"Scouts are boys of action. The only knowledge they seek is that knowledge of a subject which will make them “doers.” - Boy Scouts of America, 1913
Each Scout progresses through the following 7 ranks:
Each rank has certain milestones or “requirements” that must be fulfilled before the rank is awarded. Each requirement follows a basic 4 step process:
Requirements for Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class may be worked simultaneously. Requirements for Star, Life, and Eagle must be worked in serial order.
How quickly a scout advances is up to him. The troop program will provide opportunities, all year long, for advancement. Advancement is somewhat of a byproduct of an active troop program with enthusiastic scouts participating. In such an environment advancement happens quickly and in somewhat of a "stealth" sort of way! Scouts with a high level of participation and engagement may earn First Class within 12 to 18 months of joining the troop. Scouts that do not attend, have spotty attendance, or decline to engage the activities on camping trips, outings and troop meetings will advance at a much slower pace and that is okay. Advancement is only one of the methods of scouting.
Troop 238 does not run a “curriculum” based rank advancement program, like a school, where a regiment of sit down instruction, class work, book work, and lecture are the norm. Scouting is meant to be a hands on activity and a game… A game with a purpose!
Scouts learn by doing in guided discovery!