New Leader Essentials

New Leader Essentials is a two-part training.  The first part is a 90 minute introduction to Scouting, covering topics appropriate for all Scouting adults.  The second part, called Leader Specific Training averages 2 1/2 hours, and covers specific information for each position.  Completion of both parts qualifies the participant as 'trained.'

Benefits of New Leader Essentials

1. Assistance in implementing the full Scouting program with chartered organizations
    
2. A better understanding of the advantages of encouraging youth and adult volunteers to move through the traditional program as their youth mature
    
3. An awareness of the different aspects of the Scouting program, which may result in leaders taking advantage of those programs for a child in a different age group

New Leader Essentials (90 minutes)

Through a series of lively presentations, this training presents an overview of the core elements of Scouting, including the values, aims, history, funding and methods in an age-appropriate style in each program level.  It provides new leaders with an idea of the resources available and a clear understanding of Scouting's expectations of its adult leadership.

A leader only attends this course once.  Ideally, all unit-level volunteers - Cub Scout, Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, and Venturing Leaders - take this session at the same time, so they understand that they are all striving for the same results with the youth they serve.

Leader Specific Training (2 1/2 hours to 5 hours)

Once a volunteer has a solid overview of the Boy Scouts of America's values-based program, they can begin training for their specific Scouting position through Leader Specific Training.  This training provides the specialized knowledge a new leader needs to assume a leadership role.  Because each course is designed for a specific leadership position, the training time varies.

Scoutmasters, Assistant Scoutmasters, Varsity Coaches, and Assistant Varsity Coaches must attend an Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills to complete their Leader Specific Training requirement.

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