Preface. Acknowledgments

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3 Preface Mountain Training England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Ireland (MTE, MTNI, MTS, MTC and BOS) are the bodies designated to facilitate hillwalking, climbing and mountaineering training in their respective countries. They operate a range of training schemes that cover the varying levels of expertise in both walking and climbing. This booklet contains all the information needed to progress through the Trail Walk Leader Scheme. It is designed to support knowledge and experience of candidates. It doesn t prescribe set methods or techniques and this is left to the individual to decide what is appropriate for any given situation. There are many technical manuals for walkers that show the range of techniques, see appendix Acknowledgments Many people were involved with the creation of this scheme, either through MT meetings or by making constructive comments on the draft forms. Thanks are due to Andy Say of MTE for an earlier draft and Tim Orr of BOS who freely allowed the use of an earlier form of a similar award. 2

4 Contents Introduction 4 Scope of the scheme 4 Outside the scope of the scheme 5 Going beyond the scope of the scheme 6 Stages in the scheme 7 Become a member of a mountaineering council 7 Registration 7 Training 8 Consolidation period 8 Assessment 9 Exemption 10 Equal Opportunities 11 Complaints and appeals 11 Syllabus 12 Walking Skills 12 Planning a walk 12 Basic map work and route finding 13 Equipment 14 Hazards and emergency procedures 14 Leadership style and group management 15 Environmental awareness, access and land ownership 16 Example training and assessment course 17 Bibliography 18 3

5 Introduction Mountain Training s Trail Walk Leaders scheme (TWL) is a nationally accredited training and assessment scheme developed and administered by five Mountain Training boards across Ireland and the UK. It is a part of a national framework of schemes for those leading and instructing walking, climbing and mountaineering. This scheme is designed to train and assess those taking their first steps into the world of leading groups on day walks, along clearly defined tracks and trails, in forests, coast and countryside during summer conditions. The scheme complements and supports the Walking Group Leader Scheme (WGL) and the Mountain Leader Scheme (ML). Scope of the scheme The scope defines the area in which trail walk leadership (as defined by this scheme) takes place and hence the syllabus for training. When planning and executing a trail walking route, the scope of the scheme should be considered in its entirety. No single statement should be used in isolation to justify the selection of a route (see the out of scope setion). The scheme trains candidates to safely lead others on walks that fit the following scope: 4

6 The walks are in terrain with minimal hazards and the leader is likely to be no further than one or two hours walk from a place where assistance can be gained. The walks will require from the leader, the ability to plan, carry out simple tasks using a map and compass and to be self-sufficient for extended periods of the day. Suitable walks utilise paths, tracks and trails in forests, coast and open-countryside that are: Marked on a map Way marked routes, tracks and trails with obvious navigational features that may or may not have directional markings. They do not require navigation across untracked hillsides (trails are distinct from a path that can be defined as a line, visible on the ground that has probably evolved through repeated human or animal footfall, resulting in the gradual loss of vegetation and/or soil). The walks are undertaken during summer conditions. Winter and summer are not defined by a period of the year, and winter is when snow and ice predominates and the skills of winter mountaineering are required. Outside the scope of the scheme The training for the scheme does not cover the techniques and skills required to safely lead others on: Sections of a walk where there is not a well-worn distinct track/trail or the path is hidden by snow. Hill and mountain terrain unless the track/trail is well worn, clearly defined, marked on the map and has 5

7 minimal hazards and low risk e.g. no steep drops or unstable paths Trails that enter terrain where there is the possibility that the leader will be required to use complex navigation techniques, such as the ability to walk on a compass bearing and to be able to recognize complex land relief and contours (See the WGL award for training to lead others in this terrain). Where the trail enters terrain that may require, in addition to the above, the ability to cope with steep ground the Mountain Leader award is the appropriate award. For further information on the scope of the WGL and the ML see Going beyond the scope of the scheme The scope defines the area in which Trail Walk Leadership (as defined by this scheme) takes place and hence the syllabus for training. Where a walk enters terrain outside the scope of this scheme it is possible for an experienced TWL, with 12 Months or more active experience, to be approved by a technical advisor to go beyond the scope of the scheme. The technical advisor must be a provider approved by Mountain Training to train for the WGL or ML award (contact the relevant Mountain Training Office for further information). Where leaders or employers have doubts about the scope of the scheme they should contact a Mountain 6

