Activity Profiles
Page 1


Activity profile


Mountain biking - Technical advisor - Dave Firth 01257474467 / 07710773523
B.S.C.A off road leader / O.T.C off road leader trained
1.Accreditation

British Schools Cycling Association - Off Road Leaders Award
21 Bedhampton road
North End
Portsmouth
PO2 7JY
01705 642226

Off Road Training Consultancy - Off Road Leaders Award Level 1 & 2
P.O Box 1506
Sheffield
S6 2JZ
0114 2310240

The above are relevant qualifications for leading off road cycling sessions under 1600 feet. The minimum requirement for mountain biking above 1600 feet is the above and the summer mountain leader qualification.

2.Pre session - As in the Code Of Practice

2. Suitable clothing to be worn during the activity taking into consideration weather conditions and visibility. Clothing should were possible be tight fitting so as not to interfere with the mechanics of the bike. Footwear should be adequate for the level of ride with shoelaces tied short.
2.2 Helmets conforming to European standards must be worn at all times during the ride. Helmets must be securely fitted and in good condition.
2.3 Bikes must be mechanically sound and in good working order.
2.4 The group must be made aware of the type of ride to be undertaken, hazards, and of the terrain they might expect along the way.
2.5 The group�s ability should be assessed before setting out by way of a simple circuit test in a safe environment.

3. Mid session

3.1 An ongoing visual and low key verbal check should be maintained to assess individuals physical state.
3.2 Re asses the session content, is it challenging enough/over challenging for the group.

4. Group size - ratio of 7 to 1 instructor

5. Areas covered - Various venues throughout the UK

6. Environmental conditions - Pre ride check, ongoing risk assessment before, during and after the session.

Page 2


Activity profile


Low level walking less than 1600 ft - Technical advisor - Ashley St.John-Claire - M.I.C
                                                                                                      
1. Accreditation

The Community Sports Leaders - Basic Expedition Leaders Award
The British Sports Trust
Francis House
Francis Street
London
SW1P 1DE
0171 828 3163

Mountain Leader Training England - Walking Group Leader
Siabod Cottage,
Capel Curig,
Conwy, LL24 0ES


The above award is the minimum requirement for leading groups in none mountainous areas under 1600 ft, for example moorland areas.

2. Pre session - as in the Code Of Practice

2.1 Suitable clothing must be worn taking into consideration the variable weather. Footwear should be suitable for walking over rough and sometimes-wet terrain with adequate grip on the sole and were possible have support for the ankles.
2.2 Suitable planned route should be in place with associated escape routes.
2.3 The group should be made aware of the type of walk to be undertaken including any hazards and the terrain they might expect.
2. If the group are to be left unaccompanied have they been clearly briefed, have they received the necessary training to complete the task and have they been made aware of all the potential hazards.

3. Mid session

3.1 An ongoing visual and low key verbal check should be maintained to assess individuals physical state
3.2 Re asses the session content, is it challenging enough/over challenging for the group.

4. Group size - ratio of 8 to 1 instructor juniors and 10 to 1 instructor adults, these ratios                     may increase depending on the location and the overall level of the group.

5. Areas covered - Various venues throughout the UK.

6. Environmental conditions - Pre site check, ongoing risk assessment before during and after the session.

Page 3


Activity profile


Rock climbing and abseiling - Technical advisor - Ashley St.John-Claire - M.I.C
                                                                        
Accreditation

M.L.T.E - Single Pitch Award (SPA), Mountain Instructor Award (MIA), mountaineering Instructors Certificate (MIC) and British Association Of Mountain Guides (BMG).

Mountain Leader Training England
Siabod Cottage,
Capel Curig,
Conwy, LL24 0ES

The above are all relevant qualifications for climbing. With the exeption of the SPA all the above are appropriate for all rock climbing including multi pitch routes.

Pre session - As in the code of practice

2.1 Helmets must be correctly fitted
2.2 Harnesses must be fitted to manufacturer specification
2.3 Strict groundrules must be established before the session starts. These should be clear     and precise.
2.4 The use of screw gate karabiners must be demonstrated and practised. The importance of the gate being locked during climbing must be stressed.
2.5 Footwear should be suitable for the activity taking particular attention to the type of rock, the condition of the rock and the approach to the venue.
2.6 Make the group aware of decent routes in particular point out hazards and provide an appropriate level of supervision. N.B students on decent routes will be acting independently and this should be carefully controlled. If appropriate consider clearly marking the route.
2.6 ensure that group members are correctly attached to the rope before commencing climb.
2.7 ensure the safety rope is attached at all times when groups are abseiling.

