Check the council Training Schedule for a list of courses hosted by districts throughout our Council.  You may attend training at any location that is convenient for you.   

Maps to District Training Events and Activities

 Contacts

Online Training

BSA offers many online training classes which are taken at www.myscouting.org.  Each leader needs to create a user name login (different from their www.MyBSA.org login). 

New Leaders:  If you do not yet have your Personal BSA Scoutnet ID number, go ahead and take your online classes.  After your adult application has been processed by the Cockrell Scout Center (this may take a month or more), you can call the SHAC registration desk at (713-659-8111) to receive your Scoutnet ID number.  You will then need to do two things.  First, login to www.myscouting.org and enter your Scoutnet ID number.  Second, send the training chair (listed above) the information about the online courses (i.e., date, name of class)that you took before you entered your Scoutnet ID number, so that the training chair can turn in a "Training Status Update Report" into SHAC and you will can get credit for the class.

Support:  National Service Desk:  800-627-3025 or myscouting@scouting.org

BSA Training Continuum

Training Expiration Dates: Most training courses do not require recertification. However, there are exceptions as follows: Trainer’s EDGE (3 years), Paddle Craft Safety (3 years), Swimming and Water Rescue (3 years), Climb On Safely (2 years), Trek Safely (2 years), Safe Swim Defense (2 years), Safety Afloat (2 years), Chain Saw Safety (2 years), and Youth Protection training (2 years). National Camping School certification is good for five camping seasons.

Trained Leader emblem (patch)
The trained emblem (patch) may be worn by leaders who have completed  Fast Start (for current position), Youth Protection, This is Scouting, and Basic Specific Training (for current position).  It may be worn only in connection with the emblem (patch) of office for which training has been completed.   Scoutmasters and Assistant Scoutmasters must also take Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills.  Troop Committee members take Troop Committee Challenge instead of Leader Specific Training.

Training Awards (Knots)

Scouters may earn training awards for their contributions to Scouting.  Each award has training and tenure requirements plus additional requirements.   Tenure in a unit may not be applied concurrently towards more than one award.   A Progress Record card is used to track these requirements.   Download the latest official versions of the training award progress records.  Drop off your completed progress card at the Clear Lake Scout Shop or turn them in at Roundtable.

Quality Leader Program

In May 2004, Bayshore kicked off a new, exciting Quality Leader Program.  Upon completion of the program you will receive a special patch to wear on your uniform.  There are 4 opportunities to earn the special patch:  Cub Scouter, Boy Scouter, District Committee, and District Commissioner.  Only 3 of the requirements (training) may have been earned before 5/04.  There are no time requirements to complete the award.  It may take some volunteers several years to earn the award.  Submit the completed form to your unit commissioners.  Awards are presented at the Bayshore Recognition Dinner in February.  Click here to view the requirements.  

Basic Training Course Descriptions

Fast Start Training – for all adult leaders

Fast Start training is designed to provide newly recruited leaders the information and resources they need to conduct their first meeting – be it a den meeting, pack meeting, troop meeting, crew meeting, or committee meeting that they are in charge of.  Fast Start Training is completed online.  (20 min)   

This Is Scouting – for all adult leaders

This course (replaces New Leader Essentials) provides an overview of the Scouting movement, including history, values, programs, youth protection, community involvement, training, and so on. The module consists of six video sections, each followed by a brief quiz. Completion is noted automatically in the BSA training records database if the module is experienced online. (~50 min)

Youth Protection Training – for all adult leaders

The problem of child abuse has become one of the most significant problems facing our nation.  Youth Protection Training is based upon the policies and procedures BSA has developed to ensure that all volunteer leaders and parents are aware of the problem and that Scouting provides a safe environment for all participants.  This training is taken online and is required for leaders attending summer camp, winter camp, or day camp. YPT certification is good for two years from the date taken.  (30 min)   

Introduction to Cub Scouting and How We Have Fun – for Cub leaders

Introduction to Cub Scouting provides information on the essential elements of the Cub Scout program.  How We Have Fun introduces the different things that make Cub Scouting fun for all.  These sessions are taught the same day as the Cub Leader Specific Trainings classes (1.5 hours)  registration form (under Cub Leader Specific Training)

