NNAS Bronze 2 Day Navigation Course: Private Guiding

The Bronze National Navigation Award is the entry level award on the NNAS scheme, starting with the basics of how to navigate and teaching new skills over the course of the two days.

A fun course for all ages that will simplify the process of navigation in the countryside.

The course is suitable for anyone over the age of 18, although we do allow under 18's if they are accompanied by an adult. There is no maximum age and we regularly get a mixture of ages and experience and are used to tailoring the course to meet the needs of a varied group of people.

What does the course cover?

• Two full days of practical navigation in the mountains of Cumbria
• Navigate using a variety of maps and scales.
• Use 4 and 6 figure grid references with worded descriptions to define the position of a map feature and to locate a feature on the ground.
• Orientate the map using handrails, obvious point features and major landforms.
• Use linear features (e.g. paths, tracks, clear boundaries) as handrails in simple navigation exercises.
• Relate prominent landforms such as large hills and valleys to corresponding contour information on the map.
• Orientate the map by aligning a compass needle against grid north and be aware that magnetic variation causes an inaccuracy.
• Use an orientated map to confirm direction of travel.
• Use clearly identifiable features to confirm position along the route and to recognise when the target has been overshot.
• Measure horizontal distance on the map and estimate distance on the ground using timing, pacing and simple visual judgements e.g.100m.
• Plan and implement simple routes and navigation strategies based on the above skills.
• Recognise a navigation error within a few minutes and apply simple relocation techniques using handrails and prominent features.
• Demonstrate an awareness of local and national access issues, access legislation, personal responsibilities and the Countryside Code.
• Demonstrate appropriate knowledge of walking equipment, safety equipment and emergency procedures.

What is the NNAS?
The National Navigation Award Scheme is a nationally recognised structure for the provision of navigation training courses. It is arranged into 3 levels, Bronze, Silver and Gold. This two day navigation course can include the training and assessment of the Bronze NNAS award which is ideal for those looking to navigate in mountainous terrain. There is no requirement to hold the Bronze award before taking the Silver award, although the Bronze is  good starting point for those looking to progress through the grades.

Each participant will be required to bring suitable equipment for their chosen event, please see Kit List tab above.