There are four levels of training in the BSA. They are Orientation and Fast Start, Basic Leader Training, Supplemental Training, and Advanced Training. You can learn more about the training courses avalable and go to the GLC Training Calendar for specific specific training dates and registration information. Go to the Training Overview for a more general look at adult leader training and what is available for all levels of the Scouting program.
All Leaders MUST take the following Courses:
| Orientation and Fast Start Training |
| Step 1: Fast Start |
Fast Start Training is intended to give every Cub Scout leader the absolute basics they'll need to start performing in whatever role they've taken: Tiger/Cub/Webelos Den Leader, Cubmaster/Assistant, or Pack Committee. |
Fast Start is available on-line, and will take about 20 minutes to complete. The VHS can also be obtained from Great Lakes Council. Each District Training Chair has a copy. |
| Step 2: Youth Protection |
Youth Protection Trained Leaders is our highest priority for the safety and well being of our youth members and participants. The training will teach every leader and parent the rules of child protection in the Boy Scouts of America. |
Youth Protection training is one part of a comprehensive youth protection training program that formally began in 1988. To expedite this essential training quickly, we are pleased to offer youth protection training online. This course is offered through each district training team. |
| Basic Training |
| Step 3: This Is Scouting |
New Leader Essentials is intended to give all Scout leaders an initial understanding of the BSA aims, goals, policies, and leader support. You only need to take NLE once, even if you change Scouting positions or programs. |
New Leader Essentials The course takes about 2 hours to complete. It’s offered frequently throughout the council. |
| Step 4: Cub Leader Specific |
Cub Leader Specific is intended to give the basic knowledge Cub leaders need to function effectively. It is designed to train leaders in the specific responsibility of their position (Cubmasters, Tiger Cub Den Leaders, Cub Scout Den Leaders, Webelos Den Leaders and pack committee members |
Cub Leader Specific It’s offered frequently throughout the council. The course takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to complete. A leader is considered trained after taking New Leader Essentials and the Leader Specific course for their registered position. |
The Following Courses are required to complete for outdoor activities and overnighters.
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Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO)
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Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO) is intended to make Cub leaders aware of the BSA policies on Cub camping, including how to run a great Pack Overnighter. A BALOO-trained leader is required to be present at any Pack overnight campout.
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BALOO is offered a couple of times throughout the year by Great Lakes Council.
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Climb On Safely - The Climb on Safely Training is designed to train BSA leaders to safely organize climbing and rappelling programs and where to find qualified climbing instructors. Climb On Safely is the climbing and rappelling equivalent to the BSA's Safe Swim Defense and Safety Afloat guidelines for aquatic activities. Leaders should be aware that Climb on Safely is an orientation only and does not constitute training on how to climb or rappel.
Safe Swim Defense / Safety Afloat - This training is intended for ALL adult leaders, Venturers, Explorers, and older Boy Scouts, to assist with safe execution of unit swimming and boating activities. This training is typically 2½ hours long and is free of charge. This training certification is good for two years. This training is now available online*!
Besides the above courses that need to be completed, WEBELOS Den Leaders Need to Complete the following course before conducting WEBELOS Den Campouts
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Outdoor Leader Skills for Webelos Leaders (OWL)
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Outdoor Webelos Training (OWL) is intended to train Webelos Den Leaders on how to properly run a Webelos Den campout.
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OWL is offered a couple of times throughout the year by Great Lakes Council
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Supplemental Training
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Monthly Roundtable
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Monthly Roundtables are intended to be a gathering of all Boy Scout leaders once a month to exchange news/info, get supplemental training, learn ideas from experienced leaders, and spend time with your fellow leaders. It's your best bet to stay a well-trained and well-informed leader!
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Monthly Roundtables meets on the second Thursday of each month. Summer month schedules vary - check your district calendar. Please visit your district web site to find out where your district holds its Roundtable.
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University of Scouting
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University of Scouting is a council-wide Cub Scout, Boy Scout and Venture training event. Each year Boy Scout leaders meet to take courses on a variety of topics. Course topics include: the basics (for new leaders); unit management; Advancement; Camping and Hiking; making Pack and Troop meetings special, and more.
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University of Scouting is offered on a Saturday each fall. Registration can be done on line or through Great Lakes Council.
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