There is something very rewarding and satisfying about teaching … watching students learn, develop and further their skills (in this case – all things navigational!). Although originally intended for youngsters (16+) undertaking their Duke of Edinburgh Awards in mind, with limited resources of their own, it is open to anyone with a good level of fitness, a real desire to learn and a passion for the fells. The ratio of myself to the group is up to 1:4. This has been a learning curve for me too; I am always seeking ways to improve and fine-tune the course, and thus have put greater emphasis on pre-lesson homework. I genuinely do believe that I have come up with something special(?). 

Once you have mastered the principles of navigation, I guarantee you will look at the map in an entirely different way and begin to understand the wealth of information it tells you. This will enable you to start planning your own walks tailor-made to your own or your group’s requirements.

The syllabus is entirely my creation, focusing exclusively on navigation (although I am more than happy to discuss kit, health & safety and environmental matters informally en route) and is to a level that matches the NNAS Gold standard. One key advantage of the programme is that the gap between lessons gives participants time to revisit any area that needs more study. 

Broken down into six manageable parts, each part introduces a different major aspect of navigation. Oh yes … there are six fantastic walks in the bargain!  Although this is FREE, some have donated (ENTIRELY VOLUNTARILY) to our club in the past, with ALL proceeds being put back into the course. My ambition isn’t driven by commerce, but to pass on what I know so future generations can get the most out of our magnificent outdoors.

LAST REVISED 2023

 

SAMPLES:

Follow-Up Routes =

I have compiled a four-part series of walks for the students who have completed the above. These are self-led and intended to provide vital practice and build confidence. There is one for each of  the ‘Big Four’ areas … Peaks, Dales, Lakes and Snowdonia. Additionally, I have produced a practice night walk on my own doorstep … I promise it will test your ‘kit & wit'(?)!

This is in no way intended to replace any official course, but merely to give an introduction to the terminology and features of the hills … applying what is on the map to what is on the ground. It is hoped to give participants confidence and inspiration. They may well then wish to embark on a formal qualification(?).

I have included a night navigation lesson. It can be immense fun but has a very practical and serious application. It usually takes place in the Winter months, starting in the afternoon and running into the early evening.

Kit requirements: Clothing and footwear appropriate for the hills are mandatory (ie. boots, waterproofs, warm fleece etc.). You will also need a packed lunch. The only technical kit required is: a SILVA TYPE 4 compass (nothing more basic or fancier!) and a head-torch for night navigation. The club owns plenty of spares of both, which I can lend out. I will issue (in advance) everyone with a digital printout of the relevant area. I have also compiled some comprehensive training notes* that accompany each lesson. You may wish to buy your own OS map (the best maps on earth!) for your personal reference and to kick-start your collection. The maps covering the course are: OL1, OL19, OL21, OL24 & 287 (additionally for practice routes: OL2, OL4 & OL18).  If you own a GPS, then leave it at home … you won’t need it!

  … we use happy mappys, not crappy appys ..