Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS) is an outdoor classroom training required for Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmasters to be classified as position trained. This course, combined with Youth Protection Training and the Scoutmaster-Specific Training course, will make you an “fully trained” Scouts BSA leader.
IOLS builds and expands on the concepts and themes introduced in Scoutmaster Position-Specific Training and provides Scouters with the confidence to take youth safely into the outdoors. Specifically, this hands-on program gives adult leaders a practical introduction to the patrol method of a youth-led troop by teaching many of the practical outdoor skills they need to lead Scouts in the out-of-doors.
In addition, the teaching methods, activities, and games model the variety of teaching used in effective and engaging Scouting programs.
The skills sessions presented in IOLS closely follow the Scouts BSA Handbook and are meant to serve as an adult training outline. By using these skills sessions in conjunction with the Scouts Handbook, trainers can be sure new leaders are proficient in many of the basic outdoor skills through First Class rank, and gain exposure to the patrol method and numerous teaching methods and learning games. Each skills session references specific chapters in the handbook and highlights youth advancement requirements.
Hands-on participation is the best learning tool, and this course models the techniques used by effective Scoutmasters, Assistant Scoutmasters, and other leaders in the Scouting program. Attendees will see and experience different aspects of how Scouting works while playing the role of Scouts in a troop.
Participants should leave the training experience with a full understanding of how the patrol method operates, a feeling of comfort in working with and instructing their Scouts, and an increased level of confidence taking Scouts outdoors safely. With that comes great satisfaction.
Who should take this training?
Every new Scouts BSA Scoutmasters (highest-ranking adult volunteer leader working with youth in a Scouts BSA Troop) and Assistant Scoutmasters
The BSA Training Code for IOLS is S11. Once completed, this course does not expire.
The next IOLS Course being offered by Connecticut Yankee Council will be:
Saturday, May 4 at 8:30 AM – Sunday, May 5 at 10:00 AM
Hoyt Scout Reservation
288 Simpaug Tpke, Redding, CT
$15 per person-includes all meals
Questions? Contact training@ctyankee.org or your District Training Chair.