Intro to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS) Training
hosted by Ohio River Valley District

Sandscrest Scout Reservation   |    Oct 24-25, 2026

The Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS) course builds and expands on the concepts and themes introduced in Scoutmaster Position-Specific Training and provides Scouters with the confidence to take youth into the outdoors.

WHO: required training for Scoutmasters & Assistant Scoutmasters

WHEN: October 24-25, 2026

• check-in at 6:00 PM on Saturday
• check-out at 4:00 PM on Sunday

WHERE: Sandscrest Scout Reservation

• Address: 192 McColloch Drive, Wheeling

FEES: $40 (by September 25)   |   $50 Regular (after September 26)

• it is encouraged that troops pay the cost for their leaders to become trained for their position in Scouting
• NEW FREE for Moutaineer Area Council participants if registered by the early fee deadline!

REGISTRATION CLOSES: October 17

ADDITIONAL DETAILS:

• Scouting America Registration:  All participants must be currently registered in Scouting America.
• Safeguarding Youth Training:  All participants are required to be current on their Safeguarding Youth Training. This can be completed online prior to arrival online at www.My.Scouting.org. Please provide a copy of your completed SYT training certificate and bring to the event.
• Medical Form:  All participants must bring a copy of their Annual Health and Medical Record, Parts A & B. 

This hands-on program gives adult leaders a practical introduction to the patrol method of a Scout-led troop by teaching many of the practical outdoor skills they need to lead Scouts in the outof-doors. In addition, the teaching methods, activities, and games model the variety of teaching used in effective and engaging Scouting programs.

The skills sessions presented in Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills closely follow the Scouts BSA Handbook and are meant to serve as an adult training outline. By using these skills sessions in conjunction with the Scouts BSA handbooks, trainers can be sure new leaders are proficient in many of the basic outdoor skills through First Class rank, and gain exposure to the patrol method and numerous teaching methods and learning games. Each skills session references specific chapters in the handbooks and highlights advancement requirements.

Hands-on participation is the best learning tool, and this course models the techniques used by effective Scoutmasters, advisors, and other leaders in the Scouting program. Attendees will see and experience different aspects of how Scouting works while playing the role of Scouts in a troop.

Participants should leave the training experience with a full understanding of how the patrol method operates, a feeling of comfort in working with and instructing their Scouts, and an increased level of confidence taking Scouts outdoors safely. With that comes great satisfaction.