National Youth Leadership Training

National Youth Leadership Training

Unleash Your Leadership Potential!

NYLT 2026

August 9-15, 2026
Camp Freedom,
Marktbergel, Germany

Are you ready to take your leadership skills to the next level? National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) is an immersive, action-packed program designed to equip young leaders with the confidence, knowledge, and skills necessary to guide their teams to success. Hosted by Scouting America’s Transatlantic Council (TAC), this dynamic course is built on time-tested leadership principles that inspire and empower participants to lead with purpose.

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What is NYLT?

NYLT is a six-day intensive leadership experience where participants engage in hands-on learning in an outdoor team-based environment. Throughout the course, youth leaders will explore what a leader must BE, what a leader must KNOW, and what a leader must DO—all while applying these principles in real-time through interactive challenges, engaging discussions, and exciting team-building activities.

The program is centered around the Quest for the Meaning of Leadership, where participants experience firsthand the key skills needed to lead effectively. Through guided instruction, fun competitions, and outdoor adventure, participants will develop a strong foundation in:

  • Effective communication and teamwork

  • Goal-setting and problem-solving

  • Conflict resolution and decision-making

  • Leading with integrity and confidence

Course Details

Participants:

  • Arrive: August 9, 2026, by 12 PM (Central European Time)

  • Depart: August 15, 2026, after 12 PM (Central European Time)

Staff:

  • Arrive for staff development: August 2, 2026, by 12 PM (Central European Time)

  • Depart: August 15, 202, after 12 PM (Central European Time)

Why Attend NYLT?

  • Develop Leadership Skills: Gain real-world leadership experience that can be applied in Scouting, school, sports, and beyond.

  • Team-Based Learning: Work in small patrols to practice leadership in a supportive, high-energy environment.

  • Outdoor Adventure: Enjoy the beauty of Camp Freedom in Germany while learning through hands-on challenges and activities.

  • Lifelong Impact: Build friendships and connections with fellow youth leaders from around the world.

Registration & Fees

Don’t miss this opportunity to grow as a leader and make lifelong memories! Secure your spot today and join us for an unforgettable experience at NYLT 2025 at Camp Freedom.

Register Now and Lead the Way!

What NYLT Is (and Is Not)

NYLT is not a typical summer camp and is not designed for rank advancement or earning awards. Instead, NYLT is an intense and challenging hands-on leadership training program. It requires participants to be physically, emotionally, and mentally prepared to handle the demands of advanced leadership training. To maximize the benefits of this experience, participants should demonstrate:

  • Emotional maturity and a positive attitude

  • Proficiency in basic camping and outdoor cooking

  • A strong ambition to serve in leadership roles

Eligibility Requirements

To attend NYLT, participants must meet the following criteria:

  • Complete their home Unit’s Introduction to Leadership Skills course*

  • Receive approval from their Unit Leader

  • Be at least 13 years old by the course start date

  • If registered in a Troop, earn First Class rank

  • Have a current Scouting America Health Form (Parts A, B, and C)

  • Be comfortable camping and cooking outdoors

  • Commit to attending the entire six-day course

Introduction to Leadership Skills for Troops (ILST), Crews (ILSC), and Ships (ILSS) should be offered through a Scout’s home unit. Ask your Unit Leader how you can participate in this course.

QUESTIONS?

For specific course details or general inquiries about the NYLT program, please contact Council Training Chair Ray Eden.

Don’t miss this opportunity to grow as a leader and make lifelong memories! Secure your spot today and join us for an unforgettable experience at NYLT 2026 at Camp Freedom.

Special Note: Wood Badge is the premier adult leadership training by Scouting America. Wood Badge 2026 is being conducted at Camp Freedom the same times & dates as NYLT 2026. We recommend leaders promote the double win for their units by sending both youth and adults to these world class training opportunities. It might also simplify travel and transportation for Scouts who want to participate in NYLT.  

2026 NYLT Leadership Team

Dennis Pugh

Dennis Pugh is the Course Direcor for NYLT 2026.

“Camping with Troop 60 along the banks of the Little Miami River, to nights in No-man’s Land, with Troop 80, in the Korean DMZ, through the Cow Pastures of Lebanon Correctional Institute, day dreaming at the tip of the Tooth of Time at Philmont Scout Ranch, and serving as International Staff of the 25th World Scout Jamboree – these are just a few of the amazing experiences encountered over my 40+ years involved in Scouting as a youth and adult. However, through all my Scouting experiences, Brownsea Island (the NYLT of my youth), is the one that has had the most impact over my lifetime. Leadership skills learned in the summer of 1986, skills I use to this day (ask me and I’ll share my 39 year old participant notebook with you). But, my favourite moments in Scouting have been the last few years watching my young ones, Star & Lewis, as they develop and grow. 

Dennis most recently served on the staff of the Transatlantic Council’s 2025 National Youth Leadership Training Course at Camp Freedom.