FAQ's

ELCAS funding is intended to support higher-level learning and is only available for ELCAS-approved training programmes that result in a Nationally Recongnised Qualification at level three or above on the National Qualification Framework or level six or above on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework.

To qualify for ELCAS funding, service members must meet certain eligibility criteria, such as having completed a minimum period of service and being in good standing with their commanding officer. The Knowledge Academy’s ELCAS-approved courses can help you improve your professional abilities and employability. Our training courses are created to provide you with the knowledge you need for a successful career in your chosen field.

ELCAS funding covers up to 80% of the cost of training courses that are accredited by recognised awarding bodies, providing military personnel with the opportunity to expand their skills and knowledge, advance their careers, and smoothly transition to civilian life. The military personnel must make a personal contribution of at least 20% towards the total course cost as well as be responsible for any costs associated with food, accommodation, course books, material, travel and subsistence.

Rock Climbing Development Instructor Assessment

3 Days
1:2

For experienced instructors who are keen to coach and develop peoples climbing in both sport and trad.

Info & booking

Mountaineering And Climbing Instructor Training

9 Days
5:1

We’ll undertake some of the higher-grade scrambles in the UK’s best scrambling locations. Perfect for hillwalkers who want to reach trickier mountain parts or climbers who want to see how to manage rope systems.

Info & booking

Mountain Leader Assessment

5 Days
1:4

Complete your Mountain Leader Assessment with us. We are an experienced and friendly team who have years of experience. We create an atmosphere where you can enjoy yourself, perform at your best and learn loads during the week.

Some experience required
Put your skills to the test

Info & booking

Mountain Leader Training

6 Days
1:6

Join us for your Mountain Leader Training. Our team has years of experience and we deliver enjoyable, high quality courses from our lovely centre in the heart of the mountains.

Before booking register with Mountain Training
Experience required

Info & booking

Lowland Leader Assessment

2 Days
1:4

Complete your Lowland Leader Assessment with us. We are an experienced and friendly team who provide supportive and relaxed assessments.

Some experience required
Put your skills to the test

Info & booking

Lowland Leader Training

2 Days
1:6

A lowland leader qualification will allow you to lead groups on day trips in lowland countryside in summer conditions.

Before booking register with Mountain Training
Plenty of skills to learn

Info & booking

International Mountain Leader Winter Assessment

5 Days
1:4

This five-day assessment is the final stage you're required to complete before qualifying as an International Mountain Leader.

Previous qualification required
Plenty skills to learn

Info & booking

International Mountain Leader Winter Training

5 Days
1:6

You'll be equipped for more than just 'coping with winter' as you hone the skills you need to look after your group on snow - whatever the season.

Previous qualification required
Plenty skills to learn

Info & booking

International Mountain Leader Assessment

4 Days
1:4

Your assessment takes place over four days, it will take the form of a 3 day hut based journey with overnights in high mountain huts and gites and a day walk.

Some experience required
Plenty to learn

Info & booking

International Mountain Leader Training

5 Days
1:6

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.

Some experience required
Plenty to learn

Info & booking

Hill and Moorland Leader Assessment

3 Days
1:4

Complete your Hill and Moorland Assessment with our friendly, supportive and experienced team.

Friendly, experienced assessors
Plenty of skills to develop

Info & booking

Hill and Moorland Leader Training

3 Days
1:6

This course trains aspiring walk leaders for hill and moorland terrain, bridging the gap between lowland and mountain areas. Combining classroom theory with practical sessions in Snowdonia, topics include weather, navigation, risk assessment, and leadership.

Experience required
Plenty of skills to learn

Info & booking

Winter Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor Assessment

5 Days
1:2 - 1:1

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.

Located in Scotland
Mountain Training Award

Info & booking

Winter Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor Training

5 Days
1:2

Though said in jest, we do believe ‘West is best’ for these courses. Quite simply, we have a huge diversity of mountain ranges and terrain all within a 45-minute drive.

Mountain Training Award
Previous qualification required

Info & booking

Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor Assessment

5 Days
Various

Putting yourself forward for the MCI assessment is a big step in your career progression. We strive to create a supportive atmosphere for you to perform to your best.

Mountain Training registration required

Info & booking

Rock Climbing Development Instructor Training

4 Days
1:4

The Rock Climbing Development Instructor qualification is for experienced instructors wishing to develop a participant's rock climbing proficiency. This development may extend to the teaching of lead climbing. The scope of this new award allows qualified instructors to develop climbers wishing to climb both sport and traditional routes.

Mountain Training registration required
Have an up to date DLOG!

Info & booking

Rock Climbing Instructor Assessment

2 Days
1:4

This is the two day Mountain Training Rock Climbing Instructor Assessment. Spend two days on some classic single pitch crags with experienced and friendly assessors.

Leading experience required
Equipment provided

Info & booking

Rock Climbing Instructor training – 3 Days

3 Days
1:4

The qualification allows you to take people climbing on single pitch crags. It takes your rock climbing skills and develops them into what you need to look after others. Our team of instructors are really keen rock climbers with years of professional experience who deliver fun and enjoyable courses.

This is the three day course that includes the indoor element of the syllabus.

Leading experience required
Equipment provided

Info & booking

Climbing Wall Instructor Training

2 Days
1:6

This two day Mountain Training course is ideal for you if you work at a climbing wall, or a venue with permanent or mobile climbing towers. You'll be trained in the skills you need to supervise climbers on purpose built artificial climbing walls and boulders. The Abseil Module Training is included in this course.

Before booking register with Mountain Training
Some wall climbing experience required

Info & booking

Climbing Wall Instructor assessment

1 Day
1:4

Come and do your Climbing Wall Instructor Assessment with us. Our team are really experienced and deliver low stress assessments where you'll enjoy the day and learn lots while your with us.

Some experienced required
Equipment provided

Info & booking

Important Information

Each ELCAS approved qualification covers the training and assessment. 

To book a course with us we require your ELCAS claim approval number (CAN) and your Plas y Brenin booking form. 

Our provider number is 4237.

Please make sure that you fulfill all the previous requirements of each of your chosen scheme\ qualification before submitting your booking form (s). You can find the pre-requisites via the above links or please e-mail us at info@pyb.co.uk to find out. 

You can only book onto the assessment once you have successfully attended your training course. 

Email your CAN to our team at info@pyb.co.uk and submit your booking form via the above link to make a booking.

Once you have completed your training course at Plas y Brenin please make sure to book and complete your assessment with us within 2 years.

Additionally, please refer to ELCAS terms and conditions prior to booking a course

Find out more about ELCAS- https://www.enhancedlearningcredits.com/ 

How to claim your ELC if you are a Serving Personnel- https://www.enhancedlearningcredits.com/serving-personnel/claiming-elc-personnel

How to claim your ELC if you are a Service Leaver-

https://www.enhancedlearningcredits.com/service-leaver/ex-service-guidance 

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.

Learn more

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.

Accommodation

The Main House

Mix of single and twin bedrooms

Moelwyn Bunkhouse

Bunkhouse with kitchen area

Bryn Engan

Farmhouse with bedrooms and flexible spaces

Accommodation info

Bar & Restaurant

The perfect place to relax after a day’s adventuring, our bar boasts the most amazing view as it looks down Llynnau Mymbyr to the Snowdon Horseshoe. Our extensive range of locally brewed beers, wines and spirits offers plenty of choices for refreshment. Our bar menu is packed with tasty high-energy dishes.

  • Open 7 days a week
  • Mon - Sat 12PM - 11:30PM
  • Sun 12PM - 10:30PM