8 Training board or an approved Provider of the TWL scheme. Stages in the scheme 1. Register for the scheme with mountain Training Registration and training may be completed at age 16. Assessment may be taken at 17, but the successful candidate can only lead under the direct supervision of a TWL until they are 18 year of age. 2. Gain relevant experience prior to attending a training/assessment course Have undertaken an absolute minimum of ten unguided and varied walks during the twelve-month period prior to training. These walks must be within the scope of the scheme and where the use of a map is required. The training course is not an introduction to using a map or a walking course and candidates must come with the basic skills required for navigation and walking on tracks and trails. Attending a basic navigation course or a Mountain Skills Level 1 course would benefit those candidates not versed in using a map and compass. Finding an experienced mentor who can help you through the scheme would also be beneficial. 3. Attend TWL training course (The minimum trainer/student ratio is 4 and maximum is 1:8) 7

9 The actual format of the training is up to the provider of the scheme but it should have 20 hours of actual contact time (excluding breaks and travel time). At the end of the training all candidates will be given individual advice on additional experience that they should consider gaining. This may include gaining confidence by shadowing an experienced walks leader. 4. Consolidation Period Candidates are advised that there is a period of consolidation between training and assessment. This period is not defined by a length of time, but should be sufficient for candidates to review the content of their training course and to feel confident of their ability to lead groups in the terrain defined by the scheme. All candidates must meet the below assessment prerequirements. The requirements are the absolute minimum and successful candidates usually have experience in excess of the requirements. a. Candidates must have and logged an absolute minimum of 5 extra walks (some in adverse weather) that have not been completed prior to training. Duplicate walks are not acceptable and they should encompass a breadth of different terrains i.e. coast, forest, open countryside. b. Candidates are also required to show evidence of leading a minimum of five different walks with a variety of groups (a group is 4 or more people) involving leadership and navigational judgments and the majority must be with people and/or groups with whom the trainee is unfamiliar with. The trainer will give you advice on how to gain this experience. c. Some non Ireland/UK experience may be included, but 70% of the total walks in your logbook should be in Ireland/UK and be unguided. Normally these days would 8

10 be considered as additional experience and should not form a substantial part of the required total. First aid requirements Prior to the assessment course the candidate must attend a minimum of a one-day first aid course but it is recommended that a 2-day course with an element of outdoor first aid is done. 5. Attend a 16 hour TWL assessment (The minimum trainer/student ratio is 4 and maximum is 1:6) The actual format of contact time is up to the provider of the scheme. Candidates are tested in accordance with the syllabus and should ensure they are familiar with it before attending the course. The course provider will endorse the logbook with an assessment report page and make appropriate recommendations. Attendance will be recorded by the Provider and sent to the Training Office where candidates will be added to Mountain Training s database. The Course provider endorses the logbook with an assessment report and makes appropriate recommendations. The assessment report will take one of three forms: Pass: awarded where the candidate has demonstrated appropriate knowledge and application of the course syllabus and has shown the necessary experience and attributes of Day Walks Leadership. The course provider attaches a numbered and dated sticker to the endorsement page. 9

11 Defer: awarded where the candidate has generally performed well and has shown the necessary experience and attributes, but where complete proficiency has not been attained in certain aspects of the syllabus or where a lack of experience has been identified. Fail: awarded where the candidate s performance has been generally weak, or the necessary experience and attributes have not been shown. In the case of a deferral, candidates are encouraged to return to the original assessment Provider, but can be re-assessed by any assessment Provider. Practical re-assessments cannot take place within three months of the initial assessment. All deferrals must be completed within five years. Only two re-assessments are permitted before having to take the entire assessment again Exemption from training or consolidation For those transferring to this scheme from WGL training or ML training, or any other suitable experienced candidates there is the opportunity to be exempted from some or all aspects of the training or consolidation period. To gain exemption, apply direct to the relevant training office. 10

12 Equal Opportunities Mountain Training is committed to promoting equal opportunities for all participants in walking, climbing and mountaineering. Candidates, trainers and assessors will express a positive attitude towards equal opportunities and act as positive role models. See the web sites for more information. Complaints and appeals procedure To be added 11

