National Air Cadets Adventure Training Centre
36 Park Road
Windermere
Cumbria
LA23 2BJ
Tel: 01539 444946
Fax: 01539 444946
email: aco-advtrg-windermere-admin@mod.uk
www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets
20111216-courses yearly programme-u
See Distribution
16 Dec 11
AIR CADETS ADVENTURE TRAINING SCHEME – INSTRUCTORS COURSES PROGRAMME FY 2012/2013
1.
Introduction. A variety of outdoor activity instructor courses for ACO adult staff of all
ranks including CIs, Instructor Cadets (over 18 yrs old) and staff from CCF (RAF) sections,
have been arranged to help and encourage individuals to work towards and ultimately gain
nationally recognized qualifications, to instruct/lead adventure training activities. Adult
members of The Sea Cadets and Army Cadet Force are invited to apply and will be allocated
places on a “fill up basis”. The courses will be held at the following centres:
Centre
a.
National Air Cadets Adventure
Training Centre Windermere
Courses
Mountain Leader (Summer) ML(S)
Introductory, Training, Pre-Assessment and
Assessment. Single Pitch Award (SPA)
Training and Assessment, Rock Climbing
Skills, ‘Top up your Log Book’ mountain
walking. Mountain leader workshop
Introduction to Paddlesport, Introduction to
Moving Water, Paddlesport Development,
Walking Group Leader (WGL) Training may be
available later in the programme TBC.
b.
National Air Cadets Adventure
Training Centre Llanbedr
Introduction to Paddlesport, , Introduction to
Sea Kayak, Introduction to Moving Water,
more moving water ‘Top up your Log Book'
mountain walking
c.
Joint School for Adventurous
Training Instructors (JSATI) Llanrwst
ML(S) Training and Assessment.
Joint Service Canoe Instructor Level 1 (Kayak)
d.
National Air Cadets Adventure
Training Centres Windermere and
Llanbedr
On an ad hoc basis individual groups may use the
Centres as a base to gain “Quality Mountain Days
(QMD)” using spare capacity during Instructor
Course weeks, this includes staff who hold the
ML(S) award who wish to undertake Continuing
Personal Development (CPD) or maintain currency.
1
2.
A.
Course Programme. The programme of courses and dates is detailed at Annex
3.
Course Allocations and Applications. Candidates must complete the attached
Form AT1 2012/13, obtain their Sqn Cmdr signature then send it to Wing HQ. Wing HQs
should authorise the form (or not) with consultation with their WATTO if appropriate,
inform the candidate of the outcome including any caveats (eg rail travel only) then send it
to Windermere Admin by the bids by date. Candidates must not apply direct to HQAC or
to the Centres, however they may inform Windermere Admin for planning purposes that
their application form is in the system, the form AT1 2012/13 must be completed and
submitted via Wing HQs. No other form of application will be accepted eg telephone, or
applications submitted on incorrect forms. It is the responsibility of the candidate to
ensure the original copy and log book copies (if appropriate to the course being
applied for) reaches Windermere Admin by the bids by date. The Chief Instructor will
make the final allocation from the applications and information received, therefore it is in
the interest of each applicant to complete the forms correctly and send the log book
copies if appropriate. The bid by date will be strictly adhered to for FY 2012/13 due to
varying factors eg budget restraints and staff shortages.
Work is underway to devise an application system via BADER, until this is created and
trialled applications should continue as above, Wings and WATTOs will be informed once
the BADER system is in place.
4.
All applicants will be contacted by e-mail about their allocation as soon as is practical
after the ‘bids by’ date for applications. However, applicants are advised not to wait until this
date to make arrangements for leave from their employment or college/university If a
candidate finds themselves unable to attend the course at any time after submitting their
application they must contact Windermere Admin immediately and not wait until contacted
after the ‘bids by date’. Individual bids will not be acknowledged upon receipt, however,
applicants are more than welcome to check with Windermere Admin that their Form AT1
has arrived. It is usual to allocate a place to all applicants who have the correct pre-course
requirements and have been authorised to attend by their Wing HQs. Due to the cost and
commitment of employing instructors, applications for courses received after the “bids by
date” WILL NOT be considered. You must include an e-mail address as the offer of places
will be made by this means (it is your own interest to write this clearly). The e-mail
address of a third party should be used by those with no e-mail contact. Please ensure if
work telephone numbers are given that “private” calls are accepted and if mobile numbers
are given with a message service that this service will be checked on a regular basis and the
e-mail address is also checked. Candidates will be asked to reply to Windermere Admin to
advise if they accept their offered place or not, if replies are not received by the date given in
the e-mail then the candidate will be removed from the course list.
