Mountain Leadership

The Welsh Assembly Government's Climbing Higher Strategy highlights the importance of outdoor recreation, stating the following "The unique natural environment of Wales is to be used as well as admired - but used in managed and sustainable ways, for the people of Wales as well as for those who visit. We must also enthuse and inform our young people about the outdoors. This will make them healthier and more employable, and help them share in Wales 'unique, and special, sense of place" (taken from Welsh Assembly Government, Climbing Higher Strategy, 2005).

There are several organisations dedicated to help achieve this vision, so take a look at the links below to find out more about the work that is being done and the courses on offer.

Sports Leaders UK - offer a Basic Expedition Leadership Award. This is a nationally recognised award that trains and qualifies teachers, youth workers and other members of the community to (1) lead groups in lowland areas (2) have responsibility for the care of others when outdoors including day journeys and (3) organise base and mobile camps.

Mountain Leader Training Wales - provide nationally recognised training and assessment schemes for leaders of groups participating in mountain walking and single pitch rock climbing. The Board administers the Walking Group Leader award, Mountain Leader award and the Single Pitch Award. All courses are designed to teach the skills required to lead groups on the mountains, hills and crags of the UK. Great emphasis is put on learning by practical experience that naturally leads to self-confidence and competence.

The North West Wales Outdoor Partnership was created to improve opportunities for more local people in North West Wales to achieve their potential through outdoor activities. These opportunities include employment, health, competitive opportunities and increased participation. Outdoor Activity Development Officers have been appointed for Conwy, Gwynedd and Ynys Mon, as well as a Senior Project Manager to co-ordinate the posts and to drive the Outdoor Partnership's strategy forward.