Choosing the Right Phase

Participants in the White Stag Leadership Development program range in age from 11-18. They naturally possess varying maturity levels, readiness to learn, skills, and needs. The White Stag program is structured to meet their varying needs.

Three Youth Phases

The White Stag program is structured into three phases based on age and grade level:

Youth 10½ to 13 usually attend Phase 1 Patrol Member Development.

Youth 13 to 15 typically attend Phase 2 Patrol Leader Development.

Teens age 15-17 will probably attend Phase 3 Troop Leader Development.

Each phase is designed for a particular range of individual skills and level of maturity. All three phases give you a chance to learn leadership skills like communication, planning, knowing and using your resources, understanding and being sensitive to the needs and characteristics of your group, sharing leadership, evaluation, and others. The complexity and depth of information increases from one phase to the next.

Phase Placement

Participants are generally attracted to a particular phase because of their age and experience, and we help candidates to select the phase that is most appropriate for them. To ensure proper program placement, we interview each candidate and consult with leaders and parents if appropriate. Our decision about program placement is final.

A Multi-year Experience

Each phase is organized in a parallel manner, each having three "levels:" candidates, youth staff, and adult staff. Each phase has a specific purpose and content. Learn more about the White Stag program's multi-year experience.