5.
Courses Eligibility and Pre-Course Requirements. All RAFVR(T) officers, adult
warrant officers, adult sergeants, civilian instructors, Instructor Cadets (over 18 yrs old), and
adult staff from the Combined Cadet Force, Army Cadet Force Association and the Sea
Cadets are eligible to attend these courses. Candidates must be physically fit to undergo
strenuous outdoor activity. Personal fitness is of paramount importance. Course directors
will not hesitate to send students home who do not measure up to the course fitness
2
standards. In addition, candidates must meet the following requirements appropriate to the
course they wish to apply for.
a.
ML(S) Introductory. Candidates must have an interest in hill walking and
want to find out more about how to develop group management skills, the ability to
navigate in all conditions, gain an understanding of how to deal with mountain
hazards and increase awareness of environmental issues. Candidates do not need
to be registered with Mountain Leader Training UK for this course. However, they
must register and obtain a log book before applying for a ML(S) Training Course.
The experience gained on a ML(S) Introductory can be entered in the logbook after
registration. If not registered candidates should still be acquainted with the 4 stages
of the ML(S) scheme. All details including the registration process can be found on
the Mountain Leader Training UK web site www.mltuk.org or by e-mail
info@mltuk.org or telephone 01690 720272.
b.
ML(S) Training Courses. Before applying for a Training Course candidates
MUST register with the MLT UK, obtain a logbook and fill in their pre-training hillwalking experience which must be a minimum of 20 Quality Mountain Days (QMDs)
and send copies of such with their application form. On or near the course ‘bids by
date’ the ML(S) training application, on Form AT1 attached will be processed by
Windermere Admin, who will confirm training course bids received, direct with the
candidates concerned by e-mail. The Course Directors will confirm from the
logbook scrutiny that the candidate has gained sufficient pre-course experience
before confirming eligibility for a place on the course. It is the candidates’
responsibility to ensure their logbook inserts are sent with their Form AT1. For a
training course to be viable a minimum of 4 students is an essential
requirement.
c.
ML(S) Pre-Assessment. Candidates must have completed a ML(S) Training
Course at a centre approved by MLT UK, or have obtained exemption from training.
The aim of the course is to provide personnel who have completed a training course
with an opportunity to work under the guidance of an experienced leader in more
difficult hill country, practice the skills learned during training and prepare for
assessment.
d.
ML(S) Assessment: Prior to attending an assessment candidates must
have completed a ML(S) Training Course, or have obtained exemption.
Additionally, they must have logged an absolute minimum of 40 Quality Mountain
Days This experience should be gained in at least three different regions of the UK
and Ireland and should include at least eight nights camping, four nights of which
should be wild camping. Experience gained in other mountain activities is useful
but not a pre-requisite. Although walking in other countries is valuable experience
the remit of the ML(S) scheme is confined to the UK. A current first aid certificate
with at least 16 hours training and an element of assessment must also be held.
Copies of log book entries and first aid certificate must be sent with the application
Form AT1. On or near the course ‘bids by date’ the ML(S) assessment application,
on Form AT1 attached will be processed by Windermere Admin, who will confirm
assessment course bids received, direct with the candidates concerned by e-mail.
The Course Directors will confirm from the logbook scrutiny that the candidate has
3
gained sufficient pre-course experience before confirming eligibility for a place on
the course. It is the candidates’ responsibility to ensure their logbook inserts and
first aid certificate are sent with their Form AT1. For an assessment course to be
viable a minimum of 4 students is an essential requirement.
The MLT UK Handbook give advice on QMDs and a quick guide can be found at
Enclosure 1.
e.
