The online registration closes two weeks before each session.

IOLS Training – Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills

The Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS) course is a hands-on training program that prepares adult Scout leaders to lead Scouts in outdoor activities confidently. This course is required for Scoutmasters and Assistant Scoutmasters, but any registered leader is welcome to attend.

Building on Scoutmaster Position-Specific Training, it teaches essential outdoor skills aligned with the Scouts BSA Handbook through First Class rank. Participants experience the patrol method firsthand by roleplaying as Scouts, while learning effective teaching techniques, games, and activities used in successful Scouting programs. By the end of the course, participants gain a solid understanding of the patrol method, improved comfort in instructing Scouts, and confidence in taking youth outdoors safely. All participants must attend the overnight portion of the training and be registered leaders with current Safeguarding Youth Training.

The course includes one overnight stay. Some courses start on Friday evening and go through Saturday early evening, while others will start on Saturday morning and go through Sunday early afternoon. Please ensure you check the specific start and end day and time for the training you choose.

Please see the flyer for additional information, including a packing list.

Contact information for each session:

08/15-08/16 PFZ1: Peter Larson, pjlarsonz@outlook.com

08/22-08/23 GLZ4: Ben Jellema, jellema@gmail.com

09/25-09/26 PFZ4: Ralph Guitar, rmguitar@att.net

10/10-10/11 PFZ2: James Keller, jamesrkeller.bsa@gmail.com