Mid session

3.1 reiterate ground rules throughout the session
3.2 An ongoing visual and low key verbal check should be maintained to assess individuals physical state.
3.3 re assess the session content, is it challenging enough/over challenging for the group.

Group size - ratio of 12 to 1 instructor

Areas covered - Various venues throughout the UK

Environmental conditions -  Pre site check, ongoing risk assessment before, during and after the session.


Page 4


Activity profile


Kayaking and canoeing - Technical advisor - Ash St John Claire 01282 864576 - Level 5 canoe coach
                                            
Accreditation

British Canoe Union
Adbolton Lane
West Bridgford
Nottingham
NG2 SAS
0115 982 1100

The B.C.U level 2 coach is the appropriate national qualification for leading groups on inland flat water in Britain. This qualification also covers the teaching of open canoes to one star level. The minimum requirement for moving water is level 3 coach.

Pre session - as in general guide lines

2.1 Footwear should be worn at all times, this should be sensible avoiding large boot type footwear which could lead to problems with footrests. Wellington boots should be avoided when kayaking. Any shoelaces should be tied in a double bow.
2.2 When spraydecks are worn the safety release strap should be visible at all times.
2.3 Helmets must be worn on river sessions.
2.4 An up to date weather forecast should be obtained especially when planning river trips to gage the water level.
2.5 Trailers must be securely and correctly loaded. If the group is to assist in this task they must have been given instruction in doing so and the instructor in charge must check on completion.


Mid session

3.1 An ongoing visual and low key verbal check should be maintained to assess individuals   physical state.
3.2 Re assess the session content, is it challenging enough/over challenging for the group.

Kayak Group size -    Inland flat water 10 to 1 instructor
OPen Canoe Groyup size - inland flat water 12 to 1 instructor


Areas covered - Various venues throughout the UK

Environmental conditions - Pre site check, ongoing risk assessment before, during and after the session.



Page 5


Activity profile

Gorge walking - Technical advisor � Ashley St.John-Claire - M.I.C

Accreditation

There is no National Governing Body for gorge walking although the standard of leadership and group management required to work safely in these environments cannot be overstated. The ability to transfer skills and knowledge from various other activities and training courses into gorge scrambling is vital. With this in mind Adventure 21 insists on the following skills or extensive experience

                                             - Leadership of walking groups  - Minimum ML training
                                             - Rope handling and security - Minimum S.P.A training
                                             - Knowledge of white water - Minimum logged experience grade 4 water
                                              - Extensive experience - Logged experience at named venues

Pre session - as in code of practice

2.1 Suitable clothing should be worn during the activity, consideration should be given to the weather conditions, the time of year and the venue chosen. Clothing should be warm and should not obstruct movement.
2.2 Helmets should be worn by all including leaders at all times whilst in the gorge.
2.3 For gorge scrambles were swimming or jumping into deep water is involved, buoyancy aids should be used.
2.4 Footwear should be carefully considered as wet rock can become extremely slippery particularly at venues which are seldom used. Boots are the best option with high ankle support.
2.5 Assess the weather conditions and gain an accurate weather report to determine fluctuations in water levels.
2.6 Pre plan your escape routes
2.7 Each instructor/coach/teacher should carry the appropriate safety equipment - first aid kit, spare clothing, emergency shelter, dynamic rope, slings and karabiners.

Mid session

3.1 Gorges can change rapidly due high water levels and erosion. Do not rely on previous experience. Steep sided gorges are prone to loosing trees and other debris into the stream bed. BE AWARE !.
3.2 The instructor/coach/teacher should stay within close reach of the head of the group to maintain a safe way forward.
3.3 All pools should be checked for any hazards or obstacles as part of the ongoing risk assessment.

Group size - 12 to 1 instructor depending on group ability and gorge
Areas covered - Esk gill - Eskdale, Church Beck - Coniston, Tilberthwhaite Gill - Tilberthwaite, Stickle Gill - Langdale, Sourmilk Gill - Grassmere, Greenburn Beck - Grassmere, River Yarrow, Lead Mine Valley � Anglezarke, White Copice - Chorley

Environmental issues - Pre site check, ongoing risk assessment before, during and after the session.

