Youth Leadership Training
Leadership is a vital part of Scouting, and as Scouts progress through the ranks, they assume greater leadership responsibilities within their troops and other units. Scouts in positions of leadership take care of the many tasks necessary for meetings and activities to run smoothly. By accepting the responsibilities of troop leadership, Scouts are preparing themselves to be leaders throughout their lives.
Opportunities to develop leadership skills are every bit as important as recognition or advancement. Scouting offers young people a rich and varied arena in which to learn and use leadership skills, along with a series of training programs to help them develop those skills.
Introduction to Leadership Skills for Troops/Crews
The purpose of the ILST course is to teach Scouts with leadership positions about their new roles and how to most effectively reach success in that role. It is intended to help Scouts in leadership positions within their troop understand their responsibilities and to equip them with organizational and leadership skills to fulfill those responsibilities. Completion of ILST 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.
ILST training is conducted at the unit level. Scouts wishing to take the course should talk to their unit leaders.
National Youth Leadership Training
NYLT is an action-packed, six-day program that provides youth members with leadership skills and experience they can use in their home troops and in other situations demanding leadership of self and others. Through a wide range of activities, games, and adventures, participants work and play together, gaining the skill and confidence to lead well as they put into action the best Scouting has to offer.
The Great Smoky Mountain Council offers NYLT annually at Camp Buck Toms. The 2024 Course will be held July 11-13 & 18-20.