It's been proven time and time again that packs, troops, and crews with trained leaders perform better and have greater longevity. If you're just starting out as a leader with the BSA, these are the first few training courses you'll need to take to earn the "trained" patch you may have seen on other leaders' uniforms. The only required training in the BSA is Youth Protection Training, but it is strongly recommended that you take the other courses as well. You'll thank us later! If you've taken your basic training already, visit our advanced adult leader training page. If you're looking for youth training, click here.
JUMP TO... Youth Protection Training | Position-Specific Training | Outdoor Training for Cub Scout Leaders | Outdoor Training for Scouts BSA Leaders
YPT is required for all registered adult leaders in the Boy Scouts of America. YPT is essential to creating the most secure environment for families in the Scouting program. The training outlines the numerous procedural and leadership selection policies of the BSA and provides parents and leaders with a detailed overview of the BSA's rules and regulations for interacting with youth members.
Take YPT online at my.scouting.org >
If you are in a leadership position in a pack, troop, or crew, there are training courses designed specifically for your role. You are considered "trained" in your role once you take these courses. They are designed to help you effectively lead the youth in your unit. These courses are available online or in person. Need to train a lot of your leaders? Contact our training team to set up a private class.
Learn more and find your position-specific training classes >
Take your position-specific training online at my.scouting.org >
Find in person classes on our training calendar >
Request an in person class for your unit >
Cub Scout Leader Outdoor Training - BALOO (Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation)
BALOO (yep, it's named after the Jungle Book character) introduces Cub Scout leaders to basic camping skills and safety through an online prerequisite course and an overnight hands-on practical. At lease one leader on Cub Scout overnight camping trips must have taken BALOO.
Take the online prerequisite course >
Find an in person class on our training calendar >
Outdoor Training for Scouts BSA Leaders - IOLS (Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills)
IOLS gives leaders the practical skills they need to lead Scouts outdoors. This course helps leaders feel comfortable teaching Scouts BSA members the skills necessary to reach First Class rank. This course is also required for troop leaders to receive their "trained" patch.