NNAS Bronze Award

• Nationally recognised qualification
• Accredited at Level 4 by the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) and worth 2 SCQF points
• MTA Qualified Instructor
• Learn a new outdoor skill
• Be confident to explore the countryside
• Stay safe outdoors
• Use of maps and compasses included
• Stunning rural locations
• Certificate on passing the course
• Cotswold Outdoor Discount

Suitable for both beginners and intermediates, this two-day map reading course on either the South Downs or North Downs 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 ten years and are recognised as one of the region's leading providers - please do take a look at our Testimonials

Learning is informal and relaxed, with plenty of practical experience out in the South Downs and Surrey Hills, 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

Duration: Two full days (typically 09.30-16.30)

Location: West Sussex section of the South Downs or the Surrey Hills

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 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 each day.  Use of maps and compasses are included for the duration of the course.