IOLS – Introduction to Outdoor  Leader Skills is a training course that provides leaders with the basic skills and information to run a successful outdoor program.  At least 1 IOLS-trained leader is needed on every Scout overnight.  It is required of all  Scoutmasters and Assistant Scoutmasters.   Other Scouts BSA Leaders are welcome to take this training. 

Leaders will learn the necessary basic skills in helping Scouts work towards earning the First Class rank.  The course will cover fire building, using wood tools, hiking, packing for a  trip, where to set up a tent, map and compass, knots, lashings, cooking,  first aid, and other skills.  

Prerequisites: current Youth Protection and Weather Hazards trainings, and Scoutmaster-Specific training (for all Scoutmasters and Assistant Scoutmasters).   These trainings can be found at the BSA Learn Center at my.scouting.org.