Leader Specific Training - for all adult leaders

Leader Specific Training provides the specialized knowledge a new leader needs to assume a leadership role in the position for which he or she is registered.  Course are designed for the following specific leadership positions and their assistants:  Cub/Boy Scout registration   Venturing registration

Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills - for Scoutmasters and their assistants

IOLS is another component of basic leader training for Scoutmasters, and assistant Scoutmasters.  This weekend camping course emphasizes the skills required for First Class rank and helps you plan and conduct an outdoor camping experience with your unit. (weekend campout)  Registration form.

Troop Committee Challenge - for Troop Committee Members

Troop Committee Challenge is the leader specific training for troop committee members.  It has been developed to help troop committee members better understand their roles and responsibilities. Through hands-on learning and activities, this training will also enable troop committee members to better "deliver the promise" in support of the troop, Scoutmaster, and Scouts.  online

Supplemental Training Descriptions

Akela's Trail (previously called PowWow) – for all Cub Scout leaders (traditionally held the first Saturday in November)

Akela's Trail, an annual council event, is a day-long series of workshops, chosen individually by the leader, to increase his or her knowledge and skills in their particular area of the Cub Scout program.  With over 50 courses to choose from, Cub Scout leaders will have numerous opportunities to increase their knowledge of the Cub Scout program, learn new skills to make program planning easier and more fun, and gain enthusiasm and confidence during hands-on experiences with outdoor skills, crafts, song-leading, games, derbies, and a wide variety of topics that will help make Cub Scouting more fun for adults and Scouts.  more.

Backpacking

The High Adventure Committee's Backpacking Team is offering two courses to help you prepare for your backpacking adventures including Philmont. Beginning this year they will be offering "Backpacking 101" for first-time backpackers and "Hike & Learn + Mini-Philmont" for those that have already been out a few times and need to enhance their skills. Both courses will take place at El Rancho Cima.

Backpacking 101 is a weekend training course designed for the first-time backpackers and neophytes new to backpacking. This course provides an introduction to backpacking skills and techniques. Participants will be given an opportunity to work with equipment brought by the training staff. Minimal hiking skills are required. Participants must be able to carry their packs from one training location to another. Crews should be fully self-sufficient including the ability to cook their own meals while on the trail.

Hike & Learn + Mini-Philmont is a hike and learn activity requiring crews to break camp on Saturday morning and hike to different training locations around El Rancho Cima. Crews must be fully self-sufficient including the ability to cook their own meals on the trail.  more

Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation – for Cub Scout leaders and parents

BALOO teaches introductory camping skills and safety procedures that will insure a fun and safe camping experience for Cub Scout families.  Pack overnighters are required to be organized and led by an adult who has successfully completed BALOO.  If your pack is planning a camping trip during the coming year, make sure a pack representative attends this training. BALOO covers camping, outdoor activities, games, ceremonies, selecting & using camping equipments, health & safety, campfire programs, cooking, and more.  (5 hr)  Registration form.

BB and Archery Training – for leaders running the BB/Archery ranges at Twilight Camp

National Standards for Cub Scout Day Camp requires that the BB and Archery Programs be conducted in a safe manner by qualified, trained and certified instructors and range officers.  SHAC conducts dual-certification training for day camp instructors and range officers in Archery and BB guns in February at a council camp and at University of Scouting. The course covers safety, range layout and construction, safety, how-to-teach, safety, equipment and safety. Participants must be present for the entire course for certification. Certification is good for two years.  More

Board of Review Training – for Boy Scout leaders who sit on Boards of Review

This module will train troop committee members and others in the purposes of the board of review, offering suggestions for the types of questions that can or should be asked. self study module

Bullying: Prevention and Intervention Tips for Scout Leaders and Parents – all leaders

The values of Scouting make it clear that bullying cannot be tolerated. Scouting leaders have a unique opportunity to teach respect and acceptance of others. self study module

Canoe Training – for Boy Scout, Venturing, and Varsity leaders involved in canoeing activities

The SHAC Canoe Committee uses the American Red Cross canoe/kayak training programs along with a module that involves BSA policies and how to plan and conduct a SAFE unit canoe outing as the basis for canoe training courses. Look for a new BSA supplemental training program in the future entitled, Paddle Craft Safety.  For youth (Canoeing & Whitewater Merit Badges) and adult courses, click here.

