Mountain Leader (ML) courses in Snowdonia.

Mountain Leader Training (ML), North Wales

The Mountain Leader course will develop your group management strategies, improve your ability to navigate in all conditions, increase your environmental and general mountain knowledge and better equip you to make sound decisions when faced with mountain hazards. There is also an expedition element to the course. Each ML Training course is directed by my myself, Lou Tully with at least one other highly experienced instructor involved during the week. This allows you to gain different insights which help you to form your own opinions. I have a very varied background in the outdoors, working with school groups to adult skills courses, expeditions and everything in-between. I am happy to give advice about working with the Mountain Leader qualification and ways to progress.

What should I expect from a Mountain Leader Training course?

The syllabus is covered in a practical way out in the mountains and supported by indoor lectures when appropriate (don’t worry though- the vast majority of time will be spent outside). An example itinerary is outlined below but the weather will dictate to some extent the order in which aspects will be covered.

Day 1: Introduction to the Mountain Leader scheme and a mountain day to get to know your group.  We will cover a variety of terrain looking at decision making and management on a typical mountain day, with lots of discussion/ chat about interesting mountain related topics that might enthuse and inspire a group.  We will also look at group and leader equipment. We will practise navigation with looking after a group in mind. The day will finish with a discussion about mountain hazards.

Day 2: We will begin by looking at the weather to aid our planning and then head out for a day focussed on navigation. We will start by thinking about ways to teach navigation, not just technically, but also how to engage and put our group at ease. We will then move on to challenge your personal navigation.

Day 3: The focus of today will be on group management and hazards of steep ground. We will look at route finding and protecting party members in ascent and descent without using a rope, as well as well as strategies/ activities to gain information about our group and improve their ability.

Day 4: Today we will cover less ground but focus our time looking at how to safeguard a group in ascent and descent using a rope. We will finish the day by discussing legal issues relating to mountain leaders and preparing for tomorrows camp.

Days 5 and 6: This involves a mini expedition with a night navigation practise and overnight wild camp. We will continue to look at group management and navigation as well as mountain safety, emergency procedures and water hazards.  We will finish the week with individual debriefs and make sure that you leave the course feeling confident about how to go about preparing for assessment.

Throughout the week there will be a strong focus on environmental issues/ general mountin knowledge and many chances to recap and hone your skills.

Dates 2024

15th-20th April

4th-6th and 17th-19th May modular course.

3rd-8th June

1st-6th July

5th-10th August

9th-14th September

7th-12th October

If you would prefer an alternative date then please get in touch and I will see what I can arrange.

Pre-requisites for Mountain Leader Training

Before attending a Mountain Leader Training course you must fulfil the following:

Have at least 12 months experience in hill walking.
Have logged at least 20 quality days walking in the mountains.
Be at least 18 years of age.
Have registered with Mountain Training (www.mountain-training.org).

More information on the above can be found from Mountain Training.

Cost

£395 non residential

Most of the courses are based at Capel Tanrallt which is a converted Welsh chapel. It has great access to the quieter parts of Northern Snowdonia/ Eryri and is a 15 minute drive from Caernarfon. It is possible to book a bed for a discounte rate of £22.50/night. The rooms sleep 2 or 3 people with no bunk beds. There is a large kitchen for self catering and two lounges. There is also a drying room and kit storage room to make sure that you are as comfortable as possible during the week.

 

Please contact Freedom Outdoors for more information on our Mountain Leader Training (ML), North Wales, or to discuss your requirements and make a booking.

Mountain TrainingBMCAMI
I did my Mountain Leader training with Lou (and Stu) last week - Lou was incredible - so full of knowledge and information, and a fantastic teacher to boot. The course was well structured, suited to the participants, and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend her to anyone looking to advance their skills in the mountains. I will certainly look to Lou for future courses / CPD and ML assessment. Thanks Lou - so much fun! :)
Kevin Roberts
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