WGL Training. Candidates with an interest in WGL Training are to contact
NACATC Windermere to register their interest. The Chief Instructor at Windermere
will advise on pre-course requirements and subject to finding the minimum number
of candidates needed may be able to arrange a course later on in the course
programme.
f.
“Top up your Log Book” Mountain Walking. An opportunity to gain
‘quality mountain days’ for prospective ML(S) candidates and trainees in North
Wales and the Lake District. Candidates should be registered with the MLT UK and
must have attended at least an ML(S) Introductory course.
g.
ML Workshops A two day workshop focused on specific areas of the ML
syllabus for example two days of steep ground party management and ML rope
work or two days of navigation strategies and tactics including night navigation.
h.
Rock Climbing Skills Course. The aim of the course is to introduce
candidates to the techniques of lead climbing on single and multi-pitch routes. It is
a foundation course for people to gain sufficient climbing skills to enter the SPA
scheme or to enhance personal skills towards SPA Assessment. This course will
be practical every day with evening lectures. Students will undergo 5 days of
strenuous dynamic activity; personal fitness is, therefore, of paramount
importance. Prior to attending the course candidates should be able to fit a
harness and operate a belay plate, be able to use a Climbing Guide Book and
interpret the grading system and should also be able to tie the following knots:
-
Bowline
-
Fig 8 on bight and rethread
-
Clove hitch
-
Alpine Butterfly
-
Overhand Knot
-
Italian Hitch
-
Double Fisherman’s
-
Stopper Knot
4
-
Prussik Loop
-
Double Fig 8 on a bight (Bunny knot)
Candidates should also have read the following books:
The MLT UK Official Handbook Rock Climbing, Essential Skills &
Techniques.
Manual of Modern Rope Techniques by Nigel Shepherd, Constable
Books.
The Handbook of Climbing by Fyffe and Peters, Pelham Books.
i.
Single Pitch Award (SPA) Training. Candidates wishing to register with
the Award should have a genuine interest in rock climbing and the supervision of
groups on single pitch crags, have at least 12 months experience of rock climbing
and be an individual or club member of a Mountaineering Council. Candidates
must register for Single Pitch Award Training with the organisation which covers
their home nation before applying for a training course and have led at least 15
graded climbs outdoors on routes where protection is leader-placed. Courses are 2
days long and include evening sessions (20 hours contact time) and run with a
minimum of 4 candidates and a maximum of 8. The Training Course is for
potential leaders and assumes basic competence as a rock climber with
experience of leading climbs. To register you must meet the pre registration
requirements above, contact MLT UK web site www.mltuk.org or by e-mail
info@mltuk.org or telephone 01690 720272. On or near the ‘bids by date’ the SPA
Training application on Form AT1 attached will be processed by Windermere
Admin, who will confirm Training course bids received, direct with the candidates
concerned by e-mail. The Course Director will confirm from the log book scrutiny
that the candidate has gained sufficient pre-course experience before confirming
eligibility for the place on the course. It is the candidates’ responsibility to ensure
their pre-course experience details are sent with their Form AT1. For the SPA
Training Course to be viable a minimum of 4 students is an essential
requirement.
j.
Single Pitch Award (SPA) Assessment. Prior to attending an assessment
candidates must have completed a SPA Training Course, or have obtained
exemption. Additionally, they must have logged an absolute minimum of 40 climbs
on outdoor crags on leader – placed protection. A substantial number of these
must be at least Severe grade and they should be on a variety of rock types. The
candidate must also be able to show evidence of having assisted with the
supervision of climbing for approximately 20 sessions at a variety of locations,
some outside and some indoors (a session is a half day or evening). A current first
aid certificate with at least 16 hours training and an element of assessment must
also be held. Copies of log book entries and first aid certificate must be sent with
the application Form AT1. On or near the course ‘bids by date’ the SPA
assessment application, on Form AT1 attached will be processed by Windermere
Admin, who will confirm assessment course bids received, direct with the
5
candidates concerned by e-mail. The Course Director will confirm from the logbook
scrutiny that the candidate has gained sufficient pre-course experience before
confirming eligibility for a place on the course. It is the candidates’ responsibility to
ensure their logbook inserts and first aid certificate are sent with their Form AT1.