Cave Exploring– for Boy Scout, Venturing, and Varsity leaders involved in caving activities

more

Chartered Organizational Representative Training– for Chartered Organizational Representative

more

Chain Saw Safety – for Boy Scout, Venturing, and Varsity leaders

Council properties rely on chain saws to help clear trails, remove deadfalls, clear timber, and stockpile wood for campfires and heating buildings. This training outline provides local councils with the resources to train chain saw operators on council property.  self study module

Climb On Safely– for Boy Scout, Venturing, and Varsity leaders involved in climbing activities
Climb on Safely covers BSA's recommended procedures for conducting all climbing/rappelling activities.  The eight points - qualified supervision, discipline, physical fitness, safe area, equipment, planning, environmental conditions, and qualified instruction - help ensure the safety and well-being of participants.    online (~30 min)

Conducting an Interfaith Service – for all leaders

Scouts and unit leaders can learn to conduct an interfaith service (formerly a Scouts' Own) that is inclusive for all participants. self study module

CPR – for all leaders

CPR classes are available through the Red Cross (classes / schedule) and through Crew 911.

Disc Golf in Support of Scouting – for Boy Scout, Venturing, and Varsity leaders

Disc golf is one of the fastest-growing outdoor activities among youth and young adults. This course will teach you how disc golf can help you to improve your Scouting program, including using disc golf as an activity, for advancement, and as a great source of service projects. And, of course, you’ll learn how to play disc golf—and teach others to play. self study module

First Aid – for all leaders

First Aid classes are available through the Red Cross (classes / schedule) and through Crew 911.

Geocaching to Promote Scouting – for Boy Scout, Venturing, and Varsity leaders

Geocaching is an exciting new sport that uses GPS navigation to find hidden treasures. It provides another tool for the fun-with-a-purpose toolbox and can combine outdoor adventure with advancement, recruiting, retention, and public relations. self study module

Hazardous Weather Training – for all leaders planning outdoor activities

Scout leaders should always help their Scouts to be prepared for all types of weather.  The National Council offers an online weather training called, "Are You Weather Smart?"  Go online to learn about severe weather safety or begin other training regarding health and safety matters.  Floods, lightning, high winds and many other threats are reviewed.   Severe weather cannot be prevented, but Scouts and leaders can be adequately prepared for most situations in the outdoors.  The health and safety of all youth members and adult volunteer leaders is the council's highest priority.

Health and Safety - for all leaders

Experience has shown that the vast majority of serious injuries and fatalities reported to the National Health and Safety Service occurred in unit-related activities conducted off council properties. Scheduling this new training feature as a part of your council’s training curriculum is important because “safe activities are great activities.” Doing so will also help promote the principles of safe Scouting to our volunteer leaders.  This course introduces the concept of the “sandwich principle” with emphasis on the importance of qualified supervision and discipline. The course also features the BSA booklet Guide to Safe Scouting.  self study module

Health and Safety Guide

Sweet 16 of BSA Safety

Age Appropriate Guidelines

Driver’s Pledge

Scouting Safely

Kayaking BSA - for Boy Scout, Venturing, and Varsity leaders planning and leading kayaking activities

Kayaking BSA provides an introduction to kayaking skills and safety procedures and serves as a program opportunity for Boy Scout, Varsity, and Venturing units in camp or out. Mastery of Kayaking BSA skills is a first critical step towards satisfying Safety Afloat guidelines for safe kayak excursions.  All counselors must be trained in Safety Afloat. Any person recognized as a kayak instructor by the American Canoe Association or equivalent organization may serve as a counselor for this award, with the approval of the local council.  Kayaking BSA

Leave No Trace – for all leaders

Learn to identify personal nature awareness and stewardship goals, and learn advanced skills, but simple ones, that will help ensure a minimum-impact (Leave No Trace) experience on all outdoor experiences. self study module  More

