Plas y Brenin Brochure 2015

PLAS Y BRENIN 2015

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THE NATIONAL MOUNTAIN SPORTS CENTRE

PLAS Y BRENIN 1

SIXTY YEARS OF MOUNTAIN sport MARTIN DOYLE - CHIEF EXECUTIVE anD BRITISH MOUNTAIN GUIDE

Welcome to our latest brochure and our plans for 2015. There are plenty of new qualification courses this year for leaders and coaches of biking, canoeing and climbing, as well as new skills courses. If you can’t find some of the latest courses here visit www.pyb.co.uk where all the most recent developments will appear in the year ahead.

As well as our 12 month programme of courses in North Wales, Scotland and the Alps we have plenty of opportunities for school groups, outdoor clubs and facilities for conferences, meetings and dinners here at the National Mountain Sports Centre. As you flick through the pages we hope you are inspired to call us up or call in and let us help turn your dreams into adventures. We hope to see you in 2015.

UNRIVALLED LOCATION

Tucked away in the heart of Snowdonia on the banks of Llyn Mymbyr with unspoiled mountains all around, a place doesn’t come much more beautiful. But it’s not just the tranquil beauty that makes Plas y Brenin such a great venue for mountain sports, the location brings many more benefits. For rock climbing and scrambling, the variety of rock types, grades aspects and challenges on offer is completely unrivalled in the UK. For mountain biking, mountaineering and hillwalking the variety of terrain at your fingertips is hard to beat and the views have sold a million postcards. For paddling, again variety is our strength, with lakes, rivers, estuaries, surf beaches and rugged coastal water to choose from, depending on the weather, conditions and water levels.

Whichever way you turn there is always an adventure waiting to be had.

HIGHEST STANDARD OF COACHING Our coaches are amongst the most highly qualified and most experienced in the world.

But it’s not just their knowledge and experience that secures the coveted position of instructor at The National Mountain Sports Centre. We look for far more than sporting prowess. As well as being world class climbers, mountaineers, riders or paddlers, our staff are skilled and dedicated coaches. Each one is dedicated to making sure you get the most out of your sport, whatever your goals. Throughout this brochure we’ve tried to highlight the unique depth and diversity of knowledge, experience and commitment our staff posses. You’ll find bitesize stories of their achievements in the UK and around the world from cover to cover. But as you can imagine, their stories are too many to tell in full here. If you’d like to find out what they’ve been up to recently, keep an eye on our Facebook page or better still, pay us a visit.

GREAT ACCOMMODATION Plas y Brenin is a long, long way from the outdoor centres you remember from your school days. Our guests are always pleasantly surprised at the high standard of food and accommodation we provide. All our bedrooms are en-suite, with TVs and we have a range of options available from cosy singles to large family rooms. The food we serve in our scenic dining room is the highlight of many of our customer reviews. Our meals are freshly prepared using locally sourced ingredients. We always have a range of options on offer and if you let us know in advance we are more than happy to cater for any dietary requirements.

THE LATEST GEAR As a world class sporting facility we are committed to making sure everything about your course or holiday at Plas y Brenin is absolutely first rate. Our equipment stores only use the best equipment and the stores team are passionate about maintaining every piece of kit in perfect working order. But the good news for you is that all your equipment hire is included in the course fee. So you can borrow anything you need at no extra cost.

UNBEATABLE FACILITIES No other outdoor centre can match our on-site facilities. A beautiful lake and river at the bottom of the garden, two indoor climbing walls, a purpose built abseil tower, an indoor heated kayak rolling pool, a mountain bike skills course and pump track, a low ropes course and twenty digitally mapped orienteering courses. Not to mention countless AV equipped classrooms and a 130 seat lecture room with 18ft PC screen.

WHAT’S NEW FOR 2015 This year have all kinds of new courses. For the first time guests can book with or without accommodation which may suit people who live locally. We have completed the installation of TV and wireless broadband throughout the centre. Our self-catered accommodation has also received a facelift with Bryn Engan Bunkhouse refurbished and a new slipway onto the Afon Llugwy has also seen improvements in the access for all river users. The Future Leaders Fund and other bursaries are there to save volunteers and young people money (see page 33 & 66). If you are serving in the joint services, we are a registered ELCAS Provider and many of our top-level courses are recognised by the Enhanced Learning Credit Scheme (see page 66).

To stay in touch and up to date sign up on our social media and e-newsletter so you will get to hear about new offers and ideas.

GET STARTED ............................................................................... 5 MOUNTAIN BIKING & LEADERSHIP AWARDS.............. 6-8 ROAD CYCLING........................................................................... 9 HILLWALKING & NAVIGATION ...................................... 10-11 SCRAMBLING.............................................................................. 13 ROCK CLIMBING .................................................................. 14-17 WELSH WINTER WALKING, & MOUNTAINEERING ......21 SCOTTISH WINTER MOUNTAINEERING & CLIMBING 22-23 OFF PISTE SKIING ..................................................................... 24 ALPINE MOUNTAINEERING ........................................... 26-28 PROGRESSIVE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMES ................ 30 RAPID DEVELOPMENT CLINICS ........................................... 31 MOUNTAIN QUALIFICATIONS & CPD.......................... 32-41 FAST TRACK INSTRUCTOR .................................................... 43 FIRST AID .................................................................................... 44

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WATER SAFETY & RESCUE..................................................... 45 KAYAKING & SEA KAYAKING.......................................... 46-51 CANOEING ................................................................................. 52 PADDLESPORT QUALIFICATIONS.................................. 54-57 FAMILY ADVENTURE ......................................................... 58-59 SUMMER CAMPS FOR 12-17 YEAR OLDS ........................ 60-61 THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARD .............................. 62 SUPERIOR SCHOOL EXPERIENCES...................................... 63 ADVENTURES FOR GROUPS & SCHOOLS .................... 64-65 AWARDS & BURSARIES........................................................... 66 BUSINESSES & ORGANISATIONS.......................................... 67 SELF CATERING COTTAGES ............................................. 68-69 CLUB EVENTS............................................................................. 70 FACILITIES & USEFUL INFORMATION.......................... 72-73 BOOKING FORM/TERMS & CONDITIONS................... 74-75

Sport England is focused on the creation of a world-leading community sport system. We are committed to growing and sustaining participation in sport and helping more people to excel and fulfil their potential.

In 2011 Sport England awarded a 15 year contract to the Mountain Training Trust to manage Plas y Brenin. This renewed partnership provides the long term security for the centre and provides even greater opportunities for adventure sports to contribute to Sport England’s participation and growth targets as well as enabling Plas y Brenin to support the whole sport plans of key NGBs such as BMC, BC and BCU. In our continued excellent partnership we have used our support and expertise to help Plas y Brenin provide a wide range of sporting opportunities including new initiatives such asEngland, cycling. We some of you House, into the mountains for Square, the first time and others thought Sport 3rdtake Floor Victoria Bloomsbury London WC1Bfurther 4SE than Tel: you 020 ever 7273 1500 possible.

Fax: 020 7383 5740 Web: www.sportengland.org

sixty yearS of adventure 2015 is Plas y Brenin’s sixtieth anniversary. Sixty years as the focal point for outdoor adventure in the UK has left us with many friends and countless tales to tell. Over the year we’’ll be pulling together old photos and stories from days gone by and posting them on our website. So why not check out this unique and inspiring record of mountain adventure in the UK as it grows by visiting www.pyb.co.uk/sixty. In the meantime, here’s a brief account of how those sixty years have shaped The National Mountain Centre.

When Plas y Brenin was opened as the National Outdoor Recreation Centre in 1955 it was founded on enthusiasm for the outdoors and the power of adventure to inspire

and bring new activity to people’s lives.

As part of a movement to establish national centres, The Royal Hotel was developed into Plas y Brenin (The Kings House) by the CCPR (Central Council for Physical Recreation) and opened its doors to the public, offering a range of courses from rock climbing to scuba diving and fly fishing to pony trekking. New outdoor sports like orienteering and dry-slope skiing appeared here for the first time in Britain. Some sports involved the making of equipment, with kayak construction a part of the activity.

Of course over the years we have seen the development of mountain sports so that today Plas y Brenin is world renowned for the teaching of climbing, mountaineering, canoeing, kayaking and mountain biking.

Gazing back over 60 years of rich history, the characteristics which underpin the centre are evidently simple.

‘Enthusiasm for the outdoors and passion for adventure’.

The eminent outdoor enthusiasts of their day John Hunt, John Disley, Jack Longland, Geoff Good, Pete Livelsey, George Band, Alan

Blackshaw, Mark Vallance, Dawson Stelfox, Rab Carrington and many, many more all bought their intellect to the challenge. These figures allowed Plas y Brenin to provide cutting edge technical knowledge but most of all they instilled a deep enthusiasm and passion for the sports they loved and the environment they enjoyed them in.

To this day, the atmosphere in and round Plas y Brenin remains one of boundless enthusiasm for adventure and limitless passion for the outdoors. The people attracted to this unique centre continue to bolster this bubbling cauldron of enthusiasm. Staff and guests alike make their contribution to the atmosphere and achievements, adding their own stories of adventure and misadventure to the catalogue of long-told tales that echo through the corridors and corners of this character filled Center of Enthusiasm.

In 1972 The Sports Council took over from the CCPR and continued to develop Plas y Brenin as the National Mountain Centre, developing facilities that included one of the first indoor climbing walls in the country.

From the day Plas y Brenin opened it’s doors right up to this day there has been and continues to be a very close relationship between Plas y Brenin and the National Governing Bodies of outdoor sports.

In 1997 this close relationship was reinforced as the three major mountaineering and climbing organisations at the time combined to create the charitable organisation that would take over the management of Plas y Brenin on behalf of Sport England. The British Mountaineering Council (BMC), Mountain Leader Training UK and Mountain Leader formed The Mountain Training Trust (MTT), a charitable trust with the sole objective of running Plas y Brenin and maintaining its position as a focal point for outdoor learning in the UK. Still under the management of MTT, today Plas y Brenin continues to work very closely with mountaineering’s governing bodies and now works hand in hand with all the National Governing bodies of mountain sport including Canoe England, Canoe Wales and British Cycling.

Over the past few years MTT and Plas y Brenin’s staff have played a pivotal role in the development of safety and leadership awards, and recently coaching awards in a wide range of outdoor sports both in the UK and around the world including working alongside governing bodies in Canada, Cyprus, Sweden and Iran.

Alongside that Plas y Brenin is regularly the first port of call for expertise to help create resources and materials used in technical manuals and training films.

Today the centre focuses on mountaineering, climbing, kayaking, canoeing and mountain biking.

With 30,000 visitor days a year we have the capacity to test, use and

abuse an awfully large array of clothing and equipment.

Which is why the outdoor industry has such a close working relationship with The National Mountain Centre. Aside from training their staff in outdoor activities with us, a wide range of outdoor manufacturers and retailers use Plas y Brenin to help design and test gear and use the opportunity to gather feedback from staff and guests on our courses, part of the reason why our equipment stores are packed to the rafters with state of the art clothing and equipment.

If you’d like to find out more about the last sixty years visit www.pyb.co.uk/sixty.

If you’d like to be part of the next sixty years, why not book on a course or holiday with us or just pop in for a pint after your next adventure.

Find out more about Plas y Brenin’s history at www.pyb.co.uk/sixty

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Exciting, breathtaking, invigorating, eye-opening, enlightening. Words can’t begin to explain the appeal of our action-packed, fun-filled multi-activity courses. Whether you stay for a weekend or a full five days you’re sure to have the time of your life trying out a variety of adventure sports including rock climbing, abseiling, canoeing, kayaking, orienteering and mountain walking. You’ll have a chance to feel what it’s like to plunge through foaming rapids in a canoe, abseil effortlessly down a cliff face, and work against the clock as you search for hidden markers using only a finely detailed map and compass. But don’t worry, you’ll always have one of our expert instructors keeping a careful eye on your progress and you’ll never be more than a short stroll away from a hot shower and the welcome comfort of our scenic bar.

So join us on the adventure of a lifetime and who knows, it may even be the start of a new pastime.

DISCOVER ADVENTURE SPORTS

2 DAYS

If you've never tried any of the increasingly popular adventure sports this is a perfect way to have a go. A fast moving weekend takes you on a whirlwind tour of canoeing, kayaking, climbing and abseiling. It's fast, fun and exciting and you'll always be in safe hands with some of the best outdoor instructors in Britain keeping an eye on you.

We supply all the necessary technical equipment so all you need to bring with you is enthusiasm.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required.

16-17 MAY 13-14 JUN

11-12 JUL

29-30 AUG

26-27 SEP

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£195

£135

EXPLORE ADVENTURE SPORTS

3 DAYS

An extended weekend allowing you to try out a little more than is possible on our Discover Adventure Sports weekend. As well as getting to grips with rock climbing and learning to abseil safely, you’ll have a go at kayaking and canoeing, trying out all kinds of boats including stand up paddle boards. You’ll also get the chance to go on a watery adventure journey using ropes, harnesses and other safety gear to negotiate your way around a rocky sea level traverse or up a steep river gorge. All exciting outdoor stuff and all great fun.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required.

18-20 APR

02-04 MAY

23-25 MAY

22-24 AUG

£315

INTRODUCTION TO ADVENTURE SPORTS

£225

5 DAYS

You'll need some energy to keep up with the pace on this one. During the week you will have a go at a range of adventure sports including canoeing, kayaking, climbing, abseiling, gorge-walking, orienteering, and mountain walking. Each day you’ll enjoy coaching from our vastly experienced and highly qualified coaches, keeping you safe and making sure you enjoy each challenge to the full.

So why not join us this year and open your eyes to a new world of adventure.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required.

30 MAR-03 APR 13-17 APR 04-08 MAY

22-26 JUN 29 JUN-03 JUL

24-28 AUG 21-25 SEP

05-09 OCT 12-16 OCT

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£415

£265

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Mountain Biking

Here at Plas y Brenin we are surrounded by some of the finest mountain biking routes in Europe. We have world class single track routes like the Marin Trail in the Gwydyr forest and Penmachno Trail right outside the back door and other classic trails at Coed y Brenin and Coed Llandegla only a few minutes away. And this year we even have our own purpose built Mountain Bike Skills Course and Pump Track - perfect for developing your riding.

As the National Mountain Centre we’re keen to make sure that people enjoy the mountains in a safe and responsible way, allowing them to have even more fun. That’s why we are offering an extended list of both recreational and vocational mountain bike courses. If you want to improve your skills, or simply ride in good company we have some great weekend courses on these pages.

As part of any of our mountain bike courses you will be expected to bring your own bike, helmet and cycling equipment. Please make sure your bike is safe, roadworthy and well maintained. If it is not, you may be unable to take part in the course.

2 DAYS

DISCOVER MOUNTAIN BIKING

Got a mountain bike but never really use it? Ride on the road but find the off-road stuff a bit scary?

Don’t worry you are not alone. Loads of people lack the confidence to ride off road and the thought of riding on those rocky, narrow, mud splattered trails fills them with dread. A weekend spent with our coaches will boost your confidence, improve your balance and develop your riding technique, leaving you eager to get out there and explore the trails with your friends. Starting with gentle terrain our coaches will help you smoothly progress onto more difficult tracks. You’ll be amazed at what you can achieve with the right skills and a little confidence.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - you should have your own bike and kit and be capable of riding for 4-5 hours each day 28-29 MAR 06-07 JUN 04-05 JUL 07-08 NOV 23-24 MAY 27-28 JUN 10-11 OCT

MOUNTAIN BIKE CORE SKILLS

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£180

£120

2 DAYS

This course focuses on the technically correct way to perform the core skills required to become a more competent and confident rider. These skills are the perfect foundation for less experienced riders and often a reason for more experienced riders to go ‘back to basics’ in order to improve their riding beyond a plateau.

Over two days you’ll look closely at balance, weight transfer and learn to lift your front or back wheel manually or power assisted to avoid obstacles. The course will start on our private skills course before heading out onto local trails to consolidate your technique in real situations.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - Happy on blue graded and red graded trails. RESIDENTIAL 14-15 MAR 25-26 APR 30-31 MAY 03-04 SEP £245 02-03 APR 16-17 MAY 22-23 AUG 24-25 OCT

NON-RES

£185

MOUNTAIN BIKE CORE SKILLS FOR WOMEN 2 DAYS Some girls are happy to ride alongside the guys whilst others find it intimidating, that’s why we’ve given you the option to select one of these ‘Women only’ dates.

If you find the idea of riding in a mixed group daunting, this weekend covers exactly the same content as our Core Mountain Bike Skills course with a guarantee that all the course participants will be female, so you’ll be able to focus on learning and enjoying your riding.

NON-RES PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - Happy on blue graded and red graded trails. RESIDENTIAL

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30 MAR-01 APR

16-17 MAY

25-26 JUL

£245

£185

2 DAYS

MOUNTAIN BIKE IMPROVER

Want to get more out of your mountain biking? Let us improve your riding skills and build your confidence. Find out all about the attack position, better braking, slick gear changing, cornering, weight shift for up hills and down hills, line choice and front and rear wheel lifts. This fun weekend will take you along a mixture of the natural and man made tracks that surround Plas y Brenin, giving you a varied experience that will help you to develop all round skills.

An ideal choice for anyone who is reasonably fit but lacks confidence riding on rocky, steep or unpredictable ground.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - you should have your own bike and kit. You will have completed a few rides already and be capable of riding for 4-5 hours on rugged terrain.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 17-18 JAN 02-03 MAY 15-16 AUG 24-25 OCT 04-05 APR 30-31 MAY 29-30 AUG 21-22 NOV £200 £140 11-12 APR 20-21 JUN

PERFORMANCE MOUNTAIN BIKE COACHING

2 DAYS

The perfect way for Intermediate mountain bikers to develop their riding skills. High coach to guest ratios combined with top level coaching give maximum opportunity for improvement on this two-day personal improvement programme based at our own skills track and out on the local top class mountain bike trails.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - Happy on blue graded and red graded trails. RESIDENTIAL 31 JAN-01 FEB 11-12 APR 18-19 JUL 22-23 AUG £240 07-08 FEB 09-10 MAY 01-02 AUG 10-11 OCT

NON-RES

£180

2 DAYS

BIG MOUNTAIN RIDES

Two days of big off-road routes. Each day you’ll travel off into the high mountains with our mountain bike coaches looking for adventure. No trail centres on the list on this weekend, just hard-won peaks and rapid-fire descents. Big uphills, big downhills and big smiles all round. This is the stuff mountain bikes were made for.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - fit enough to ride for 4-5 hours for two days.

18-19 APR 01-02 AUG 07-08 NOV 05-06 DEC 11-12 JUL 12-13 SEP

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£200

£140

2 DAYS

DOWNHILL SKILLS

Get a lift up and ride down on this weekend spent enjoying the best bits of mountain biking - the downhills. We’ll provide a vehicle to ferry you up to the top of the hills, minimizing the uphill pedalling. You’ll be able to enjoy close technique coaching from our mountain bike coaches and get lots and lots of downhill practice. And every time you reach the bottom, a vehicle will be wating to speed you back up to the top.

You are sure to learn plenty, but above all, you’ll have lots of fun on the kind of weekend that makes you remember what it was like to be a kid.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - Red Trail Centre Rider 10-11 JAN 07-08 MAR 16-17 MAY 26-27 SEP 14-15 FEB 14-15 MAR 11-12 JUL 14-15 NOV

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£240

£180

2 DAYS

THE SNOWDON CHALLENGE

A weekend that includes an attempt to ride up and down Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales.

Day one is an intense ‘shake down’ day where, on a long ride in the mountains, your coach will assess your skills, offering valuable input to help you get the most out of day two - the summit bid!

On day two you’ll attempt to ride (and occasionally carry) your bike to the summit of Snowdon. The epic ascent is followed by an equally epic descent. You’ll need to be fit, with nerves of steel too as the descent is Scottish black run standard loose scree, large boulders, rocky steps, steep drop offs and winding technical trails - tough but rideable all the way. Are you up to the challenge?

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - a high level of biking fitness, 21-22 MAR

03-04 OCT

17-18 OCT

31 OCT-01 NOV

£230

£170

3 DAYS

GREAT WELSH RIDES

The mountain biking in North Wales is superb and varied. Although a few centres are well publicised, the average rider doesn’t even know about most of the routes that exist . Why not join us on this three day course designed to showcase the very best that North Wales can offer. From rolling mountain sides and green valleys to eerie slate quarrys and deep, dark forests, North Wales has it all on offer and once you’ve experienced it with us you’ll know where to take your mates next time you visit.

So why not join our coaches as they take you on a tour of their greatest Welsh rides, featuring a combination of man-made and natural trails.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - regular trail centre rider who wants to spread their wings and uncover more in North Wales.

08-10 APR 29 APR-01 MAY 08-10 JUL 04-06 NOV 20-22 APR 03-05 JUN 09-11 SEP

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£260

£170

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Mountain BikE LEADERSHIP

If you lead groups in the outdoors whether as a professional or on a voluntary basis, the mountain bike qualifications listed here may be of use to you. We have joined forces with British Cycling to develop and deliver their Level 2 and Level 3 Mountain Bike Leadership Awards. We are convinced these awards will ensure that leaders and riders enjoy safer, more enjoyable and more challenging rides in more adventurous places.

LEVEL 2 BRITISH CYCLING MOUNTAIN BIKE LEADERSHIP TRAINING

2 DAYS

British Cycling's Level 2 Mountain Bike Leadership Award enables experienced mountain bikers to safely guide riders in the mountains and make sure they have a great day out.

When operating in the great outdoors it is crucial that a mountain bike leader is properly trained and qualified to deal with all eventualities. The Level 2 qualification builds your confidence as a leader in a variety of terrain, while allowing you the freedom to tailor rides to suit you and your group's needs.

You are also required to submit a written assignment which is an open-book, home-study task and comprises of a range of short answer questions. This task is based on the information included in the British Cycling Level 2 Mountain Bike Leadership Handbook and other resources provided on the course.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE 18 years old or over with a current 2 Day Outdoor First Aid Certificate, regsitered with British Cycling and have filled in your logbook (supplied when you register with British Cycling).

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 21-22 FEB 02-03 MAY 15-16 AUG 29-30 OCT 28-29 MAR 13-14 JUN 24-25 SEP 12-13 DEC £255 £195 18-19 APR 11-12 JUL 08-09 OCT

LEVEL 2 BRITISH CYCLING MOUNTAIN BIKE LEADERSHIP ASESSMENT

1 DAY

This practical assessment consists of an all-day mountain bike journey during which each candidate will be assigned to lead a section of the assessment route of up to 25km working with a ratio of 1:5. You will be expected to deliver a flowing journey whilst demonstrating good leadership and navigational skills.

The assessment procedure is informal and is designed to help you develop your skills as a mountain bike leader. The group you lead can consist of other riders who are also being assessed on the same day and/ or riders who are there, simply to fulfil the role as participants on the ride.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - Must have successfully attended a Level 2 Mountain Bike Leadership Training Course.

09 MAY

18 JUL

19 SEP

17 OCT

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£140

£110

LEVEL 3 BRITISH CYCLING MOUNTAIN BIKE LEADERSHIP TRAINING

3 DAYS

The Level 3 Mountain Bike Leadership Award is aimed at highly experienced mountain bike leaders, who wish to extend their remit to include remote terrain and trails of severe technical difficulty.

The award particularly focuses on group management in technical terrain, navigation in challenging conditions with few navigational features and incident management in remote environments.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE -Have successfully attended a Level 2 Mountain Bike Leadership Assessment Course.

