The Boy Scouts of America is one of the best organizations about providing training to its leaders. The only thing stopping a leader fom being trained is his or her failure to take advantage of what is offered. The training is divided into three basic componets. These are the Fast Track, New Leader, and Leader Specific Training.
Fast Start Training
Fast Start training is the first step for any new volunteer and is to be delivered immediately after a new leader registers and before he or she meets with any youth member.The National BSA website and many Council's provide the opportunity to take the training over the internet.
For example, see the Georgia-Carolina website or National Fast Start to load the course.
Basic Leader Training and Leader-Specific Training
The new Basic Leader Training comprises two parts: New Leader Essentials for all unit-level leaders and Leader Specific training, which is based on the leader's unit-level position. After learning the basics of youth/adult relationships and scouting operations, the new leader receives leader specific training for his position with the Troop. Scoutmasters take an introduction to outdoor leader skills.
Woodbadge
(Leadership)
This is the highest training a leader may receive. It is now open to all Cub Scouters and all Scouters. It is certainly one of the best courses available. The lessons of team building and conflict management are applicable to many areas outside of Scouting. As signified by its pentagon symbol, the new Wood badge course seeks to develop five essential components to effective leadership. These are (1)Living the Values; (2) Bringing the Vision to Life; (3) Models for Success, (4) Tools of the Trade; and
(5) Leading to Make a Difference.
For more information, see Wood Badge This is a good site for general information about the Wood Badge course.
Canadian Wood Badge This is a good site for general information about the history of Wood Badge and its symbols.
The BSA has a multitude of other training sessions which are available for specific activities or tasks in Scouting for adults. The Troop should train the youth in the unit. The youth may also participate in the week long Junior Leader Training Course. The focus of this course is developing the leadership skills of the youth who are the SPL or would like to become the SPL.
ROUNDTABLES
The “Roundtable” is a meeting where information from the council is disseminated and some training occurs.
SAFE SWIM/ SAFETY AFLOAT
Here is a great link to renew your safe swim defense and safety afloat. Safe Swim/Safety Afloat