Page 6


Activity profile



Windsurfing - Technical advisor - Dave Firth 01257 474467 - Level 3 coach

Accreditation

The Royal Yachting Association - windsurfing instructor awards


The above is the National Governing Body for windsurfing. The level 1 coach is the minimum qualification for teaching windsurfing on inland flat water.

Pre session - As in the Code Of Practice

2.1 Suitable clothing should be worn during the activity taking into consideration the weather conditions. Due to the nature of the activity the participants are likely to spend some considerable time in the water so it is advisable to wear a wetsuit and jacket even in summer.
2.2 Footwear should ideally have a grippy sole to reduce the chance of slipping on the board and should also have some form of protection on and around the toes to reduce the chance of injury from mastfoot entrapment.
2.3 Buoyancy aids must be worn at all times throughout the session.
2.4 An on shore briefing will take place with regard to safety issues, rigging and the boards components.
2.5 A rescue craft will be on hand at all times, this will suitable to assist an individual should the need arise. Were the use of a powerboat is required it must be driven by a suitably qualified person.
2.6 An up to date weather report should be obtained and a visual check maintained throughout the session.

Mid session

3.1 An ongoing visual and low key verbal check should be maintained to assess the individuals physical state.
3.2 Re assess the session content is it challenging enough/over challenging for the group

Group size - Ratio of 7 to 1 instructor

Areas covered - Various venues throughout the UK

Environmental conditions - Pre site check, ongoing risk assessment before, during and after the session.


Page 7


Activity profile


Raft building - Technical advisor - Dave Firth 01257 474467 - Level 3 coach

Accreditation

There is no national Governing Body for raft building but with the building of a home made floating craft can come certain hazards. With raft building safety cannot be overlooked. From start to finish the hazards can range from minor crushing injuries caused by spares being incorrectly handled to entrapment of limbs due to incorrect tying of the lashings. The ability to transfer skills and knowledge from various other activities and training courses is vital.

With this in mind Adventure 21 insists on one or more of the following qualifications, in house training or extensive experience -

� B.C.U min level 1 kayak or canoe coach
� R.Y.A min level 1 dinghy sailing or windsurfing coach
� R.Y.A min level 2 power boat ticket
� Extensive logged experience in rafting sessions

Pre session - As in The Code Of Practice

2.1 Suitable clothing to be worn during the activity taking into consideration weather conditions and the possibility of total submersion in the water if the raft fails.
2.2 Buoyancy aids must be worn at all times on the water.
2.3 A rescue craft will be on hand at all times, this will be suitable to assist and give instructions from during the session. Were the use of a powerboat is required it must be driven by suitably qualified person.
2.4 An up to date weather report should be obtained and a visual check maintained throughout the session

Mid session

3.1 An ongoing visual and low key verbal check should be maintained to assess the individuals physical state
3.2 Re assess the session content, is it challenging enough/over challenging for the group

Group size - ratio of 16 to 1 instructor divided into 2 groups on the water separately .

Areas covered - Various venues throughout the UK.

Environmental conditions - Pre site check, ongoing risk assessment before, during and after the session.
                                        

Page 8


Activity profile


Mountain walking ? mountain Scramble - Technical advisor - Ashley St.John-Claire- M.I.C

Accreditation

M.L.T.B - ML, MIA, MIC, GUIDE.


The above is the minimum qualification for leading groups in the British hills above 1600 feet. It does not cover climbing or scrambling involving the planned use of a rope, for which the M.I.A is the relevant minimum qualification, nor does it cover mountain walking in winter conditions.

Pre session - As in the Code Of Practice

2.1 Suitable clothing must be worn and each person should have adequate warm and weather proof clothing in reserve.
2.2 suitable footwear should be worn, walking boots or shoes should have good tread. Trainers are not suitable.
2.3 A detailed weather report should be obtained in advance.
2.4 A suitable planned route with associated escape routes should be in place.
2.5 If the route to be taken involves a scramble is the use of helmets required - (MIA or approval from TA)
2.6 The group should be made aware of the type of the walk to be undertaken including any hazards and the terrain they might expect.
2.7 If the group are to be left unaccompanied have they been clearly briefed, have they received the necessary training to complete the task and have they been made aware of all the potential hazards.