10-12 JUN 30 SEP-02 OCT

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£385

£295

LEVEL 3 BRITISH CYCLING MOUNTAIN BIKE LEADERSHIP ASSESSMENT 2 DAYS

8

This practical assessment is over two days. The first day looks at personal riding standards, which will include an all-day mountain bike journey during which each candidate will be able to demonstrate their MTB techniques, navigation and trail side repairs. The second day will involve leading some clients in the Level 3 MTB Leadership terrain. During this day, the candidate will be able to show leadership skills, group control and organisational skills, and be self-sufficient.

The assessment procedure is informal and is designed to help you develop your skills as a mountain bike leader. The group you lead can consist of other riders, who are also being assessed on the same day and/ or riders who are there, simply to fulfil the role as participants on the ride.

This includes a written assignment which is an open book home study task.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 21-22 MAR

20-21 JUN

17-18 SEP

£290

£230

GUIDED ROAD CYCLING

The cycling in Snowdonia is simply breathtaking. We have it all, long sweeping valleys, winding alpine style climbs, narrow isolated lanes, towering cliff top coastal roads and tranquil riverside b-roads. All you need is to know where to find these hidden gems and how to link one to the other. That’s where our cycling guides come in.

Our road cycling guides know the area like the back of their hand so they can make sure you get the most from your cycling holiday, they will help you make the most of the weather, seek out the best scenery, tailor the ride to your group’s ability and even find the best ice cream shop.

Whether you’re looking for an energetic sightseeing break on two wheels or an intense weekend of ‘lung-busting’ climbs, we have just the thing. Take a look and see what suits you best.

As part of any of our cycling holidays you will be expected to bring your own bike which we will provide a safe and secure storage facility for. Please ensure your bike is roadworthy and well maintained. If it is not, you may be unable to take part in the ride.

DISCOVER SNOWDONIA

2 DAYS

Two sightseeing rides through the mountains of Snowdonia. Let our guides take you along some of the most beautiful countryside in the UK, using roads that you’d be unlikely to find on your own.

Great riding in good company at a sociable pace.

MILEAGE - Covering up to 40 miles each day, taking in some steep hills.

IDEAL FOR - Regular touring cyclists who are looking for something slightly more demanding.

RESIDENTIAL 05-06 SEP 01-02 AUG 23-24 MAY 04-05 APR £200 06-07 JUN 25-26 APR

THE MONSTER’

NON-RES

£140

2 DAYS

Not for the feint hearted, this weekend takes you on two big guided rides through the mountains of Snowdonia, taking as many steep climbs as our guides can find on the map. Lots of miles, lots of climbs, lots of sweat - and if that’s what you are into, lots of fun.

MILEAGE - Covering up to 80 miles each day, with numerous steep climbs.

IDEAL FOR - Regular, committed road cyclists, triathletes, or adventure racers.

Ideal preparation for anyone training for an etape, sportive or other big cycling event.

02-03 MAY

15-16 AUG

12-13 SEP

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£200

£140

SPORTIVE PREPARATION WEEKEND

2 DAYS

Preparing for your first Sportive? What better place to do it in than North Wales with quiet roads and a mixture of flat riding, gentle hills and big climbs to ensure you are fully prepared for any terrain a Sportif could throw at you. Including sessions on kit, nutrition, strength and conditioning.

MILEAGE - Covering around 40-60 miles or possibly more if you fancy it on the day.

IDEAL FOR - Anyone training for their first major cycling event.

28-29 MAR

16-17 MAY

18-19 JUL

05-06 SEP

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£200

£140

20% Member discount on our self catering bunkhouses or farmhouse for your group, club or team. The ideal base to ride Snowdonia’s mountains from (see p 68-69).

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HILLWALKING

Whether you want to walk through peaceful, unspoilt hillsides and paths or you’d rather scramble up exposed rocky ridges, Snowdonia has everything on offer. The towering peaks of Tryfan, Snowdon and the surrounding mountains are riddled with technical scrambling and mountaineering challenges whilst the beautiful lakes and rolling hills below provide a tranquil setting for more relaxing walks.

On our summer hillwalking courses our highly skilled instructors help you gain all the skills, techniques and, most of all, the confidence you need to travel further in the hills under your own steam. So whatever you’re looking for, from a weekend of breathtaking ridges to a relaxing week strolling through the hills, you’re sure to find just the thing at Plas y Brenin.

SNOWDONIA’S CLASSIC WALKS

5 DAYS

Why not explore the picturesque hills of Snowdonia with our experienced instructors? On each of the five days you’ll walk at your own, comfortable pace through remote, beautiful countryside taking in views from classic mountains like Snowdon, Tryfan, the Carneddau, and the Glyders.

You’ll also have a chance to study the mountain flora and fauna that thrive in these isolated areas so don’t forget to bring your camera.

In the evenings you can attend talks on subjects like mountain clothing and equipment, navigation and emergency procedures, or simply relax and enjoy a chat in the bar whilst absorbing the mountain atmosphere.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required.

23-27 FEB 16-20 MAR 24-28 APR

04-08 MAY 01-05 JUN 29 JUN-03 JUL

20-24 JUL 17-21 AUG 07-11 SEP

28 SEP-02 OCT 02-06 NOV 09-13 NOV

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£470

£320

HILLWALKING WEEKEND

2 DAYS

For most people the breathtaking views Snowdonia has to offer are only seen on postcards. If you’re one of those people here’s your opportunity to see that scenery first hand on two guided walks in some of Snowdonia's most iconic landscapes. Throughout the weekend our local instructors will be on hand to offer advice on how you can enjoy the hills under your own steam, making sure you get to know the area and pick up some basic hillwalking skills in the process.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required.

21-22 FEB 06-07 JUN 08-09 AUG 09-10 MAY 18-19 JUL 19-20 SEP

10-11 OCT 31 OCT-01 NOV

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£200

£140

HILLWALKING SKILLS

5 DAYS

If you’re a regular hillwalker but lack the confidence to stray off the beaten track, then this five-day course will help to improve your navigation, route planning, and knowledge of both emergency procedures and the mountain environment.

Throughout this practical course you will have the opportunity to explore the dramatic higher peaks of Snowdonia, and travel over some of its wilder terrain.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - an interest in hillwalking rather than experience is important.

10

23-27 FEB 23-27 MAR 13-17 APR

27 APR-01 MAY 25-29 MAY 22-26 JUN

06-10 JUL 24-28 AUG 21-25 SEP

23-27 NOV 30 NOV-04 DEC

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£470

£320

20% Member discount on our self catering bunkhouses or farmhouse for your group or club. The ideal base to walk Snowdonia’s beautiful mountains from (see p 68-69).

DISCOVER NAVIGATION

2 DAYS

Let our instructors take you through every aspect of basic navigation from symbols, scales and grid references to ground shape, measuring distance, taking bearings and using a compass. The perfect course to equip you with the basic skills to explore the mountains with confidence.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - no navigation experience required.

21-22 FEB 30-31 MAY 25-26 JUL 26-27 SEP 14-15 MAR 13-14 JUN 29-30 AUG 24-25 OCT 04-05 APR 04-05 JUL 12-13 SEP 31 OCT-01 NOV 02-03 MAY

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£220

£160

COMPLETE NAVIGATION

5 DAYS

Over the course of these five days you’ll develop from having little or no navigational experience to having a firm understanding of mountain navigation techniques. You’ll look at the traditional methods of navigation, using a map and compass before moving on to examine the benefits that modern technology can bring, using a handheld GPS system.

All of this will, of course, be wrapped up with plenty of walking in the hills, putting everything into practice in real situations to further your understanding.

A great way to rapidly develop a well rounded knowledge of mountain navigation or to consolidate and expand a basic grasp of traditional techniques.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - no navigation experience required.

12-16 JAN 09-13 FEB 09-13 MAR

30 MAR-03 APR 20-24 APR 01-05 JUN

31 AUG-04 SEP 19-23 OCT 02-06 NOV

16-20 NOV 23-27 NOV 07-11 DEC

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£470

£320

NAVIGATION SKILLS

2 DAYS

If you need to develop your navigation skills or your navigation is not as good as you would like, then this two day course provides an ideal opportunity to refine your technique. You will cover all aspects of advanced navigation and leave capable of finding your way confidently day or night and in bad weather. A practical night navigation exercise will be included on dates between the beginning of September and the end of March.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE- basic navigation skills.

07-08 FEB 11-12 APR 13-14 JUN

01-02 AUG 05-06 SEP 26-27 SEP

17-18 OCT 07-08 NOV

14-15 NOV 05-06 DEC

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£220

£160

BACK ON TRACK

2 DAYS

An enlightening weekend designed for accomplished mountain navigators. Spend two days developing a set of reliable and effective techniques to get you back on track if you find yourself unsure of where you are. Learn how to take control of the situation and use the information you can gather from what is around you to establish your location and to work out your best and safest onward strategy.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - reliable navigation skills.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 24-25 JAN 14-15 FEB

07-08 MAR 11-12 JUL

15-16 AUG 22-23 AUG

03-04 OCT 24-25 OCT

£220

FOURTEEN PEAKS CHALLENGE

£160

5 DAYS

Join us on this five-day guided traverse attempting to take in all 14 of Snowdonia's highest peaks. Admire the view from the top of some of the National Park's finest mountains on this exciting week-long adventure. Snowdon, Crib Goch, Tryfan, the Glyders, Y Garn and all the Carneddau peaks. Are you up to the challenge?

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - summer hillwalking.

09-13 MAR 16-20 MAR 30 MAR-03 APR

13-17 APR 04-08 MAY 11-15 MAY

08-12 JUN 13-17 JUL

MOUNTAINEERING SKILLS

31 AUG-04 SEP 26-30 OCT

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£470

£320

5 DAYS

Covering the more advanced skills of summer hillwalking and mountaineering, this five day course concentrates on the techniques required for multi-day journeys and travel in the sometimes hostile conditions and rocky terrain encountered in the British mountains. Perfect if you are an experienced hillwalker who wants to develop the necessary techniques of navigation, route finding, expedition camping, basic ropework and hazard awareness needed to look after yourself and your friends or family in the mountains. The course includes a two day expedition with an overnight camp.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - summer hillwalking.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 05-09 OCT 20-24 JUL 11-15 MAY 16-20 FEB 12-16 OCT 10-14 AUG 01-05 JUN 16-20 MAR £555 £405 16-20 NOV 07-11 SEP 29 JUN-03 JUL 30 MAR-03 APR

20% Member discount on our self catering bunkhouses or farmhouse for your group or club. The ideal base to walk Snowdonia’s mountains from (see p 68-69).

11

Need a hand to put the perfect rack together?

If you’re on a course at Plas y Brenin, we will hand you a 15% discount on DMM gear at the Joe Brown shop Great service, great gear!

Plas y Brenin, Joe Brown and DMM... you’re in safe hands.

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W W W. D MMWALES .CO M

SCRAMBLING

For the experienced hillwalker, scrambling and mountaineering offers the obvious next step, bridging the gap for many between walking and climbing. Scrambling up to familiar summits by a route too steep and exposed for most to even consider calls for the right mix of careful judgement, delicate footwork and calm determination. Reaching the top brings it’s own unique rewards and is an experience most keen hillwalkers will revel in. So why not give it a try and enjoy learning how to do it for yourself with our mountaineering instructors.

DISCOVER SCRAMBLING

2 DAYS

As a summer hillwalker you will often want to go to places which require more specialist techniques than you possess. If you are interested in learning how to move over steep ground safely, perhaps using a rope, then this is the ideal course for you. By the end of the weekend you will have traversed some of Snowdonia’s classic rocky ridges.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - summer hillwalking.

28 FEB-01 MAR 28-29 MAR 18-19 APR 09-10 MAY 16-17 MAY

30-31 MAY 27-28 JUN 11-12 JUL 25-26 JUL 01-02 AUG

15-16 AUG 22-23 AUG 29-30 AUG 12-13 SEP

26-27 SEP 03-04 OCT 10-11 OCT 17-18 OCT

INTRODUCTION TO SCRAMBLING

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£235

£175

5 DAYS

If you want to develop your hillwalking skills to take you over steeper and more adventurous ground, come with us on this week long scramble through Snowdonia’s highest peaks.

Staying each night at Plas y Brenin, you’ll spend five days far from the beaten track, exploring exciting and demanding classic scrambles, whilst learning everything you need to know about route finding, simple ropework, navigation, equipment selection and how to interpret mountain weather. You’ll cover lots of ground too, helping you get to know the area and unlocking Snowdonia for your future trips.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - summer hillwalking RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 16-20 FEB 22-26 JUN 14-18 SEP 19-23 OCT 09-13 MAR 29 JUN-03 JUL 21-25 SEP 09-13 NOV £565 £415 08-12 JUN 17-21 AUG

WELSH SUMMER RIDGES

2 DAYS

An exhilarating weekend of guided mountaineering on some of Snowdonia's classic ridges.

In summer, these narrow, rocky exposed ridges are still demanding and exciting. In a group of two, you'll accompany our instructor as you make your way up and over some of the most spectacular ridges in the UK using a rope wherever necessary to overcome the complex challenges of these exposed spectacular ridges which all adds to the adventure.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - A good level of hillwalking fitness, RESIDENTIAL NON-RES a head for heights and a thirst for adventure.

25-26 APR 20-21 JUN 01-02 AUG 19-20 SEP £335 £275 30-31 MAY 11-12 JUL

ADVANCED SCRAMBLING

5 DAYS

An introduction to the higher grade scrambles, looking at personal skills and techniques for the safe ascent of grade 2 and 3 scrambles. For those who have done some of the classic grade 1 routes and want to venture onto more challenging terrain, learning the ropework skills necessary for safe travel on grade 3 routes.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - some scrambling experience and a good level of hillwalking fitness.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 13-17 APR 29 JUN-03 JUL 14-18 SEP 19-23 OCT £585 £435 01-05 JUN 17-21 AUG

13

ROCK CLIMBING

Rock climbing’s special combination of mental and physical challenges make it a unique experience. Once you’ve tried it, you’re hooked. The intrinsic rewards that come from combining concentration, agility, balance, strength and judgement are unequalled in any other sport. Nothing heightens the senses more than the combination of delight and relief that comes from reaching the top of a demanding route. Whatever standard you climb at, from novice to expert, these feelings remain the same.

The key lies in seeking out new and exciting challenges. That’s where Plas y Brenin comes into its own. Based in Snowdonia we’re surrounded by some of the finest rock routes in Britain, from the towering sea cliffs of Gogarth and exposed mountain crags of the Llanberis Pass to the inviting slabs of Cwm Idwal and the sheltered walls of Tremadog. There’s even a choice of rock too with limestone, rhyolite, quarzite, dolerite and slate all within easy reach. This unique position not only allows us to conjure up great variety, it also means we can be flexible, adapting our course location and content to suit both the weather pattern and your ability. Which ultimately means you get the most from your time with us.

GET STARTED ROCK CLIMBING Become a rock climber! This introductory course gives you the best foundation skills you need to become a safe rock climber. Our experienced instructors will take you climbing outside on our local crags where you’ll learn the basics; good climbing technique and efficient movement on the rock, as well as what equipment you need and how to use it safely.

During the 5 day course we introduce multi pitch climbing on routes in the mountains and crags too.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required.

2 DAYS

28 FEB-01 MAR 21-22 MAR 04-05 APR 18-19 APR

25-26 APR 16-17 MAY 23-24 MAY 30-31 MAY

13-14 JUN 27-28 JUN 11-12 JUL 18-19 JUL

01-02 AUG 15-16 AUG 12-13 SEP 26-27 SEP

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£190

£130 5 DAYS

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£590

£440

5 DAYS 23-27 FEB 23-27 MAR 30 MAR-03 APR 06-10 APR

13-17 APR 20-24 APR 04-08 MAY 25-29 MAY

01-05 JUN 29 JUN-03 JUL 13-17 JUL 10-14 AUG

17-21 AUG 24-28 AUG 07-11 SEP 28 SEP-02 OCT

MOVING OUT !

If you’ve already learnt the basics down at your local wall and want to make the transition to outdoor climbing then this is the perfect course for you. We’ll show you how to decipher guidebooks, give you the skills to place protection, judge its quality and build solid anchors at the top of the crag. We’ll teach you efficient and safe ropework and can also give you some coaching on your climbing movement and techniques. During the 5 day course we’ll move away from the single pitch crags and give you a taster of multi-pitch climbing too.

2 DAYS

21-22 FEB 07-08 MAR 28-29 MAR 18-19 APR 09-10 MAY

23-24 MAY 06-07 JUN 13-14 JUN 20-21 JUN 27-28 JUN

11-12 JUL 25-26 JUL 01-02 AUG 08-09 AUG 22-23 AUG

29-30 AUG 19-20 SEP 10-11 OCT 17-18 OCT

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£245

£185

5 DAYS

14

02-06 MAR 16-20 MAR 06-10 APR 27 APR-01 MAY 11-15 MAY

25-29 MAY 08-12 JUN 29 JUN-03 JUL 06-10 JUL

13-17 JUL 20-24 JUL 10-14 AUG 17-21 AUG

7

14-18 SEP 21-25 SEP 05-09 OCT 19-23 OCT

5 DAYS RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£625

£475

ROCK IMPROVER If you don’t want to lead climb just yet, but want to improve your climbing, feel like a competent and reliable climbing partner or try climbing in more exciting places , then this is the course for you. During the course the instructor will take you single-pitch and multi-pitch climbing, honing your movement and showing you more advanced techniques, we’ll slicken up your ropework and teach you how to solve common problems found when seconding. All the while, enjoying pitch after pitch of the best climbing North Wales has to offer.

During the 5 day course we climb on multi pitch crags for up to three days.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - basic climbing skills.

2 DAYS 04-05 APR 16-17 MAY

06-07 JUN 20-21 JUN

04-05 JUL 22-23 AUG

05-06 SEP

29 JUN-03 JUL 20-24 JUL

10-14 AUG

21-25 SEP

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£265

£205

5 DAYS 13-17 APR 11-15 MAY

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£650

£500

INTRODUCTION TO LEADING This course is for climbers who have mastered the basics and want to start lead climbing. You’ll look at guidebook interpretation, route selection and understanding grades. Climbing on single and multi-pitch climbs you can learn how to place protection on the lead and judge its quality, build solid anchors to belay from and manage your ropes effectively.

We’ll also give you the skills to descend safely and to deal with common problems lead climbers come across.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - must be a proficient second.

2 DAYS 11-12 APR 25-26 APR 02-03 MAY 16-17 MAY

06-07 JUN 13-14 JUN 04-05 JUL

11-12 JUL 25-26 JUL 15-16 AUG

19-20 SEP 26-27 SEP 03-04 OCT

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£335

£275

5 DAYS 02-06 MAR 16-20 MAR 20-24 APR

08-12 JUN 06-10 JUL

13-17 JUL 24-28 AUG

31 AUG-04 SEP 21-25 SEP

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£660

£510

CLIMBING AUSSIE STYLE

Plas y Brenin rock climbing coach Cath Wilson took an extended holiday to go climbing in Australia earlier this year. Here Cath reflects on the experience, The draw of the world renowned climbing venue of Arapilies is obvious: the amazing and varied climbing, the relaxing and chilled nature of ‘The Pines’ campsite - where people can easily loose a sense of time, before they know it weeks have turned into months, and of course the weird and wonderful wildlife and scenery which is nothing like anything you have ever seen before. My third visit to the crag and to again challenge myself on the powerful natural lines which produce long and sustained pitches on lovely red quartzite rock; routes where with ease, you can place a full and very comprehensive rack – always reassuring in my mind.

Having been re-acquainted with the magic of Arapilies there was also a plan to explore somewhere new and that place was the Blue Mountains (World Heritage Area), a sandstone plateau that has been eroded into impressive gorges and cliff lines, situated a couple of hours to the west of Sydney. The climbing is adventurous with many of the cliffs requiring an abseil approach as the only means of access, like accessing a sea cliff, however, this time the cliff is in a sea of impenetrable Gum Forest, committing yourself to climbing back out. Inspiring climbing with eye catching lines and very reminiscent of Gritstone only on a grander scale, I loved exploring this new venue. The Blue Mountains favours the E1+ (Aussie grading – 18+) climber, there is a curious mixture of trad, sport and mixed trad/sport cliffs to explore and a chance to familiarise yourself with the ‘carrot bolt’ style of protection.

What can I say other than ‘awesome mate’.

15

LEAD CLIMBING DEVELOPER Spend time on the sharp end, consolidating and expanding your leading skills. Under the watchful eye of our expert coaches you’ll pick up tips and techniques from their extensive experience.

Whether you want to lead harder routes, or explore more adventurous places, this intensive course could take you further than you dreamt possible.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - competent lead climber

2 DAYS 14-15 MAR 04-05 APR 11-12 APR

13-14 JUN 20-21 JUN

04-05 JUL 18-19 JUL

08-09 AUG 05-06 SEP

29 JUN-03 JUL 13-17 JUL

10-14 AUG 24-28 AUG

14-18 SEP 12-16 OCT

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£345

£285

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£690

£540

5 DAYS 06-10 APR 11-15 MAY 08-12 JUN

PERFORMANCE CLIMBING This course is for competent lead climbers who would like to improve their performance. If you would like to push your grade, improve your technique and climb more confidently then this is the course for you. This course embraces all aspects of rock climbing, from bouldering to sport to trad. It looks at training and provides top level coaching. It’s a tried and tested formula, just look at Britain’s top level climbers.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - leading at VS or above.

2 DAYS 04-05 APR 09-10 MAY

16-17 MAY

13-14 JUN

01-02 AUG

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£345

£285

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£690

£540

5 DAYS 20-24 APR 27 APR-01 MAY 01-05 JUN

22-26 JUN 20-21 JUL

17-21 AUG 14-18 SEP

05-09 OCT 26-30 OCT

SPORT CLIMBING Welcome to the world of sport climbing. This course will give you a taste of sport climbing, learning the essential skills you need to know to head out and do it yourself. If you want to try sport climbing, you climb in the wall and would like to climb outside or you’re off climbing in Spain and want to know what to do, this is the right choice for you.

Throughout the course you’ll cover technical skills like clipping, belaying and lowering off to keep you safe. You’ll receive coaching on your movement skills to improve your performance. You’ll take time to consider the psychological skills to keep your ‘mojo’ working. And you’ll gather the skills and knowledge to help you warm up, perform at your best, and avoid injury. All whilst doing loads and loads of great climbing!

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE – whether you climb indoors or out – bolted routes start in ‘the 5’s’ so pop down to your local wall and make sure you can climb at least French grade 5 on a rope.

2 DAYS 28-29 MAR 30-31 MAY

20-21 JUN 15-16 AUG

29-30 AUG

10-11 OCT

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£245 5£185 DAYS

5 DAYS 13-17 APR 11-15 MAY

29 JUN-03 JUL

31 AUG-04 SEP

28 SEP-02 OCT

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£590

£440

2 DAYS

TROUBLESHOOTING TECHNIQUES

Self Rescue skills for climbers - the course that every rock climber should have been on. This two-day course will teach you how to get out of those tricky situations that should never arise but all too often do. If you have any doubt how you would react in an emergency, this weekend covering self rescue techniques and how to cope if it all goes wrong, is an ideal way to put you and your climbing partner’s minds at rest.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - some rock climbing outside.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 10-11 JAN 16-17 MAY 12-13 SEP 31 OCT-01 NOV 14-15 FEB 21-22 MAR

16

13-14 JUN 08-09 AUG

03-04 OCT

14-15 NOV

£255

£195

20% Member discount on our self catering bunkhouses or farmhouse for your group or club. The ideal base for a climbing holiday in North Wales (see p 68-69).

