The Toastmasters International educational programme consists of two tracks:

A Communication Track and a Leadership Track

New members usually join Toastmasters and begin on the Communication Track, and later on participate in the Leadership Track. The tracks are not mutually exclusive. You may participate in one, or both at the same time. When a member has completed the requirements for both tracks, they are eligible to apply for the Distinguished Toastmaster Award.

1) The Communication Track
This track is dedicated to improving speaking and listening skills. The core of the communication track is the Communication and Leadership Programme manual (sometimes known as the "Basic Manual"), which contains 10 speech projects.

Every new member is given this manual and three other mini-manuals when they join Toastmasters:

• Your Speaking Voice
• Effective Speech Evaluation
• Gestures: Your Body Speaks

2) The Leadership Track
This track focuses on development of leadership skills through a variety of club activities. You can serve as a Club leader, developing skills in planning, training, motivating, and managing. You even can become a District Leader, where these skills are further enhanced. You also can participate in the "High Performance Leadership" programme which requires you to conduct a project of your choice in which you serve as a leader, and you can sponsor or mentor a new club. The programme provides study material and activities to complete.

The requirements to achieve each Toastmaster award.

Competent Toastmaster
Complete the Communication and Leadership manual containing 10 speech assignments

Advanced Toastmaster - Bronze
Achieve Competent Toastmaster
Complete 2 Advanced Manuals

Advanced Toastmaster - Silver
Achieve Advanced Toastmaster - Bronze
Complete 2 more Advanced Manuals
Complete 2 Better Speaker/Successful Club Series modules

Advanced Toastmaster - Gold
Achieve Advanced Toastmaster - Silver
Complete 2 more Advanced Manuals
Complete a Success/Communication, Success/Leadership or Youth Leadership program
Coach a new member through their first three speeches

Competent Leader
Achieve Competent Toastmaster
Serve as a Club Officer
Participate in the Club Success Plan
Participate in Club Officer Training
Conduct 2 Successful Club/Leadership Excellence Series modules

Advanced Leader
Achieve Competent Leader
Serve as a District Officer
Complete a High Performance Leadership Program
Serve as a Club Sponsor, Club Mentor or Club Specialist

Distinguished Toastmaster
Achieve Advanced Toastmaster - Gold and Advanced Leader

For more information, go to Toastmasters International Education Programmes.