“The patrol method is not a way to operate a Boy Scout troop, it is the ONLY way. Unless the patrol method is in operation, you don't really have a Boy Scout troop.” - Robert Baden-Powell

The patrol method gives Scouts an experience in group living and participating in citizenship. The patrol, not the adults, make most of the decisions including electing the patrol leader. The patrol method places responsibility on young shoulders and teaches Scouts how to accept it. The patrol method allows Scouts to interact in small groups where members can easily relate to each other. These small groups determine troop activities through elected representatives. There are three types of patrols that you may see during Scouting. The New Scout Patrol is made up of crossover Scouts who are new to Scouts BSA. “Regular” Patrols are made up of the rest of the Scouts in the troop. They are usually made up of Scouts of roughly the same age. The final type of patrol is the Venture patrol. Venture patrols usually go on more high-adventure activities and meet outside of normal meeting times.