BIG WALL CLIMBING

2 DAYS

If you’re planning your first big wall trip, or wanting to fine tune what you’ve already learnt from previous epics, then this weekend is worth its weight in gold. The course is crammed full of practical instruction and advice on everything from aid climbing, stance organisation and hauling to “where to go”, “what to eat” and how to live on a portaledge. It’s exactly what you need to get the most from your trip.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - competent multi pitch climber with your sights set on a big wall adventure.

11-12 APR

02-03 MAY

15-16 AUG

GUIDED CLIMBING

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£285

£225

1 DAY

Be guided on North Wales’ greatest climbs. Let our climbing guides show you some of the wildest routes on offer and take you on an amazing adventure. Mountains, sea cliffs, climbing from dusk till dawn? We provide a personal guiding experience so that your climbing dreams can come true. Equipment needed will be provided.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - whatever level you climb at, we can arrange the perfect day out for you.

Uk BASED OUTSIDE Uk YOU ChOOSE ThE DATE FROM £250 £300

TOWERS OF SAND Plas y Brenin climbing coach Dave Evans and Chief Executive Martin Doyle jumped on a flight to Las Vegas with something other than gambling in mind. Here’s Dave’s brief account of their trip.

Standing on the summit is one of the great pleasures of mountaineering, yet not often associated with rock climbing. The desert around Moab, Utah is littered with sandstone towers, all proud independent summits. Much like a British sea stack with salt water replaced by endless miles of desert sand. Over two visits here we made it a mission to stand on top of as many of them as possible.

The route on Dolomite Tower, Dolofright (5.11/12aR) was first climbed in the 90’s and follows a brilliant line up the prominent right hand arete.

The only other way up the tower is by a difficult and complex aid climb used on the towers first ascent by Layton Kor in the 60’s. The tower consequently has had very few ascents, has no summit book, and we couldn’t find any evidence of another British ascent. This route turned out to be the absolute highlight of the trip, due to the exposed, exciting nature of the climbing and occasional marginal quality of the rock!

All finished off with beers and black jack before the flight home!

20% Member discount on our self catering bunkhouses or farmhouse for your group or club. The ideal base for a climbing holiday in North Wales (see p 68-69).

17

THE CREST OF HOPE Plas y Brenin rock climbing coaches Kathryn James and Louise Beetlestone headed off for the Swiss Alps to take on the challenge of ‘The Crest Of Hope’. Here’s a brief account in Kathryn’s own words.

Alpine climbing can be many things; long rock climbs, snowy walks, icy or mixed faces and ridges. It is a great way to combine many of the skills developed from climbing in the UK, but on a bigger stage; a truely rewarding experience.

The Crest of Hope on the Piz Morteresh is a great example of such a route. Over shadowed by the Piz Bernina a 4000m peak in the Alps; Piz Morteresh stands a little short of 4000m and has a wonderful snow and rock ridge leading to it's summit. A classic mountaineering adventure starting in one valley at the Boval Hut and finishing in another with a walk out from the Tsheveria Hut. It had been on my list since visiting the area a few years earlier to do the famous Biancograt and the Piz Palu. Crest of Hope was an intriguing name, perhaps our journey up it would shed some more light on the name?

Lou and I left the hut in the early hours of the morning finding our way along the moraines beside the glacier and scrambling to the toe of the ridge. As it got lighter we were in the shadow of the ridge – it looked big, but things always do in the half light stood at the bottom. The first part of the ridge was loose and pulling a block off low down concentrated our minds on moving carefully over the terrain … I wondered, Crest of Hope because there is plenty of loose rock to avoid? Lou and I climbed slowly avoiding as much loose rock as possible, pitching and then moving together when the ground became easier or the rock more solid. Once on the snow line, crampons were needed and we switched our heads into moving over snow, ice and rock with spikes on our feet and gloved hands.

The climbing was fun, sometimes thought provoking and at times tiring. Searching for the best line we weaved in and out of towers, up slabs and chimneys inch by inch getting closer to the top. The effort was eventually rewarded by sight of the summit. Fine views, a summit hug to celebrate getting to the top, water, food and then to work out the way down, fortunately not as tricky or loose as the way up. We stay roped up to descend the glacier and then followed cairns to the hut.

Sleep came easily that night; with exhaustion and a warm glow of success, needing some well earned rest ready for the next adventure...... weather permitting

18

Mountaineers need solid partners.

The instructors at Plas y Brenin have been putting our kit through the toughest test for a decade.

This real world testing, almost half a million hours, provides invaluable feedback which helps us make the very best gear in the world.

mountain-equipment.co.uk

Dave Rudkin, Plas y Brenin Instructor Lhotse Jacket, Rive Gauche, Chamonix

19

METEOR METEOR Stylish cut, light and cool, perfect for every outing.

Lightweight and versatile helmet Light and well-ventilated thanks to large vents, the METEOR helmet offers exceptional comfort for both climbing and mountaineering. The quick and simple adjustment system provides for unparalleled ease of use. The METEOR is now available in two sizes to fit any head shape .

WELSH WINTER

Our Welsh Winter courses are based at home in Plas y Brenin, deep in the heart of Snowdonia’s National Park. The mountains are accessible with moderate walks into high North and East facing shady slopes and cwms. Whilst the winters are a little unpredictable, the last few years have delivered some excellent snow and ice conditions, ideal for learning essential winter skills. But whatever the weather, our flexible course programme means we can take full advantage of whatever Mother Nature serves up.

WELSH WINTER SKILLS

2 DAYS

Two days of intensive winter skills. Use and choice of ice axe and crampons, equipment selection, winter navigation and self arrest will all be covered.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - summer hillwalking.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 10-11 JAN 31 JAN-01 FEB 21-22 FEB 28-29 NOV 17-18 JAN 07-08 FEB 28 FEB-01 MAR 05-06 DEC £235 £175 24-25 JAN 14-15 FEB 21-22 NOV 12-13 DEC

WELSH WINTER HILLWALKING

5 DAYS

Designed for those with some hillwalking experience who want to travel the mountains confidently at a time of year when the length of day makes visibility less certain. The winter time offers great opportunities for developing navigation and safety skills in the mountains. The course also includes an introduction to ice axe and crampon technique.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - some summer hillwalking.

05-09 JAN 19-23 JAN 09-13 FEB 30 NOV-04 DEC £385 £235 12-16 JAN 02-06 FEB 16-20 FEB 07-11 DEC

WINTER NAVIGATION

2 DAYS

Although the fundamental techniques involved in navigating are the same regardless of the seasons, winter brings with it unique challenges. This course will equip you with the skills and knowledge to help you deal with navigating in fading light or poor conditions, anticipating and dealing with increased risk from flooding or high winds and how to plan and follow your route in extreme weather.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - basic understanding of navigation.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 10-11 JAN 17-18 JAN

14-15 FEB

21-22 NOV

12-13 DEC

£230

WINTER FOURTEEN PEAKS CHALLENGE

£170

5 DAYS

An opportunity to attempt to tick off all of Wales' 3000 foot peaks in one week. The unpredictable weather at this time of year adds an extra dimension to this unique challenge, that's why this five-day attempt will even allow time for summer hillwalkers who are new to the winter-experience to receive essential winter skills tuition along the way.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - a good level of summer hillwalking fitness.

12-16 JAN 09-13 FEB 23-27 FEB 16-20 NOV 26-30 JAN

WELSH WINTER MOUNTAINEERING

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£515

£365

5 DAYS

Making the most of the unpredictable weather experienced during the winter months in North Wales, this course is aimed at those summer hillwalkers who want to extend their skills to four seasons. Selection and use of ice axe and crampons, winter navigation, ropework for travel over rock, snow and ice as well as emergency bivouacking skills and selection of equipment are all covered during this five-day course.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - summer hillwalking.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 05-09 JAN 26-30 JAN 02-06 MAR 23-27 NOV 12-16 JAN 02-06 FEB 23-27 MAR 07-11 DEC £475 £325 19-23 JAN

WELSH WINTER RIDGES

2 DAYS

An exhilarating weekend of guided mountaineering on some of Snowdonia's classic ridges.

In winter, these narrow, rocky exposed ridges are even more demanding and exciting. In a group of two, you'll accompany our instructor as you make your way up and over some of the most spectacular ridges in the UK using a rope, ice axe and crampons wherever necessary to overcome the complex challenges that winter conditions add to the adventure.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - A good level of hillwalking fitness, a head for heights and a thirst for adventure.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 10-11 JAN 07-08 FEB 31 OCT-01 NOV 05-06 DEC 17-18 JAN 14-15 FEB 28-29 NOV 12-13 DEC £360 £300 31 JAN-01 FEB 28 FEB-01 MAR

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SCOTTISH WINTER

The high mountains of Scotland offer a unique challenge to mountaineers. The unstable weather pattern, variable temperature and greater heights throw up unexpected challenges and unrivalled rewards. All of this has earned the Scottish mountains a world-wide reputation as the perfect training ground for mountaineering in the Alps or higher ranges.

For our Scottish winter courses we’re based in Glencoe, with much of the best climbing in Scotland right outside the front door. Whether you choose to learn to navigate confidently to the summit of your first Munro or pick your way carefully up a gleaming ice gully, one thing is for sure - our highly-qualified and enthusiastic instructors will help you develop the skill, technique and confidence you need to get more out of this rugged mountain environment. So come with us to the Scottish mountains and let us open your eyes to a winter experience you’ll never forget.

SCOTTISH WINTER HILLWALKING

5 DAYS

During the winter months, the Scottish Highlands are covered in snow and ice, and at their most impressive. This is a logical step up from our Welsh Winter Courses, and to feel confident above the snowline you need specific winter skills.

Over these five days you’ll discover how to use crampons and an ice axe; as well as learning about route planning and avalanche avoidance. As an introduction to Scottish conditions, all of these skills will be covered whilst gaining valuable mileage, experience and instruction on some of Scotland’s classic mountains.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - summer hillwalking.

08-12 FEB

15-19 FEB

01-05 MAR

£670

SCOTTISH WINTER ESSENTIALS

£N/A

3 DAYS

Three action packed days covering the fundamental skills and techniques you need to make the most of your time in Scottish mountains in Winter.

Whether you are an experienced climber or mountaineer coming to Scotland for the first time or a seasoned winter mountaineer looking to refresh your skills, you’ll get all the guidance and reassurance you need.

Over three days you’ll tackle the issues of moving over snow and ice and cover the essential skills that the harsh Scottish winter environment calls for.

Along the way you’ll have time to discuss your future plans with our coaches, using their advice to match your aspirations and ability to the perfect routes.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - mountaineers, and rock climbers alike, can transfer their skills to the winter crags with a good level of fitness. £450 £N/A 28 FEB-02 MAR 07-09 MAR

SCOTTISH WINTER MOUNTAINEERING

5 DAYS

To tackle the more challenging peaks of Glencoe and Lochaber in winter requires a full array of mountaineering skills.

This course aims to turn the dedicated hillwalker into a true ‘mountaineer’, combining practical instruction with ascents of many of the finest summits in the Western Highlands. Developing your winter skills on steeper snow and winter scrambling terrain, you will cover winter navigation, and avalanche evaluation alongside the emergency procedures of building a snow shelter and basic ropework for steep ground.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - summer hillwalking and a good level of fitness.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 08-12 FEB 22-26 FEB 01-05 MAR 08-12 MAR £720 £N/A 15-19 FEB

GODFREY JACKSON MEMORIAL AWARD Scottish winter mountaineering for young people.

Eight places will be available to people aged 18 - 23.

(See p 66 for further details) 08-12 FEB

RESIDENTIAL

5 DAYS NON-RES

ALLTSHELLACH - OUR BASE IN SCOTLAND £225

£N/A

Plas y Brenin runs its Scottish winter courses in the highlands on the West Coast with easy access to the mountains of Glencoe, Ben Nevis, White Corries, Grey Corries and Aonach Mor areas. With such a wide range of options on our doorstep we are able to make the most of winter climbing and walking conditions, providing exciting and fulfilling experiences - every time.

Just twelve miles from the mainline railway terminal in Fort William or two hours drive from Glasgow, the area is very accessible with spectacular views of the coastine and the islands beyond adding another dimension to the mountains in winter.

Plas y Brenin has run its courses in Scotland from the HF Holidays house on the shores of Loch Leven near Glencoe since 1994. HF Holidays are great partners providing a comfortable friendly service in what was originally the country residence of the Bishop of Argyll. A large impressive dining room, excellent meals and friendly staff, make Alltshellach a great place to stay and run our courses. For relaxation there is a cosy bar, a spacious wi-fi lounge and free use of the new swimming pool and spa bar. There is also an efficient drying room for kit that needs drying out after a day on the hill.

The house offers very comfortable accommodation with a variety of shared bedrooms, mainly twins - all with ensuite facilities. This year it is possible for you to add an extra night onto your stay either before or after your course for only £40. You can do this when you book or when you are at Alltshellach.

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Plas y Brenin and HF Holidays have been working together in Glen Coe for many years. If you’d like an outdoor enthusiasts’ holiday with friends, family or just on your own at Glen Coe or any of HF Holidays’ locations, please visit www.hfholidays.co.uk or phone 0845 470 8559 for a brochure.

SCOTTISH INTRODUCTION TO WINTER CLIMBING

5 DAYS

Climbing in Scotland offers rewards and challenges comparable with the best mountaineering anywhere in the world.

From a revision of the basic skills, to more advanced skills for steeper ground, you’ll make rapid progress over this five day course. You’ll discover all the ropework and climbing skills required to get your winter climbing started on a variety of Scotland’s finest routes.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - mountaineers, and rock climbers alike, can transfer their skills to the winter crags with a good level of fitness.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 08-12 FEB 22-26 FEB 01-05 MAR 08-12 MAR £895 £N/A 15-19 FEB

SCOTTISH PERFORMANCE WINTER CLIMBING

5 DAYS

People who have been on our Winter Climbing courses often ask “what’s next?” Well here it is. More of the winning formula, with a 1:2 coach to guest ratio right through the week. Develop your winter climbing experience on some of the longer or more challenging routes. Alternatively, take the opportunity to improve your technique still further, with our expert coaching. Our instructors will be sharing their experience and knowledge of climbing, route choice, snow evaluation and conditions to ensure you make the most of what Scotland can offer.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - winter snow and ice climbing. £910 £N/A 01-05 MAR 08-12 MAR

SCOTTISH GUIDED WINTER CLASSICS

5 DAYS

Climb with the most experienced Guides and Instructors in Scotland. This superlative Winter Climbing experience aims to help you get the best from five days in Scotland. Our high coach to guest ratio gives you a tailormade week of action to help you fulfil your winter climbing potential.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - fit and keen for lots more winter climbing.

15-19 FEB

22-26 FEB

01-05 MAR

08-12 MAR

£910

£N/A

WHAT OUR SCOTTISH COURSES INCLUDE All our Scottish winter prices include instruction, accommodation, meals, technical equipment hire and transport during the course.

The dates listed in the brochure are for the actual days of the courses but participants arrive the evening before a course starts with a full meal. HF Holidays also offer our guests the option to up grade to single occupancy bedrooms and are happy to extend your stay a further day beyond the end of the course if you wish.

Departure at the end of your course is at 5pm after tea and cakes, you are welcome to book an evening meal, bed and breakfast and depart the following morning for an additional fee.

On your evening of arrival there will be a member of the Plas y Brenin staff available to organise the kit requested and give advice on equipment - all included in the course fee. This helps to get everyone out on the hill promptly at the start of the course the following day.

You can be sure you will be out on the hill with the most enthusiastic, experienced and qualified staff to get the most out of your visit to the Highlands.

ANYONE FOR A GAME OF CHESS ?

Keith Ball climbing coach at Plas y Brenin shares his view on Winter climbing.

Scottish winter climbing makes a poor spectator sport.

To the uninformed observer it can appear repetitive, slow and uncomfortable. Winter climbing is a participants sport; it is about the enjoyment of movement, the mental challenge and attaining amazing locations and situations. It is a 3D physical chess.

Last winter, partnered by colleague Dave Rudkin, we applied our experience and knowledge of the often fickle winter conditions and weather to be in the right place at the right time – the crux of winter climbing.

The Eastern Ramparts on the mighty Beinn Eighe in the NW of Scotland were in exceptional condition; frozen solid, plastered in snow and ice and covered in Rime. We walked in three times during the week, coming away with three challenging experiences on rarely climbed routes; Sundance VIII 8, Kami-Kazi VII 7, Shang Hai VI 7. Climbing at times towards our limit we pulled, pushed, groaned and udged, we got cold, hot and tired; we were participants not observers.

23

OFF PISTE SKIIING AND SKI TOURING

BACK COUNTRY SKIING AND SKI TOURING IN AN UNSPOILED ALPINE WILDERNESS We love to ski, but there is so much more than crowded lifts and busy resorts. This is skiing for people who want to enjoy the wild open spaces of the back-country, and want to be higher in the mountains. Most skiers have the skills to get further away from the crowds than they imagine and with some expert coaching and careful guidance to take you to the best venues we can build your skills and boost your confidence. With the right equipment and essential instruction, we offer so much more than simply a guided experience. We’re committed to setting you free with the skills you need to carve fresh tracks in the mountains. Each course is run by IFMGA British Mountain Guides or aspirants, but more than that, they are all experienced ski coaches too.

OFF PISTE SKI SAFARI

6 DAYS

This is your chance to get away from the crowds, carve fresh tracks and gain a first taste of ski touring without heading off into the wilderness right away. Instead we take it a day at a time, gaining maximum skiing for minimum effort using the excellent variety of local lift systems. Under the watchful eye of our Guides you can enjoy the shady delights of Galtur; the sun kissed spring snow of Kappl or the world class resort of Ischgl – as well as all the great terrain beyond the lifts. Over six days, as your off piste skiing improves, you will learn about the skills, equipment and techniques for safe and enjoyable travel in this challenging environment. All you need to do is arrange your travel to Galtür and we’ll look after everything else. The course is based from our luxury hotel in Galtur (in the Silvretta region of Austria) with one night in a mountain hostel.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - have skied enough to know that you want to get off piste. The ability to pick yourself up and dust yourself down with a smile on your face.

COURSE PRICE INCLUDES SkI PASS, SkI hIRE CAN BE ARRANGED FOR APPROx. €200

08-13 MAR

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£1270

£N/A

SKI TOUR-LITE ANDERMATT

6 DAYS

This exciting new holiday is designed for skiers who want to enjoy everything about the freedom and big descents of ski touring but with a really light pack.

From a short skin to escape the resort to the massive vertical descent of the Gëmstock, the options are endless. At the end of every great run lies a reliable, comfortable and speedy Swiss train to whisk you back home in style.

With their expert guidance and local knowledge our Guides will unlock the secrets that this freeride wilderness has locked away.

You will have to ‘earn your turns’ as you skin up and way in search of untouched slopes and the finest powder. But once you’ve taken the skins off your reward becomes clear as you enjoy one amazing descent after another.

During the week, you’ll have the opportunity to stay overnight in a comfortable mountain hut and savour the full big mountain experience, stepping into your skis shortly after sunrise and making fresh track long before the lifts have opened.

All you need to do is to get yourself to our hotel in Andermatt and we’ll take care of the rest.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - Competent off piste skier who is prepared to put some effort in to enjoy the finest conditions and best descents. An obvious next step after our Off piste Ski Safari.

COURSE PRICE INCLUDES SkI PASS, SkI hIRE CAN BE ARRANGED FOR APPROx. €200

23-28 MAR

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£1270

£N/A

SKI TOUR SILVRETTA

6 DAYS

This six-day adventure is the perefect first multi-day tour. With our expert guidance and local knowledge you’ll enjoy a classic journey as you pick your way from one mountain hut to another, taking in high mountain passes, deep powder descents and acres of pristine snow slopes.

What’s more, along the way our guides will teach you how to make your own decisions in the mountains and help you to develop the skills that make ski touring so rewarding. By the end of the week, you’ll have completed one of the finest skitours in the Alps and have a tale to tell that will be the envy of all of your friends. All you need to do is to get yourself to our hotel in Galtür where you’ll spend two comfortable nights before heading off into the mountains.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - Have skied off piste before and would like to spend a whole week ski-touring COURSE PRICE INCLUDES SkI PASS, SkI hIRE CAN BE ARRANGED FOR APPROx. €200

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15-20 MAR

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£1270

£N/A

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03

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ALPINE MOUNTAINEERING

Once again this year we’re taking our Alpine courses back to the spiritual home of British Alpinism - The Chamonix valley. From beautiful hut walks to lofty ridges, there is plenty for walkers or mountaineers alike. Whether you want a “taste of the Alps” or strive for self sufficiency. Whether you are a walker, or a committed climber. Whether you want five days of skills, a good apprenticeship, or two full weeks of adventure – there really is something for everyone here.

All our staff are IFMGA guides (or aspirants) as well as Mountaineering Instructors. This means that, in addition to the top international qualification, they have a wealth of Alpine experience to share.

Easy Access from Geneva airport is a huge plus point for Argentiere, just up the valley from Chamonix. Join us in Chamonix this summer for some great climbing and mountaineering adventures and you’ll find our Guides have all the knowledge you need to find the perfect venues to help you fine tune your skills.

ALPINE PREPARATION

2 DAYS

If you’re going to the Alps this year make this weekend in North Wales a part of your preparation. We’ve designed a two-day programme to fine tune the skills you need out there, from glacier travel, crevasse rescue, navigation and route planning to using huts, bivouac skills and access issues. You’ll also cover essential alpine ropework, learn how to interpret Alpine weather and recognise hazards before they become a problem.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - some experience of climbing ropework.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 14-15 MAR 25-26 APR 09-10 MAY 13-14 JUN £240 £180 04-05 APR

ALPINE PREPARATION FOR YOUNG PEOPLE 2 DAYS Susbidised by The Benjamin Brabner Memorial Award (see page 66).

Twelve places will be available for young people aged aged 18-25 PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - some experience of climbing ropework.

14-15 MAR 25-26 APR 09-10 MAY 13-14 JUN 04-05 APR

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£140

£80

ALPINE ESSENTIALS

3 DAYS

Three action packed days covering the fundamental skills and techniques you need to make the most of your time in the Alps. Whether you are an experienced climber or mountaineer coming to the Alps for the first time or a budding Alpinist looking to refresh your skills, you’ll get all the guidance and reassurance you need.

Over three days you’ll tackle the Alpine issues of moving over rock, ice and glaciers covering the essential skills that the unique Alpine environment calls for. Along the way you’ll have time to discuss your future plans with our Guides using their advice to match your aspirations and ability to the perfect routes.

RATIO: Normally 1 guides : 3 clients

WHAT’S INCLUDED? This course is designed for those who are already out in Chamonix so no acccomodation or uplift is included. This allows you to get the input and experience you need at a price you can afford.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - enough climbing and mountaineering to know Alpinism is the next step.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES

05-07 JUL

08-10 JUL

12-14 JUL

15-17 JUL

£N/A

ALPINE ESSENTIALS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

£415

3 DAYS

Susbidised by The Benjamin Brabner Memorial Award (see page 66).

Twelve places will be available for young people aged aged 18-25 PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - some experience of climbing ropework.

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05-07 JUL

08-10 JUL

12-14 JUL

15-17 JUL

RESIDENTIAL

£N/A

NON-RES

£215

A LETTER FROM THE EIGER Earlier this year Plas y Brenin climbing coaches Dave Rudkin and Keith Ball took on the mighty challenge of The Eiger. Here, they tell their tale from the summit.

