Adults

Training for All

The Boy Scouts of America provides extensive training programs for all adults involved in the organization, be they leaders, parents or volunteers. These courses teach valuable skills useful in scouting and beyond. Many are available online. Some require registering for an account which will track your progress and generate certificates necessary for annual troop registration. Other courses are offered locally by Boston Minuteman and surrounding councils.

The Guide to Safe Scouting provides an overview of Scouting policies and procedures. The purpose of the Guide is to prepare members of the Boy Scouts to conduct Scouting activities in a safe and prudent manner. The policies and guidelines have been established because of the real need to protect members from known hazards that have been identified through 100 years of experience. Limitations on certain activities should not be viewed as stumbling blocks; rather, policies and guidelines are best described as stepping-stones toward safe and enjoyable adventures.

Position Specific Training

Leaders and parents are encouraged to take advantage of the training programs offered for each of the leadership positions. The following courses are available:

  • Scoutmasters and Assistant Scout Masters

    • This is Scouting (replaces New Leader Essentials)
    • Intro to Outdoor Leader Skills
    • Scoutmaster Specific Training

  • Committee Chair, Committee Member

    • This is Scouting (replaces New Leader Essentials)
    • Troop Committee Challenge

  • Chartered Organization Representative

    • Training the Chartered Organization Representative

Youth Protection Training

All leaders involved in the Boy Scout program are required to take Youth Protection Training. All parents are strongly encouraged to complete it as well. The course is offered online and takes less than an hour to complete.

Health and Safety Training

There are a number of specific skill training courses offered by the BSA. Many of these are required for particular types of scout outings, such as swimming and boating activities and extended or challenging hiking and camping trips.

Wood Badge

Wood Badge is a training program for adults that teaches advanced leadership skills. Attendees are organized into patrols and camp outdoors, cooking their own meals and practicing Scout skills. There is also classroom work, as well as a followup project called a “ticket” that gives the leader a chance to practice their new skills and benefit the Scouting organization.