There are new Introduction to Leadership Skills (ILS) programs for Troops, Crews, Ships, and Teams – all youth leaders should complete this as the first step in the Youth Leadership Training (YLT) continuum! Leadership is a vital part of the Scouting program.

The purpose of the Introduction to Leadership Skills for Troops (ILST) is to teach Boy Scouts with leadership positions about their new roles and how to most effectively reach success in that role. It is intended to help Boy Scouts in leadership positions within their Unit understand their responsibilities and to equip them with organizational and leadership skills to fulfill those responsibilities. ILST is the first course in the series of leadership training offered to Boy Scouts and has replaced Troop Leadership Training.

There are similar ILS courses now available for Venture Crews (ILSC), Sea Scout Ships (ILSS), and Varsity Teams (ILST). Completion of Introduction to Leadership Skills is a prerequisite for Scouts to participate in the more advanced leadership courses National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) and the National Advanced Youth Leadership Experience (NAYLE). It is also required to participate in a Kodiak Challenge Trek.

Boy Scout Troops & Ventrue Crews may find the syllabus and resources to conduct Introduction to Leadership Skills online. The Sea Scout Ship ILS program and more information can be downloaded at www.scouting.org/Training/Youth. Every troop, crew, and ship should be routinely conducting the ILS program! Is yours?