Dear Plas y Brenin, We’ve just dug out a ledge in the snow big enough for two (just, we’re a bit tired you see), on the final highpoint of the Mittellegi ridge before the summit of the Eiger.

Yesterday morning we got the rather luxurious rack and pinion train up to kleine Scheidegg and then further up to the Eigergletscher.

Traversing around towards the Nordwand in a well-trodden track, with no need for head torches (as the dawn had passed hours before) we couldn’t help to feel a little anxious, “Was our strategy a little casual?” we both thought, as the Nordwand began to loom above us.

The approach slopes gave us a taste of what was to come. Dry, partially consolidated snow interspersed with balancy, insecure steps of water and snow polished limestone, which took a while to gain a confident flow on and didn’t help to settle the nerves you have at the base of such a big wall.

No surprises how the Difficult Crack felt, the hinterstoisser Traverse flew by as we began to gain pace. Moving together across the First Icefield and up to the Ice hose, which was lean and required steadiness, due to the lack of gear and the poor adhesion between what ice there was and rock. We then went leftwards boldly across the Second Icefield, carefully testing each step to ensure the snow wouldn’t collapse beneath our feet, then a cheeky little chimney brought us to the Death Bivi and sun, the Nordwand gave us a little treat.

With full bellies and a warm glow, we drifted off to sleep with plans for a casual start in the morning, “Why rock the boat? The strategy seems to be working”, “we’ve plenty of food and gas, the weather forecast is settled and the climbing fantastic, let’s enjoy it”, we murmured from our slumber.

This morning we got up, had a big breakfast and a few brews then set off across the Third Icefield towards The Ramp, which gave awkward climbing at times, especially with a rucsac on. The Brittle Ledges lived up to their name too, but thankfully the Brittle Crack was solid and brought some interesting climbing to distract from the ever-increasing exposure.

From a stance at the far end of the Traverse of the Gods, just before the White Spider, we paused briefly to truly take in the grandeur of the face.

Finally we negotiated the Quartz Crack with a few grunts and bridged the Exit Chimney heart in mouth, eventually climbing the exit slopes to the Mittellegi Ridge in fantastic alpen glow.

Once I’ve finished writing this, we’ll finish the food and get some kip, then in the morning we’ll tentatively balance our way over the final 200m of knife-edge ridge to the summit, then down the west face.

We’re looking forward to a rosti and a beer. See you Monday morning.

A Story

Dave and keith

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DISCOVER ALPINISM

5 DAYS

A perfect introduction to Alpine mountaineering.

This five- day course is for those who wish to transfer their love of the mountains to an Alpine environment. Learn the techniques, get a taste of the sights and scale of the Alps, and reap the rewards.

Through the five days we will introduce you to the special aspects of Alpine mountaineering. Moving on snow and ice, travelling on glaciers and ridges, Alpine rope work, and crevasse rescue. We will then make full use of your new found Alpine skills on the majestic peaks of the area.

This course is for you if you want an all round Alpine apprenticeship where you’d really like to go off and do it yourself, but would like to learn the basic skills (and all those top-tips) first. This course will pack years of experience into just five days, to help launch your own future of safe and enjoyable Alpinism.

RATIO: Normally 1 guide : 3 clients

WHAT’S INCLUDED? This course is based in self catering accommodation in Argentiere, and mountain huts along the way. The cost of all uplift is included. All you have to pay for are meals in the valley and all your lunches and drinks.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 06-10 JUL

20-24 JUL

£1195

ALPINE GIANTS

£N/A

5 DAYS

There is so much more to the Mont Blanc massif than Mont Blanc itself. Soaring snow arêtes and lofty rocky ridges – this is five days of Alpine adventure. Throughout this week we will take your skills further, climbing some classic alpine summits. With so many impressive peaks in the area we have so much to choose from. Of course, they don’t have to be technical, and we don’t have to limit ourselves to the biggest – there is something for everyone.

Even though this is a classic guided adventure, you will spend 5 days working very closely with a fully qualified IFMGA guide who will develop your mountaineering skills and your mountain sense to a new level.

RATIO: Normally 1 guide : 2 clients WHAT’S INCLUDED? For this course, when we’re in the valley, we stay in half board hotel accommodation. In the mountains, we stay in mountain refuges and the cost of all uplift is included, so all you have to pay for are your lunches and drinks. Get yourself to Argentiere and let us take care of the rest.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - some alpine mountaineering experience, or a previous course.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 27-31 JUL

£1435

COMPLETE ALPINE CLIMBER

£N/A

10 DAYS

Our best course just got better! This year this amazing Alpine learning experience includes two days welcome rest in the middle of two five day blocks. One week may give you the skills, but ten days will allow you to put it in to practice and reap the rewards.

You’ll spend the first five days at a 1:4 guide to client ratio, giving you the skills you need to travel on Alpine terrain, whilst taking in some great summits.

After two days welcome rest in the valley, you’ll have the chance to consolidate your new skills in a way that’s just not possible for most week long introductions as we drop down to a flexible 1:2 ratio, focusing directly on your individual aspirations. Five days of tailormade development – awesome summits via the perfect routes for you.

RATIO: Normally 1 guide : 4 clients initially then 1 guide : 2 clients WHAT’S INCLUDED? This course is based in self catering accommodation in Argentiere, and mountain huts along the way. The cost of all uplift is included. All you have to pay for are meals in the valley, and all your lunches and drinks.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - the more you already know about winter mountaineering, and multi pitch climbing, the more you will gain from the course. Fitness and enthusiasm to learn are most important.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 13-24 JUL

28

£2195

£N/A

www.thebmc.co.uk/active-outdoors

Up to

50%

The outdoors. It’s different there. Even a short time spent among fields, forests, rivers, waterfalls, woods, crags or mountains is enough

OFF

courses in hill walking, climbing, scrambling and winter skills at Plas y Brenin with the BMC.

to work wonders for mind, body and soul.

Sometimes, though, it can be hard to know

great value because they are subsidised by

where to begin. If you want to start hill

Sport England and we run them at a discount,

walking, rock climbing, scrambling or learn

meaning you get the skills and know-how for

winter skills, then check out our courses run

less. Discover the latest list of these courses

by the experts at Plas y Brenin. They are

on the Active Outdoors webpage below.

GET FIT, GET PHYSICAL, GET ACTIVE OUTDOORS www.thebmc.co.uk/active-outdoors www.facebook.com/BritishMountaineeringCouncil

ACTIVE OUTDOORS

www.twitter.com/team_BMC

Join a BMC club: www.thebmc.co.uk/why-join-a-club

progressive DEVELOPMENT programmes

Learning over an extended period of time allows time for valuable consolidation, practice, analysis and conditioning. On our progressive development programmes you commit to 4 weekends of coaching - one weekend, every month for 4-months. Our coaches use those weekends to improve your performance and to focus your mind on the development pathway between coaching sessions. Evaluation, personalised action plans and goal setting allow you to make best use of the gaps in between each weekend of coaching to make sure you get the most possible improvement in your performance over this four month period.

Please note: Due to the progressive nature of these 4-weekend courses, you will need to be able to attend on each of the dates listed. We are unable to offer any alternative dates.

PROGRESSIVE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME - ROCK CLIMBING

4 wknds

This programme of weekends is ideal for anyone who climbs regularly indoors and is used to climbing on a top rope and belaying, who would like to make the step up to climbing outdoors in the most time-effective way possible.

The course is equally suitable for any independent outdoor climber, confident enough to go single pitch climbing under their own steam.

At the end of each weekend you'll go away with an action plan detailing areas to work on before your next progressive development session with our coaches, helping you to maximise your progress and plan into the future.

YOU WILL NEED TO ATTEND ON ALL THE FOLLOWING DATES 25-26 APR + 30-31 MAY + 27-28 JUN + 25-26 JULY

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£1200

£960

PROGRESSIVE DEVELOPMENT 4 wknds PROGRAMME - WHITE WATER KAYAKING This series of weekends is ideal for paddlers who have mastered the fundamental skills but lack experience on moving water. Over four weekends you'll spend time on grade II and III water fine tuning your technique and building your confidence and understanding with in-depth coaching, analysis and feedback from our coaches.

At the end of each weekend you'll go away with an action plan detailing areas to work on before your next progressive development session with our coaches, helping you to maximise your progress and plan into the future.

YOU WILL NEED TO ATTEND ON ALL THE FOLLOWING DATES 25-26 APR + 30-31 MAY + 27-28 JUN + 25-26 JULY

PROGRESSIVE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME - SEA KAYAKING

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£1000

£760

4 wknds

Ideal for sea kayakers with limited experience. If you have mastered the basic paddling skills but don't have much confidence on the sea or moving water, this four-weekend will fine tune your technique and build your technique, boost your confidence and develop your understanding of the sea, including weather and tides.

At the end of each weekend you'll go away with an action plan detailing areas to work on before your next progressive development session with our coaches, helping you to maximise your progress and plan in the future.

YOU WILL NEED TO ATTEND ON ALL THE FOLLOWING DATES 25-26 APR + 30-31 MAY + 27-28 JUN + 25-26 JULY

PROGRESSIVE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME - MOUNTAIN BIKING

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£1000

£760

4 wknds

If you are happy riding for 3-4 hours on rugged terrain but you’d like to get more out of your mountain biking and progress quickly, this is the course for you. Over four seperate weekends our coaches will help you develop your skill, understanding, fitness and confidence, turning you into a much better rider and giving you a clear focus for future development.

At the end of each weekend you'll go away with an action plan detailing areas to work on before your next progressive development session with our coaches, helping you to maximise your progress and plan in the future.

30 16

YOU WILL NEED TO ATTEND ON ALL THE FOLLOWING DATES 25-26 APR + 30-31 MAY + 27-28 JUN + 25-26 JULY

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£1000

£760

RAPID DEVELOPMENT CLINICS

Now there’s a way to cut down the learning time, speed up the process and ‘get good’ fast. Join us on one of our four-week rapid development clinics and you’ll be amazed just how much you progress. Investing time in your development now will allow you to have more exciting and satisfying adventures after you leave. You’ll find yourself miles along the personal development trail, amazing your friends with a new level of confidence ability and experience.

Staying with us for a four week break, you’ll receive coaching and instruction Monday to Friday, leaving you free to either rest or explore the mountains, crags, rivers, lakes or estuaries of North Wales under your own steam at the weekends. (The all-inclusive price includes seven-day-a-week accommodation on-site at Plas y Brenin).

With no experience necessary this is an ideal opportunity for anyone who’s always wanted to be a climber or a paddler with a few weeks to spare.

Although you can’t expect to become an ‘expert’ overnight, these four week clinics should leave you confident and experienced enough to enjoy your chosen mountain sport under your own steam. These rapid development clinics are a fantastic platform for long-term enjoyment of the mountains, rivers, lakes and sea.

The all-inclusive cost of each course includes all meals, accommodation and equipment hire during the 4 weeks.

RAPID DEVELOPMENT CLINIC COMPLETE PADDLER

20 DAYS

If your experience of canoeing and kayaking is low or even non existent, checking in to this four week clinic will have you thrashing about on the water like an ‘old pro’ in no time.

Over four weeks our coaches will share their knowledge and expertise with you on a range of kayaking and canoeing disciplines. With time spent in canoes, kayaks, sea kayaks, slalom and and touring kayaks, you’ll develop a rock-solid set of paddling skills. Our coaches will help you develop a reliable roll and the essential safety techniques before guiding you through your development onto moving water. You’ll learn to keep yourself safe, navigate on the sea and perform white water rescues in raging white water rivers.

With our team’s close attention you’ll soon find yourself racing down rapids, playing on waves and plunging over drops with ever increasing confidence. What’s more, with the variety of options you’ll simply look out of the window each morning and choose an adventure to that suits the weather perfectly.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES

04-29 MAY

10 AUG-04 SEP

£2510

RAPID DEVELOPMENT CLINIC MOUNTAINEERING

£1730

20 DAYS

If you’ve dreamt of conquering high mountain peaks and exploring the remote mountain wilderness, here’s your chance to turn that dream into reality. Spend a month with our mountaineering instructors enjoying the mountains of North Wales at their finest.

Over four weeks in the mountains, you’ll cover everything you need to know to turn you into a self sufficient mountaineer. Discover how to navigate accurately with a map and compass, even in a raging storm or complete darkness. Uncover the strategies behind complex ropework and the principles of hazard awareness as you progress to scambling and traversing many of North Wales most exposed rocky ridges. Find out how to make wild camping in the mountains more of a pleasure than a chore and feel your confidence soar as you as you move through your journey from mountain newcomer to seasoned veteran in four weeks.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES

04-29 MAY

10 AUG-04 SEP

£2510

RAPID DEVELOPMENT CLINIC ROCK CLIMBING

£1730

20 DAYS

Now’s your chance to really make some progress as a climber. If you’ve climbed a little indoors or seen climbers from afar and admired their strength and confidence, this is your opportunity to join them.

Over four weeks you’ll receive close instruction from our expert instructors, helping you develop from novice to confident, experienced practitioner. You’ll feel the difference in your own mind as you develop your confidence and improve your judgement and you’ll see the difference as you master the ropework skills, balance and movement techniques.

Climbing on all kinds of rock at many classic venues, you’ll do more than your fair share of climbing too and, as you’ll learn all about gear selection, route choice, guidebooks, access and many other surrounding issues you will leave the course confident enough to call yourself a ‘climber.’

This month-long break is also ideal for anyone who is entering the sport ‘with their teenage years long behind them’ who’d like to make rapid progress and make up for some of that lost time.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES

20 APR-15 MAY

24 AUG-18 SEP

£2510

SUPER RAPID DEVELOPMENT CLINIC ROCK CLIMBING

£1730

15 DAYS

You wanted us to run a rapid development clinic during the school/college/university holidays, so here it is. Sure, it's a little bit shorter, that's the only way we could make it fit but on the plus side - it's a little bit cheaper too.

Over these three weeks you can really improve your climbing, enjoying close coaching from our top climbers Monday to Friday and choosing to rest or to go out and do your own thing at the weekends.

Ideal for anyone starting off in climbing who would like it to really get going with a great foundation in a new sport or for anyone stuck on a performance plateau who'd really like to get their climbing moving again.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES

10-28 AUG

£1885

£1315

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MOUNTAIN TRAINING AWARDS

Mountain Training’s awards and skills courses are designed to educate and train people in walking, climbing and mountaineering. Their nationally-recognised schemes all follow a syllabus. In 2014 Mountain Training launched a new leadership scheme, the Lowland Leader, which is an accessible entry level award for walking leaders. There is also a new Expedition Skills Module for those taking groups camping and the Walking Group Leader has been renamed Hill and Moorland Leader.

The Hill & Mountain Skills Scheme is also new and Mountain Training’s first foray into personal skills as opposed to leadership and supervision. These courses are nationally accredited, supported by the mountaineering councils and Mountain Rescue England and Wales and ideal for anyone wanting some structured training to prepare them for their own adventures in the hills.

Before you attend a Mountain Training course you must register for the appropriate scheme through their Candidate Management System (CMS). For some schemes this may also involve mountaineering council membership (BMC, MCofS or Mountaineering Ireland). To stay up to date with developments visit www.pyb.co.uk.

HILL SKILLS

2 DAYS

The Hill Skills course is aimed at the novice hill walker and ideal for those interested in developing a practical understanding of how to plan walks, become familiar with the use of map and compass, learn about the equipment required and also gain an understanding of the effects of weather. All this, plus emergency procedures and the upland environment form the syllabus of this course. The course utilises countryside and moorland areas where the skills will be transferable to many popular walking areas of the UK. RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 11-12 APR 06-07 JUN 08-09 AUG 10-11 OCT £120 £180 09-10 MAY 11-12 JUL 12-13 SEP

MOUNTAIN SKILLS

2 DAYS

The Mountain Skills course is an ideal choice for walkers interested in applying their countryside walking skills to the mountain environment. Ideally, participants would have done some basic hill walking previously and have a reasonable level of fitness. Skills in map and compass, mountain weather forecasting, movement through steep ground, planning and preparation, emergency procedures, seasonal effects and the mountain environment all form the syllabus of this course.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 18-19 APR 20-21 JUN 15-16 AUG 17-18 OCT £120 £180 16-17 MAY 18-19 JUL 26-27 SEP 14-15 NOV

THE LOWLAND LEADER AWARD (LLA) The Lowland Leader Award is the national award designed for anyone wishing to take poeple on day walks in lowland countryside and woodland. This award covers the skills, leadership and group management issues needed to lead groups in lowland countryside and woodland areas such as South West Coast Path and the Great Glen Way. To find out more visit www.mountain-training.org

LLA AWARD TRAINING

2 DAYS

This two day training course is based on the Lowland Leader Syllabus set out by Mountain Training. This training course is designed for those who wish to lead groups on day walks in lowland countryside and woodland in summer conditions. You must be registered on the Lowland Leader scheme with Mountain Training and have the required experience.

RESIDENTIAL 14-15 MAY 20-21 JUL 07-08 SEP 05-06 NOV £205 13-14 JUN 15-16 AUG 10-11 OCT

LLA AWARD ASSESSMENT

2 DAYS

This two day assessment course is based on the Lowland Leader Syllabus set out by Mountain Training.

This award is designed for those who wish to lead groups on day walks in lowland countryside and woodland in summer conditions. You must have completed your Lowland Leader Training and have the required experience.

RESIDENTIAL 06-07 JUN 22-23 AUG 15-16 OCT 31 OCT-01 NOV £220 09-10 JUL 21-22 SEP

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NON-RES

£145

NON-RES

£160

THE HILL & MOORLAND LEADER AWARD (HML) The Hill and Moorland Leader Award is the national award for leaders and teachers involved in taking young people into the countryside. This award covers the skills, leadership and group management issues needed to lead parties of novices on open countryside, easy hills and moors , for example, the walled and fenced countryside of the North Yorkshire Dales, or open moorland areas such as Dartmoor or the Dark Peak of Derbyshire. To find out more visit www.mountain-training.org

HML AWARD TRAINING

3 DAYS

This training course is based on the HML syllabus. There are theory sessions on weather, group leader responsibilities, risk assessment and dealing with emergencies as well as practical skills. The practical sessions will cover walking, route finding in the hills, navigation and leadership. Much of the course is practical and you should be prepared for adverse weather. You must be registered on the Hill and Moorland Leader scheme with Mountain Training and have the required experience.

26-28 JAN 23-25 MAR 15-17 JUL 26-28 OCT RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 09-11 FEB 06-08 APR 24-26 AUG 16-18 NOV 02-04 MAR 13-15 APR 21-23 SEP 27-29 NOV £285 £195 16-18 MAR 25-27 MAY 19-21 OCT

HML AWARD ASSESSMENT

3 DAYS

You must have completed a Walking Group Leader or Hill and Moorland Leader training course prior to this assessment. The course covers the syllabus of the award meeting the standards set by Mountain Training.

Three mainly practical days are spent on the local moors.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 20-22 FEB 07-09 SEP 05-07 OCT 09-11 NOV 09-11 MAR 28-30 SEP 14-16 OCT 23-25 NOV £330 £240 30 MAR - 01 APR

EXPEDITION SKILLS MODULE

2 DAYS

This module is designed as an addition to the Lowland Leader and Hill and Moorland Leader Awards to train and assess those who wish to lead groups on multi day camping expeditions in terrain and conditions within the scope of their leadership award. You must have passed either your Lowland Leader or Hill and Moorland Leader Award Assessment and have the required overnight camp experience.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 02-03 APR 24-25 AUG 17-18 OCT 12-13 NOV £220 £160 08-09 JUN 10-11 SEP

THE FUTURE LEADERS FUND

APPLY FOR UP TO 75% FUNDING AT WWW.PYB.CO.UK/FUTURELEADERS Here at Plas y Brenin National Mountain Centre, we believe in a healthy sense of adventure and encourage participation in a Sporting Habit for Life. The most effective way to make sure as many young people as possible across the country are getting out, getting fit and getting happy is to train the trainers. We believe in the vital role that volunteer leaders play in their local communities, and we understand that the barriers to access that all-important training are more challenging than ever.

The National Mountain Centre trains people on the basis of talent, enthusiasm and commitment. We believe it should never be on the basis of your ability to pay. That’s why we have created this fund to help support the volunteer leaders of the future – The Future Leaders Fund – to make sure that the next generation has the opportunity to enjoy a healthy and happy sporting habit for life.

Any volunteer leader in England with a genuine commitment to encouraging and developing others in the outdoors can apply.

Currently the fund is available to support leaders in hillwalking, mountaineering and climbing in areas of England where leaders and young people may be lacking in opportunity or advantage.

Three are no age restrictions although you must be old enough to be eligible to undertake the training or assessment course you are applying for according to the conditions of the relevant National Governing Body.

The amount of subsidy is linked to an index of areas where those interested in becoming outdoor leaders may be lacking in opportunity or advantage.

There are three zones within the Future Leaders Fund area index. Volunteer leaders or coaches operating within each zone are eligible for a specific level of subsidy.

Full details of the Future Leaders Fund area index can be found on our website at www.pyb.co.uk/futureleaders

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THE MOUNTAIN LEADER AWARD (ML) The Mountain Leader Award qualifies the candidate to lead a group of hill walkers anywhere in the UK under summer conditions. It covers such skills as group management, navigation, security on steep ground, campcraft, access and conservation, weather forecasting, emergency procedures and personal equipment.

To find out more visit www.mountain-training.org

6 DAYS

ML SUMMER TRAINING

The training course is based around the Mountain Leader syllabus and the particular needs of candidates. In particular we will look at the practical skills and techniques required when leading groups hill walking and camping in the mountains of the UK and Ireland including aspects of navigation, group management, supervision on steep ground, risk assessment and emergency use of the rope. Consideration of the weather, mountain rescue, the environment and other related topics will also be covered.

The majority of the course is practically based, however, some is of a theoretical nature. At times you may find yourself outdoors in adverse weather and you should be prepared for this. There will be an overnight camp and night navigation exercise. You must be registered on the Mountain Leader scheme with Mountain Training prior to attending this course and have the required experience.

10-15 JAN 24-29 JAN 07-12 FEB 21-26 FEB 07-12 MAR 21-26 MAR 04-09 APR 11-16 APR

18-23 APR 25-30 APR 02-07 MAY 16-21 MAY 23-28 MAY 30 MAY-04 JUN 06-11 JUN 27 JUN-02 JUL

04-09 JUL 18-23 JUL 08-13 AUG 15-20 AUG 22-27 AUG 29 AUG-03 SEP 05-10 SEP 19-24 SEP

03-08 OCT 17-22 OCT 24-29 OCT 31 OCT-05 NOV 14-19 NOV 21-26 NOV 28 NOV-03 DEC 05-10 DEC

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£560

£380

5 DAYS

ML SUMMER ASSESSMENT

You must have completed a Mountain Leader training course prior this assessment. The course covers the syllabus of the award, meeting the standards set by Mountain Training. This five day intensive assessment course looks at all aspects of leading groups in the hills and includes a three day expedition.

