modules. Being “trained” means more than simply meeting a requirement; it demonstrates a commitment to providing a safe, engaging, and high-quality Scouting experience for youth. Trained leaders understand Scouting policies, methods, and program goals, are better equipped to deliver exceptional adventures, and have the skills necessary to support youth growth and development. Whether serving as a Den Leader, Scoutmaster, Committee Member, Advisor, or Cubmaster, trained leaders help ensure that every Scout receives the full benefits of the Scouting program in a safe and positive environment. Simply put, every Scout deserves a trained leader because prepared leaders create better programs, stronger units, and safer experiences for all.

The common training that is required for all registered leaders in the BSA is Youth Protection Training (YPT). That training is now the same for all of the BSA programs and is valid for 2 years from the date of completion. Youth Protection Training can be taken online at https://my.scouting.org/.

Now That I’m a Trained Leader, Am I Done With Training?

No. Becoming a trained leader is just the beginning of your Scouting leadership journey. Completing the required training for your position provides the foundation needed to deliver a safe, effective, and engaging Scouting program. However, the best leaders continue to learn, grow, and develop their skills throughout their time in Scouting.

Scouting America offers many additional training opportunities that help leaders expand their knowledge, strengthen their leadership abilities, improve outdoor skills, and enhance the experience they provide to youth. Courses such as BALOO, Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills (IOLS), Wood Badge, University of Scouting, Powder Horn, and supplemental safety and program trainings allow volunteers to become more confident and capable leaders.

Training is not simply about meeting requirements; it is about continually improving our ability to serve young people. The more a leader invests in learning, the greater impact they can have on the Scouts, families, and communities they serve. After all, a commitment to lifelong learning is one of the hallmarks of great Scouting leadership.

General Scouting Support

Scouting America Podcasts

Looking for additional ideas, inspiration, and Scouting resources? Scouting America offers a variety of podcasts featuring program updates, leadership tips, outdoor skills, youth development insights, and conversations with experienced volunteers and professionals from across the movement. Podcasts are a convenient way to stay informed and continue your Scouting education whether you’re commuting, exercising, or preparing for your next unit meeting.

You can explore the latest episodes on the Scouting America Podcast Hub or search for “Scouting America” in your favorite podcast app to subscribe and listen wherever you get your podcasts. These free resources are a great way to continue learning and growing as a Scouting leader.

Wood Badge

Wood Badge is Scouting America’s premier leadership development course for adult volunteers and professionals. Designed for leaders serving in Cub Scouting, Scouts BSA, Venturing, Sea Scouts, Exploring, districts, and councils, Wood Badge provides practical leadership skills that can be applied in Scouting, the workplace, and everyday life.

Through a dynamic blend of presentations, group discussions, hands-on experiences, and team development activities, participants learn advanced leadership concepts that strengthen their ability to serve youth, lead volunteers, and build stronger Scouting programs. Wood Badge participants also develop a personalized action plan, known as a “ticket,” to help them apply what they learn to benefit their unit or Scouting role.

Whether you are a new leader looking to grow or an experienced Scouter seeking to enhance your leadership skills, Wood Badge offers a transformative experience that helps leaders become more effective, confident, and impactful.

Learn more about Wood Badge at Scouting America Wood Badge.

Trainer’s EDGE

Trainer’s EDGE (Trainer Development Conference) is designed to help Scouting volunteers become more effective, engaging, and confident trainers. While completion of Trainer’s EDGE is required for staff members serving on Wood Badge and National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) courses, it is also highly recommended for any Scouter who teaches, mentors, coaches, or presents training to others.

Participants learn and practice key presentation techniques, communication skills, teaching methods, and strategies for deli

vering dynamic and impactful training sessions. Whether you lead unit-level training, serve on district or council training teams, or simply want to improve your ability to instruct and inspire others, Trainer’s EDGE provides valuable tools to enhance your effectiveness as a leader and educator.

Great programs begin with great trainers, and Trainer’s EDGE helps leaders take their training skills to the next level.

Training FAQs

Is Safeguarding Youth Training required for all adult volunteers?

Yes. All registered adult volunteers must complete Safeguarding Youth Training before serving in any volunteer position and renew their training as required by Scouting America. New leaders must complete the training before their registration can be finalized.

In addition:

Units cannot complete their charter renewal process unless required youth protection training standards are met.
Adult program participants age 18 and older in programs such as Venturing, Exploring, and the Order of the Arrow must complete Safeguarding Youth Training before submitting an adult application.
Maintaining current training is an essential part of providing a safe Scouting environment for all youth.

What is Safeguarding Youth Training?

