Lowland Leader

The Lowland Leader scheme has been designed for people who wish to lead groups on day walks in lowland countryside and woodland in summer conditions. The majority of the UK and Ireland is made up of this type of terrain so you'll never be short of places to go walking.

The leadership opportunities for Lowland Leaders are varied and far reaching, from the South West Coast Path to the Great Glen Way; walking in lowland areas can be no less spectacular than walking high up in the mountains. And with campaigns such as Britain on Foot and Walking for Health proving really popular, there’s never been a better time to be a walking leader.

Our courses are packed full of information, practical tips, skills and advice which will prepare you for being a leader. Usually using the edge of Dartmoor National Park, we cover varied terrain and venues to encompass a range of experiences that will enhance the learning process and bring it to life. Our assessments are relaxed and informative with the aim of ensuring you can start your journey as a competent, confident leader.

We aim to make all of our courses enjoyable and informative. We also have a policy of making reasonable adjustments to ensure that our courses are as accessible as possible.

Is it for me?

The prerequisites for registration are as follows:

You must be at least 17 years old
You should have an interest in leading groups in lowland countryside

If the above applies to you, here's what to do next:

Create an account on the Mountain Training Candidate Management System or log in if you already have one. (see the handy videos below for guidance on how to do this)
Register for the Lowland Leader scheme.

LLA Course Structure and Dates

AWARD STRUCTURE AND COURSES

Training Course Dates

The award is completed in stages which offers flexibility according to your own experience and confidence. The stages are:

Previous Experience - before attending the next stage you must have recorded a minimum of 10 walks using a map and compass or have completed a recognised navigation course such as the Hill Skills or Mountain Skills course. You will also need to be registered with Mountain Training (this is separate to booking your course with us).
Training Course - The 2 day training course, usually run on the edge of Dartmoor, covers all elements of the Lowland Leader syllabus in practical exercises, examples and discussion. You will also complete an action plan for the next stage.
Consolidation - during this period (there is no formal timescale) you can execute your action plan from training, practice skills, learn new ones and develop your knowledge in preparation for...
Assessment Course - The 2 day assessment will examine your skills and knowledge as a Lowland Leader in line with the national standard.