16-20 FEB 02-06 MAR 16-20 MAR 30 MAR-03 APR 13-17 APR 27 APR-01 MAY

11-15 MAY 01-05 JUN 08-12 JUN 22-26 JUN 29 JUN-03 JUL 13-17 JUL

20-24 JUL 10-14 AUG 17-21 AUG 31 AUG-04 SEP 14-18 SEP

28 SEP-02 OCT 12-16 OCT 26-30 OCT 09-13 NOV 23-27 NOV

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£590

£440

2 DAYS

ML SUMMER REFRESHER

Open to Registrants, Trainees and Holders of the Mountain Leader Award, this intensive weekend course serves both as an update for anyone whose training or assessment course was completed some time ago, and as an opportunity for constructive criticism on areas of personal performance for those considering assessment. It is intended as a forum to look at current ideas, techniques and practices. It also provides an opportunity to raise questions and hopefully dismiss fears concerning assessment. Topics covered include micro-navigation, weather, emergency use of the rope and leadership. However the precise structure remains flexible to best suit the needs of the course members.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 15-16 JAN 18-19 APR 18-19 JUL 17-18 OCT 14-15 FEB 23-24 MAY 08-09 AUG 07-08 NOV £205 £145 21-22 MAR 04-05 JUL 03-04 OCT 05-06 DEC

THE MOUNTAIN LEADER AWARD WINTER (ML WINTER) The Winter Mountain Leader Award qualifies the candidate to lead a group of hillwalkers anywhere in the UK and Ireland under winter conditions. The course covers such skills as use of ice axe and crampons, snow pack evaluation, group management, weather forecasting, emergency techniques, belay construction and the use of the rope to provide security for individuals, navigation and emergency bivouac, all in the winter environment. To find out more visit www.mountain-training.org

6 DAYS

ML WINTER TRAINING

This 6 day course, which is based on the MTS Winter Mountain Leader syllabus, covers all essential practical skills necessary for leading parties in the British hills in winter conditions. Applicants must be prepared to operate in real mountain terrain in the most severe conditions. The majority of the course is practically based, however some is of a theoretical nature. At times you may find yourself outdoors in adverse weather and you should be prepared for this. There is an overnight expedition and night navigation exercise. You must be registered on the Winter Mountain Leader scheme with Mountain Training Scotland prior to attending this course and have the required experience.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES This course is based at HF Holidays Country House Alltshellach (see page 22-23).

08-13 FEB

15-20 FEB

22-27 FEB

07-12 MAR

£530

£N/A

5 DAYS

ML WINTER ASSESSMENT

Candidates for Winter ML Assessment must hold the ML award and have attended a Winter ML training course. Candidates should be aware of the arduous and demanding nature of this 5 day assessment and prepare accordingly.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES This course is based at HF Holidays Country House Alltshellach (see page 22-23).

08-12 FEB

01-05 MAR

08-12 MAR

£540

£N/A

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THE INTERNATIONAL MOUNTAIN LEADER AWARD (IML) If you would like to lead others internationally and have a ML award, experience of walking outside the UK and some winter experience, this is the award for you. This award is now a requirement to lead paying clients in some European countries. The IML award is an appropriate award for leading groups in all mountain areas except those which require the technical equipment of climbing and alpinism. To find out more visit www.mountain-training.org

5 DAYS

IML SUMMER TRAINING

Based at Plas y Brenin this 5 day Summer course is a mix of theory and practical sessions and looks at a wide range of topics, including anatomy and physiology, legal liability, altitude, marketing, leadership, navigation, altimeters, and environmental considerations, as well as covering many other aspects of working with trekking groups in the mountains of the world.

A key part of this course will be to develop individual action plans in order to help each individual progress through the next three stages of the award. * Please note the training course contains an assessed, timed navigation test. On completion of the summer IML training course candidates can then progress to either the Summer assessment or the Winter training course both of which are based in the European Alps. This allows individuals some flexibility to complete courses most appropriate to them. All candidates must successfully complete the summer assessment before completing the winter assessment .

You must be registered on the International Mountain Leader scheme with Mountain Training prior to attending this course and have the required experience.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 22-26 APR

25-29 MAY

£570

26-30 OCT

£420

4 DAYS

IML SUMMER ASSESSMENT

You must have completed an IML Summer training course prior to this assessment. This assessment takes place over 4 days with three nights in huts and is based in an Alpine region. This is a practical course which allows fitness, leadership, environmental knowledge, route choice, group care, navigation and many other skills to be assessed. Candidates will complete a home paper and present their fact file as part of the assessment. Candidates should arrive for this expedition-based assessment, fit, acclimatised and familiar with all aspects of the syllabus.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES The course cost does not include accommodation, meals, hut fees or travel.

19-22 AUG

25-28 AUG

£N/A

31 AUG-03 SEP

£675

5 DAYS

IML WINTER TRAINING

This course is based in an Alpine region and covers the personal skills required by IML leaders as well as leadership and group care considerations. The course is predominantly practical in nature, supported by some indoor lectures. During the week the aim is to develop the candidate’s skills, judgements and knowledge as well as a full understanding of the terrain where an IML may operate. The technical skills covered during this week include avalanche awareness and snow pack evaluation, transceiver use and search techniques, personal movement skills, use of ice axe, emergency use of rope, winter belays and use of maps and guides for planning appropriate routes.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 12-16 JAN

19-23 JAN

£1000

26-30 JAN

£N/A

5 DAYS

IML WINTER ASSESSMENT

The IML Winter Assessment is a Gite based course held in the Pyrenees region. This course assesses the skills and techniques required for an IML to safely lead groups in appropriate terrain in winter conditions.

This assessment is the final stage candidates are required to complete before qualifying as International Mountain Leaders. Technical areas assessed include personal movement skills with and without snowshoes, use of ice axe and ropes as emergency tools, transceiver use and search skills, snow pack evaluation, avalanche awareness and use of maps and guides for planning appropriate winter journeys.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES

16-20 FEB

23-27 FEB

£875

02-06 MAR

£N/A

THE CLIMBING WALL AWARD (CWA) This award covers the skills and leadership qualities needed to introduce and supervise novice climbers on typical top roping and bouldering climbing walls. There is an additional module in supervising abseiling from artificial structures (included as part of our CWA training course). To find out more visit www.mountain-training.org

2 DAYS

CWA TRAINING

This two day training course focuses on party supervision, safety and coaching movement skills. The module on group abseils will also be covered. You must be registered on the Climbing Wall Award scheme Mountain Training prior to attending this course and have the required experience.

10-11 JAN 11-12 APR 17-18 AUG 07-08 NOV 17-18 JAN 02-03 MAY 05-06 SEP 28-29 NOV RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 07-08 MAR 13-14 JUN 05-06 OCT 07-08 DEC 23-24 MAR 04-05 JUL 10-11 OCT 12-13 DEC £190 £130 04-05 APR 15-16 AUG

1 DAY

CWA ASSESSMENT

This one day assessment covers the main award and the abseil module. You must have completed the CWA training course and CWA abseil module training (included in our CWA training course) prior to assessment.

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07 JAN 14 JAN 21 JAN

06 FEB 06 MAR 24 APR

22 MAY 06 JUN 21 AUG

11 SEP 13 NOV

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£110

£80

THE CLIMBING WALL LEADING AWARD (CWLA) This award covers the skills needed to teach lead climbing on indoor and outdoor artificial walls for holders of the CWA and SPA Awards. To find out more visit www.mountain-training.org

1 DAY

CWLA TRAINING This one day course focuses on the safety and coaching elements of teaching leading and uses our two dedicated climbing walls. You must be registered on the Climbing Wall Leading Award scheme with Mountain Training prior to attending this course and have the required experience.

RESIDENTIAL 11 JAN 08 FEB 19 APR 22 NOV £110 01 FEB

NON-RES

£80

1 DAY

CWLA ASSESSMENT This one day assessment is for candidates who have registered and been trained for CWLA and have 100 lead climbs, at least half of which must be at French 6a or above.

10 JAN 31 JAN

07 FEB

18 APR

21 NOV

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£110

£80

THE SINGLE PITCH AWARD (SPA) The skills needed to supervise groups of novice climbers in potentially hazardous environments are different to those required to climb safely with friends. The SPA provides training and assessment on how to organise and supervise safe, effective and enjoyable sessions for relative novices on single pitch crags both in and outdoors.

To find out more visit www.mountain-training.org

2 DAYS

SPA TRAINING

A two day training course based on the SPA syllabus. You must be registered on the Single Pitch Award scheme with Mountain Training prior to attending this course and have the required experience.

12-13 JAN 11-12 APR 18-19 JUL 12-13 SEP 09-10 FEB 20-21 APR 01-02 AUG 10-11 OCT RESIDENTIAL 14-15 FEB 09-10 MAY 22-23 AUG 24-25 OCT 28 FEB-01 MAR 23-24 MAY 29-30 AUG 21-22 NOV £220 28-29 MAR 13-14 JUN

NON-RES

£160

2 DAYS

SPA ASSESSMENT

Before attending the 2 day assessment course, candidates must have attended a Training course, be able to lead Severe grade climbs and hold a valid first aid certificate.

22-23 JAN 07-08 FEB 21-22 MAR

04-05 APR 21-22 APR 16-17 MAY

30-31 MAY 27-28 JUN 25-26 JUL

22-23 AUG 05-06 SEP 17-18 OCT

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£220

£160

THE COACHING AWARD SCHEME This new award scheme, launched in October 2013 adds a new level of coaching know-how to your existing qualifications. Aimed at coaches working in climbing walls these courses are equally appealing to mountaineering and climbing instructors who would like to apply their coaching skills in all aspects of their work. To register for the scheme and to find out more visit www.mountain-training.org

1 DAY

FOUNDATION COACH TRAINING

This one day training course is packed with practical coaching tips to help you deliver the fundamentals of climbing in a more inspirational and effective way. You must be registered on the Coaching Scheme with Mountain Training prior to attending this course and have the required experience.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 07 JAN 14 FEB 25 APR 05 SEP 07 NOV 24 JAN 20 MAR 13 JUN 09 OCT 11 DEC £110 £80 31 JAN 27 MAR 21 AUG

5 DAYS

THE COMPLETE CLIMBING COACH

This five day course covers everything you need to get started on the coaching award scheme. The course includes CWA training, BMC Fundamentals of Climbing 1 and 2 and Foundation Coach Training. You must be registered with Mountain Training for the awards and have the required experience.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 23-27 MAR

17-21 AUG

05-09 OCT

07-11 DEC

DEVELOPMENT COACH TRAINING

£500

£350

2 DAYS

This intensive two day training course will take your coaching skills to the next level. If you coach climbers beyond their first session this course will help you to structure their development. Going beyond technical delivery, this course will develop your skills to deliver tactical and physical improvements in your climbers over a series of sessions. You must be registered with Mountain Training and have the required experience.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 05-06 DEC 19-20 SEP 27-28 JUN 21-22 MAR £190 £130 15-16 AUG 09-10 MAY

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5 years field and lab testing the new GORE-TEX® Pro fabric by WL GORE, removing the oleophobic layer boosting breathability by up to 28%.* *compared to previous GORE-TEX® Pro products

2 years developing AquaGuard® zips by YKK®, an ultra-durable and highly weatherproof seal.

6 years careful evolution of our Mountain HC Hood offering uncompromised vision with or without a helmet.

2 years developing an athletic Alpine fit, using precision Swiss pattern cutters – closer fitting yet less restrictive.

10 years real world testing by Plas y Brenin instructors.

37 years close partnership between GORE-TEX® fabrics and Mountain Equipment, culminating in the definitive all-season mountain jacket, the Lhotse.

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THE MOUNTAINEERING INSTRUCTOR AWARD (MIA) The Mountaineering Instructor Award is for instructors working in summer conditions in the UK and covers multi-pitch rock climbing, scrambling and other mountaineering skills. It integrates experience and assessment in a variety of testing conditions in mountainous country. To find out more visit www.mountain-training.org

9 DAYS

MIA TRAINING

The 9 day course covers the technical aspects of rock climbing and mountaineering for the mountaineering instructor together with essential training in cliff rescue, as well as sessions on skill acquisition, the mountain environment, strategies for teaching navigation and the role of the MIA holder in the ML scheme.

You must be registered on the Mountaineering Instructor Award scheme with Mountain Training prior to attending this course and have the required experience.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 14-22 MAR 06-14 JUN 15-23 AUG 26 SEP-04 OCT 04-12 APR 18-26 JUL 05-13 SEP 31 OCT-08 NOV £980 £710 02-10 MAY

5 DAYS

MIA ASSESSMENT

Candidates will be assessed over 5 days on personal climbing, teaching climbing, leading in the mountains, emergency improvisation on the crag and the teaching/coaching of navigation. Part of the fifth day will be devoted to a full debrief and discussion.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 27 APR-01 MAY 13-17 JUL 14-18 SEP 19-23 OCT 25-29 MAY 24-28 AUG 05-09 OCT 26-30 OCT £700 £550 22-26 JUN 31 AUG-04 SEP 12-16 OCT 09-13 NOV

2 DAYS

MIA REFRESHER

This course is designed to help mountaineering instructor trainees during preparation for assessment or MIA holders who’d like to bring themselves up to date with current practice. It gives trainees a chance to ask any questions about the assessment and brush up on any weak areas whilst also helping current MIA Award holders to gather some valuable CPD experience. Practical work includes teaching climbing on multipitch routes and managing clients on steep ground.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 30-31 MAY

£300

12-13 SEP

£240

THE MOUNTAINEERING INSTRUCTOR CERTIFICATE (MIC) The Mountaineering Instructor Certificate covers the skills required for instructing and teaching winter mountaineering and winter climbing. It is the highest level award offered by Mountain Training and as such, the syllabus also includes the role of technical advisors, trainers and assessors in ‘mountain training’ across the UK and Ireland.

To find out more visit www.mountain-training.org

5 DAYS

MIC TRAINING

This 5 day course covers the teaching and instructing of snowcraft and icecraft including ropework and placement of ice anchors. Topics such as short roping, personal movement, route choice and teaching ice climbing are also covered. The days’ activities will be supplemented by evening lectures and activities.

You must be registered on the Mountaineering Instructor Certificate scheme with Mountain Training prior to attending this course and have the required experience.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES This course is based at HF Holidays Country House Alltshellach (see page 22-23).

08-12 FEB

15-19 FEB

MIC ASSESSMENT

08-12 MAR

£675

£N/A

4 DAYS

Before attending you must have attended an MIC training course, have 10 logged days of winter party management post MIC training, have 5 logged days climbing at grade 3 or above post MIC training and hold a valid first aid certificate. The 4 day course assesses your mountaineering skills, your personal climbing at grade 3 and your teaching skills over two days.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES This course is based at HF Holidays Country House Alltshellach (see page 22-23). £725 £N/A 23-26 FEB 02-05 MAR 09-12 MAR

CYPRUS or BUST

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Plas y Brenin Climbing Instructor Mike Raine boarded a plane to Cyprus recently to help set up a national rock climbing instructor award scheme. Here are his thoughts on the experience.

The embryonic Mountaineering Federation of Northern Cyprus contacted Plas y Brenin with a view to using our expertise to establish a system of qualifications for their rock climbing instructors. Luckily for me, my skill set, combined with a special interest in Cyprus and the fact that I was born there, made me the ideal choice for the job.

Early in the process, we agreed to establish awards at two levels. One award which would equate to a UK Single Pitch award and a Climbing Wall Leading award but designed to be applicable on the bolted cliffs to be found in Northern Cyprus.

Two of the candidates were experienced enough to work at MIA level and the training for these candidates went much further than the others. The climbing in Northern Cyprus in very varied but it was slightly unusual on sight new routing traditionally protected VS climbs on the equivalent of the MIA Personal Climbing day!

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The courses listed on this page are recognised by the following organisations.

SS

IML

MOUNTAIN ASSESSOR TRAINING WORKSHOP 2 DAYS These two day workshops identify and develop the skills required to assess others in a mountain context. The programme examines the generic skills of assessing through theoretical presentations and practical application. Open to Mountain Training providers and holders of ML, WGL and SPA awards.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 28 FEB-01 MAR 19-20 SEP 10-11 OCT 07-08 NOV £215 £155 16-17 MAY

MT TRAIN THE TRAINERS

2 POINTS

2 DAYS

This course aims to develop skills and knowledge in delivering training for any of the award schemes of Mountain Training (though it may also be of relevance to those delivering in house or equivalent schemes). The courses uses a variety of indoor and outdoor contexts in developing the generic skills of the trainer and course director. Attendees will be expected to prepare short presentations prior to the course. This is not an assessed course and no judgement will be made about the abilities of attendees at this event. Attendance will be considered as valuable experience should individuals subsequently apply to Mountain Training for approval as course directors.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - Open to Mountain Training Award Holders who are working towards becoming course directors and providers 14-15 JAN 26-27 SEP 28-29 NOV

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£155

£95

BMC FUNDAMENTALS OF CLIMBING 1

2 POINTS

1 DAY

This workshop comprises both theoretical and practical elements and is primarily aimed at climbers who work with and coach young people. Even if you work only with adults, you will still find much of the content appropriate.

Children participating in any sport are at risk of injury due to inappropriate activities or training techniques, and research carried out on the developing child has implications for those who coach them. The theoretical element looks at how the findings of this research can help shape the way in which climbing coaches working with children structure their work. All activities involve specific types of movement. The way body position impacts upon climbing style forms the practical element of the workshop since this can lead to an increase in performance and help in preventing climbing injuries.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE: led or assisted on group climbing sessions.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 05 JAN 09 MAY 22 AUG 07 OCT 21 MAR 19 AUG 05 SEP 09 DEC £110 £80 25 MAR

BMC FUNDAMENTALS OF CLIMBING 2

1

POINT

1

POINT

1

POINT

1

POINT

1 DAY

A one-day BMC workshop for those coaching climbing who have already attended a BMC FUNdamentals of Climbing 1 workshop. Broaden your knowledge of athlete development, and develop your coaching techniques for indoor and outdoor climbing. During this one day course you will cover precise and accurate footwork, explore ways of using different handholds, consider body positioning and take a close look at the different techniques used to climb on steep, vertical and slightly overhanging rock. This workshop is part of the training pathway for Mountain Training's new Coaching Award Scheme PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE: completed BMC FUNdamentals of Climbing 1 RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 06 JAN 10 MAY 23 AUG 08 OCT 22 MAR 20 AUG 06 SEP 10 DEC £110 £80 26 MAR

BMC FUNDAMENTALS OF CLIMBING 3

1 DAY

The third FUNdamentals workshop is designed to educate coaches working with climbers demonstrating an an advanced level of climbing technique. A coach working at this level should have a deep personal understanding of complex techniques and have high level observational skills to analyse a climber's movement.

This course will look at what happens to body positioning and movement when hand and footholds become worse, the angle steepens and dynamic movement is employed.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE: completed BMC FUNdamentals of Climbing 2. In order to get the most out of this workshop participants need to be comfortable climbing on steep ground and able to use slopers and small crimps.

23 JAN

29 MAR

19 JUN

25 SEP

22 NOV

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£110

£80

BMC PHYSICAL TRAINING FOR CLIMBING

2 DAYS

A one-day BMC workshop for people coaching climbing who have ideally already attended the BMC FUNdamentals of Climbing 1 and 2 Workshops. Broaden your knowledge of climbing training. The day covers both theory (physiology and anatomy related specifically to climbing) and also practical training sessions.

This workshop covers the following broad areas.

Demands of the sport, energy systems required for climbing, basic physiology and anatomy, principles of training and creating adaptation, and practical sessions on how to improve conditioning, strength and endurance.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - No experience required 30 JAN

28 MAR

24 APR

18 SEP

21 NOV

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£110

£80

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Photo: Ralf Dujmovits

IT`S WHAT WOMEN WANT

Deuter SL products are designed by a dedicated team of 23 female athlete (e.g. Gerlinde Kaltenbrunner – mountaineering legend who has climbed all fourteen 8000 peaks) and designers, focussing 100% on what women really want! With features such as a shorter back length, narrower shoulder straps and a conical shaped hip belt we truly provide products for women by women.

Shorter back

Narrower shoulder straps

Conical shaped waist belt

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FAST TRACK INSTRUCTOR

If you’d like to develop a career in the outdoors, our well-established fast track training programme could provide the ideal launch pad.

Over this intensive and exciting four-month training period you’ll work towards a clutch of National Governing Body Awards, gather a huge amount of experience and develop your personal skills.

What’s more, when you leave you’ll take with you the respect and recognition that comes with having been trained at the National Mountain Centre Rubbing shoulders with the instructors, you’ll stay in on-site accommodation seven days a week at Plas y Brenin, even though your course only runs Monday to Friday. That way there will be options to either join in with other courses taking place at the weekends or simply go climbing or paddling with your new-found friends at the National Mountain Centre. What’s more, you’ll enjoy three hearty meals a day, overlooking Snowdon in our scenic dining room.

FAST TRACK INSTRUCTOR

80 DAYS

During this intensive and exciting course you’ll receive personal skills training in kayaking, open canoeing, hill and mountain walking, rock climbing, first aid, risk awareness and hazard management.

As part of a personalised programme, you may complete coaching and leadership training courses for the following CWA (see p36), SPA (see p37) HML (see p33), ML Summer (see p35), REC First Aid at Work (see p44), BCU/UKCC Level 1 Certificate (see p56) and British Cycling Level 2 in Mountain Bike Leadership Training (see p8).

For those with a greater range of experience, and perhaps some of the above qualifications, it may be possible to work towards or complete some of the following - ML Winter (see p35), IML training (see p36), MIA training (see p40), BCU/UKCC Level 2 Certificate (see p56), BCU WW Safety and Rescue (see p45) and REC First Aid Trainer (see p44).

At the end of four months with us you’ll be able to look back on an incredible experience, during which you will have:

• BEEN COACHED BY THE LEADERS IN THE FIELD. • PADDLED AND CLIMBED ALONGSIDE THE MOST EXPERIENCED COACHES AND INSTRUCTORS IN THE COUNTRY. • BEEN ABLE TO USE THE PLAS Y BRENIN NAME TO OPEN DOORS IN THE OUTDOOR INDUSTRY. • BENEFITED FROM OUR VAST ARRAY OF EXPERIENCE WORKING IN THE OUTDOOR INDUSTRY. • RECEIVED INPUT FROM LONG-TERM CAREER PROFESSIONALS EVERY DAY. • HAD ACCESS TO A FANTASTIC RANGE OF EQUIPMENT. • STAYED IN EXCELLENT ACCOMMODATION IN THE BEATING HEART OF THE UK OUTDOOR SCENE. • TRAINED IN A VARIETY OF TEACHING AND COACHING STYLES. • SPENT 4 MONTHS WITH LIKE-MINDED PEOPLE. • HAD THE GREATEST CHANCE POSSIBLE TO ACHIEVE YOUR POTENTIAL AS A CLIMBER, PADDLER, MOUNTAIN BIKER AND MOUNTAINEER. • HAD ACCESS TO A MENTOR AT EVERY STAGE OF YOUR DEVELOPMENT. • WORKED TOWARDS GAINING A WIDE VARIETY OF NATIONAL GOVERNING BODY QUALIFICATIONS – GIVEN YOUR START POINT EXPERIENCE. • SAVED UP TO 10 DAYS OF CREDITS AT PLAS Y BRENIN SO YOU CAN RETURN LATER IN THE YEAR TO ATTEND NATIONAL GOVERNING BODY TRAINING OR ASSESSMENT COURSES FREE OF CHARGE To help streamline your career development even further, our staff will be able to guide you through registration with each of the necessary national governing bodies helping you to understand the 7 JAN - 28 APR progression and pre-requirements for each scheme. You will be expected to cover the cost of each £10,200 registration yourself.

43

first aid training All the first aid training provided at Plas y Brenin is offered under the authority of Rescue Emergency Care (REC). The courses are conducted according to Health and Safety Executive (HSE) regulations. REC provides a national structure in which trainers can work while enhancing courses by using their own experiences and expertise. This allows Plas y Brenin to run courses specifically for the outdoor mountain and water environment. The emphasis on these courses is in practically based training which will provide knowledge and confidence. These courses will not turn you into a medical encyclopedia but they will give you the strategies you need to manage properly in an emergency.