Mid session

3.1 an ongoing visual and low key verbal check should be maintained to assess the individuals physical state.
3.2 Re assess the session content, is it challenging enough/over challenging for the group.

Group size - ratio of 16 to 1 instructor adults these ratios may increase depending on location and the overall level of the group.

Areas covered - Various venues throughout the UK

Environmental conditions - Pre site check, ongoing risk assessment before, during and after the session.


Page 9


Activity profile

Caving - Technical advisor - NOT DONE AT PRESENT

Accreditation  

National Caving Association Training Committee - Local cave leaders, Cave instructors
Priddy Green House
Priddy
Wales
BA5 3BE
01749 870157

The Local Cave Leader is restricted to certain caves specified in the leaders logbook and the Cave Instructor is valid for any cave and includes advanced techniques.

Pre session - As in the code of practice

2.1   Give careful attention to the weather forecast and the previous weather pattern, if in doubt seek expert local knowledge in order to avoid the danger of flooding or dangerously high water levels.      
2.2   Clothing footwear and equipment especially lighting, must be adequate for the conditions and for the proposed trip.
2.3   Ensure you have a competent responsible assistant who will be able to lead the group to safety in the event of an accident or incapacity affecting you.

Mid session

3.1   Before entering the cave inspect nearby streams as an indication of the water level. If necessary make a quick reconnaissance of the cave.
3.2   Be sure to operate in a manner that is environmentally friendly to the cave and take into account other cave users.

Group size - ratio of 8 to 1 instructor

Areas covered - Various venues throughout the UK

Environmental conditions - Local expert information, pre site check, ongoing risk assessment before, during and after the session.

    
Page 10


Activity profile

Culvert scrambling - Technical advisor - Dave Firth

Accreditation  

No N.G.B as this is not a recognised activity.

With this in mind Adventure 21 work on a basis of in house training for all staff who use the Culverts or prior self assessment if suitably qualified or experienced in Gorge scrambling.

Pre session - As in the code of practice

2.1   Give careful attention to the weather forecast and the previous weather pattern, if in doubt seek expert local knowledge in order to avoid the danger of flooding or dangerously high water levels.      
2.2   Clothing footwear and equipment especially lighting, must be adequate for the conditions and for the proposed trip.
2.3   Ensure you have a competent responsible assistant who will be able to lead the group to safety in the event of an accident or incapacity affecting you.

Mid session

3.1   Before entering the culvert inspect nearby streams as an indication of the water level. If necessary make a quick reconnaissance of the culvert.
3.2   Be sure to operate in a manner that is environmentally friendly to the area around the culvert and take into account other users.

Group size - ratio of 12 to 1 instructor

Areas covered - Various venues throughout the North West

Environmental conditions - Local expert information, pre site check, and ongoing risk assessment before, during and after the session.



Page 11


Activity profile

Tyrolean Traverse - Technical advisor � Ashley St.John-Claire - M.I.C

Accreditation
M.L.T.B - ML, MIA, MIC, GUIDE. Site specific in house training.

Mountain Leader Training England
Siabod Cottage,
Capel Curig,
Conwy, LL24 0ES
                                                  

Pre session - as in code of practice

2.1 Suitable clothing should be worn during the activity; consideration should be given to the weather conditions, the time of year and the venue chosen. Clothing should be warm and should not obstruct movement.
2.2 Helmets should be worn by all including leaders at all times whilst on the Tyrolean.
2.3 Pre plan your access and egress routes.
2.4 Each instructor/coach/teacher should carry the appropriate safety equipment - first aid kit, spare clothing, and emergency shelter.

Mid session

3.1 The instructor/coach/teacher should maintain careful vigilance with regards to his or her group.

Group size - 12 to 1 instructor depending on group ability and gorge
Areas covered � various venues nation wide.

Environmental issues - Pre site check, ongoing risk assessment before, during and after the session



Page 12


Activity profile

Archery - Technical advisor � Kety Nightingale - GNAS - Archery Leader

Accreditation - GNAS - Archery Leader




                                                  

Pre session - as in code of practice

2.1 No person under the age of 16 years to retrieve arrows from the range.
2.2 Suitable clothing should be worn during the activity; consideration should be given to the weather conditions, the time of year and the venue chosen. Clothing should be warm and should not obstruct movement. No open toe footwear.
2.3 Pre plan your access and egress routes.
2.4 Each instructor/coach/teacher should carry the appropriate safety equipment - first aid kit, spare clothing, and emergency shelter.
2.5 Loose jewellery should not be worn for example, earrings, necklaces and rings
2.6 Long hair should be tied back.

