Training makes better Troops

[ScoutmasterJerry]

I am a firm believer that Trained leaders do a better job in their units.
You may have been to some of the BSA training and thought, "well... I really did not learn anything... I knew all that."
I did too. Youth Protection for example is pretty much common sense..and if you have ever worked with youth before youv'e seen it... but what it does it puts topics into the context of Scouting.
New Leader Essentials is not the most dynamic training... but it creates a foundation to build from in Scouting.
If you follow the training continuum you spirally progress and become more and more in tune with what Scouting offers and how to best deliver the program.
Part of training is the network that you develop within the peers you meet in the class.

In our Troop all of the "hands on" Adults are trained. This has proven to be beneficial. We all speak the same Scouting language and it has helped in creating an environment within the Boy led troop to devliver the promise.

What are your thoughts on Training?

[FRUSTRATED SCOUTMASTER]

Jerry:

I could not agree with you more about everyone being a Trained Leader.
When I was a Scoutmaster, I made sure that I had all my Training done within my First Year. I regret that I do not have my Wood Badge yet. Also, at Summer Camps I also made sure that I took all my supplemental training so as to be qualified to take my Troop on campouts and outings and be in compliance with the requirements on the Tour Permit. I also stressed that all my Assistants get all their Taining as soon as possible when they signed up to be an Assistant. I FIRMLY BELIEVE THAT ALL BOYS DESERVE TRAINED LEADERS!
I now serve as a Unit Commissioner and also have been Trained in my new position. Again, if I do not know what to do, how can I help the units under my supervision. I plan to continue my training by attending Commissioner College when it offered again.
I recommend to all Leaders, get as much training as you can. It doesn't hurt to be trained and be the best that you can be.

Yours in Scouting,

Boib Klimas
Former Scoutmaster
Unit Commissioner
Concord, N.C.:)

[WB Bear]

Training is critical for us to deliver this outstanding program!! I tell all leaders to go to training. Not only their job specific training but all supplement trainings, Cub Powwow’s, University of Scouting, etc. We must not forget Roundtables.

The information you will be presented is invaluable. The networking and the discussions with your peers as SM Jerry mentioned is also awesome. I have staffed many different trainings at all levels and still come away with very useful information.

Michelangelo’s motto is quite applicable “I am still learning”.

[1st Mate]

Well The Poll is closed so I can't get my vote in, but YES, I agree with Jerry. Regardless of what role you play in scouting training early and often is the way to get the best results and to provide the best service to the youth.

[Sugar Hill Scouter]

I get all the training I can. I went through Woodbadge this Spring, and am working my ticket. This Fall, I am going through Powderhorn high adventure training, as we are having scouts in our troop reach the age they can be involved in high adventure outings.
I also strongly encourage my asst. scoutmasters to take training as well.

[jperso]

I agree that training is essential. Any time I see a training class that I have not gone to, I sign up. Our Council has a training day in the fall for mini classes (1 hour each) on subjects like recruiting merit badge councilors, filling out paper work for Eagle rank, Dutch oven cooking etc. Is this typical of other Councils? Also, what training does your Troop provide to the adults?

[WB Bear]

It’s good to see such positive comments regarding the necessity of training. It’s great to see more Wood Badgers.

It’s also important to keep in mind continually training. For example, in order to go to Wood Badge you must have gone through basic training for that position. What happens when you move lets say from a Cubmaster to an ASM, or from a CM in a Pack to a CM in a Troop etc. You still need to attend that position specific course.

As far as other supplement training a lot of Councils might have a University of Scouting, Powwow’s or other trainings throughout the year that offer great information. But we must not forget the opportunities for additional information that is offered each month. It’s called Roundtables. They are a great place for leaders to receive hands-on experience and provide a forum for leaders to offer and receive help from their fellow Scouters.

[insanescouter]

If I had the chance I would cast yes as well. I served many years on the district training team, as well as two years so far as NYLT adult staff.

Scott Robertson
http://insanescouter.org
Helping leaders one resource at a time....

[Apache Bob]

Over the years I have taken many training courses and in each one I learn something new that I can use. That is also one of the things that I try to remember when I am teaching a class. Give some things that the Scouters can take home and use in their units.
Alot of the Scouting classes have theory coming out your ears but even those are necessary to make you well trained.
Its also good to go back and take classes that you had in the past and think that you know. You always learn more.
And the more that we learn the more we can give a better program for the Scouts.
See you.