EMERGENCY FIRST AID

2 DAYS

A practical two-day course designed for people who work in the outdoors or who use the outdoors for pleasure. It is recognised as the minimum first aid training for most qualfications including Mountain Leader, Single Pitch Award, BCU Coach Qualifications and Mountain Bike Leader Awards. Practical scenarios play a big part in this course, including dealing with multiple casualty situations. Includes AED (Automatic External Defibrillator) training.

This course is certified as Emergency First Aid at Work PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required.

10-11 JAN 14-15 MAR 04-05 JUL 10-11 OCT 12-13 JAN 11-12 APR 18-19 JUL 31 OCT-01 NOV 17-18 JAN 25-26 APR 01-02 AUG 14-15 NOV 31 JAN-01 FEB 09-10 MAY 15-16 AUG 28-29 NOV RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 14-15 FEB 23-24 MAY 29-30 AUG 05-06 DEC 28 FEB-01 MAR 06-07 JUN 12-13 SEP 12-13 DEC £215 £155 07-08 MAR 13-14 JUN 26-27 SEP

MOUNTAIN FIRST AID

3 DAYS

This course covers all the content of the Emergency Course and has additional time to deal with the types of injuries and problems typical of the mountain environment, and the procedures for dealing with accidents in remote places. It is appropriate for the Mountaineering Instructor, Single Pitch and Mountain Leader Schemes, Mountain Bike Leader Awards, the Association of British Mountain Guides and those operating in remote areas. Includes AED (Automatic External Defibrillator) training.

This course is certified as Emergency First Aid at Work RESIDENTIAL NON-RES PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required.

23-25 JAN 06-08 APR 24-26 AUG 07-09 DEC £300 £210 09-11 MAR 22-24 JUN 30 SEP-02 OCT

MOUNTAIN BIKE FIRST AID

3 DAYS

This course covers all the content of the Emergency Course and has additional time to deal with the types of injuries and problems typical of a mountain bike environment, and the procedures for dealing with accidents in remote places.

It is appropriate for most qualifications including British Cycling Mountain Bike Leader Awards and those operating in remote areas. Includes AED (Automatic External Defibrillator) training.

This course is certified as Emergency First Aid at Work RESIDENTIAL NON-RES PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required. £300 £210 05-07 JAN 19-20 MAR 10-12 JUN 02-04 OCT

FIRST AID AT WORK IN THE OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT

3 DAYS

The course follows the HSE syllabus but with a clear emphasis on the outdoor environment. Practical scenarios and class based sessions are followed by a formal, independent assessment of skills and knowledge. The holder of this certificate can then be recognised as the First Aider at Work and is able to organise the first aid provision at work according to HSE guidelines. This certificate is required by all first aid trainers. It also, of course validates Governing Body Awards PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 19-21 JAN 22-24 APR 22-24 JUL 14-16 OCT 04-06 FEB 18-20 MAY 02-04 SEP 09-11 NOV £395 £305 16-18 MAR

ADVANCED FIRST AID

2 DAYS

If you want to gain further confidence, plan to visit remote areas or become a first aid trainer these two days are an important step. Our highly qualified and experienced instructors will guide you carefully through the more advanced, non-invasive techniques of first aid. Includes AED (Automatic External Defibrillator) training.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - REC Standard course or REC First Aid at Work in the Outdoor Environment. £300 £240 21-22 FEB 11-12 APR 24-25 OCT

FIRST AID TRAINERS COURSE

44

4 DAYS

On completion of this course you can start to gain practical experience working alongside REC trainers and provide courses of your own under the supervision of a senior trainer. Independent trainer status within REC is appproved on an individual basis.The course looks at how to set up and run first aid courses and goes on to focus on specific teaching skills culminating in video analysis of your own lecture presentation.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - hold a valid First Aid at Work Certificate RESIDENTIAL NON-RES and have completed any REC First Aid Course (so you are familiar with the REC approach to training). £615 £495 09-12 MAR 16-19 NOV

WATER SAFETY AND RESCUE

Safety and rescue skills are essential whether you are a coach or just paddle for fun, these courses not only teach you how to get out of trouble but how to stay out of trouble. All of these training courses are delivered by our experienced and highly qualified coaches. Plus all the specialist equipment needed is provided and dry suit hire is included to keep you warm and dry as you learn and then test out and practice your skills. At the end of each day any wet kit can dry in our efficient drying rooms so its ready for the next day whilst you enjoy tea and cakes, a hearty home cooked dinner and a comfy warm bed.

BCU FOUNDATION SAFETY AND RESCUE

1 DAY

Included as part of our Level 1 Coach Development course, this important foundation module is also available as a stand alone day.

DRY SUITS PROVIDED PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - competent flat water paddler.

13 MAR

22 MAY

14 AUG

25 SEP

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£100

£70

WHITE WATER RESCUE TECHNICIAN (RESCUE 3)

3 DAYS

A three-day course designed for Outdoor Professionals with existing river experience. Designed to provide you with the necessary skills to perform rescues in whitewater river situations. It is both classroom and river-based and will include: Hydrology and water dynamics, introduction to technical rescue equipment, hazard identification & risk assessment, introduction to rope systems, swimming in moving water, medical considerations, foot and body entrapments, scene management, contact and in-water rescues, two and four point boat and rope systems, crossing techniques, boat pins and entrapments.

DRY SUITS PROVIDED PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - competent grade II paddler and confident swimming in moving water.

16-18 MAR 20-22 MAY 04-06 NOV 02-04 DEC 01-03 APR 16-18 OCT

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£480

£390

BCU WHITE WATER SAFETY AND RESCUE

2 DAYS

Run in conjunction with the BCU to coach recreational white water paddlers in all aspects of white water safety and rescue technique. The course covers safety (staying out of trouble), rescue (getting out of trouble) and boat and equipment recovery (dealing with trouble).

DRY SUITS PROVIDED PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - competent grade II paddler.

18-19 APR 09-10 MAY 01-02 AUG

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£235

£175

BCU ADVANCED WHITE WATER SAFETY AND RESCUE

2 DAYS

A course designed for the trainee 5 star leader to cover safety and supervision of groups in advanced environments.

Training on steep bank security, recovery of boats, first aid considerations and advanced rope work enable the trainee leader to progress to assessment knowing they have the skills to supervise a group both on and off the water.

DRY SUITS PROVIDED PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - 5 star skills and leadership training and BCU White Water Safety and Rescue course.

07-08 MAR 19-20 SEP 03-04 OCT 14-15 NOV

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£245

£185

45

KAYAKING All the first aid training provided at Plas y Brenin is offered under the authority of Rescue Emergency Care (REC). The courses are conducted according to Health and Safety Executive (HSE) regulations. REC provides a national structure in which trainers can work while enhancing courses by using their own experiences and expertise. This allows Plas y Brenin to run courses specifically for the outdoor mountain and water environment. The emphasis on these courses is in practically based training which will provide knowledge and confidence. These courses will not turn you into a medical encyclopedia but they will give you the strategies you need to manage properly in an emergency.

For paddlers Plas y Brenin couldn’t be in a better place. We’re surrounded by all kinds of water, from the fast flowing rivers and still picturesque lakes of Snowdonia to the rolling surf and tidal streams of the Anglesey coast. That’s not all. The facilities for paddlers at Plas y Brenin itself are second to none. We’ve an indoor heated rolling pool, our own section of grade II rapids and a huge unspoiled lake right at the bottom of the garden. As far as the gear’s concerned, we make sure all the equipment you use on your course is modern and well maintained without adding a penny to the cost of the courses and our extensive fleet of boats means you can try out all kinds of canoes and kayaks during your stay. But the real secret of our success lies in the passion and experience of our coaches. Each and every one of our coaches is an enthusiast - they just love to paddle and it’s their love for the sport that makes them want to introduce others to it. Between them they boast a huge list of ground breaking expeditions, first descents and international achievements, all of which serves to enrich their coaching and leads to a more enriching and rewarding learning experience for you. So if you’d like to learn to paddle, improve your technique quickly, or just get out there and soak up some of Britain’s finest water, pick a course and give us a call.

DISCOVER KAYAKING

2 DAYS

A weekend designed to give you an enjoyable introduction to kayaking.

You'll cover everything from what clothing and equipment to choose right up to basic rescue skills, not to mention plenty of paddling. By the end of the weekend you'll have all of the foundation skills to confidently progress in your new sport.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required.

18-19 APR 13-14 JUN 11-12 JUL 12-13 SEP £220 £160 16-17 MAY 27-28 JUN 08-09 AUG

INTRODUCTION TO KAYAKING

5 DAYS

A five day course which will give you a thorough grounding in kayaking. You will be introduced to all the equipment and basic skills on local rivers, lakes and sea. On this course there is ample opportunity for coaching and progression in white water and sea kayaking.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 16-20 MAR 13-17 APR 22-26 JUN 13-17 JUL 30 MAR-03 APR 20-24 APR 29 JUN-03 JUL 07-11 SEP £500 £350 06-10 APR 01-05 JUN

WHITE WATER SEA AND SURF

5 DAYS

You've decided you like kayaking. Now it's time to experience racing down the face of a surf wave, bouncing down a rapid and explore some stunning coastline. These five days of white water fun will give you an introduction to all the techniques you need to handle a boat in the exciting wild water of British rivers and sea. You'll also be introduced to rolling and we guarantee you'll have plenty of opportunity to develop your roll!

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - confident flat water paddler with the ability to manoeuvre your craft with ease.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 30 MAR-03 APR 25-29 MAY 20-24 JUL 31 AUG-04 SEP 13-17 APR 08-12 JUN 17-21 AUG 05-09 OCT £515 £365 27 APR-01 MAY 06-10 JUL

46

20% Member discount on our self catering bunkhouses or farmhouse for your group or club. The ideal base for a paddling holiday in North Wales (see p 68-69).

DISCOVER WHITE WATER KAYAKING

2 DAYS

A weekend designed to introduce you to the thrills and spills of white water. You’ll cover everything from clothing and equipment to foundation white water skills. By the end of the course you will have tackled your first white water and have the confidence to tackle the rapids under your own steam.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - confident flat water paddler with the ability to manoeuvre your craft with ease, able to perform a confident and controlled capsize with a spraydeck on.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 21-22 FEB 14-15 MAR 09-10 MAY 19-20 SEP 28 FEB-01 MAR 11-12 APR 06-07 JUN 03-04 OCT £225 £165 07-08 MAR 25-26 APR 20-21 JUN 24-25 OCT

INTRODUCTION TO WHITE WATER KAYAKING 5 DAYS A week for kayakers who have decided to specialise in white water or for white water paddlers looking to build confidence and control by refining their white water technique. Our aim is to refine your existing paddling skills and coach you in more advanced techniques like breaking in and out, ferry gliding, surfing standing waves and small stoppers. River reading, rescue and rolling will be an integral part of the course. A week of grade II and easy grade III water.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - confident flat water paddler with the ability to manoeuvre your craft and perform a confident capsize with a spraydeck on.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 06-10 APR 31 AUG-04 SEP 05-09 OCT 19-23 OCT £515 £365 27 APR-01 MAY 21-25 SEP

INTROMEDIATE WHITE WATER KAYAKING

5 DAYS

A five day course on grade II and III white water designed for kayakers who have some white water experience but lack the confidence to move on to the intermediate course. Whether you have limited experience on moving water, you’ve had a knock in confidence due to a ‘big swim’, or you’ve simply been ‘out of your boat’ for a few years, this course is an ideal confidence booster. Initially you’ll spend time consolidating your existing paddling skills before developing your balance and moving on to more advanced techniques. You will also enjoy a more in-depth insight into river reading, rescue and further develop your roll. The course should help you become more comfortable and relaxed on the water so you’ll enjoy your paddling more than you ever thought possible.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - some white water experience, RESIDENTIAL NON-RES able to perform a flat water roll.

02-06 FEB 06-10 JUL 12-16 OCT 02-06 NOV £530 £380 11-15 MAY 24-28 AUG 26-30 OCT

Plas y Brenin Kayak coach Chris Evans and catering assistant Nicky Ball strapped their boats on the roof and headed for Scotland this summer. Here, Chris tells us about their adventure.

Scottish kayaking holds a special place in my heart, any excuse and I’m off, over the border. As soon as the dates for the annual Moriston River race were released I had my entry in and training began. A gym session here and there or the odd lake or river sprint session and the time had come all too quickly to load up my trusty Palm Equipment and Dagger Mamba on to the roof of my not so trusty van and I was off, heading north to my second home with fellow racer and key member of our kitchen staff Nedd Ballski (Nicky Ball) for a week long adventure before our race.

The weather was fantastic, glorious sunshine and nice and warm! Normally this is a curse for us blighty boaters as our rivers are mainly rain fall dependant.

Thanks to big catchment areas and dam released rivers, even when there’s no rain there’s always water in Scottish rivers. We enjoyed five days of paddling everything any paddler could want. Steep creeking, volumous rivers, remote, technical gorges and bouncy road side play runs!

Due to a communication breakdown we got in everything except the river moriston we were going to race on! Not to worry, during the event we got two training runs in that allowed me (Nick had paddled this river before) to learn the lines required. The course consisted of an interesting seal launch off a log to fire you into the river then a series of drops ranging in height from to 3ft to 15ft and a tricky slide with a fairly unforgiving hole at the bottom. The race runs went well for both myself and Nedd putting us both in the early 30s on the scoring board. Plenty of room for improvement next year! Training has begun already.

Chad Chaddison (Chris Evans)

A SCOTTISH ADVENTURE

47

48 Too late for second thoughts for Kark Midlane a he plunges this drop in the Spanish Pyrenees (see opposite bottom for details)

INTERMEDIATE WHITE WATER KAYAKING

5 DAYS

Running wild rivers is all about judgement. This week gives you the experience and skills you need to make those decisions. You'll concentrate on developing boat positioning skills, refine your judgement and practical techniques to help you become a good white water paddler.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - competent Grade II paddler with some experience of Grade III and a reliable flat water roll.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 12-16 JAN 09-13 FEB 09-13 MAR 16-20 NOV £530 £380 26-30 JAN 23-27 FEB 23-27 MAR 30 NOV-04 DEC

PERFORMANCE WHITE WATER KAYAKING

25DAYS DAYS

Intermediate or advanced white water paddlers will find this two-day personal improvement programme a perfect way to hone their paddling skills . High coach to guest ratios combined with top level coaching give maximum opportunity for improvement.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - competent grade II paddler with some experience of grade III. A reliable moving water roll.

10-11 JAN 28-29 MAR 26-27 SEP 31 OCT-01 NOV 17-18 JAN 06-07 JUN 10-11 OCT 07-08 NOV RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 07-08 FEB 25-26 JUL 17-18 OCT 14-15 NOV 21-22 FEB 29-30 AUG 24-25 OCT 28-29 NOV £245 £185 14-15 MAR

ADVANCED WHITE WATER KAYAKING

5 DAYS

A week of technique coaching from our top coaches. Over these five days you’ll work closely with our most experienced and qualified coaches to help you take your paddling skills further than you ever thought possible. You’ll enjoy lots and lots of great paddling and you’ll feel your skill level soar as the week goes on.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - competent grade II paddler with some experience of grade III and a reliable moving water roll.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 19-23 JAN 16-20 MAR 23-27 NOV 07-11 DEC £545 £395 16-20 FEB

ROLLING CLINIC

2 DAYS

Using our pool, lake and river, our expert coaches will help you develop a strong, dependable roll in a variety of conditions.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - able to perform a confident capsize with a spraydeck.

17-18 JAN 18-19 APR 27-28 AUG 07-08 NOV RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 07-08 FEB 09-10 MAY 10-11 SEP 21-22 NOV 28 FEB-01 MAR 13-14 JUN 26-27 SEP 12-13 DEC £225 £165 14-15 MAR 01-02 AUG 10-11 OCT

ROLLING RECONSTRUCTION

2 DAYS

If you've been having trouble with your roll or have 'lost' your roll all together this course is ideal for you. Progressing at your own pace, our coaches will assess your roll and design a programme to consolidate and refine your technique.

Whatever your starting point, one day spent in the pool and a second out on the water will move you towards a confident reliable roll.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - 50% effective roll 24-25 JAN 21-22 MAR 15-16 AUG 21-22 FEB 27-28 JUN 29-30 AUG

14-15 NOV 05-06 DEC

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£230

£170

THE BOMBPROOF ROLL

5 DAYS

Five days spent developing your roll into something you know you can depend on. Using our indoor heated rolling pool you will develop the fundamental techniques before heading out onto the rivers to test out your skills.

Then over the week you’ll spend time at different white water or salt water venues putting it in to practice, then you’ll return to the centre to analyse video footage, correct your faults, work on your weaknesses and build on your strengths in our pool. A week of challenging paddling focused on developing your roll which will send your confidence soaring.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - a ‘pool’ roll with some Grade II experience 04-08 MAY 22-26 JUN 31 AUG-04 SEP 12-16 OCT 18-22 MAY 06-10 JUL 28 SEP-02 OCT

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£530

£380

Saut Deth Pish,Spanish Pyrenees Karl Midlane is a kayak coach at Plas y Brenin. When he is not coaching at the National Mountain Centre you’ll find him paddling, mountaineering and climbing around the world. Here, Karl describes running the drop pictured opposite.

I had failed. Everybody else had come up with a good excuse not to run the drop, I just could not come up with one that sounded convincing. The hard bit was going to be plucking up the courage to make the first stroke, the one that would pull me out of the eddy and commit me to the drop. The rest would take care of its self, or I would have to improvise.

Too late now I am going, a tree obscures the run in but there is room to get past, I just have to put in a last minute turn to hit the line. Once initiated I cannot stop the turn as the free fall has begun. The turn leads to a slight over rotation that means the boat surfaces from the boily pool at the bottom going backwards towards the waterfall. But I am upright, no need to roll. I got away with it. A success. Should I go again just to make sure we got the photo?

49

SEA KAYAKING All the first aid training provided at Plas y Brenin is offered under the authority of Rescue Emergency Care (REC). The courses are conducted according to Health and Safety Executive (HSE) regulations. REC provides a national structure in which trainers can work while enhancing courses by using their own experiences and expertise. This allows Plas y Brenin to run courses specifically for the outdoor mountain and water environment. The emphasis on these courses is in practically based training which will provide knowledge and confidence. These courses will not turn you into a medical encyclopedia but they will give you the strategies you need to manage properly in an emergency.

DISCOVER SEA KAYAKING

2 DAYS

A weekend course for paddlers who want to get to grips with sea kayaking. Based around the coast of Anglesey and the Lleyn Peninsula, paddling in some of the most beautiful, wildlife-rich coastal waters in the UK, this course will provide you with a basic understanding of kayak handling techniques that are specific to the sea.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - confident flat water paddler with the ability to manoeuvre your craft with ease RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 02-03 MAY 30-31 MAY 11-12 JUL 22-23 AUG 23-24 MAY

13-14 JUN

08-09 AUG

29-30 AUG

£225

INTRODUCTION TO SEA KAYAKING

£165

5 DAYS

A five-day course for paddlers who want to specialise in sea kayaking. It'll give you a basic knowledge of the sea and the kayak handling techniques specific to salt water, whilst also taking you through planning a coastal journey, tides, weather forecasting and sea safety. The North Wales coastline provides ideal venues for exciting and inspirational exploratory journeys.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - confident flat water paddler with the ability to manoeuvre your craft with ease RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 06-10 APR 08-12 JUN 20-24 JUL 31 AUG-04 SEP £515 £365 27-31 MAY 06-10 JUL

LIGHTHOUSES, CLIFFS AND CAVES

2 DAYS

A weekend sea paddling holiday. With the emphasis on paddling experience not skills development, our coaches will take you on a tour of some of the most memorable paddling spots the North Wales coast has to offer. A great chance to enjoy breathtaking views and natural wildlife from the tranquility of a sea kayak. An excellent course for those who have been on our ‘Introduction to Sea Kayaking’ courses.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - some sea paddling experience and able to perform a confident capsize.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 04-05 APR 27-28 JUN 25-26 JUL 08-09 AUG £230 £170 18-19 APR

INTROMEDIATE SEA KAYAKING

5 DAYS

A five-day course for those paddlers who consider themselves more than a beginner but not quite confident or experienced enough to join our ‘Intermediate Sea Kayaking’course. You’ll enjoy revising and developing your existing sea kayak techniques as well as learning about rescue and safety along with developing your roll in our heated indoor pool. All of this is wrapped up with many memorable journeys around some of the UK’s most stunning coastal waters, where you’ll get to grips with the fundamental skills of trip planning, navigation and seamanship (and enjoy the scenery).

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - sea kayaking experience in a range of sea states and a good level of fitness that would enable you to paddle 10-15 miles per day.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 11-15 MAY 17-21 AUG 14-18 SEP 28 SEP-02 OCT £530 £380 13-17 JUL

INTERMEDIATE SEA KAYAKING

5 DAYS

A week long course for paddlers who want to improve their kayak handling and rough water skills, as well as boost their experience of practical and theoretical seamanship and navigation. More importantly this week will take you on a tour of some of the finest coastal trips the UK has to offer, broadening your experience and making sure you get the most out of each spectacularly scenic journey.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - sea kayaking experience in a range of sea states up to force four winds and a good level of fitness that would enable you to paddle 15-20 miles per day.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES

50

04-08 MAY

07-11 SEP

21-25 SEP

£530

£380

SEA KAYAK IMPROVER

2 DAYS

Does exactly what it says on the tin! Two days covering the essential areas of sea kayaking, navigation, safety and rescue. You’ll spend the first morning in the classroom, looking carefully at how to plan sea trips including tidal and weather considerations before heading out onto the water to put it all into practice. Day two is all about staying safe on the water, dealing with incidents including towing, rescuing capsized paddlers and getting yourself back into your boat.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - competent sea kayaker £225 £165 25-26 APR 18-19 JUL 15-16 AUG 29-30 AUG 20-21 JUN

ROUGH WATER HANDLING

2 DAYS

A course for capable sea paddlers who want to move onto rough water. During two days coaching on the sea you’ll build skills confidence on over-falls, tidal races, waves or surf, leaving you more confident and relaxed in your kayak.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - competent sea kayaker, experience in RESIDENTIAL NON-RES force three winds and a reliable salt water roll.

02-03 MAY 04-05 JUL 01-02 AUG 19-20 SEP £275 £215 09-10 MAY

PERFORMANCE SEA KAYKING

5 DAYS

A week spent working closely with our coaches to fine tune your sea kaykaing skills and build your knowledge and confidence to help you become a truly accomplished sea paddler. During this bespoke week of journeys and adventures our coaches will assess your paddling and help you develop where you need it most. You’ll cover plenty of sea miles and visit a variety of challenging tidal features during the week as you learn how to handle over-falls, deal with tidal races and waves and lots, lots more, leaving you a more confident, experienced and skillful paddler.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - competent sea kayaker, experience in force four winds plus a reliable salt water roll.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 28 MAR-01 APR 01-05 JUN 10-14 AUG 09-13 NOV £580 £430 18-22 MAY 29 JUN-03 JUL

WINTERMEDIATE SEA KAYAKING

5 DAYS

Extending the season for intermediate sea paddlers, this week will open your eyes to what is possible in the winter months. It’s as much about confidence as it is commitment and with both in your locker you’ll soon realise that there absolutely no reason to hang your paddle up for winter.

