NYLT integrates the best of modern leadership theory with the traditional strengths of the Scouting experience. Through activities, presentations, challenges, discussions, and audio-visual support, NYLT participants will be engaged in a unified approach to leadership that will give them the skills and confidence to lead well. Through a wide range of activities, events, games, and adventures, NYLT participants will work and play together as they put into action the best that Scouting has to offer.

NYLT models a month in the life of troop – three meetings (one each day for the first three days) leading up to a big outdoor experience (an overnight outpost camp). The course uses the patrol method and presents model Patrol Leaders’ Council meetings. Throughout the course, the staff will be modeling the leadership concepts and skills that are the core content of the course. The patrols will be challenged with many activities and games, including using GPS receivers to participate in a Geocache wide game. The focus of each session is not only knowledge but giving the youth a “Toolbox of Skills” that equips them with the “how” of leadership.

Requirements to attend:

• Must be a registered member of a Scouting unit.
• Must have a current Scouting America Health and Medical Record form parts A, B, and C.
• Must be a First Class Scout and have completed Introduction to Leadership Skills for Troops.
• Scouts BSA members must be at least 13. They must have completed Introduction to Leadership Skills for Troops.
• Venturers and Sea Scouts must be at least 14, or 13 and have completed eighth grade, and fall within the maximum age allowance for their program. They must have completed Introduction to Leadership Skills for Crews or Ships.
• While NYLT is not an outdoor skills course, it is important that each participant have basic camping and outdoor cooking experience.
• Have a unit leader recommendation. (This must be emailed to the course director and staff advisor prior to attending the Participant Orientation for your course). Instructions on who to send this to is included in the registration receipt and the registration instructions for each course.
• All Participants should plan to attend the Participant Orientation scheduled for their course. Dates are listed below and included in the registration receipt and the registration instructions for each course.

Introduction to Leadership Skills for Troops or Crews is required prior to attending NYLT. This is a training offered internally by Troops.  For the updated Syllabus, click your unit type to download: TROOPS  CREWS

APPLICATIONS TO BE ON NYLT STAFF FOR Spring 2026 ARE OPEN. CLICK HERE TO FOR THE STAFF APPLICATION.

Upcoming National Youth Leadership Training Opportunities

Upcoming Dates for NYLT Staff