Assistant Senior Patrol Leader Description and Self Evaluation

The Assistant Senior Patrol Leader is a youth leadership position within a Scouts BSA troop. They serve as an assistant to the Senior Patrol Leader (SPL) and are responsible for helping to plan and execute the troop’s activities and events. The ASPL is also responsible for helping to train and mentor other youth leaders within the troop.

One of the key responsibilities of the ASPL is to help the SPL with the planning and execution of troop meetings and activities. This includes working with other youth leaders to develop the troop’s annual plan and ensuring that each meeting and activity is well-organized and executed smoothly.

Another important role of the Assistant Senior Patrol Leader is to assist with the training and mentoring of other youth leaders within the troop. This includes working with the SPL to develop and implement training programs for new leaders, as well as providing ongoing coaching and support to help them develop their leadership skills.

In addition to their leadership responsibilities, the ASPL is also expected to lead by example and adhere to the Scout Oath and Law. This means setting a positive example for other Scouts by living up to the values of Scouting and demonstrating a strong commitment to service and community.

Overall, the Assistant Senior Patrol Leader is an essential role within a Scouts BSA troop. By working closely with the SPL and other youth leaders, the ASPL helps to ensure that the troop is well-organized, effective, and fulfilling its mission of preparing young people to make ethical and moral choices throughout their lives.

The description below represents an example of the requirements and expectations for this position in one troop. Specifics can vary from one troop to another.

The printable copy also includes a self evaluation form for the position on the second page. Youth leaders might benefit from self evaluating during their term. If you use this, then keep it positive with them. It should only be used to help them recognize areas they should be working on.

This is just an example. Adjust as needed to meet the size, customs, and needs of your unit.

Qualifications:

• Appointed by SPL with Scoutmaster approval
• First Class Rank or higher (not a BSA requirement)

Reports to: Senior Patrol Leader

May not serve two consecutive terms

Assistant Senior Patrol Leader duties:

• Help with leading meetings and activities as called upon by the Senior Patrol Leader.
• Take over troop leadership in the absence of the Senior Patrol Leader.
• Be responsible for training and giving direction to the following youth leaders: Scribe, Librarian, Historian, Quartermaster, Webmaster, Leave Not Trace Trainer, and Chaplain Aide.
• Perform tasks assigned by the Senior Patrol Leader.
• Serve as a member of the Patrol Leaders’ Council. Attendance expectation 65%
• Participate in outings. Attendance expectation 65%
• Attend troop meetings. Attendance expectation 65%
• Set a good example.
• Wear the field uniform (class A) correctly to all regular troop meetings and religious services.
• Wear the activity uniform (class B t-shirt) to all outings and other troop activities.
• Live by the Scout Oath and Law.
• Show Scout spirit.

Click here to download a printable PDF copy of the sample Assistant Senior Patrol Leader Description and Self Evaluation.

Scouts BSA Youth Leadership Positions Video

What does ASPL stand for in Scouting?

ASPL stands for Assistant Senior Patrol Leader. The Assistant Senior Patrol Leader is selected by the Senior Patrol Leader to assist with the youth leadership responsibilities of the troop.

Is there a minimum age or rank requirement for Assistant Senior Patrol Leader?

There is not a minimum set by BSA. However troops may set their own qualifications based on the size of their troop and the maturity of their troop. For example, in a large troop a Tenderfoot would not be considered to have the experience needed to be ASPL.