Inspiring youth to be better leaders is a key component of Scouting. Below are additional training courses that youth members can take advantage of to further their development in the Scouting program. Below are many of the most commonly offered youth training programs. For a complete guide, visit the National BSA Youth Training page here.
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JUMP TO... Den Chief Training | Introduction to Leadership Skills (ILST/ILSC) | National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) | National Advanced Youth Leadership Experience (NAYLE)
A Den Chief is a Scouts BSA or Venturing youth member that helps a Cub Scout den leader with planning and running den meetings. Den Chief Training teaches youth members about age-appropriate activities and how to lead younger Scouts while having fun. This training class can be taken online or in person.
- Learn more about Den Chief Training
- Take Den Chief Training online
- Find Den Chief Training on our calendar
Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills for Troops (ILST), Crews (ILSC), or Ships (ILSS)
This course teaches Scouts elected to leadership positions about their new roles. It is intended to help them understand their responsibilities and to equip them with organizational and leadership skills. After completion, youth can take National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) followed by the National Advanced Leadership Experience (NAYLE). Adult leadership within the troop or crew is responsible for running the course; it is also offered on occasion by the council.
National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT)
NYLT is an immersive six-day outdoor experience for youth leaders ages 13 and up who have completed ILSC or ILST. The course is led by trained adults and youth who have completed the course before. Leadership skills come alive during the week as patrols go on a quest for the meaning of leadership. NEIC conducts this course annually at the Ma-Ka-Ja-Wan Scout Reservation or one of our other council properties.
Sign up for 2024's NYLT course here!
Attendance is limited to the first 60 scouts, so don't delay registering!
National Advanced Youth Leadership Experience (NAYLE)
NAYLE expands upon the team-building and decision-making skills learned in NLYT. Conducted at either Philmont Scout Reservation or Summit Bechtel Reserve, NAYLE emphasizes teamwork and selfless service to others. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that youth can draw upon as they enter their adult lives.