Here’s a simple guide to the Lowland Leader award, the newest scheme from Mountain Training.

Who’s it for?
The new Lowland Leader award is ideal for teachers, community workers, those involved with DofE….  In fact, anyone who wants to lead summer walking groups in lowland countryside and woodland.

What’s it all about?
As it says on the tin, this award is for those working in the lowlands.  As with all Mountain Training schemes there is no altitude limit, 'lowland' refers to the sort of landscape you will be operating in; fields and woodland where there are clear paths on the map and on the ground.

The training course looks at route-finding skills, an understanding of hazards and risk management, leadership techniques and an appreciation of equipment needs and the impact of weather.

There is an optional Expedition Skills module available for candidates who wish to move on to leading camping trips and supervising groups on backpacking expeditions.

How does it work?
Get some personal experience, do a training course, consolidate your learning, go for assessmen and then continuing developing as a Lowland Leader

The length of time it takes to become a Lowland Leader depends on how much experience you already have. We recommend at least three months between training and assessment and if it takes you a few years to feel ready, that’s fine too.

There are providers the length and breadth of the country so just register with Mountain Training and then find a suitable course.

Mountain Training’s new Hill Skills course can be used as an appropriate starting point prior to attending a training course.

Where is it useful?
The Lowland Leader award can be used anywhere in the UK when you are in appropriate terrain and not straying into moorland and mountain areas where more advanced skills might be needed.

The Lowland Leader award may well be used as an indication of general competence and maturity by employers but it is not a recognised leadership award outside the UK.

Why do it?
The Lowland Leader Award is nationally recognised as a robust, quality assured measure of your competence and will be accepted as such by most employers and authorities.

Where can I find courses?
Find a Course on Mountain Trainings' website nearer the lauch date of April 2014.
 

This article is part of a series of articles celebrating Mountain Training’s 50th anniversary year in 2014.

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