Winter Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor Assessment

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Overview

Presenting yourself for a Winter Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor assessment is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication, gaining it is a huge achievement. Everyone who’s done it will remember how they felt at the start of the course; anxious, excited, ready. Our team of experienced assessors know this, having been there themselves. We’re here to create the best environment for you to showcase your skills and abilities as a winter mountaineering professional. We want you to feel supported throughout the week and to finish the course feeling you’ve learnt and developed, and ideally with the big tick.

The assessment will be run according to the Mountain Training syllabus and will be divided into a day of personal / guided climbing, a day of mountaineering, and two days of teaching. We recommend all candidates prepare thoroughly and fully understand the course syllabus. If you would like to discuss whether you’re ready to book an assessment, please feel free to contact Mountain Training or PYB directly. We look forward to working with you.

THESE COURSES ARE RESIDENTIAL TO ENSURE THE HIGHEST STANDARDS OF QUALITY AND SAFETY FOR ALL CANDIDATES ARE FULLY MAINTAINED. ACCOMMODATION AND CATERING IS PROVIDED FROM THE NIGHT BEFORE YOUR COURSE STARTS, AND FINISHES WITH BREAKFAST ON THE MORNING AFTER YOUR COURSE ENDS.

NON- RESIDENTIAL OPTIONS CAN BE NEGOTIATED, PLEASE CONTACT PYB DIRECTLY TO DISCUSS.

The Objectives 

To be successful, you’ll demonstrate that you have the skills, judgement and decision making covered in the Winter Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor Syllabus.

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What to Expect

The program is subject to change according to weather and snow conditions, but courses aim to follow this outline.

Sunday

• Arrive at Alltshellach from 5pm and settle in, with dinner at 7.30.

Monday

• Mountaineering day
• Emphasis on movement on snow, ice and broken ground
• Use of rope for security
• Avalanche evaluation

Tuesday

• Personal / guided climbing day
• Emphasis on safe competent winter climbing on snow and ice or mixed terrain at Grade 3 or above

Wednesday

• Winter Instruction
• Graded climbing with the same student for two days. This should include a progression in teaching

Thursday

• Winter Instruction
• Continuation of teaching.
• Course review and results

Friday

• Breakfast and farewells

Experience Required

Prior to booking an assessment candidates must have attended a Winter and Mountaineering Instructor training course and gained the following experience as a minimum;

• 10 days in the mountains managing parties in winter conditions
• 5 days’ climbing experience at Grade III
• A valid first aid certificate of at least 2 days / 16 hours minimum contact time
• Having more experience, and in particular, recent experience will stand candidates in the best stead to be successful.

How Should I Prepare?

Prior to booking an assessment candidates must have attended a Winter and Mountaineering Instructor training course and gained the following experience as a minimum;

• 10 days in the mountains managing parties in winter conditions
• 5 days’ climbing experience at Grade III
• A valid first aid certificate of at least 2 days / 16 hours minimum contact time

Having more experience, and in particular, recent experience will stand candidates in the best stead to be successful.

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Course Itinerary 

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