Lowland Walking Leader

Description

Lowland Walking Leader Level 3 

Lead safe, inclusive, and enjoyable walks in lowland countryside with confidence.

The Level 3 Lowland Walking Leader qualification is designed for individuals who want to lead walking groups on day walks in lowland terrain. Whether you’re working with schools, youth groups, voluntary organisations, or community programmes, this nationally recognised award equips you with the practical and theoretical skills to lead safely and responsibly — without the need for overnight expeditions.

This 5-day course blends classroom-based learning with practical outdoor experiences. You’ll build competence in leadership, navigation, planning, safety management, and supporting participant wellbeing — all essential elements of being a lowland walking leader.

🗓️ Course Structure Overview

📍 Day 1: Leadership Skills & Industry Standards
Explore the responsibilities and remit of a lowland walk leader. Reflect on your own leadership strengths and areas for development, and begin building a personal action plan. The day also covers working within relevant industry standards, safeguarding, and organisational procedures.

📍 Day 2: Safety and Weather & Day Walk
Learn to assess and manage hazards in a walking environment. Develop your ability to create effective risk assessments and respond to incidents. The afternoon includes a group walk to apply leadership and safety principles in a real-world setting, with a focus on adapting to weather conditions and environmental factors.

📍 Day 3: Equipment Selection and Group Management
Dive into the practicalities of outdoor leadership: choosing appropriate kit and clothing, understanding the role of personal fitness, and promoting positive group dynamics. You’ll explore strategies for supporting participants’ physical and mental wellbeing, with an afternoon walk to observe and practise group management techniques.

📍 Day 4: Navigation Skills and Technology
Build core navigation skills, including map reading, compass use, and timing. You’ll also explore how technology can assist with navigation and consider its strengths and limitations. A practical session gives you the chance to lead using a range of navigation strategies in a lowland setting.

📍 Day 5: Walk Planning and Consolidation
Conclude the course with a focus on route planning, supervision strategies, and setting expectations for participants. You’ll begin preparing a walk plan and reflect on your leadership development across the week. The day wraps up with a Q&A and guidance for the post-course consolidation period and assessment process.

🧠 Key Features:

• Nationally recognised Level 3 walking leadership qualification

• 5-day programme with no overnight expedition requirement

• Ideal for teachers, youth workers, DofE supervisors, and community leaders

• Mix of classroom learning and practical outdoor leadership

• Emphasis on safety, inclusivity, navigation, wellbeing, and dynamic decision-making

• Delivered by experienced and qualified outdoor education professionals