I've only been a trained leader for a short time. When my son and I joined our troop, the troop leadership (both boy and adult) had previously determined that we needed to form mixed patrols (new scouts with older boys). They believed that this structure would make it easier for the younger boys to relate to the older boys for guidance, advancement, and leadership. I know that the BSA structure SM handbook recommends there SHOULD be a new scout patrol and the older patrols and troop leadership would help this new patrol live the scouting experience. Even though my son has definately benefit