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Cover essential map reading skills on this two day course where you'll learn how to use 'handrail features' like paths and walls to guide you along your way as well learning how to measure distance, understand grid references and plan your own routes. You’ll also learn the basics of how to use a compass and how to use it with your map to ensure you don’t get lost. The Bronze Award will take you from relying on friends or guidebooks to being able to plan a walk and follow it successfully.
The National Navigation Award Scheme (NNAS) is a personal performance scheme for all ages to learn navigation skills and gain confidence to get out and enjoy the countryside. Their Navigator Awards give lovers of the outdoors, whatever their sport, age or fitness, the freedom to explore the paths, trails, hills and mountains of Britain. Progress through the Bronze and Silver Awards to take you from being an absolute map and compass novice to become an expert navigator.
Our mountain navigation training and map reading courses run throughout the year from the heart of the country in the Peak District National Park. We'll explain in advance what will happen over the weekend and ensure you've got the right gear for an enjoyable time in the countryside. All NNAS courses take place over two days and you'll need to arrange accommodation and we can often help with recommendations if you're stuck. The courses are held entirely outdoors so be sure to bring everything you need with you.
We’ll meet on the benches around the back of The Penny Pot Cafe at Edale Station.
Thanks for booking on this course. The Bronze Navigator Award is a great way to become more confident in the outdoors and I’m sure you’ll have a great weekend.
This document contains some important information so please read it thoroughly and get in touch if there’s anything you’re not sure about.
Register with NNAS
The course is validated by the National Navigation Award Scheme (NNAS) so you'll need to register with them. Click here to create an account on the NNAS Candidate Management System. It only takes a couple of minutes. We'll then be notified of your registration and can add you to the course.
Where do we need to meet?
We’ll meet on the benches around the back of the Penny Pot Cafe at Edale Station. Edale’s car parks are all within a minute or so’s walk. The cafe will be open so you can get a nice warm drink and some cake to start off the day! They also have bits you can buy for lunch too. We’ll spend the first and last hour of each day sat outside at the cafe so be sure to have an extra warm coat with you for this element of the day.
The main car park in Edale can be found at:
Parking in the main car park costs £6 for the day and can be paid in pound coins or using the PayByPhone app (beware - mobile signal can be sketchy). It can be busy over summer weekends and if it’s full when you get here you can find alternate parking at the railway station and in local farmers’ fields (look out for signs). As always, please try to car share where possible.
There are toilets in the car park but their opening times cannot be guaranteed. There are no other facilities nearby so be sure to bring everything with you.
What time should we be there?
The course will start at 9am on both days. Please aim to arrive a little earlier to give you time to get ready. We usually finish before 4pm allowing time for lunch.
What do we need to bring with us?
You'll need outdoor kit for a whole weekend in the hills whatever the weather! You’ll also need an Ordnance Survey 1:25 000 Explorer map for the Dark Peak area (OL1). If you happen to have an OS 1:50 000 Landranger (110) or Harvey Peak District Central map then bring them along but don’t go out and buy them specially. The only one you definitely need is the OS OL1 map. You’ll also need a compass. I recommend the Silva Expedition 4 but any long-edge compass will do the job (be sure you get one with degrees rather than a military one with mils). If you don't want to spend money on maps and compasses I always have spare but please check with me in advance if possible. If you need reading glasses, bring them along too otherwise you might struggle reading the map!
Remember to bring enough food and drink with you to last the whole weekend.
There’s a full kit list below. Please have a look at the weather before setting off and dress accordingly. Better to have an extra fleece and woolly hat in your bag just in case. Remember we’ll be outdoors all weekend in all weathers so be sure to have the right gear. If it’s looking wet then keeping spares clothes to change into in your car is also a good idea.
What do we do if something goes wrong on the day?
If you’re running late or get lost or need to stop to use the toilet on your way, don’t worry. Please call/WhatsApp Simon on 01248 614120 to keep him updated.
Do we need to let you know about any medical issues?
Yes please. If there's something you think your guide should be aware of please get in touch or have a quiet word on the day.
What if we still have a question?
Please get in touch and ask and I’ll happily help. You can email me at hello@mountainxperience.uk or call/WhatsApp me on 01248 614120.
View MountainXperience Candidate Info Notice.pdf