For an assessment course to be viable a minimum of 4 students is an
essential requirement.
k.
Joint Service Canoe Instructor Level 1 Award (Kayak). The aim of the
course is to train and assess personnel in the skills required to safely introduce
others to kayaking activities as part of an authorised AT programme on very
sheltered water. Candidates must of a good BCU 2 Star standard, hold a current
First Aid certificate (which includes Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and
Expired Air Ventilation (EAV)) and, ideally, have gained some experience of
assisting a qualified instructor. Candidates will be tested for the Canoe Safety Test
during the course (if not held) which must be passed to achieve the Joint Service
Canoe Instructor Level 1 Award. Although this award will limit instructors to
teaching Cadet or Regular Force personnel only, it is less restrictive than the new
BCU Level I Coach Award. It may be possible for candidates to be tested for some
of the BCU Level 1 Coach requirements but this will be confirmed once the BCU
have published their roll-out programme. It will not be necessary to be a member of
the BCU. Although this course is designated for Kayak paddlers, if there is
sufficient demand, it may be possible to for the course to be held in Open Boats.
Evidence of the pre-course requisites must accompany the Form AT1.
l.
Introduction to Paddlesport. The aim of this course is to provide an
introduction to Canoe and Kayak skills for those who have done little or no
canoeing or kayaking, but would like to gain personal experience with a view to
developing as an Instructor in the future. The course content will be designed to
meet the requirements/previous experience of the candidates attending. Bearing
this in mind this course will concentrate on building up personal skills with the aim
of each candidate achieving a Star Award by the end of the week. Candidates are
advised to have read relevant chapters of the BCU Canoe and Kayak Handbook.
m.
Paddlesport Development. The will be a demand lead course
concentrating on BCU 2-4 Star development, FSRT and BCU Level 1 and 2 Coach
training/assessment depending on numbers interested and availability of
instructors. Initial expressions of interest are to be made to Sqn Ldr Chris Conley
Tel: 07734 659033 e-mail chrisconleyorg@yahoo.com. There will be a cost to this
course and you will be advised of the application process, cost and further details
by Sqn Ldr Conley.
n.
Introduction to Moving Water Kayak/Canoe (BCU 3 star). The aim of
these courses is to facilitate the transition of the flat water paddler to the moving
water environment. The pre-course requirement is to hold the new BCU 2 Star - or
old BCU 3 Star (relevant craft) or to be of an equivalent standard. The course
content will develop personal skills, safety skills and river knowledge, with the aim
of allowing each candidate to be a competent member of a party paddling on
moving water. 3 Star assessments will be available to those who reach the
required standard during the course. Candidates are advised to have read relevant
chapters of the BCU Canoe and Kayak handbook.
6
o.
Introduction to Sea Kayaking (BCU 3 Star Sea). The aim of this course is
to introduce paddlers to the skills, including journey planning and camping, required
to paddle safety on the sea. Applicants should be confident and fit paddlers and
hold the new BCU 2 Star – or old 3 Star certificates or be of an equivalent standard.
p.
More Moving Water The aim of this course is to provide the candidate with
the opportunity to develop their moving water skills. Due to the boat control required
the candidate will need to hold the new BCU 3 star award in there chosen
craft.(canoe/kayak) This course will give students the chance to develop personal
paddling skills on moving water and is an ideal opportunity for those wishing to
develop their skills further
q.
QMD Experience. Subject to bed availability, groups of 4 or more people
may apply direct to either Centre on an ad hoc basis during advertised vacant weeks
or during Instructor Courses to use the Centres as a base for gaining QMDs. Groups
will need to be self sufficient ie self cater and arrange their own routes. The Chief
Instructors will be able to offer advice on routes, provide equipment but will not be
able to accompany the groups. Travel, pay and rations will fall to Wing HQs
concerned. Any group wishing to use a NACATC for this purpose should contact the
Centre staff direct to make arrangements.
6.
Cost of NGB Registration and Certificates/Awards. Any NGB registration fees
or cost of awards or certificates are the responsibility of individual candidates. There is no
charge for Joint Service Awards.
7.
Travel/Pay. These courses are officially recognized and accordingly, travel is
authorized at public expense subject to approval from Wing HQs and pay for RAFVR(T)
officers, WOs and Adult Sgts within entitlements.
