Senior Patrol Leader

Role Summary

The Senior Patrol Leader (SPL) is the top elected youth leader of the troop. The SPL presides over troop meetings, the Patrol Leaders’ Council (PLC), and the annual program planning conference. This Scout represents the troop and sets the tone for youth leadership throughout the unit. The SPL works closely with the Scoutmaster but runs the troop on a day-to-day basis.

Requirements

Selection: Elected by the Scouts of the troop
Rank: Must be First Class or higher (per BSA policy)
Term: Typically six months; may be re-elected
Training: Should complete Introduction to Leadership Skills for Troops (ILST) and Troop Leadership Training

Core Responsibilities

Preside over all troop meetings, events, and activities
Chair the Patrol Leaders’ Council (PLC) and lead program planning
Appoint other troop youth leaders with the advice and consent of the Scoutmaster
Assign duties and responsibilities to other youth leaders
Assist the Scoutmaster in providing leadership to the troop
Set a positive example in Scout Spirit, uniforming, and personal conduct
Encourage Scouts to advance in rank and participate in troop activities
Represent the troop at the annual program planning conference

Reports To / Works With

Relationship	Role
Reports to	Scoutmaster
Works with	Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Patrol Leaders
Leads	Patrol Leaders’ Council (all PLs, ASPL, and troop youth leaders)
Adult support	Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmasters

Key Resources

Resource	Description
BSA Troop Leader Guidebook	Official guidance on SPL duties and troop operations
Introduction to Leadership Skills for Troops (ILST)	BSA training course for troop youth leaders
Patrol Leaders’ Council Handbook	Planning and meeting resources for the PLC