The journey of advancement in scouting is a key part of personal growth and development. On this page, we will focus on the procedures and responsibilities that help make this path clear, successful, and efficient for every scout. From setting personal goals to tracking progress, each scout has a responsibility in managing their advancement. For a detailed overview of the various paths that scouting offers, including rank advancements, merit badges, and leadership opportunities, please refer to this page where we explore these areas in greater depth.
Scout Responsibility
Where do they want to be by the next COH?
Seek feedback regarding progress on requirements, participation, tardiness, responsiveness, etc.
Check personal SB advancement record regularly (every two weeks - 10 minutes)
Create/update advancement rank/MB goals every month (10 minutes)
(Simple scout advancement spreadsheet/form to make this task easier for scouts to track)
Notify PL, APL, SPL, ASPL, SM, ASMs
By Sunday ahead of any Monday to schedule meeting to test
By Thursday ahead of any weekend trip testing
PL/APL Responsibility
Check in with scouts on what they are working on for advancement for
Next week
Next month/trip
By next COH
(Simple scout advancement spreadsheet/form to make this task easier for PL/APL to track)
Prepare scouts for advancement
Check if scout is coming to next meeting/trip
Schedule time for each scout at next meeting/trip
Need instruction help?
Ask senior scouts if rank requirements
Ask SM & ASMs if rank requirements
Ask MB counselor if MB requirements
Ask Advancement chair
SPL/ASPL Responsibility
Check in with PL & APLs on scout advancement status
(Simple scout/patrol advancement spreadsheet/form to make this task easier for SPL/APL to track)
Support scout advancement instruction/testing
Consult with PL/APLs on what scouts need what testing for next meeting/trip
Review requirement instruction/testing with PL/APLs
Prepare any materials for instruction testing e.g. rope for knots, poles for lashings, etc.
Inform SM & ASMs prior to meeting/trip of upcoming testing
Adult Leaders (SM & ASMs) Responsibility
Check in with PL & APLs on scout advancement status
(Scout/patrol/Troop advancement spreadsheet/form to make this task easier to track)
Support scout advancement instruction/testing
Consult with SPL/ASPLs on what scouts need what testing for next meeting/trip
Review requirements instruction/testing
Prepare/obtain any materials for instruction testing (e.g. rope for knots, poles for lashings, etc.)
Recording
Advancement is document in both the Handbook and Scoutbook
Trips and service hours are also recorded in the Handbook