IOLS Training

Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills – Master the outdoor skills needed to lead youth-led Scout troops!

Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS)

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

This hands-on program gives adult leaders a practical introduction to the patrol method of a youth-led troop by teaching many of the outdoor skills needed to lead Scouts effectively in the out-of-doors. The course models the teaching style, activities, and games used in engaging Scouting programs.

The skills sessions closely follow the Scouts BSA Handbook and serve as an adult training outline. New leaders become proficient in many of the basic outdoor skills through First Class rank, gain exposure to the patrol method, and learn various teaching methods and games.

What You'll Gain From IOLS

A full understanding of how the patrol method operates in a youth-led troop

Confidence in teaching outdoor skills to Scouts and other adult leaders

The ability to safely take Scouts outdoors for camping and hiking adventures

Training Requirements

Participants leave the training with a full understanding of how the patrol method operates, confidence in teaching outdoor skills, and the ability to safely take Scouts outdoors.

Important: Completion of IOLS is required along with Scoutmaster Position-Specific Training to be considered trained for the Scoutmaster or Assistant Scoutmaster position.

Upcoming IOLS Training Schedule

Date	Location	Course Director	Cost	Registration
November 8–9, 2025	John W. Nichols Scout Ranch (JNSR)	TBD	$40	Register Here
March 7–8, 2026	John W. Nichols Scout Ranch (JNSR)	David Liszeski	$40	Opens 01/02/26 – Closes 03/01/26
March 28–29, 2026	Camp George Thomas (CGT)	Reagan Rethard	$40	Opens 01/02/26 – Closes 03/22/26
May 16–17, 2026	Will Rogers Scout Reservation (WRSR)	Lowry Blackburn	$40	Opens 01/02/26 – Closes 05/10/26
August 22–23, 2026	John W. Nichols Scout Ranch (JNSR)	Ryan Lemons	$40	Opens 01/02/26 – Closes 08/16/26
November 7–8, 2026	John W. Nichols Scout Ranch (JNSR)	Sherria Carel	$40	Opens 01/02/26 – Closes 11/01/26

Ready to Develop Your Outdoor Leadership Skills?

Sign up for an upcoming IOLS training session and gain the confidence to lead Scouts on unforgettable outdoor adventures!

Comments

Rick Inselman

4 years ago

• edited 4 years ago

This Fun and Exciting Program is the hands on approach, for all Scoutmasters or Assistance Scout Masters to be fully trained for their specific position. Is your units, ASM and SM update...?