Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills Training

JOIN US FOR ITOLS TRAINING!

Outdoor skills are critical to the success of the Scouting program, and this training will provide Scout leaders with the basic outdoor skills and confidence needed to take youth into the outdoors. The course focuses on skills needed for leaders to conduct outdoor camping experiences. In addition, the teaching methods, activities, and games model the variety of teaching used in effective and engaging Scouting programs. We hold this course outdoors to help reinforce the “outdoor” experience that you will bring back to your Scouts and Troop. Participants should leave the training experience with a feeling of comfort in working with and instructing their Scouts, and an increased level of confidence taking Scouts outdoors safely.

ITOLS (INTRODUCTION TO OUTDOOR LEADER SKILLS) is one of the BSA courses Scoutmasters and Assistant Scoutmasters are required to complete to earn the TRAINED emblem. With ITOLS, your classroom is the outdoors, your guidebook is the BSA Handbook, and the Patrol Method is the method of learning. This course will enhance your skills and give you the tools to offer an outdoor program for your troop. ITOLS is a hands-on, fun filled, skill training program that is designed to help you become familiar with the basic camping skills required from Scout rank to First Class. By using these skills sessions in conjunction with the Scouts BSA Handbook, Scouts BSA leaders will gain an exposure to not only many of the basic outdoor skills through First Class rank, but also the patrol method and numerous teaching methods and learning games.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

• Setting up camp
• Planning a Menu
• Cooking Techniques using wood and other fuels
• Safe camp sanitation
• Working with wood tools-knives and axes
• Planning a campfire program
• How not to get lost by using a compass
• Reading a map
• Working with ropes and knots
• Techniques for hiking
• Packing what to take and leave home
• Nature identification
• Leave No Trace Camping

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

Registered leaders of Troops and Crews who participate with their unit’s outdoor program:

• SCOUTMASTERS & ASSISTANTS are required to complete this course in order to complete the training required for their position.

• TROOP COMMITTEE MEMBERS/PARENTS planning to participate with your troop's camping program; the course is highly recommended or may be required by your troop. 

• VENTURING ADVISORS & ASSISTANTS using high adventure or camping programs are encouraged to complete this course.

WHERE and WHEN:

• Thursday Eventing Indoors: Rowan Scout Resource Center at the Rowan Scout Campus in Westampton.

• Saturday through Sunday Outdoors: Pine Tree Education and Environmental Center, 110 Butterworths Bogs Rd., Tabernacle, NJ 08088

PARTICIPANT FEE  $45.00 includes materials and meals. (Multiple payment options available.)

REFUNDS--NO REFUNDS within seven (7) days of the course start date. Credit will be given for the next GSC ITOLS/BALOO course.

TEXT BOOK--The current edition of the Scouts BSA Handbook is required for the course. 

BSA MEDICAL (doctor signature not required) must be brought to your first day and will be returned on Sunday.

WHAT TO BRING--See the suggested Packing List attachment.

FOR MORE INFORMATION contact Pete Reiter, Course Director, itols@gardenstatescouting.org

Every Scout Deserves a Trained Leader