"Every boy deserves a trained leader" - Robert Baden-Powell
Scouting teaches skills not only to our youth, it also provides training to our adult leaders and volunteers as well. BSA training programs have been designed to teach each leader the keys to success in his or her position.
Check NNJ Council Calendar for Upcoming Training
What is a fully trained leader? A direct contact Scout leader is considered fully trained and entitled to wear the trained leader emblem when he or she has completed the following training courses and the specific training for the position.
Youth Protection Training Youth Protection training is required for all registered Scouters. At all times, youth safety is the number one priority. At the same time, adults need to know the rules for keeping themselves safe, too. Comprehensive Youth Protection training teaches all the do’s and don’ts of working with youth. The training is offered through the Online Learning Center, or it may be taken as part of our district training.
Fast Start Training Fast Start training is the first step for all new leaders and should be taken immediately after they register and before they meet with any youth members. New leaders choose the Fast Start they need to take: Cub Scout Leader, Boy Scout Leader, Varsity Scout Leader, or Venturing Crew Leader. All Fast Start training can be completed through the Online Learning Center at scouting.org. (If you are new to Scouting, you will be asked to create an account, no member ID number required.)
This is Scouting This Is Scouting is a new online training session that replaces New Leader Essentials. It picks up where Fast Start leaves off with six modules of training: The Mission of Scouting, Programs for All ages, Scouting Is Fun, Scouting in the Community, Keeping Our Youth Safe, and Scouting’s Legacy. The training can be taken online (If you are new to Scouting, you will be asked to create an account.)
Leader Specific Training Leader position specific training is based on the leader’s position in Scouting.
Cub Scout Leaders Cub Scout Leader Specific training has been developed for the following positions:
Tiger Cub den leaders
Wolf and Bear den leaders and assistants
Webelos den leaders and assistants
Cubmasters and assistants
Pack Committee
All Cub Scout Leader Specific training may be taken online at Scouting.org except for BALOO (Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation) and OWLS (Outdoor Leader Skills for Webelos Leaders).
BALOO - for Cub Scout leaders, and parents, is a one-day training event that introduces participants to the skills needed to plan and conduct Pack outdoor activities, particularly pack camping. This training is required for any adult who is in charge of planning a pack campout, and it is required that at least one adult per pack complete BALOO training in order to apply for tour permits. BALOO training is offered by individual districts.
OWLS – Is for all Webelos leaders. This training covers the skills and resources needed to teach the outdoor activity badge and helps to provide good and safe outdoor experiences. This training is required for all Webelos dens campouts. Not offered online. Check Training Calendar for dates and locations.
IOLS – Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills. This is a more advanced version of the OWLS training. Webelos 2 leaders or parents considering joining the leadership of their son’s scout troop should take this course. The course offers basic skills and information needed for conducting a boy scout campout.
Supplemental and Ongoing Training There are many other opportunities for volunteers to improve and advance their skills and understanding of the Scouting programs. Please check council calendar for dates and locations.
Roundtable – Cub Scout, Boy Scout and Venturing
Wood Badge
Trainer’s EDGE
Pow Wow
Wilderness First Aid
Philmont Leadership Training Center
Available online:
Safe Swim Defense
Safety Afloat
Climb on Safely
Weather Hazards
Physical Wellness
Trek Safely
ScoutParents Unit Coordinator
Non-BSA Recommended Supplemental Training:
CPR/First Aid