Over the week our coaches will share their knowledge in all kinds of areas as you paddle on the estuaries and coastal waters of Anglesey, North Wales and the Lleyn Peninsula. With additional sessions on safety, navigation, expedition planning and advanced paddle technique, this really is a an exciting step up for the intermediate paddler.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - sea kayaking experience in a range of sea states and a good level of fitness that would enable you to paddle 10-15 miles per day.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 02-06 FEB 02-06 MAR 16-20 NOV 07-11 DEC £510 £360 09-13 FEB 02-06 NOV 30 NOV-04 DEC

GUIDED SEA KAYAK CLASSICS

5 DAYS

Five days of guided sea paddling on the coasts of Anglesey, North Wales and the Lleyn Peninsula taking in some of the Welsh classics along the way. With the focus on simply ‘clocking up the miles’, you’ll take on a different journey each day, enjoying the scenery and the company as you go. The spectacular sea cliffs, beautiful islands and the abundance of wildlife go together to make this a week to remember, so don’t forget to bring your camera.

A great way for anyone with a solid foundation in sea kayaking to boost their experience.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - sea kayaking experience in a range of sea states and a good level of fitness that would enable you to paddle 10-15 miles per day.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 18-22 MAY 25-29 MAY 13-17 JUL 24-28 AUG

£525

SEA KAYAK ROLLING CLINIC

£375

2 DAYS

Rolling a sea kayak demands technique and finesse in equal measure but once mastered it is a skill that will increase your confidence as a paddler, making your journeys on the sea far more rewarding. This unique weekend clinic focuses on the specific skills required to roll a sea kayak.

Using our indoor heated rolling pool and our private lake, our coaches will teach you how to roll these large, elegant boats with style. Starting with the absolute basics, you’ll progress to confidently rolling a sea kayak in our pool and then fine tune your skills outside on the lake, always with our coaches guiding you towards perfect technique.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - confident to capsize wearing a spraydeck.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 10-11 JAN 07-08 MAR 23-24 MAY 03-04 OCT 31 JAN-01 FEB 28-29 MAR 20-21 JUN 28-29 NOV £225 £165 14-15 FEB 11-12 APR

THE BOMBPROOF SEA KAYAK ROLL

5 DAYS

Five days spent developing your roll into something you know you can depend on. Using our indoor heated rolling pool you will develop the fundamental techniques before heading out onto the sea to test out your skills.

Then over the week you’ll spend time at different bays, coves and estuaries, seeking out challenging water, to ensure you put your roll in to practice. You’ll return to the centre to analyse video footage, correct your faults, work on your weaknesses and build on your strengths in our pool.

A week of challenging paddling focused on developing your roll which will send your confidence soaring.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - some experience rolling and comfortable in a range of sea states.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 20-24 APR 08-12 JUN 20-24 JUL 05-09 OCT £530 £380 11-15 MAY 29 JUN-03 JUL 24-28 AUG

51

CANOEING

A traditional sport mixed with modern equipment and techniques, canoeing has a massively diverse appeal. Whether you want to move silently across a lake or estuary enjoying the close contact with wildlife that your stealth allows or you’d like to bounce down foaming white water, enjoying the rush that comes not only with staying in your boat but guiding your craft gracefully from one quiet eddy to another, canoeing has it all. The open canoe is versatile too. Once you’ve mastered this craft you’ll be able to enjoy the many opportunities it provides including tranquil wilderness travel, family adventures, multi-day expeditions and heart racing white water excitement.

DISCOVER CANOEING

2 DAYS

On this two-day introduction to the canoe you’ll learn foundation canoe handling skills as part of a tandem crew along with the principles required to paddle safely as part of a supervised group. On the second day you’ll refine your skills during a journey on a local river or lake.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none necessary.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 04-05 APR 30-31 MAY 04-05 JUL 05-06 SEP 02-03 MAY 13-14 JUN 15-16 AUG 12-13 SEP £220 £160 09-10 MAY 27-28 JUN

INTRODUCTION TO CANOEING

5 DAYS

A five-day course introducing you to the basics of handling an open canoe. Develop your boat handling skills both solo and as part of a tandem crew. Consolidate your new-found skills whilst travelling lakes, estuaries and tackling the tranquil rivers and simple whitewater.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none necessary.

06-10 APR 13-17 APR 11-15 MAY

01-05 JUN 29 JUN-03 JUL 06-10 JUL

13-17 JUL 17-21 AUG 24-28 AUG

14-18 SEP 21-25 SEP 19-23 OCT

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£515

£365

CANOE WHITE WATER SKILLS

2 DAYS

Aimed at capable flat water paddlers solo or tandem, who want to develop their white water boat-handling skills. Under the guidance of our experienced coaches you’ll cover strategies for running white water safely and confidently.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - confident flat water paddler with the ability to manoeuvre your craft with ease.

31 JAN-01 FEB 28 FEB-01 MAR

21-22 MAR 18-19 JUL

19-20 SEP 10-11 OCT

31 OCT-01 NOV

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£260

£200

SOLO CANOE MASTERCLASS

5 DAYS

This course is designed purely for the solo paddler. During the week your coach will develop your solo paddling skills, honing your performance to make you a true master of your craft. The boost in confidence and ability will help you enjoy your solo boating even more than you thought possible.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - have paddled in the stern of a tandem crew or have basic solo skills.

23-27 FEB 30 MAR-03 APR

27 APR-01 MAY 28 SEP-02 OCT

12-16 OCT

02-06 NOV

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£525

£375

WHITE WATER CANOE MASTERCLASS

2 DAYS

This course aims to develop your solo canoe white water skills even further. During the week your coach will develop your technique, helping to make you a more balanced, intuitive paddler. Edging, timing, breaking in and out, stroke selection and stroke transition. You name it you will cover it during this week of white water coaching.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - confident white water paddler with the ability to manoeuvre your craft with ease.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES

52

24-25 JAN

26-27 SEP

17-18 OCT

14-15 NOV

£260

£200

Together we do it all Palm and Plas y Brenin have been in partnership for twenty-two years. Sea kayaking, open canoeing, whitewater, guided trips, or learning to roll, we supply the gear and you put it through its paces at Plas y Brenin.

PADDLESPORT AWARDS

FULL DETAILS AND A SYLLABUS FOR EACH BCU AWARD IS AVAILABLE ON THE BCU’S WEBSITE - VISIT - WWW.BCU.ORG.UK Plas y Brenin is unique as a BCU approved centre. We offer an extensive range of coach education courses with more dates available than any of our competitors. Our coaching team’s collective experience is unrivalled in the UK. But it is our staff’s commitment to, and passion for, paddling that really makes them shine. Each one is dedicated to making sure you develop to the best of your ability both as a paddler and a coach. This successful mix is the reason so many people visit us and keep on visiting, enjoying continuity as they move on through their coaching career. Our influence in the world of UK paddling is highly evident, wherever you paddle in the UK. It is no underestimation to say you will come into direct contact with a Plas y Brenin Coach or a Coach who was trained or assessed here at some time.

Please note: The BCU require everyone to be registered for their courses. You need to ensure you have the correct experience, prerequisites and if required have registered for the particular award with the BCU. If you arrive without these the BCU will not be able to register you and will not be able to participate - which would be a great pity. For full details for each award please visit www.bcu .org.uk

BCU ‘COMPLETE TWO STAR TRAINING AND ASSESSMENT

5 DAYS

The BCU 2 Star is an improvement award that helps paddlers develop fundamental paddlesport skills on flat water in a variety of craft. The emphasis is on gaining a breadth of experience, moving of the boat effectively and developing an understanding of how the paddle, boat and water interact. Whilst it is possible to complete your two star award in three days, we feel this can be a little daunting for most paddlers.

Our five day program allows you to complete the first two days of training, then enjoy two further days consolidating those skills in time for an assessment on the final day. This generic award covers both canoe and kayak skills on flat water and is the pre-requisite for any paddler aiming for their BCU level 1.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - experience of paddling two different craft £470 £320 11-15 MAY 13-17 JUL 17-21 AUG 14-18 SEP

BCU ‘COMPLETE THREE STAR TRAINING AND ASSESSMENT

5 DAYS

The Three Star award is a big deal these days and although the training can be complete in two days, our coaches feel this can be too intense for many paddlers.This five day programme allows you to complete the three star training within a more digestable 4 days so you’ll really get to grips with those skills before your assessment on the final day.

The award is discipline specific and is the pre-requisite for BCU Level 2 certificate in coaching paddlesport.

PRE-REQUISITES - Two Star skills, though the award itself is not a requirement.

WHITE WATER KAYAK 16-20 FEB 09-13 MAR

13-17 APR 01-05 JUN

17-21 AUG 28 SEP-02 OCT

27 APR-01 MAY

06-10 JUL

07-11 SEP

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

04-08 MAY

29 JUN-03 JUL

10-14 AUG

£470

£320

SEA KAYAK CANOE

09-13 NOV

BCU FOUR STAR LEADERS| AWARD TRAINING

2 DAYS

This two-day programme provides the minimum training requirements for this award. The course will cover the personal paddling and leadership skills necessary to prepare you for your four star leaders assessment. It will not cover any safety and rescue training so a BCU white-water safety and rescue course must be attended prior to assessment.

PRE-REQUISITES - Three star skills

WHITE WATER KAYAK TRAINING 14-15 MAR

54

03-04 OCT

CANOE TRAINING 29-30 AUG

19-20 SEP

14-15 NOV

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£245

£185

BCU FOUR STAR SEA KAYAK LEADERS AWARD TRAINING

3 DAYS

This three-day programme provides the minimum training requirements for this award. The course will cover the paddling, leadership and safety skills necessary to prepare you for your four star leader assessment and a one day classroom based coastal navigation and tidal planning module.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 04-06 JUL

04-06 SEP

£370

BCU FOUR STAR LEADERS AWARD PREPARATION

£280

5 DAYS

We have designed this five-day programme to provide and exceed the training requirements for this award. The course will cover the paddling, planning, leadership and safety skills necessary to prepare you for your four star leader assessment and you will receive a personalised action plan, designed to guide you towards a successful assessment.

PRE-REQUISITES - Three Star skills,

WHITE WATER KAYAK PREPARATION 05-09 JAN

09-13 FEB

06-10 APR

12-16 OCT

16-20 MAR

20-24 APR

20-24 JUL

14-18 SEP

SEA KAYAK PREPARATION CANOE PREPARATION 16-20 FEB

25-29 MAY

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£525

£375

05-09 OCT

BCU FOUR STAR LEADERS AWARD ASSESSMENT

2 DAYS

A two-day assessment course based on the four star syllabus.

PRE-REQUISITES - Four Star Leader Training and relevant safety and rescue or tidal planning module.

WHITE WATER KAYAK ASSESSMENT 24-25 JAN

05-06 SEP

05-06 SEP

24-25 OCT

15-16 AUG

24-25 OCT

SEA KAYAK ASSESSMENT CANOE ASSESSMENT

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£245

£185

BCU FIVE STAR LEADERS AWARD PREPARATION

5 DAYS

We have designed this five-day programme to provide and exceed the training requirements for this award. The course will cover the paddling, leadership and safety skills necessary to prepare you for your five star leader assessment and you will receive a personalised action plan, designed to guide you towards a successful assessment.

PRE-REQUISITES - Four Star skills.

WHITE WATER KAYAK PREPARATION 12-16 JAN

09-13 MAR

23-27 NOV

13-17 APR

10-14 AUG

12-16 OCT

23-27 MAR

21-25 SEP

SEA KAYAK PREPARATION CANOE PREPARATION

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£525

£375

BCU FIVE STAR LEADERS AWARD ASSESSMENT

2 DAYS

A two day assessment course based on the five star syllabus.

PRE-REQUISITES - Four Star, Five Star Leader Training and relevant safety and rescue or tidal planning module.

WHITE WATER KAYAK ASSESSMENT 14-15 FEB

07-08 MAR

21-22 NOV

08-09 AUG

10-11 OCT

31 OCT-01 NOV

SEA KAYAK ASSESSMENT CANOE ASSESSMENT 07-08 FEB

01-02 OCT

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£245

£185

BCU FIVE STAR WHITE WATER KAYAK TOP UP TRAINING AND ASSESSMENT

5 DAYS

This five day top-up training and assessment is perfect if you are ready for your five star assessment but would like a little technical imput beforehand. You'll spend the first three days with our experienced coaches refreshing your five star skills, get any questions answered and get 'warmed up' ready for assessment. The final two days will be your five star assessment.

PRE-REQUISITES - Four Star, Five Star Leader Training and relevant safety and rescue.

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

23-27 MAR

£525

£375

19-23 OCT

30 NOV-04 DEC

55

BCU/UKCC LEVEL 1 CERTIFICATE IN COACHING PADDLESPORT

5 DAYS

This is the first level course for those who’d like to become a paddlesports coach. The course covers all elements of the syllabus including the foundation safety and rescue module. Candidates with experience and aptitude will leave able to coach alongside an experienced coach. Areas covered include: risk assessment, group management, basic teaching strategies, use of games within teaching, supervisory skills for the coach, opportunities for mentored practice, completion of assessment tasks, safety and rescue skills.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 09-13 FEB 30 MAR-03 APR 29 JUN-03 JUL 21-25 SEP £520 £370 09-13 MAR 25-29 MAY 17-21 AUG

BCU/UKCC LEVEL 2 TRAINING

5 DAYS

This is a five-day training course for the second level certificate in coaching paddle sport. This is a non-discipline specific course and candidates will learn the skills to teach in both canoe and kayak, a good standard of personal performance in both craft is required. The course will cover all elements of the training syllabus including; safety and rescue skills for the coach, risk management, coaching skills, planning programs for learners, supervisory skills, mentoring and supervision of assistants and a CPD module.

PRE-REQUISITES - Level 1 Coach Training, 2 star award, 3 star RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 02-06 MAR 11-15 MAY 10-14 AUG 02-06 NOV £520 £370 20-24 APR 06-10 JUL 14-18 SEP

BCU/UKCC LEVEL 2 ASSESSMENT

1 DAY

If successful, this one-day assessment leads to certification as a Level 2 coach in paddlesports.

PRE-REQUISITES - valid first aid certificate, 3 star in main discipline and RESIDENTIAL 3 star skills in an alternative, level 2 training, 20 hours coaching, child protection training, assessment tasks and CPD Modules. £110 30 APR 01 MAY 25 SEP

BCU MODERATE WATER TRAINING

NON-RES

£80

2 DAYS

A two-day training course that will help you to transfer your Level 2 coaching skills into the moderate water environment.

During the course we will develop your technical understanding, “how to” skills in managing coaching sessions in a moderate water setting, as well as coaching and leading safely and effectively on the move.

PRE-REQUISITES - BCU Moderate Water registration, BCU Level 2 Coach, BCU 4 Star Leader Award in the appropriate discipline, a valid first aid certificate.

WHITE WATER KAYAK PREPARATION 14-15 FEB

28-29 MAR

23-24 MAY

01-02 AUG

28-29 MAR

01-02 AUG

SEA KAYAK PREPARATION CANOE PREPARATION

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£205

£145

BCU MODERATE WATER ASSESSMENT

1 DAY

A one-day assessment course based on the BCU Level 2 moderate water syllabus. Candidates can do their Assessment on the day following training if all the pre-requisites are in place prior to training day. Candidate’s considering this option are advised to have a conversation before training commences with one of our training coaches to ensure their suitability to proceed to assessment the day after their training.

PRE-REQUISITES - Level 2 moderate water training in appropriate discipline, required experience gained

WHITE WATER KAYAK ASSESSMENT 28 FEB

01 MAR

31 MAY

13 SEP

22 MAY

30 MAY

03 OCT

SEA KAYAK ASSESSMENT

30 OCT

CANOE ASSESSMENT 20 SEP

28 SEP

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£180

£150

BCU ADVANCED WATER TRAINING SEA KAYA K

2 DAYS

A 2 day training course that will help you to transfer your Level 2 coaching skills into the advanced water environment.

During the course we will develop your technical understanding and 'how to' skills.

PRE-REQUISITES - BCU Advanced Water Registration (CR Form), BCU UKCC Level 2 Certificate in Coaching Paddlesports, BCU Moderate water endorsement, BCU 5 Star Leader Award in the appropriate discipline, be 18 Years old or above and hold a recognised 8 hr first aid award RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 25-26 APR

12-13 SEP

£260

BCU/ADVANCED WATER ASSESSMENT SEA KAYAK

56

£200

1 DAY

A one day assessment course based on the BCU Level 2 endorsement syllabus.

PRE-REQUISITES - Experience Required: Level 2 Advanced water endorsement training in appropriate discipline, a minimum of 10 logged coaching hours in the moderate water environment post holding MWE BCU UKCC Level 2, plus a minimum of 20 leading hours in the specific advanced water environment, post holding 5 star.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 9 MAY

19 SEP

£250

£190

BCU INTERMEDIATE MODULE IN COACHING THE MIND

1 DAY

This module allows the coach to see beyond the obvious physical and technical challenges into the all important mental skills. From arousal management and mental rehearsal to tactical performance, you’ll learn how to adapt your coaching to suit individual psychological and motivational needs.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - appropriate for level 2 and 3 coaches. £75 £45 09 JAN 13 MAR 04 DEC

BCU INTERMEDIATE MODULES IN OPTIMISING PERFORMANCE PARTS 1 & 2

2 DAYS

Two days of essential classroom and gym based coaching on fitness, energy systems, training methodology, recovery methods, nutrition and hydration.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - appropriate for level 2 and 3 coaches.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 10-11 JAN 14-15 MAR 05-06 DEC

£295

BCU/UKCC LEVEL 3 GENERIC CORE TRAINING

£235

3 DAYS

This is a 3 day training course as part of the third level certificate in coaching Paddlesports. The course is for those wishing to coach in their specialist discipline where they are likely to have responsibility for participant development for up to a year. It is the ideal level of award for those people in charge of a club or centre which delivers regular paddlesports sessions. This core training course is a generic course and for those candidates holding the necessary prerequisites and who have registered with the BCU, and will cover all the elements of the training syllabus. This includes developing personal coaching practice, designing, managing, monitoring and analysing effective coaching as part of an annual programme.

The core module must be completed prior to attending the discipline specific Level 3 module.

PRE-REQUISITES - BCU Level 2 Training, BCU Level 3 Coach (old scheme) plus coaching processes course or BCU Level 3 Coach (old scheme) RESIDENTIAL plus Level 2 Transfer course or BCU Level 5 Coach trainee 16-18 MAR

26-28 JUN

£450

11-13 SEP

BCU/UKCC LEVEL 3 DISCIPLINE SPECIFIC TRAINING

NON-RES

£360

2 DAYS

This two-day training course is part of the third level certificate in coaching paddlesports. The course follows on from the core training course and will cover all the elements of the discipline specific syllabi. This includes managing a safe and effective coaching environment, delivering coaching within an annual programme, developing motor skills and developing cognitive skills.

PRE-REQUISITES - BCU Level 3 Core Training Course completed in the last 2 years. BCU 4 Star Leader or BCU Level 3 Coach (old scheme) in the relevant discipline, completed the BCU Intermediate Modules.

WHITE WATER KAYAK TRAINING 17-18 JAN

19-20 MAR

22-23 AUG

28-29 SEP

14-15 FEB

04-05 MAY

07-08 MAY

SEA KAYAK TRAINING

13-14 JUN

CANOE TRAINING 08-09 AUG

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£380

£320

BCU/UKCC LEVEL 3 DISCIPLINE SPECIFIC ASSESSMENT

1 DAY

This is a one-day assessment course and the final part of the Level 3 Coach Award.

PRE-REQUISITES - BCU Level 3 Discipline Specific training completed in the last 2 years, a valid first aid certificate, completed assessment tasks.

WHITE WATER KAYAK ASSESSMENT 24 JAN

28 FEB

07 MAY

26 OCT

SEA KAYAK ASSESSMENT

09 MAY

15 MAY

20 JUN

25 JAN

08 MAY

16 MAY

CANOE ASSESSMENT

07 NOV

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£280

£250

Fun Days in Fundy Plas y Brenin Sea Kayak coach Sid Sinfield boarded a Plane to Canada to help Paddle Canada to develop some coaching modules to support their coaching scheme. He spent just under 3 weeks on the water working alongside some of Canada’s top coaches. Sid had this to say about the

It was a great trip. Being able to mix business with pleasure is always enjoyable. As well as sharing my knowledge I was able to gain some insights from the coaches working on the other side of the pond. Based in Nova Scotia I was also able to paddle in the Bay of Fundy which has the largest tidal range in the world. Whilst I was there the tide range reached 57 feet! That’s a lot of water to move around in 6 hours and made for some great fast moving currents that were great fun to paddle in. Fun days in Fundy indeed!

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FAMILY ADVENTURE

Why not spend a little ‘adventure time’ together as a family? On each of these family holidays you will join forces with other families to have a go at a range of excting outdoor activities. Whether you choose to climb, walk, paddle or combine a range of exciting activities on one of our adventure sports holidays you’ll have great fun and learn loads of new skills.

Whatever activity you choose for your family you are sure to have a great time because aside from expertise and experience in teaching outdoor skills, we understand you are on holiday. Comfortable beds, en-suite rooms, hot showers, a choice of excellent food and a well stocked bar all help to make sure you enjoy the complete experience at Plas y Brenin. Because we believe that learning can be fun and that learning as a family should be even more enjoyable.

DISCOVER ADVENTURE SPORTS FOR FAMILIES

2 DAYS

If you've never tried any of the increasingly popular adventure sports this is a perfect way to have a go. A fast moving weekend takes you on a whirlwind tour of canoeing, orienteering and climbing/abseiling. It's fast, fun and exciting and you'll always be in safe hands with some of the best outdoor instructors in Britain keeping an eye on you.

We supply all the necessary technical equipment so all you need to bring with you is enthusiasm.

Children from aged 8 and above with an adult.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required 23-24 MAY 13-14 JUN 20-21 JUN

25-26 JUL 01-02 AUG 08-09 AUG

ADULT

ChILD

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£195

£135

£170

£130

DISCOVER ROCK CLIMBING FOR FAMILIES

2 DAYS

Become a rock climber! This introductory course gives you the best foundation in the skills you need to become a safe rock climber. During the weekend you’ll do lots of climbing outside, discover fundamental climbing techniques, take a close look at climbing equipment, and get to grips with ropework and safety skills.

This course gives you a taste of what rock climbing is all about. Using the excellent local cliffs our instructors will get you climbing, show you what gear you need and how to use it and put you on the right route to becoming a rock climber. We supply all the necessary technical equipment so all you need to bring with you is enthusiasm.Children from aged 8 and above with an adult.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none.

ADULT

4-5 APR 16-17 MAY 13-14 JUN

25-26 JUL 15-16 AUG

ChILD

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£210

£150

£170

£130

DISCOVER KAYAKING FOR FAMILIES

2 DAYS

A weekend designed to give you an enjoyable introduction to kayaking.

You'll cover everything from what clothing and equipment to choose right up to basic rescue skills, not to mention plenty of paddling. By the end of the weekend you'll have all of the foundation skills to confidently progress in your new sport.

We supply all the necessary technical equipment so all you need to bring with you is enthusiasm.

Children from aged 8 and above with an adult.

ADULT ChILD

58

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none.

