WHO - This course is designed for adult Scouts BSA leaders, including Scoutmasters, Assistant Scoutmasters, and other troop leaders who are responsible for guiding youth in the outdoors. It is especially useful for new leaders who want practical experience with the patrol method and the core outdoor skills.

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WHAT - Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS) is a hands-on outdoor training program that builds on the concepts learned in Scoutmaster Position-Specific Training. Throughout the course, participants:

· Learn and practice essential outdoor skills aligned with the Scouts BSA Handbook.

· Experience the patrol method by operating as members of a Scout-led troop

· Participate in skills sessions tied directly to chapters in the Scouts BSA handbooks

· Engage in the same teaching methods, activities, and games used to deliver effective and engaging Scouting programs

· Gain proficiency in the outdoor skills required for Scout through First Class rank

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WHY - Completing IOLS ensures that adult leaders have the confidence and foundational skills needed to safely guide Scouts in the outdoors and support a truly Scout-led program. Participants leave with:

· A strong working knowledge of the patrol method

· Increased confidence teaching and supervising outdoor skills

· Practical experience that prepares them to run safe, engaging outdoor activities

· A deeper understanding of how Scouting works from the perspective of the youth

Importantly, Scoutmasters and assistant Scoutmasters who complete both the position-specific training and Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills are considered “trained” for their roles. This “trained” status ensures they are fully equipped—and officially recognized—as leaders ready to deliver a high-quality outdoor Scouting program.

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WHERE - Camp Champlin: 223 Scituate Ave, Cranston, RI 02920

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WHEN - Saturday April 25th, 2026 - Sunday April 26th, 2026

· Start: Saturday at 8:00 AM

· End: Sunday, April 26 at 1:00 PM

· Check-in Location: Leidman Lodge

o Parking: Please park in the main parking lot at Camp Champlin.

o After parking, walk down the road to Leidman Lodge for check-in.

· Pre-Course Virtual Meeting

o A required virtual pre-meeting will be held on: Wednesday, April 22 at 7:00 PM (Link to follow.)

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HOW - Register online today! All registrants must attend the pre-meeting.

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Attire & Gear Requirements:

Full Class A (field uniform) is the appropriate attire for the entire weekend.

Outdoor cooking is a key component of this training. Participants will be responsible for bringing:

· Foil-dinner ingredients

· Lunch items

These food items—as well as preparation expectations—will be reviewed during the pre-course meeting, where complete details and guidelines will be provided.

Suggested IOLS Training Gear List:

Tent (if there is a problem with sleeping in a tent, please let us know)

Sleeping bag

Ground cloth (old shower curtain works well)

Backpack

Flashlight

Camping chair

Mess kit (cup, spoon, fork, knife, plate, bowl)

Sun protection

Personal hygiene items

Change of clothes

Scout uniform

Scout handbook

Rain gear

Water bottle

Notebook, pen or pencil