Common sense tells us that training is important, and research shows the importance of trained leaders. A trained leader is knowledgeable and more confident in the role being performed. Trained leaders exhibit a knowledge and confidence that is picked up by people around them. Trained leaders impact the quality of programs, leader tenure, youth tenure, safety, and a whole lot more. A trained leader is better prepared to make the Scouting program all it can be!
To see a guide of the various training segments needed for specific positions, see the Venturing Position Trained Requirements.
Youth Protection Training
Scouting America places the greatest importance on creating the most secure environment possible for our youth members. True youth protection can be achieved only through the focused commitment of everyone in Scouting. It is the mission of Youth Protection volunteers and professionals to work within Scouting America to maintain a culture of Youth Protection awareness and safety at the national, regional, area, council, district, and unit levels. The training is accessed on my.scouting.org.
Venturing Advisor Position-Specific Training
The course will provide an introduction to the responsibilities, opportunities, and resources that will ensure a successful Venturing crew leadership experience. Linked is the instructor’s guide for the Venturing crew Advisor and assistant training. You may also take the course online by visiting my.scouting.org.
Crew Committee Position-Specific Training
The course will provide an introduction to the responsibilities, opportunities, and resources that will ensure a successful Venturing crew leadership experience. Linked is the instructor’s guide for the Venturing crew Advisor and assistant training. You may also take the course online by visiting my.scouting.org.
Philmont Training Center
The Philmont Training Center (PTC) is the national volunteer training center for Scouting America. Since 1950, PTC has provided a unique environment for training volunteer and professional leaders, and a fun family program for every member of the family. Each conference features the latest tools and techniques, audiovisuals, discussions, idea sharing, and activities led by a faculty of experienced Scouters. All registered Scouters are invited to attend training center courses; council approval is no longer required. LEARN MORE
Wood Badge
Wood Badge is an exciting, action-packed program designed for councils to provide adult members with leadership skills and experience they can use in their Scouting positions and in other situations demanding leadership of self and others. Contact your local council to see when the next course will be offered. LEARN MORE
Powder Horn
Powder Horn is a high-adventure resource-management course designed to educate adult and youth involved in the Venturing program about the Ranger Award. This course will give all participants an opportunity to experience the Ranger Award program themselves, and become knowledgeable about how to safely conduct outdoor activities of a fun and challenging nature.
The Powder Horn syllabus is currently undergoing a review to ensure it aligns with the current NCAP and Health and Safety standards. If your council has plans to conduct a Powder Horn course in 2024 and you have not already communicated this information to Scouting U, please contact Kathy Craig at kathy.craig@scouting.org.
Additionally, Scouting U is not accepting Powder Horn applications for 2025.
The Guide to Safe Scouting
The safety of our youth, volunteers, staff, and employees is an important part of the Scouting experience. Youth develop traits of citizenship, character, fitness, and leadership during age-appropriate events when challenged to move beyond their normal comfort level, and discover their abilities. This is appropriate when risks are identified and mitigated. This guide discusses specific safety policies to be followed at all BSA events. LEARN MORE
