International Mountain Leader Summer Training

You want to be a Mountain Leader in Europe and further afield. This five day summer training course, based at Plas y Brenin, is your first step to achieving that.


Plas Y Brenin

5 Days

Instructor Ratio6:1

Location

Plas Y Brenin

Length

5 Days

Instructor Ratio

6:1

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Overview

You’ll have a mix of theory and practical sessions, covering a wide range of topics including; anatomy and physiology, legal liability, altitude, marketing, leadership, rope work, navigation, altimeters, and environmental considerations, as well as covering many other aspects of working with trekking groups in the mountains of the world.

You’ll also take an assessed, timed navigation test. You’ll be learning from some of the best in their field who will also support you to develop an individual action plan (a key part of this course) to help you progress through the next three stages of the qualification.

On completion of the summer IML training course, you can progress to the Summer assessment or the Winter training course, both of which are based in the European Alps. This gives you some flexibility to complete the courses most appropriate to you.

The Objectives 

You’ll have completed comprehensive training and assessment making the first step towards working as a leader in Europe and further afield. You’ll have gained the skills required for leading and educating groups worldwide in summer conditions.

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What to Expect

Day One

History of IML scheme/BAIML, Briefing for speed navigation test, Speed Navigation Test, Winter training introduction Environmental knowledge and awareness

Day Two

Water Hazards, Introduction to GPS/Technology overseas, Introduction to emergency rope work Mountain weather and climate

Day Three

Mountain Day Expedition Providers Association (EPA)

Day Four

Rope work and fixed equipment, Law and Insurance, Expedition Planning

Day Five

Altitude and Physiology Expedition planning presentations Keeping healthy on expeditions De-briefs Individual action plans – summer assessment and winter training

Experience Required

You should be 18 years old to attend this course. The scheme consists of the following stages:

  • Gain Mountain Leader qualification
  • Log 20 quality international summer mountain days
  • Log 20 quality UK or international winter mountain days
  • Register for International Mountain Leader qualification and have your registration approved
  • Attend IML Summer Training course which includes the IML Timed Navigation Test
  • At this stage candidates can choose to either progress to IML Summer Assessment, or IML Winter Training.

Please note candidates must have passed the IML Timed Navigation Test before attending the IML Summer Assessment. Gain further experience as required before assessment Pass IML Summer Assessment Attend IML Winter Training course before the final Winter IML Assessment, all candidates must have passed the Summer IML Assessment and completed at least 30 quality winter mountain days in total, of which a minimum of ten should be overseas. Pass IML Winter Assessment course and gain IML qualification

How Should I Prepare?

You must have have fulfilled the pre-requisites as stated on the Mountain Training Website and be hill fit. It would also be beneficial to practise your navigation skills for the timed navigation test. We strongly recommend that you take out cancellation and medical insurance when you book the course. Mountain Training UK state that there is no exemption from training. The summer IML training course includes knowledge and skills not assessed on the final course. If, for any reason, you don’t attend any aspects of the summer training course, you’ll need to attend that aspect at some point in the future, at your own expense. Until you have attended all aspects of the course you will not be accredited with a Summer IML Training and will not be able to progress with the scheme. 

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Why Plas y Brenin?

Plas y Brenin is at the forefront of outdoor instruction. Whether you are starting a career in the outdoors, or just want to take an adventure holiday, PYB is the place for you.

We inspire explorers. We train trainers. We’re internationally recognised. We’ve been around since 1798, with our earliest guests including Queen Victoria. Since then, we’ve focussed on providing the best customer experience, working alongside some of the greatest, 007 included.

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Expert Tuition

You’ll receive expert supervision from fully qualified and psyched instructors, creating the perfect environment to learn and enjoy something new!

Our Instructors

Explore Eryri

Your experience will take place in the heart of the extraordinary Eryri National Park. Our National Outdoor Centre features accommodation, a bar, dining, and more. And while you’re here, why not check out some local gems?

Explore Eryri

Develop a Passion

Everyone at Plas y Brenin, from staff to visitors, is excited about adventures and inspired to get outside. Our guests return year after year to experience all that North Wales offers.