- Nationally recognised qualification
- Accredited at Level 4 by the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) and worth 2 SCQF points
- MTA Qualfied Instructor
- Learn a new outdoor skill
- Be confident to explore the countryside
- Stay safe outdoors
- Use of maps and compasses included
- Stunning rural locations
- Digital certificate on successful completion
- £11 NNAS Course fee included in the price
Suitable for both beginners and intermediates, this two-day map reading course on the South Downs, North Downs or in mid-Sussex, covers the principles of navigation in more detail than our one-day course and leads to a nationally recognised qualification in navigation. The assessment element takes place on day two with a home paper also being required to be completed.
NNAS Awards are ideal for DofE supervisors, DofE Bronze award candidates, teachers and leaders who either do not hold national governing body awards, or are developing skills towards them (e.g. Lowland Leader, Mountain Leader), leisure walkers, photographers, horse riders, cyclists or anyone who works in lowland countryside. No previous experience is required although a degree of personal fitness is recommended.
We are proud to have been running NNAS courses for over 14 years and are recognised as one of the region’s leading providers.
Learning is informal and relaxed, with plenty of practical experience out in the South Downs, Surrey Hills and mid-Sussex countryside, within a small group of up to 8 people. We cover around 6 to 8 miles each day, following paths across farmland, valleys, riversides, woodland, hills and downland in the Sussex and Surrey countryside. The locations we use are easily accessible from London and are convenient for public transport if required.
Learning Outcomes:
- Understanding the map as a two dimensional plan
- Understanding symbols and scales
- Grid references
- Orientate the map with, and without, a compass
- Identify land features and direction of travel
- Using linear features as handrails
- Estimate distance on both map and ground
- Understanding contours
- Plan a safe, suitable walk
- Relocation techniques
- Understand access rights and responsibilities
- Knowledge of Countryside Code
- Emergency procedures
Dates:
2nd & 3rd May 2026 (Mid Sussex) – Sold Out
8th & 9th August 2026 (Mid Sussex) – Sold Out
26th & 27th September 2026 (South Downs)
31st October & 1st November 2026 (North Downs)
5th & 6th December 2026 (Mid Sussex)
9th & 10th January 2027 (North Downs)
6th & 7th February 2027 (Mid Sussex)
13th & 14th March 2027 (South Downs)
Duration: Two full days (09.30-16.30)
Location: West Sussex section of the South Downs near Arundel, the Surrey Hills near Dorking or mid- Sussex countryside near Horsham (accessible by public transport if required – pick up/ drop off service also available).
For NNAS Bronze courses we work at a ratio of 1:8.
Your course is led by an extremely experienced and qualified outdoor instructor. They are a qualified to a minimum MTA Mountain Leader level, are an accredited NNAS provider and also have extensive experience leading and instructing in the area. All our instructors are also outdoor first aid qualified and DBS checked.
Please organise your own accommodation for the course, if required as well as a packed lunch. Use of maps and compasses are included for the duration of the course.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you would like further information or to discuss selecting the right course for you.
