Troop Leader Development Program

Candidates learn the skills of a large group leader leading small group leaders. They receive opportunities to practice leadership skills at the highest level in a high-adventure setting. Candidates will go on one two-night backpacking trip of about 12-20 miles total distance. Phase 1 teaches youth why leaders do what they do.

Requirements

Phase 3 Troop Leader Development is for youth:

• Ages 15-17 (or completed the 8^th grade, or, with approval of Phase Leader and Director, for youth who have previously completed Phase 2).
• One week or more camping and backpacking experience is required.
• Completed Level 2 (Prior attendance of earlier levels is encouraged, but not necessarily required.)

Likely Roles at Home

• Troop Senior Patrol Counselor
• School class president
• School band president
• Athletic team captain
• Church leadership role
• Club president

Purpose

For those youth leaders who will or are working directly or indirectly with two or more small groups. They receive intensive exposure to, and opportunity for extensive application of all leadership competencies in carrying out the responsibilities of a senior youth leader.

The youth develop:

• An understanding of the principles and processes of leadership development.
• Knowledge of the characteristics of a group composed of smaller groups.
• An understanding of the functions and responsibilities of the group manager and other leaders.
• Knowledge of the resources available in the group.
• Knowledge of how to manage operations based on patrol method.
• An understanding of the interaction of adult and the young leaders within a group.
• An understanding of their own ability to function in group leadership positions.

Content

The candidates of Phase III typically take an extended hike with their backpacks on Day One; take an extended day hike towards the middle of the week; and spend two nights in the field in quest of a "mountain top" experience.

The patrols are led by candidate-elected Patrol Leaders; they rotate jobs on a daily basis. A Staff Patrol Counselor plays an increasingly secondary role as the week progresses. Major challenges to the youth's leadership abilities in the form of complex hurdles are planned.

The candidates develop a high level of competency in:

• Getting and Giving Information
• Knowing Group Needs and Characteristics
• Evaluation
• Problem-solving
• Knowing and Using Group Resources

They develop an intermediate level competency in:

• Manager of Learning
• Controlling the Group
• Representing the Group
• Setting the Example
• Sharing Leadership

They also develop an elementary level competency in:

• Counseling

The Youth Staff's level of skill is at least one step beyond that which they intend to instruct the candidates. In addition, the Youth Staff develop elementary competency in:

• Hurdle Development and Implementation
• Goal and Objective Writing
• Alternative Teach/Learn Methods.

Space is limited. Find out which phase is right for you or apply for camp today.