Basic Navigation Course

The basic navigation courses are a great introduction to map reading. On completion of the course, participants should be able to plan and follow simple walks in the countryside mainly on paths and tracks. The course is based around the NNAS Bronze Award syllabus, and participants can choose to be assessed for this award on the second day if they choose. The course covers:

• The map as a two dimensional plan.
• Map symbols and scales on a variety of maps.
• 6 figure grid reference on the map.
• Orientate maps with and without a compass.
• Use the orientated map to identify land features and indicate direction of travel.
• Choosing simple navigation strategies and routes.
• Use linear features (e.g. paths and tracks) as handrails.
• Estimating distance on both map and ground.
• Understanding contours to match major landforms to the map.
• Plan a safe, suitable walk.
• Relocating using simple techniques on paths and other handrails.
• Access rights and responsibilities.
• Local and national access issues and legislation.
• Countryside Code.
• Emergency procedures.

Duration		2 Days
Maximum ratio		1:6
Cost per person		£100
Dates available		Contact us

Intermediate Navigation Course

For those with a good grasp of basic techniques, the intermediate navigation courses offer the perfect opportunity to develop skills and confidence further. On completion of this course, participants should be able to plan and follow walks in the countryside away from paths and tracks. The course is based around the NNAS Silver Award syllabus, and participants can choose to be assessed for this award on the second day if they choose. The course covers:

• Forming strategies for navigational legs. Break it down into ‘coarse’ and ‘fine’ navigation and to use clear features en route to check that you are ‘on course’.
• Using navigational strategies such as ‘aiming off’, ‘attack points’, ‘collecting features’.
• Understanding of contour features, both large and small, on the map and on the ground.
• Physical factors that affect route choice.
• Judging distance accurately on the map and on the ground.
• Planning a safe walk or route involving a range of skills and strategies.
• Simple relocation strategies when lost.
• Using a compass to follow accurate bearings and to check the direction of footpaths or other linear features on both map and ground.
• Effects of fatigue and physical discomfort brought on by navigating in demanding countryside and/or extreme weather conditions.
• Countryside Code
• Access legislation
• Environmental and conservation issues.

Duration		2 Days
Maximum ratio		1:6
Cost per person		£100
Dates available		Contact us