Description:
Outdoor Instructor Training Programme (OITP)

Who is the course for:
This course is designed for young people who have a genuine interest in the outdoors, some experience and who wish to gain the skills, knowledge, practical experience and qualifications required to work as an outdoor pursuits instructor and embark on a challenging and rewarding career in outdoor education.

Entry Requirements:
There are no formal entry requirements for this course, however you will need to be 18 years old by 1st of April on your 1st year of study, demonstrate a basic level of competence in outdoor activities and at interview you will have to demonstrate a strong desire to work as an outdoor instructor and the enthusiasm to succeed.
You will need to be highly motivated, prepared to practice the skills and have the potential to lead and instruct others in the outdoors.

What will you do on the course:
The main aim of the course is to provide the skills, experience, knowledge and fundamental NGB qualifications in a wide range of outdoor activities and for you to gain employment in the outdoor activity industry. This is delivered through both practical outdoor sessions supported by classroom-based learning.

Within the course we have included training for the following qualifications & skills:
City & Guilds NVQ in Sport Recreation `Activity Leadership'
ITC Emergency First Aid for the Outdoors
BCU 1- 2 star `Generic' awards
BCU Canoe safety Test / Paddlesport safety award
BCU / UKCC Level 1 coach award
MIAS Level 1 Mountain Bike Coach
BOF / 1st 4 Sport Level 1 Orienteering Coach
Basic Expedition Leaders Award (BELA)
Cornwall College Child Protection Training
Rock Climbing Skills leading to SPA Training
3 - Day Multi-activity course (South Devon)
5 - Day trip, Hill-walking, Kayaking, Climbing. (Wales)
3 - Day Kayak Trip (Dartmoor)

How do you study the course:
This is a full time course is divided into two main modules.
Module 1 A 6-month college based element where you will undertake 3 days of outdoor pursuits practical training and 2 days of flexible theory learning and lectures. Here you will receive information on coaching process, leadership, safety management, session planning, reviewing and technical knowledge. We also include training and support in literacy, numeracy and IT (Key Skills Level 2) as we consider it essential that outdoor instructors
possess these skills and are confident with the use of current technology.
You will also get the opportunity to practice your instructional skills delivering mentored activity sessions to local school groups, visit a number of outdoor centers and receive safety & emergency training from RLSS & RNLI personnel.

Module 2 is a mentored work placement with an approved outdoor activity center / provider. Your course manager will assist you with securing a suitable paid work placement for the 3rd term of the course. During this element you will be supported and visited by College staff who will complete the required teaching observations
and assist you completing a professional practice portfolio.

What will you do afterwards:
By the end of the course you can expect to have achieved a number of NGBs, gained valuable experience, knowledge and importantly work experience to enable you to pursue a career as an Outdoor pursuits instructor / coach. Your course manager will mentor you discuss career options and provide support to achieve a suitable
position within the industry.

Any other information:
Students need to be aware that although the college provides all the training and assessment for the national governing body courses included you will be responsible for any personnel membership and registration fees associated with these awards, (including a criminal records bureau check, CRB)

The College also provides the opportunity for course students to participate in the following:
10-day Overseas Expedition (Pecos Mountain Region, Spain)
MLTE SPA training
MLTE SPA Assessment
MLTE Walking Group Leader Training
BCU 3 star Training / Assessment
BCU / UKCC Level 2 Coach Training

For further information or to discuss your options please contact:
Chris Wilson via email: chris.wilson@duchy.ac.uk