Mentoring – for all leaders

Mentoring is an opportunity to help a person grow through discovery. This session will address various mentoring models and ways to be a mentor to Scouts and Scouters. self study module

Merit Badge Counselor Instructors Guide – for Boy Scout Merit Badge Counselors

This module will guide new and potential merit badge counselors through their responsibilities in the role and will give them an understanding of the methods of counseling Scouts. It is intended as a short orientation course for new merit badge counselors before they begin working with Scouts. self study module

Order of the Arrow and Your Troop – for Scoutmasters, assistant Scoutmasters, and Troop Committee members

This session discusses the benefits to the individual, troop, district, and council as a result of the Order of the Arrow's influence in your troop. self study module

Outdoor Leader Skills for Webelos Leaders Training – for Webelos Den Leaders and assistants.

This supplemental training course gives Webelos den leaders information and hands-on practice in the outdoor skills needed to work with Webelos Scouts.  Recommended prior to conducting a Webelos den overnight campout. You will learn about knots, wood tools, first aid, fire building, site selections, tents, bedding, weather, cooking, sanitation, flag ceremonies, campfire planning, Webelos badge activities, helpful Webelos Woods hints, and more.  This training in conjunction with Cub Scout Leader Specific Training for the Webelos leader, and YPT are required for the Webelos leader to be considered trained.  (overnight campout)  Registration form.

Planning and Conducting a Safe Scout Outing – for Scoutmasters, assistant Scoutmasters, and Troop Committee members

Safe Scouting can happen if you follow the Scout motto—Be Prepared. This unit of supplementary training describes how to plan for and conduct a safe Scout outing. self study module

Powder Horn -  for Boy Scout and Venturing leaders (conducted by SHAC every 18 months)

Powder Horn is designed to introduce and expose Venturing and Boy Scouting adult unit leaders to the activities and resources necessary to operate a successful outdoor/high adventure unit-level program.  Conducted over two three-day weekends.  more     

Rifle/Shotgun Certification -  for Boy Scout and Venturing leaders (conducted by SHAC every year)

SHAC offers Rifle and Shotgun certification through the SHAC High Adventure Committee.   more

Roundtable  - for all leaders (conducted monthly by Bayshore District)

Roundtable is meeting for Boy Scout and Cub Scout leaders typically held the first Thursday of every month.  Do you sometimes feel that you are not receiving all the information that Council and District is giving out? There may be a simple solution to your problem; attend Roundtable! 

The purpose of Roundtable is to help units succeed by providing useful program ideas, information on policy, leadership training, and current information on upcoming Council and District events and training opportunities. Roundtables are the best way to find out what is going on!  Equally importantly, Roundtable participants have an opportunity to meet other Scouters and enjoy the fellowship that makes Scouting fun.  Map  calendar

Safe Swim Defense – for all leaders planning aquatic activities

Safe Swim Defense focuses on the importance of advanced preparation and planning in preventing accidents and maintaining safety during any swimming activity.  online

Safety Afloat – for Boy Scout, Venturing, and Varsity leaders planning and watercraft activities

Safety Afloat focuses on the planning, training, and preparation required for any activity using watercraft.  online

Scoutmaster Conference Training - for all Scoutmasters, Assistant Scoutmasters, troop leaders

This module will teach Scoutmasters, assistant Scoutmasters, and other troop leaders about the purposes of the Scoutmaster's conference and will offer suggestions for questions that could be asked at these conferences. self study module

Selecting Quality Leaders – unit leadership

This session will provide an overview of the seven steps to recruiting a key adult unit leader and will prepare participants to recruit new leaders for their units' needs. self study module

Snorkeling – for Boy Scout, Venturing, and Varsity leaders planning and leading snorkling activities

The Snorkeling, BSA requirements introduce Scout-age children and adult leaders to the special skills, equipment, and safety precautions associated with snorkeling; encourage the development of aquatics skills that promote fitness and recreation; and provide a foundation for those who later will participate in more advanced underwater activity.  Any adult trained and assigned by a currently certified Aquat­ics Instructor, BSA may serve as a counselor for the Snorkeling, BSA award. A person certified to conduct snorkeling instruc­tion by the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), or the National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI), or other BSA recognized agency, also qualifies as a Snorkeling, BSA counselor.  BSA Snorkeling Safety;  patch requirements