8.
Joining Instructions. Course Joining Instructions will be sent direct to candidates’
by e-mail, copied to Wing HQs concerned with course programme, nominal roll and any
other relevant information once the whole course is in place and confirmed.
9.
Postscript. Cancellation of an allocated place for what ever reason can affect
other participants and can lead to the unnecessary employment of outside instructors and
in some cases the cancellation of the course if the numbers drop below the required
amount. All candidates should bear this in mind before applying and/or accepting a place
on a course. Civilian organisations charge upwards of £350 for one-week instructor
training/assessment so these courses have a high value – don’t waste it.
If in doubt about any of your nominations meeting the pre-course requirements, or you are
unsure about any aspect of the courses, before submitting an application do not hesitate
to ring the Windermere Centre for advice/guidance, Tel: 01539 444946 or Wg Cdr Phys
Ed at HQ Air Cadets on 01400 267622, or e-mail: aco-advtrgctr-windermere-admin@mod.uk
7
Original signed
M Jackson
Windermere Admin
For COS AC
Annex:
A.
Outdoor Instructors Course Programme - FY 2012/2013
Enclosures
1.
2.
Quality Mountain Days
HQAC Form AT1 (FY 2012/13
Distribution:
All ACRHQs*
ACATTP members*
HQ Air Cadets – Sqn Ldr CCF*
All WATTOs*
All Wing HQs*
ACAF Adv Trg Off – Lt Col Richard Ayres*
The Sea Cadets Adv Trg Off*
JSATI Llanrwst*
MLT UK Snowdonia Office*
HQ Air Cadets
- ACFO*
- MC AIO Webmaster*
All Sqns and DFs via Wing HQs*
NACATCs Chief Instructors*
Admin Assistants*
Centre Support Staff*
Centre Instructors*
8
OUTDOOR INSTRUCTORS COURSE PROGRAMME – FY 2012/2013
Course
No
Centre
Assemble
Disperse
Course
Training
Peak
Max Min
Send To
Windermere
Admin
by
T1/12
Windermere
Sun 18 Mar 12
Fri 23 Mar 12
Introduction to Paddlesport
12
4
3 Feb 12
T2/12
Windermere
Sun 18 Mar 12
Fri 23 Mar 12
Top up your Log Book
-
3
3 Feb 12
T3/12
Windermere
Sun 25 Mar 12
Fri 30 Mar 12
ML(S) Assessment
12
4
10 Feb 12
T4/12
Windermere
Sun 25 Mar 12
Fri 30 Mar 12
Top up your Log Book
-
3
10 Feb 12
T5/12
Windermere
Sat 21 Apr 12
Sat 28 Apr 12
Paddlesport Development
-
-
T6/12
Llanbedr
Sun 13 May 12
Fri 18 May 12
Introduction to Paddlesport
12
4
Direct to Sqn
Ldr Conley
30 Mar 12
T7/12
Llanbedr
Sun 13 May 12
Fri 18 May 12
Top up your Log Book
-
3
30 Mar 12
T8/12
Windermere
Sun 20 May 12
Fri 25 May 12
Rock Climbing Skills
6
4
6 Apr 12
T9/12
Windermere
Sun 20 May 12
Tue 22 May 12
ML Workshop
4
2
6 Apr 12
T10/12
Windermere
Tue 22 May 12
Thu 24 May 12
ML Workshop
4
2
6 Apr 12
T11/12
Windermere
Sun 20 May 12
Fri 25 May 12
Top up your Log Book
-
3
6 Apr 12
T12/12
Windermere
Mon 28 May 12
Wed 30 May 12
SPA Training
8
4
13 Mar 12
T13/12
Windermere
Wed 30 May 12
Fri 1 Jun 12
SPA Assessment
8
2
13 Mar 12