13 Syllabus Each section is described in terms of learning outcomes - these indicate what the candidate is expected to know, understand or be able to do in order to pass the scheme. 1. Walking Skills a) Demonstrate personal fitness to cope with a day long walk as described by the scope of the award b) Be able to explain the benefits of walking to health, fitness and well being c) Set a sensible pace for the group d) Accommodate walking with people of different ages and abilities. 2. Planning a walk Adequate planning of a walk is crucial to the enjoyment and safety of the participants and the confidence of the leader. It can vary from a few minutes thought to a pen and paper exercise. When planning a walk, a leader should consider the group s abilities, the terrain to be covered, the weather forecast and plan for any potential emergencies. a. Understand the scope of the scheme and what to do when the path becomes indistinct and /or signs are missing. b. Know where to find information on planned walks c. Understand common health problems and disabilities and the impact they may have on the walk d. Walking with dogs, baby buggies and wheelchairs. 12

14 e. Explain why and when third party liability insurance is necessary f. Weather forecasts - where to find them, what they mean and what impact might they have on your planned walk g. Be able to undertake simple risk/benefit assessments both in the planning stage and during the journey h. Demonstrate awareness of relevant policies, guidance and behavior when involved in large walking festivals and events. 3. Basic map work and route finding skills Candidates should be able to: a. Use a variety of commonly used maps, scales, symbols b. Understand how to find uphill and downhill sections using contours and printed heights. c. Understand and provide six figure grid references d. Find which direction to walk in by orientating the map in relation to surrounding features or with a compass. e. Use the compass to determine the direction of a trail or feature f. Find out how far apart two points are on the map and calculate how long it will take to walk between them g. Understand tick off and catching features and how to use them to aid route finding. h. Recognise features such as walls and streams on a map i. Navigate competently in the dark and/or poor weather j. Identify where you are k. Have a strategy for when you are lost l. Understand the issues of using a GPS 13

15 4. Equipment Leaders should be familiar with and be able to advise participants on: a. Suitable personal clothing and equipment b. Additional equipment carried by the leader c. Appropriate food and liquids to carry d. Use of walking poles e. Appropriate maps and compasses? 5. Hazards and emergency procedures Leaders should be familiar with and able to deal with the following hazards: Badly eroded wet or uneven sections Obstacles on the path such as stiles, stepped decking and steps Animals, Roads and traffic Other users e.g. runners, bikers and horses Poor visibility The leader should be able to: a. Select an appropriate first aid kit b. Deal with common injuries and medical problems c. Manage self and group in inclement weather d. Action appropriate procedures in the event of an accident 6. Leadership skills and group management The leader should be aware of: a. Their responsibilities to the group, parents/guardians, employing authorities, other outdoor users and the 14

16 general public, including the choosing of venues, planning of routes and understanding medical conditions b. Current legislation that relates to the care of groups under their charge, including legislation relating to the care of young people and vulnerable adults. c. Understand the barriers to participations including mental and physical disability, ethnicity, fitness/health d. Evaluate the progress of those under their charge and motivate them towards further participation where appropriate e. Be aware of walking with a variety of groups including: people with a mental and/or physical disability; the young and the old f. Describe national walking initiatives such as Britain on foot or Get Ireland Walking g. Communicate effectively and have strategies to deal with challenging behaviour h. Know where to find information on the local heritage such as history, place names, myths and legends 7. Environmental awareness, conservation, access and land ownership Access considerations Leaders should understand and be familiar with the following: a. The Country Code, other associated codes and their responsibility to minimise impact on the environment b. Current legislation concerning access to the countryside including the law relating to rights of way, CRoW and the nature of specially designated areas and limitations on their use c. How and where to get information about access to the countryside e.g. from appropriate guidebooks, maps and 15

17 Mountain Training bodies, local and national access Forums and from the various countryside agencies Environmental awareness Leaders should seek to develop and extend their: Knowledge of countryside flora and fauna Understanding of how walking can impact on the environment and other people Understand programmes such as Leave No Trace and apply their principles in order to minimize the impact of TWL activities 16