One of the things that the previous Scoutmaster did that I loved was the TLT Weekend.  At first it was JLT, then BSA changed focus and redesigned the program.  We kept it a weekend though the new program calls for 3 afternoon type classes (or something like that).  We have a mix of both worlds and are constantly improving and responding to the previous PLC suggestions.

Today I just got back from my 4th TLT as Scoutmaster and it went great.  We arrive at the local Scout Camp on Friday and set up the cabin.  We have one room as a meeting hall, one bunk room and we eat outside under the shelter.  I have one ASM stay the weekend to act as Grubmaster (the Scouts are too busy to worry about cooking and cleaning) and to help teach a skill or two.  Other ASMs might stop by to give me a break and get the guys outside and either learning a skill or playing a team building game.  The SPL also helps me in running the TLT...

We started with getting to know you games and an overview of what we were doing that weekend.  We cover the 8 Methods of Scouting, play a few games then settle down and watch a movie (this year it was Groundhog Day; which froze about 10 minutes before the end of the movie...grrrr).

Saturday is rise and shine early.  The guys get up and into Class A's, set up the meeting room, eat a great breakfast and get down to business.  This session was a good mix of old and new Scouts so there were those who have seen this before and those seeing it for the first time.  There is lots of good discussion, debate, joking and laughs!  I added some new elements this session: one was Patrol Meeting Planning (more then before) and the other was NON-Advancement Scout Skills.  Our ASM/Grubmaster is also a freak about paracord knots and knotworks.  We spent an hour just making lanyards, survival bracelets, key fobs, etc.  Everyone made something and I think several have picked up a new hobby.  During free time and movie night (The Sandlot) there were several hands flying with paracord making School Color fobs or woggles...awesome.

While I will not bore you with the details, the end result is 18 Scouts in the PLC who are now ready, trained and energized about the next 6 months.  More importantly there is ONE PLC team ready to work together, who have bonded over the weekend, trust each other and have a new found respect for each other and the job they have been elected to do.

When it was over, I came home; tired, stinky and full of hope for a successful 6 months.  Proud of the job that these Scouts did this weekend and impressed that several (who have been to White Stag NYLT) have suggestions to improve this weekend for future PLCs...

How do you train your PLC?

YIS
Bryan