The mountains of the UK can be hostile and hazardous places for novice hill walkers and mountain explorers. Taking responsibility for and leading others in these ever changing environments requires skills, knowledge and awareness's that are best developed through a structured training scheme. The Mountain Leader Training Board (MLTB) was set up in 1964, (later to become Mountain Training UK - MLTUK), it's aim being to provide training and assessment for those wishing to lead others in the mountainous regions of the UK. The schemes are recognised by many organisations including the Health and Safety Executive and the Adventure Activity Licensing Authority (AALA) as being an appropriate award for leading trekking in summer conditions.

The Mountain Leader Award

The Mountain Leader (ML) Award was established to promote the safe enjoyment of the hills and mountains. The scheme provides training and assessment in the technical and group management skills required by those who wish to lead groups in the mountains, hills and moorlands of the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland, other than in winter conditions. It integrates experience, training and assessment in a variety of testing conditions in mountainous country.

Course content

Group management and leader responsibilities:

• Operational responsibilities
• Personal and leadership skills
• Group management in mountainous terrain

Technical Competence:

• Navigation
• Emergency rope-work skills
• Improvised rope skills
• Hazard awareness
• Emergency procedures
• Expeditions & Campcraft
• Weather
• Equipment

The Mountain Environment:

• Access
• Conservation
• Structure of the activity
• Current legislation
• Environmental awareness

Entry requirements

• Be 18 years of age.
• Completed an ML training course or an exemption from the UKMLT board
• Have experience of an absolute minimum of 40 quality mountain days.
• Experience in at least three different mountain areas of the UK.
• Eight nights camping (at least 4 - "wild", remote locations).
• Hold a valid first aid certificate.

Further information

ML courses (training & assessment) are run over 5/6 day blocks. Both formats are residential based and will include overnights in the mountains. Details of course dates for 2008 can be found here . Note however that additional courses can be arranged for candidates wanting to arrange courses for groups. A group of 4 - 6 are needed for training courses and four (4) for assessment courses. If you would like further information or you would like to speak with a course director please contact us .