Leader Training 101 — Where do I get the Training to be successful?
Every Scout deserves a Trained Leader — A common saying, but why do we say that? Training in Scouts, just like in life, provides the education, skills, and practical experience in order to be successful in your role in Scouting. In order to Be Prepared for your role as a leader, whether it’s your first time, or your 20th time, training helps ensure you are delivering the best experience to the youth you are working with.
The mission of Scouting is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetime. Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of Scouting, when speaking about training youth, said it simply “Success in training … depends largely on the Scoutmaster’s own personal example”
Every registered adult must complete Youth Protection Training. The Boy Scouts of America places the greatest importance on creating the most secure environment possible for our youth members. Youth Protection policies primarily protect youth members; however, they also serve to protect adult leaders. 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 the Boy Scouts of America to maintain a culture of Youth Protection awareness and safety.
The BSA’s Trained Patch – Your First Step!
The Trained Patch sends a clear message to Scouts, fellow Scouters and parents. It says, “I know what I’m doing.” Adult leaders in units are considered trained and eligible to wear the official Trained emblem when they have completed Youth Protection Training and the training courses specific to their role. The Full Listing of Position Trained Courses is available online.
Where do I complete the Required Training? Adult leaders can complete their Required Leader Training using one of two easy methods
- Complete the online training available through My.Scouting.Org using the same online system as for Youth Protection Training
- By Attending an In-Person Training, such as the ones offered at University of Scouting
- Search for one of the available courses on the Northern Star Scouting Training Courses page
Build your Skills with additional Training & Earn your Training Award 
Earning the Trained Patch is just the first step! A great experience for your Scouts is the payoff for the Investment in Training.
A mark of those who’ve demonstrated performance and taken additional training is the Scouter’s Training and Den Leader Training awards, which recognize those leaders who have completed the Tenure Requirements, Performance Requirements, and who have continued their Training by attending either:
- At least one University of Scouting , choosing from over 120 courses offered, for every year of tenure used
- Least four of the Lake Minnetonka District Roundtables , where you can learn about specific topics, tips, and general knowledge, for every year of Tenure. For October, our topics include: Preparing for your first Den meeting, the Patrol Method or more!
Continue your Leadership Development with Woodbadge!
Wood Badge is for all Scouters 21 and older who are interested in strengthening their own leadership skills and are committed to strengthening the Scouting program.
WHAT IS WOOD BADGE?
The primary purpose of the Wood Badge experience is to strengthen Scouting in our units, districts, and councils. In order to graduate, you must attend and participate in all sessions of your course, including both weekends and pre-course meetings. The Wood Badge “ticket” represents your commitment to complete a set of personal goals relating to your Scouting position. You will have up to 18 months to complete your “ticket”, with the guidance and encouragement of your counselor. Upon completion of your Wood Badge ticket, you will be presented with your Wood Badge certificate, neckerchief, woggle, and beads at an appropriate public ceremony.