The
mystery of advancement unraveled.
Who is responsible for advancement? You are with a little bit of gentle nudging from other Scouts and adults, both parents and leaders.
What is advancement? The Scouting definition is “the art of meeting a challenge.” You are invited to master a challenging series of skills, each more demanding than the last.
There are four steps in Boy Scout advancement and they apply to all six ranks.
Step 1 – You learn. You learn Scouting skills by taking an active hands-on part in Troop and patrol meetings and outdoor programs. This is your on the job training. Another older scout, a scouting peer, or an adult shares his knowledge with you. Don’t waste these opportunities.
Step 2 – You are tested. When the adult leaders of the troop see that you have mastered a skill and satisfied a requirement, you are told so and the achievement recorded. When you feel you are ready ask a Scoutmaster to sign you off.
Step 3 – You are reviewed. This takes place when you have completed all requirements for a rank; you appear before a “board of review” composed of members of the troop committee. The purpose of the board of review is not to retest you, but to make sure that you have met all the requirements, to chat with you about how you feel about the troop, and to encourage you to continue advancing.
Step 4 –
You are recognized. When the board of review certifies you, you will
be awarded your new badge of rank as soon as possible. You will be
recognized again at the next court of honor.