Safeguarding Youth Training

Creating the safest possible environment for every young person is our highest priority.

Safeguarding Youth Training equips volunteers, parents, and leaders with the knowledge and tools needed to recognize, prevent, and respond appropriately to situations that could place youth at risk. This required training covers youth protection policies, barriers to abuse, appropriate leader conduct, mandatory reporting requirements, and best practices for maintaining a safe and positive Scouting experience.

Whether you are a new volunteer, a seasoned leader, or a parent interested in understanding Scouting America’s commitment to youth safety, this training reinforces our shared responsibility to protect every child entrusted to our care.

Safeguarding Youth Training helps leaders:

Recognize signs of abuse and neglect
Understand Scouting America’s youth protection policies
Apply appropriate barriers to abuse
Learn reporting procedures and responsibilities
Promote a culture of safety and accountability

Who should take Safeguarding Youth Training?

All registered leaders, prospective volunteers, parents, and anyone working directly with youth are encouraged to complete Safeguarding Youth Training and stay current with renewal requirements.

Youth safety is not just a policy. It is a commitment we make to every Scout and every family.

Why does Scouting America regularly update youth protection policies and training?

Scouting America continually evaluates and strengthens its youth protection policies and training programs to reflect current best practices in abuse prevention and youth safety. The organization regularly consults survivors, law enforcement professionals, child safety experts, psychologists, and other specialists to ensure policies remain effective and relevant.

I’ve been in Scouting for years. Why do I still need training?

Experience is invaluable, and many veteran Scouters serve as mentors and trainers. However, training ensures that every leader understands current policies, program requirements, safety standards, and best practices.

Having fully trained leaders:

Delivers a higher-quality program for youth
Creates a safer environment for Scouts and volunteers
Promotes consistency across units
Reduces organizational and personal risk
Supports effective outdoor and program leadership

Every Scout deserves leaders who are trained and prepared.

I completed training years ago, but it doesn’t appear in my record. What should I do?

Training requirements and course names have changed over the years. If you have documentation such as a training certificate or information regarding:

Course name
Date completed
Location
Instructor

contact your Unit Commissioner, District Training Chair, or local council service center for assistance in determining whether credit can be applied.

How do I know which training courses I need?

Training requirements vary based on your registered position.

Your:

Unit Committee Chair
Unit Commissioner
District Training Team
District Executive

can help determine what training is required for your role.

Many courses are available online through My.Scouting.org, while others are offered as instructor-led courses throughout the year.

What if I can’t attend a scheduled training course?

Most required training is offered multiple times throughout the year. In many cases:

Courses can be completed online through My.Scouting.org.
Training may be available at district or council events.
Summer camps often offer adult training opportunities.
District training teams may be able to provide training directly to units.

If you complete training outside the Greater Alabama Council, submit your completion certificate to ensure your records are updated.

Who are Direct Contact Leaders?

Direct Contact Leaders are adult volunteers who have regular, face-to-face interactions with youth.

Examples include:

Cub Scouting

Cubmasters
Assistant Cubmasters
Den Leaders
Assistant Den Leaders

Scouts BSA

Scoutmasters
Assistant Scoutmasters

Venturing & Sea Scouts

Venturing Advisors
Associate Advisors
Sea Scout Skippers
Assistant Skippers

These positions require role-specific training in addition to Safeguarding Youth Training.

Do committee members and other indirect-contact leaders need training?

Yes. All registered adult volunteers should complete the required training for their positions.

Many of these courses are available online through My.Scouting.org and can be completed at your convenience.

I’m changing positions. Do I need additional training?

Yes. Training is position-specific.

For example, if you move from a Webelos Den Leader position to Assistant Scoutmaster, you will need to complete the training requirements for Assistant Scoutmasters, including any required outdoor leadership training.

What is Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills (IOLS)?

Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills (IOLS) is the required outdoor skills course for Scoutmasters and Assistant Scoutmasters.

This hands-on training:

Teaches essential outdoor skills
Demonstrates the patrol method
Prepares leaders to support youth-led troops
Covers many skills found in the Scouts BSA advancement program
Builds confidence in outdoor program delivery

IOLS is typically conducted over a weekend camping experience.

What is BALOO Training?

Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO) is the required outdoor leadership course for Cub Scout packs that conduct overnight camping activities.

Participants will learn:

Cub Scout camping policies
Outdoor program planning
Age-appropriate activities
Risk management and safety practices
Camping program administration

BALOO combines classroom instruction with hands-on outdoor experience.

Who is responsible for tracking training records?

Training is a shared responsibility.

Every leader should regularly review their own training record through My.Scouting.org.