Mid session

3.1 The instructor/coach/teacher should maintain careful vigilance with regards to his or her group.

Group size - 16 to 1 instructor or depending on group ability. Max 6 shooting at any one time
Areas covered � various venues nation wide.

Environmental issues - Pre site check, ongoing risk assessment before, during and after the session. Any use of balloons on targets should be cleared up after the session.


Page 13


Activity profile

Riffle shooting - Technical advisor � Dave Firth

Accreditation
The national Small Bore Riffle Association

                                                  

Pre session - as in code of practice

2.1 Suitable clothing should be worn during the activity; consideration should be given to the weather conditions, the time of year and the venue chosen. Clothing should be warm and should not obstruct movement.
2.2 Pre plan your access and egress routes.
2.4 Each instructor/coach/teacher should carry the appropriate safety equipment - first aid kit, spare clothing, and emergency shelter.

Mid session

3.1 The instructor/coach/teacher should maintain careful vigilance with regards to his or her group.

Group size - 16 to 1 instructor but no more than 6 infront of the firing line at any one time
Areas covered � various venues nation wide.

Environmental issues - Pre site check, ongoing risk assessment before, during and after the session


Page 14
Activity profile

Low ropes course - Technical advisor � Dave Firth NOT USED AT PRESENT

Accreditation

None specific but with this in mind Adventure 21 work on a basis of in house training for all staff who use the low ropes course.

                                                  

Pre session - as in code of practice

2.1 Suitable clothing should be worn during the activity; consideration should be given to the weather conditions, the time of year and the venue chosen. Clothing should be warm and should not obstruct movement.
2.2 Helmets should be worn by all including leaders at all times whilst on the Low ropes course.
2.3 Each instructor/coach/teacher should carry the appropriate safety equipment - first aid kit.

Mid session

3.1 The instructor/coach/teacher should maintain careful vigilance with regards to his or her group.

Group size - 16 to 1 instructor depending on group ability.
Areas covered � various venues nation wide.

Environmental issues - Pre site check, ongoing risk assessment before, during and after the session


Page 15

Activity profile


Aquaseiling - Technical advisor - Ashley St.John-Claire - M.I.C
                                                                        
Accreditation

M.L.T.B - Single Pitch Award (SPA), Mountain Instructor Award (MIA), mountaineering Instructors Certificate (MIC) and British Association of Mountain Guides (BMG).
Mountain Leader Training Board
177 - 179 Burton Road
West Didsbury
Manchester
M20 2BB
0161 445 4747

The above are all relevant qualifications for climbing. With the exception of the SPA all the above are appropriate for all rock climbing including multi pitch routes. Along with the above instructors are required to have a moving water qualification.

Pre session - As in the code of practice

Water levels must be assessed for safety before the start of the session.

2.1 Helmets must be correctly fitted
2.2 Harnesses must be fitted to manufacturer specification
2.3 Strict ground rules must be established before the session starts. These should be clear and precise.
2.4 The use of screw gate karabiners must be demonstrated and practised. The importance of the gate being locked during aquaseiling must be stressed.
2.5 Footwear should be suitable for the activity taking particular attention to the type of rock, the condition of the rock and the approach to the venue.
2.6 Make the group aware of decent routes in particular point out hazards and provide an appropriate level of supervision. N.B students on decent routes will be acting independently and this should be carefully controlled. If appropriate consider clearly marking the route.
2.6 ensure that group members are correctly attached to the rope before commencing the Aquaseil.
2.7 ensure the safety rope is attached at all times when groups are aquaseiling.

Mid session

3.1 reiterate ground rules throughout the session
3.2 An ongoing visual and low key verbal check should be maintained to assess individual�s physical state.
3.3 re assess the session content, is it challenging enough/over challenging for the group.

Group size - ratio of 12 to 1 instructor

Areas covered - Various venues throughout the UK

Environmental conditions - Pre site check, ongoing risk assessment before, during and after the session.