T14/12
Windermere
Mon 28 May 12
Fri 1 Jun 12
Top up your Log Book
-
3
23 Mar 12
T15/12
Llanrwst
Sat 19 Aug 11
Fri 24 Aug 11
ML(S) Training
6
4
6Jul 12
T16/12
Llanrwst
Sat 19 Aug 11
Fri 24 Aug 11
ML(S) Assessment
4
4
6 Jul 12
T17/12
Llanrwst
Sat 19 Aug 11
Fri 24 Aug 11
JS Instructor Level 1Kayak
6
4
6 Jul 12
T18/12
Windermere
Sat 1 Sep 12
Fri 7 Sep 12
ML(S) Training
12
4
20 Jul 12
T19/12
Windermere
Sat 1 Sep 12
Wed 5 Sep 12
ML(S) Introduction
-
3
20 Jul 12
T20/12
Windermere
Sat 1 Sep 12
Wed 5 Sep 12
ML(S) Pre-Assessment
-
3
20 Jul 12
T21/12
Windermere
Sat 1 Sep 12
Fri 7 Sep 12
Top up your Log Book
-
3
20 Jul 12
T22/12
Llanbedr
Sun 9 Sep 12
Fri 14 Sep 12
3* Canoe or Kayak
12
4
27 Jul 12
T23/12
Llanbedr
Sun 9 Sep 12
Fri 14 Sep 12
3* Sea Kayak
6
4
27 Jul 12
T24/12
Llanbedr
Sun 9 Sep 12
Fri 14 Sep 12
Top up your Log Book
-
3
27 Jul 12
T25/12
Windermere
Fri 21 Sep 12
Sun 23 Sep 12
SPA Training
8
4
10 Aug 12
T26/12
Windermere
Sun 23 Sep 12
Fri 28 Sep 12
Rock Climbing Skills
6
4
10 Aug 12
T27/12
Windermere
Sun 23 Sep 12
Fri 28 Sep 12
Top up your Log Book
-
3
10 Aug 12
T28/12
Windermere
Sun 30 Sep 12
Fri 5 Oct 12
ML(S) Assessment
12
4
17 Aug 12
T29/12
Windermere
Sun 30 Sep 12
Fri 5 Oct 12
Top up your Log Book
-
3
17 Aug 12
A-2
T30/12
Llanbedr
Sun 4 Nov 12
Fri 9 Nov 12
More Moving Water
8
4
21 Sep 12
T31/12
Llanbedr
Sun 4 Nov 12
Fri 9 Nov 12
Top up your Log Book
-
3
21 Sep 12
T32/12
Windermere
Sat 3 Mar 13
Fri 9 Mar 13
ML(S) Training
12
4
13 Jan 13
T33/12
Windermere
Sat 3 Mar 13
Wed 6 Mar 13
ML(S) Introduction
-
3
13 Jan 13
T34/12
Windermere
Sat 3 Mar 13
Wed 6 Mar 13
ML(S) Pre-Assessment
-
3
13 Jan 13
T35/12
Windermere
Sat 3 Mar 13
Wed 6 Mar 13
Top up your Log Book
-
3
13 Jan 13
Please note that assembly days candidates are required to be at the Centre by 2200 hrs
ready for the formal commencement of the course the following day, catering facilities will not
be available on assembly days other than self help to drinks at the Centre and dispersal days
indicate when the course will formally finish, however due to distances to travel following a full
day training candidates may stay overnight at the Centre and travel home the next day after
breakfast (may be self catering breakfast).
This will not apply to courses at JSATI, Llanwrst who produce their own JIs and time table.
SPA Training courses T12 and T25 candidates are required to arrive at the centre by 1700 hrs
for evening instruction.
A-2
ENCLOSURE 1
Quality Mountain Days
So what is a Quality Mountain Day? In terms of experience, the quality of a mountain day lies in
such things as the conditions experienced both overhead and underfoot, the exploration of new areas,
the terrain covered and the physical and mental challenge. Such days make a positive contribution
towards a person’s development and maturity as an all round mountaineer.