Supporting Scouts With AD/HD  - for all leaders

The aims and methods of the Scouting program make it an outstanding opportunity for those with AD/HD characteristics to develop and enhance the skills that can lead to success in school, in relationships with other, and in life.  (PPT) (DOC)

Trainer Development Conference (Trainer's Edge) - for pack trainers and district/council training team members

The Trainer Development Conference is part of the continuous process of updating trainers with the latest methods, principles, and technologies of training.  All district training team members, pack/troop trainers, Roundtable staff, and commissioner trainers are encouraged to attend.  If you are interested in becoming a district or a pack trainer, you are also encouraged to attend.  Topics include: Why we train leaders, how adults learn, communications, characteristics of a good trainer, planning, arrangements and training technology, methods, and pizzazz.  Participants should include those individuals that will be delivering training to leaders and youth in all parts of the Scouting program.  Featured is hands-on presentation skills in small groups plus some exciting interactive learning games.  more  

Trek Safely – for Boy Scout, Venturing, and Varsity leaders planning and leading trekking activities

Trek Safely is BSA’s recommended procedure for organizing and carrying out outdoor treks that involve Boy Scouts, Varsity Scouts, and Venturers.   Trek Safely covers 7 key safety points about trekking, and is recommended for adult leaders organizing any type of outdoor experiences that involve trekking, including hiking, backpacking, canoeing, horseback riding, caving, rafting, kayaking, sailing, ski touring, mountain climbing, and mountain biking.   You will watch a brief video broken into two sections, answering questions after each section.   Trek Safely  (online)  (~20 min)

Twilight Camp Volunteer Training – for every adult who volunteers at Twilight Camp (conducted by Bayshore in May)

According to Texas state law, all Twilight Camp on-site adults (part-time and full-time) must attend camp training.  The training covers adult expectations, program information, rules, discipline, schedule, contact information, health and safety, emergency procedures, and more.  Each on-site adult must also be a registered BSA leader (including Tiger adult partners), attend Camp training, complete YPT training online, fill out a camp registration and medical form, and have a background check completed by staff.  Two training sessions are offered in May in Bayshore. 

University of Scouting – for all adult leaders (traditionally held in February)

University of Scouting is a day-long series of workshops chosen individually by the leader to help him or her plan a better program for the boys they work with.  University of Scouting is for all program leaders – Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Varsity, Venturing, and commissioner service. more.   

Wilderness First Aid Basics class – for Boy Scout, Venturing, and Varsity leaders planning and leading wilderness activities

Wilderness First Aid Basic training is a 16 Hour Course which builds on the First Aid and CPR classes. This course is designed to train you in rural and outdoor settings in how to respond to emergencies; using what you have.  It will teach the principles of “When Help is Delayed” and “Mountaineering Skills”. This course is available to all registered Boy Scouts, Ventures, and all Leaders if prerequisites are met. Participant must attend both days for certification.  Prerequisites:  Current certification in CPR (expires 1 yr); Current certification in Basic First Aid (expires 3 yr); and must be at least 15 years old.  Wilderness First Aid Certification expires every 3 years.  Wilderness First Aid Basic training is taught by Crew 911 and through the Council.  As of 2008, it is BSA Policy that at least one leader in each group, not just unit, must have Wilderness First Aid Training for high adventure camps. So, if your unit has a trek that will be broken into multiple groups you will need one leader per group.

Wood Badge  - for every adult leader (conducted several times during the year)

Wood Badge is a mentally-intense leadership training course for all Scouters.  Open to adult leaders in all program areas who have completed basic training for their position, it is the goal of BSA for all leaders to complete Wood Badge within the first two years of their becoming a leader.  Conducted over two three-day weekends, several courses are available each year.  more.

Youth Leadership Training Continuum – for Boy Scout leaders and parents

This supplemental training module is designed for Scout leaders and parents who want to understand the youth leadership training continuum. self study module

Basic Training Requirements from prior to 3/1/2009