Usually some or all of these criteria would be fulfilled:
 The individual takes part in the planning and leadership
 Navigation skills are required away from marked paths
 Experience must be in terrain and weather comparable to that found in UK and Irish hills
 Knowledge is increased and skills practised
 Attention is paid to safety
 Five hours or more journey time
 Adverse conditions may be encountered
Further to the above definition, a Quality Mountain Day is a trip into the hills when you are challenged
and personally developed. You learn new techniques/skills, practice existing ones or, at least, go
somewhere new. It is worth making the point that a candidate who submits a log that has 20 ascents
of Pen y Fan by the same route will normally be credited with one quality mountain day unless
something dramatic happened on the other days (bad weather, rescue undertaken, etc). How do you
“develop” just by repeating the same route? It is also worth making another point that those
candidates who are scratching around to come up with exactly 40 days will normally be at the “weak”
end of the range. A minimum is just that; something we expect to be exceeded. We also need
details about what you did and expect it to be independent experience. A log entry like “Section
Command tasks – Ogwen Valley” does not make it for us as something involving mountaineering
experience – and won’t get into the quality mountain day list either! Someone who goes out solo and
climbs Ben Alder over three days will get a lot more credit than someone who has been on five unit
expeditions.
Can I include foreign experience? Yes. But if the terrain is not a close match to the UK in terms of
the complexity of the land, mapping and lack of waymarking then it may not be included into the QMD
count although the breadth of experience will be noted. (Although how much Bavarian experience is
genuinely “independent” experience?) Bavaria, with its fairly distinct mountain forms, waymarking and
well-made path system may not be a good match for UK leadership experience; parts of Norway may
well be. Conversely navigation with Swiss 1:25,000 maps may be good practice for the UK, Spanish
maps may well not be.
Technically speaking, experience included as part of the minimum requirements (20 days at training
and 40 at assessment) should be days undertaken in the UK. However, the wording “experience must
be in terrain and weather comparable to that found in UK and Irish hills” included in the definition of a
quality day allows some leeway.
As a general rule, up to half the minimum required experience can be days undertaken abroad. It’s up
to the candidate to demonstrate that the terrain covered and the weather conditions encountered were
comparable to that found in the UK. Take for instance the example of a candidate who has walked
extensively on the waymarked and well-established GR trails of Europe and enters this in their logbook
as additional experience (which there is no doubt that it is) but who also wants to count it towards the
minimum number of quality mountain days. This should not be acceptable.
It is more difficult to judge experience of which you, as Course Director have no personal knowledge.
The candidate should be able to demonstrate by means of guidebooks, maps, photos or credible
answers to your questions that the terrain and weather conditions they have experienced are
comparable to those found in the UK. If in doubt, and it it’s obvious that a candidate is scraping
together days undertaken abroad in order to meet the bare minimum requirement set by the Board
then by all means a deferral on the ground of insufficient personal experience is entirely appropriate.
ENCLOSURE 2
Date received at Windermere….……..…
HQAC FORM AT1 (FY 2012/13)
To: Windermere Admin (via Wing HQs) to arrive no later than the “bids by” date published for the course
APPLICATION FOR AIR CADETS ADVENTURE TRAINING SCHEME
INSTRUCTORS COURSES FY 2012/2013
IT IS THE RESPONSIBILTY OF THE CANDIDATE TO ENSURE THIS FORM PROGRESSES
THROUGH THE AUTHORISATION PROCESS AND ARRIVES BY THE “BIDS BY DATE”
RANK
FORENAME(S)
SURNAME
SQN NO
WING
REGION
HOME ADDRESS (please print clearly)
DAYTIME CONTACT TELEPHONE NUMBERS
HOME:
WORK:
MOBILE:
E-MAIL:
POSTCODE
(All communication will be made by e-mail, you must
include a reliable e-mail address and write it clearly)
TITLE OF COURSE APPLIED FOR
COURSE NO:
COURSE DATES:
PREVIOUS RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
(use reverse of this sheet if necessary). You must attach photocopies of log book
pages as appropriate for the course applied for.
If stated in the pre-course criteria, I have registered with the relevant governing body for the
course applied for. My log book reference is………………………..
I have read, understood and followed the requirements in 20111216-courses yearly programme I
have made arrangements with my employer/college/university to be available to attend the
course detailed above. I confirm I have given a clearly written e-mail address for all contact.
CANDIDATES SIGNATURE……………………………………………
Date………………………….
Comments by Wing HQs and or WATTO if appropriate
AUTHORISATIONS
SQUADRON COMMANDER
WING HQs (after consultation with WATTO if appropriate)
SIGNATURE
DATE