30-31 MAY 11-12 JUL 20-21 JUN 01-02 AUG

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£220

£160

£180

£140

INTRODUCTION TO ADVENTURE SPORTS FOR FAMILIES

5 DAYS

You'll need some energy to keep up with the pace on this week. During the week you will have a go at a range of adventure sports - canoeing, rock climbing, abseiling, gorge-walking, orienteering and mountain walking Children from aged 8 and above with an adult.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required 25-29 MAY

ADULT

10-14 AUG

ChILD

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£415

£265

£355

£255

INTRODUCTION TO KAYAKING FOR FAMILIES

5 DAYS

A five-day course which will give you a thorough grounding in kayaking. You will be introduced to all the equipment and basic skills on local rivers, lakes and sea. On this course there is ample opportunity for coaching and progression in white water and sea kayaking.

Overall, a fun introduction to Kayaking for all the family.

Children from aged 8 and above with an adult.

ADULT ChILD

10-14 AUG

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£515

£365

£455

£355

WHITE WATER SEA AND SURF FOR FAMILIES

5 DAYS

You've decided you like kayaking. Now it's time to experience racing down the face of a surf wave, bouncing down a rapid and explore stunning coastline. These five days of white water fun will give you an introduction to all the techniques you need to handle a boat in the exciting wild water of British rivers and sea. You'll also be introduced to rolling and we guarantee you'll have plenty of opportunity to develop your rolling skills!

Children from aged 8 and above with an adult.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - confident flat water paddler with the ability to manoeuvre your craft with ease.

ADULT

25-29 MAY

10-14 AUG

ChILD

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£515

£365

£455

£355

INTRODUCTION TO ROCK CLIMBING FOR FAMILIES

5 DAYS

In five days we will help you progress from never having climbed before to the possibility of leading your own climbs in a controlled and confident manner at the end of the week. All of the basic ropework, equipment selection and climbing techniques will be covered and many of North Wales’ most famous climbing areas will be explored, such as Tremadog, the Llanberis Pass and the Ogwen Valley - always under the direct supervision of our expert staff.

Children from aged 8 and above with an adult.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required

10-14 AUG

ADULT

ChILD

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£590

£440

£510

£410

MOUNTAIN BIKING FOR FAMILIES

2 DAYS

Want to get more out of your family mountain bike rides? Let us improve your riding skills and build your confidence. Find out all about the attack position, better braking, slick gear changing, cornering, weight shift for up hills and down hills, line choice and front and rear wheel lifts. This fun weekend will take you along a mixture of the natural and man made tracks that surround Plas y Brenin, giving you a varied experience that will help you to develop all-round skills.

An ideal choice for anyone who is reasonably fit but lacks confidence riding on rocky, steep or unpredictable ground.

Children from aged 8 and above with an adult.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - you should have your own bike and kit.

You will have completed a few rides already and be able to riding for 4-5 hours

ADULT

23-24 MAY 20-21 JUN

01-02 AUG 08-09 AUG

ChILD

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£195

£135

£170

£130

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SUMMER CAMPS (12-17 YRS)

Our kids summer camps are more than a little different from most. Top class coaching from world class athletes, state of the art equipment, great food and hotel-standard en-suite rooms all combine to make up an adventure experience that’s second to none. An experience that you will never forget.

All our courses and holidays focus on providing maximum enjoyment whilst developing your outdoor skills, with each of our highly qualified instructors and coaches a true enthusiast, keen to pass on their skills as well as their unique approach to the outdoors.

Once again we’re running a range of skills courses and holidays for young people taking up the entire Plas y Brenin building. So you will be surrounded by people of your own age with similar interests. In addition to instruction and coaching, you’ll be looked after at all times with male and female members of staff always close at hand. In addition to the daily activities we also offer fun sessions, games and competitions that can be enjoyed by all in the evening include climbing, kayaking, orienteering, low ropes and raft building.

INTRODUCTION TO KAYAKING SUMMER CAMP

5 DAYS

A five-day course which will give you a thorough grounding in kayaking. You will be introduced to all the equipment and basic skills on local rivers, lakes and sea. On this course there is ample opportunity for coaching and progression in white water and sea kayaking.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 27-31 JUL

03-07 AUG

£495

WHITE WATER SEA AND SURF SUMMER CAMP

£345

5 DAYS

You've decided you like kayaking. Now it's time to experience racing down the face of a surf wave, bouncing down a rapid and running a tidal race. These five days of white water fun will give you an introduction to all the techniques you need to handle a boat in the exciting wild water of British rivers and sea. You'll also be introduced to Eskimo rolling and we guarantee you'll have plenty of opportunity to develop your cold water roll!

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 27-31 JUL

03-07 AUG

£505

WHITE WATER KAYAKING DEVELOPMENT SUMMER CAMP

£355

5 DAYS

River Running with Attitude! Join our enthusiastic coaches as they help you to combine the thrills and spills of river running with the more exciting elements of freestyle, throwing in a generous helping of boofs ‘n’ drops along the way.

Over these five fast-moving days you’ll develop your white water skills, improve your river reading and learn to throw in a few new moves on a wave. But most of all, you’ll learn how to do it all in style, blending strokes, moves and tricks together with fluidity and grace, using the whole river. This is a chance to learn how to enjoy running rivers from a completely different perspective and a week that’s guaranteed to leave you grinning from ear to ear.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 27-31 JUL

03-07 AUG

£505

MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE SUMMER CAMP

£355

5 DAYS

A five-day holiday including some of the most exciting activities Britain’s mountains can provide. The week runs on a flexible schedule allowing us to make the most of the weather and ensure that you have as much fun as possible experiencing the following activities.

Bouldering and rock climbing (both indoor and outdoor), orienteering, learn to use a map and compass, canoeing and kayaking, mountain walking, gorge walking and learn to build and paddle your own raft.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES

60

27-31 JUL

03-07 AUG

£505

£355

MOUNTAIN BIKE SKILLS SUMMER CAMP

5 DAYS

During this week you’ll get to grips with the key skills involved in technical riding including step downs, drop offs, manual front wheel lifts, bunny hops, technical climbing and descending as well as many other relevant areas. You’ll also spend time looking at the most common areas of maintenance, including setting up gears, changing cables, problems with steering and brake repair and maintenance (rim, mechanical disc and hydraulic disc brakes). You will need to bring your own mountain bike (in good working order) otherwise, with two weeks notice, we can arrange suitable bike hire at an additional cost.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - a good level of fitness.

27-31 JUL

03-07 AUG

£480

ROCK CLIMBING SUMMER CAMP

£330

5 DAYS

In five days we will help you progress from never having climbed before to climbing in a controlled and confident manner at the end of the week. All of the basic ropework, equipment selection and climbing techniques will be covered and many of North Wales’ most famous climbing areas will be explored, such as Tremadog, the Llanberis Pass and the Ogwen Valley - always under the direct supervision of our expert staff.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - none required.

27-31 JUL

03-07 AUG

£505

TOUCHING STONE SUMMER CAMP

£355

5 DAYS

Designed specifically for young people who climb regularly on an indoor wall and are not sure how to develop their skills to help them climb confidently outside. The course is structured to help you become self sufficient as quickly as possible, covering anchor selection, abseiling and self protection along with a host of other skills unique to outdoor climbing. After this week you should leave ready to take to the outdoor crag with confidence and enthusiasm.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE – some indoor climbing experience.

27-31 JUL

03-07 AUG

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£510

£360

ROCK IMPROVER SUMMER CAMP

5 DAYS

Single pitch sport routes, multi pitch climbs and sea cliffs - we have it all here on our door step - if you’ve climbed before but want to progress to multi-pitch climbs this is the ideal way to get the experience. Over five days you will progress through ropework, belaying, simple rescues and stance management. Whilst exploring the crags of Snowdonia, our expert instructors will coach you on climbing technique, runner placements and ropework skills. You’re sure to have an exciting and enjoyable week.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - must be a proficient second and have an understanding of the principles of leading.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 27-31 JUL

03-07 AUG

£530

PERFORMANCE CLIMBING SUMMER CAMP

£380

5 DAYS

If you’re an established young climber and you’d like to get more out of your climbing, this course could be the missing ingredient! Whether you’d like to improve your ropework or concentrate on your physical performance we’ll move you on. This course is designed to enhance your technique, with our experienced coaches helping you to discover new skills that in time will allow you to climb harder, longer and safer.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE - confident climber or attended a Rock Improvers course.

27-31 JUL

03-07 AUG

RESIDENTIAL

NON-RES

£545

£395

brenin’s got talent Zac Allin came on one of our Summer Camps in 2010. Since then he has gone on to compete for Great Britain in slalom races accross the world. here Zac tells us how our coaches influenced his development.

“A few years ago I attended a slalom training camp at Plas y Brenin as a youth just starting out in the sport of canoe slalom and now I am racing for Great Britain as part of the GB junior team. Plas y Brenin focused on giving out high quality coaching and information about the chosen sport both on and off the water. My visit to this outdoor activity centre was one of the major impacts in my pursuit to the top end of Canoe Slalom, it gave me the information needed to both enjoy the sport and continue to improve and do well. A few years later, I have been part of the Great Britain Junior team for two years, competing in races across the world including Australia, Macedonia, Slovakia, Czech Republic and France. I have taken home a Bronze medal in the teams race in the Junior World championships (Australia) and finished 9th junior in the world in the same Junior World championships individual class.

The main points I learnt at Plas y Brenin help in all aspects of my competition, training and general life: Work hard, train hard and most of all, have fun while doing it!”

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THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARD)

If you're looking for a high quality experience for your DofE group, the National Mountain Centre is the obvious choice. Our staff are amongst the most experienced and best qualified in the world. They love the outdoors and their enthusiasm is truly inspirational. On top of that we have an amazing location, hotel standard accommodation, unrivaled facilities and state-of-the-art equipment.

Add to that our personalised and flexible approach an you have an unbeatable package, ideal for anyone searching for the highest standard of adventure experience.

Plas y Brenin and the Mountain Training Trust have been supporting the Duke of Edinburgh's Award in a variety of ways over the past fifteen years. As well as being an Approved Activity Provider we also manage the Expedition Assessment Service for Snowdonia and the surrounding areas, on behalf of DofE Wales.

Aside from that, we train and assess countless DofE leaders during the course of each year across our vast range of mountaineering, canoeing and mountain biking leadership courses.

All of that puts us in a great position to help you plan and run your residential or expedition, making sure it inspires your group to go further and do more in the outdoors.

We have considerable experience at organising gold and silver award expeditions and venture elements. We are happy to discuss the needs of your group for training, supervision or assessment. We can provide all the equipment necessary.

Expeditions on foot, water or wheels, over hills, mountain, rivers, lake or sea, whatever you need, we can help - at a price that suits you and at a level that suits your group's experience and ability perfectly. So go on, give us a call and choose the best for your school or group.

Call us to discuss your plans now on 01690 720214 or E-mail info@pyb.co.uk

SUBSIDISED LEADERSHIP COURSES = Throughout the year we offer substantial discounts on range of leadership, coaching and first aid courses for DofE leaders. For details visit our website www.pyb.co.uk/dofe.

We also administer the Future Leaders Fund through which DofE volunteers can access funding.

COURSES COUNT FOR YOUR GOLD RESIDENTIAL Further opportunities to complete your Gold Residential can be found throughout this brochure. Don’t forget, any of our five day courses will qualify as your Gold Residential. With such a wide range of courses from canoeing, climbing, mountain walking or a multi-activity course, there is something for everyone. Just remember to bring your eDofE number for your instructor.

GOLD RESIDENTIAL

5 DAYS

Complete your Gold Residential at Plas y Brenin. Located in Snowdonia, this five-day Gold Residential will involve exciting activities ranging from climbing, canoeing, mountain scrambles and gorge walks. Our experienced and qualified instructors will make this Gold Residential an experience to remember. This Gold Residential is all inclusive and the cost includes instruction, equipment, food and accommodation in Bryn Engan Cottage.

RESIDENTIAL NON-RES 27-31 JUL

03-07 AUG

£410

£N/A

20 years of commitment

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Plas y Brenin Instructor Helen Barnard been a DofE supporter for over 20 years, committing her time and experience in a wide range of different ways during that time. Here Helen explains why.

My first involvement in the DofE was in 1994 whilst teaching at a Secondary School in Milton Keynes. I wasn’t fortunate enough to be involved in it myself during my schooling; it just wasn’t on offer but certainly would have been something that I’d have enjoyed immensely. Whilst working at the school I watched how the DofE changed the lives of the young people; they developed more confidence, were more willing to work with each other and gained a sense of achievement. The DofE had a positive impact on those young people and also on myself. Twenty years on, I still see the impact of the DofE. I continued my involvement by becoming a volunteer Network Assessor and as an Instructor I trained, supervised and assessed teams across the UK and overseas. As the AAP Manager for Plas y Brenin, I now work with schools and young people organising their expeditions in Snowdonia. Here is what Simon Langton School thinks: “We chose Plas y Brenin because of the quality of course they provide our girls. As soon as we step through the door, the staff, the food, the kit and accommodation all make up the perfect experience; our success rate is down to their hardwork in making their DofE expedition run smoothly and efficiently. More than anything, Plas y Brenin gives our students amazing memories to keep” .

SUPERIOR SCHOOL EXPERIENCES

If you want the very best residential activity experience for your pupils, there’s no better choice than the National Mountain Centre.

For the best possible residential visit you can stay in our main house where up to seventy guests can enjoy comfortable, modern, twin en-suite bedrooms. A far cry form the dormitory accommodation many expect from outdoor centres.

During their stay with us, your pupils will be coached and inspired by world-class mountain athletes with a level of knowledge and experience unrivalled by any other outdoor centre. They will enjoy using facilities and equipment that is always modern and well maintained, whatever outdoor activities you choose.

We can arrange a wide range of mountain sports or activities you like according to your schools and pupils needs and interests and our depth of knowledge combined with wide range of staff, facilities and equipment mean we are always flexible enough to change the plan if the weather or other circumstances get in the way.

Your pupils will enjoy excellent food, served in hearty portions with any individual dietary requirements carefully catered for and wherever they turn they will find friendly, helpful and encouraging staff, always eager to make sure their guests enjoy themselves and that they go on to enjoy a lifetime of adventure.

As the link teacher making the booking you’ll be entitled to a free weekend’s training on any course at Plas y Brenin, which can be taken any time up to 12 months after your school visit.

If you’re interested in bringing your school to the National Mountain Centre to enjoy a better class of residential adventure outdoors the cost is easy to work out.

P E R CHILD PER DAY

INSTRUCTION, IN-COURSE TRANSPORT, MEALS AND ACCOMMODATION

FROM £80

What other schools thought

Latymer School Activities Week is a Latymer tradition which has existed for over 40 years. In the last week of June, all pupils (except those doing public exams) participate in a week-long activity. Most are residential, based all over Europe.

Over 32 trips go out, ranging from camping and outward bound trips to Devon, the Brecon Beacons and County Mayo to walking in the Swiss Alps, sailing in the Mediterranean, cycling around Britain or surfing in Cornwall. A group of 40 year 9 and 10 students attended a weeklong trip to the National Mountain centre in Wales. This was a tremendous week of activities. Such as gorge walking, sea level traversing, mountain biking, abseiling, rock climbing and scrambling to mention a few.

The instructors and staff were friendly and very professional. Their amazing rapport with the students and the excitement of the activities made this a memorable trip. Students were inspired by the instructors and returned to school brimming with confidence.

The National Mountain Centre is set in beautiful grounds with excellent facilities. The food is outstanding.

I cannot recommend them highly enough.

Broomwood Hall School Our school has been to the Brenin every year since 2000 and every year both children and staff leave inspired.

The centre is in a stunning location and whether it's the accommodation, food, instruction or facilities, the quality you receive is superb and has never been equalled on any other school residential trip I have been part of.

Instructor student ratios are very low and instruction is pitched clearly and confidently at the right level for the children, leaving you with no uncertainty that they are in the safest possible hands.

Many of the centre staff are at the top of their sport and internationally respected in their field so your children are not just being taken canoeing or climbing, every session is a master class.

St. Paul's Girls' School "My week at Plas y Brenin was a completely new experience for me - I was not at all adventurous or particularly fond of the outdoors, and the idea of climbing sea cliffs terrified me. Yet it ended up being one of the highlights of my summer. The mountain centre overlooked a lake nestled in between the gorgeous Snowdonian mountains. The instructors were patient and understanding, and made me feel safe hundreds of metres above the ground on the mountain day. The activities were varied and fun. My favourite was canoeing. We mastered the basic techniques through a series of games and friendly competition.

I really surprised myself by how much I enjoyed the week and I think all who go will too! "

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ADventure days for groups

If you want to bring a group of friends, pupils or students to the Welsh hills for a taste of the outdoors, you’ll find our blend of knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm produces an experience that’s unrivalled in the outdoor world. We offer two categories of group sessions, one for small groups and one for large groups.

GROUPS OF LESS THAN THIRTY If there are less than thirty people in your party you can split the day (9.45-5.00) into two or three sessions of any of the activities, or if you’d like more in-depth instruction, you can dedicate the entire day to one activity.

The price listed is an overall cost covering equipment and instruction for a maximum of ten people. For example, ten people can canoe all day at a total cost of £300 (£30 each) but if there are only five people in your group it will still cost £300 (£60 each), so it’s in your interest to fill the places.

£300 PER GROUP OF 10

GROUPS OF MORE THAN THIRTY If there are more than thirty people in your party it’s easy to figure out how much it will cost. For groups larger than thirty you simply pay £30 per head.

For example if thirty-six people enjoy a range of three activities during a day you only pay a total of £1080.

Provided we know your selection well in advance you can pick any three of the activities listed and you’ll receive a twohour session on each one during the course of a day (9.45-5.00). Or, if you’d rather you can choose two activities or, as in the small groups programme, spend a day on one activity.

£30 PER PERSON

ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES TO CHOOSE FROM If you haven’t tried any of the increasingly popular ‘adventure sports’ this is the perfect way to have a go. Choose from this range of exciting activities – we’ll provide all the necessary technical equipment and instruction. All you need to bring is enthusiasm. You can split the day (9.45-5.00) into two or three sessions of any of the activities below, or you can dedicate the day to in-depth instruction in one activity.

CANOEING

Our lake provides groups with the perfect environment to develop the skills involved in kayaking or canoeing. Games help with the learning process and add to the fun.

ORIENTEERING

After being taught how to read and follow a map, groups are split into small teams, which compete to find control points located within the boundaries of the centre.

INDOOR CLIMBING

A challenging activity that takes place on our state-of-the-art indoor climbing walls. Groups are taught the basic skills and techniques involved in this exciting sport.

OUTDOOR CLIMBING (2 SESSION DAY OR FULL DAY ONLY)

Enjoy the challenge of climbing on real rock at our local crag. This is available when splitting the day into two sessions or if you choose a full day of climbing.

ABSEILING

If you’ve got a head for heights, this exhilarating activity will leave you with a real sense of achievement. Groups are taught the basic skills and techniques to safely descend our purpose built abseiling tower.

MOUNTAIN WALK (FULL DAY ONLY)

A guided walk to the summit of Moel Siabod. During the walk groups will have the opportunity to learn how to read a map and individuals or pairs are encouraged to lead the group.

RAFT BUILDING

Groups are set the task of imaginatively designing and building a raft from a selection of basic equipment. When the raft is finished the group will use it to cross the river that flows through the grounds.

LOW ROPES

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On our purpose built course groups work together on problem solving tasks and activities designed to promote good teamwork. Communication plays a large part as groups discuss each problem and come up with a solution.

ADventure EXPERIENCES for groups

To guarantee great value for visiting schools, colleges, youth clubs, voluntary organisations or simply a group of friends or workmates, we’ve cooked up these tasty activity packages.

With an optimum group size of sixteen, our adventure packages provide unrivalled value for money along with the opportunity to arrange everything you need for your trip in one go.

You can create your own tailormade programme, choosing from a range of adventure activities, even adding the option of meals in our dining room if you wish. And with Plas y Brenin’s high standards applied to every detail from the moment of booking right up to minute you leave, it’s a guaranteed way to take the headache out of organising an activity break.

AFFORDABLE ACCOMMODATION We have two dedicated self-contained bunkhouse-style facilities available for exclusive use by your group which can be booked separately or together if required.

BRYN ENGAN COTTAGE Situated away from the main Plas y Brenin site Bryn Engan Cottage is a five-minute walk over the footbridge below the centre with easy access for vehicles along a forest track. The accommodation consists of two rooms sleeping two people each and two eight bedded rooms making a total of twenty places. The unit contains a well-equipped kitchen, hot showers, drying room and classroom/dining room.

MOELWYN COTTAGE Moelwyn Cottage is situated on the main Plas y Brenin site. The accommodation consists of one room sleeping ten, one room sleeping four and one two-bedded room making a total of sixteen places. It has shower and toilet facilities and a well-equipped kitchen/dining room.

COST FOR ONE NIGHT AND ONE DAY OF ACTIVITIES BRYN ENGAN COTTAGE (for a maximum of 20 people) MOELWYN COTTAGE (for a maximum of 16 people)

COST

ADDITIONAL NIGHT(S)

£870

£270 per day/night

£695

£215 per day/night

The prices listed above are an overall cost covering a days instruction, equipment, one nights selfcatering accommodation for the maximum number of people stated.

You can add the option of an additional days instruction for as little as £30 per head.

If there are less people in your group it will still cost the same, so it's in your interest to fill the places!

ADDING MEALS If cooking your own meals doesn’t suit you, we can arrange for your group to eat in our dining room. If this is possible the following price(s) should be added per person, per day.

Full Cooked Breakfast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £5.00 per person* Lunch Options Packed Lunch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £5.00 per person Soup and Sandwiches . . . . . . . . . . . . . £5.80 per person Hot Pasta and Salad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £7.00 per person Sausage, Chips and Beans . . . . . . . . . . £5.80 per person Tea and Coffee (All day) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £3.00 per person Tea and Cake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £2.00 per person Three Course Evening Meal . . . . . . . . . . . . £13.00 per person* *Only available to groups staying in our accommodation. Additional meal options available on request

FURTHER INFORMATION If you’d like to find out more about our adventure packages or you’d like to book, either visit www.pyb.co.uk or contact Lissie Smith our full time Youth Co-ordinator on 01690 720119 between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday or e-mail lissie.smith@pyb.co.uk

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AWARDS AND BURSARIES

The Mountain Training Trust has administered a number of bursaries here at Plas y Brenin for over thirteen years. The families and friends who set up the memorials in memory of loved ones have been responsible for making many opportunities available for young adults, volunteer leaders and those in financial need to access training in mountain sports.

Without such generous assistance this would not be possible. Those wishing to support the development and training of others please contact Martin Doyle at Plas y Brenin.

THE FUTURE LEADERS FUND Here at Plas y Brenin National Mountain Centre, we believe in a healthy sense of adventure, and encourage participation in a Sporting Habit for Life. The most effective way to make sure as many young people as possible across the country are getting out, getting fit and getting happy is to train the trainers. We believe in the vital role that volunteer leaders play in their local communities, and we understand that the barriers to access that all-important training are more challenging than ever. For more details see p33 or visit www.pyb.co.uk/futureleaders.

ENHANCED LEARNING CREDITS (ELC)

Plas y Brenin is an an Approved ELC Provider. The Enhanced Learning Credit Scheme is the Joint Servicies funding source available to train serving personnel in Nationally Recognised Qualifications.

Plas y Brenin’s ELCAS Provider ID is 4237 Many of our top level Mountaineering and Kayak Coaching qualification courses are recognised by ELCAS as appropriate for funding as part of the Enhanced Learning Credit Scheme.

Currently the courses listed as part of the ELC scheme are: Mountain Leader Scheme - Summer and Winter courses, International Mountain Leader Scheme - Summer and Winter courses, MIA and MIC courses and BCU Level 3 Coach courses.

KATHMANDU MEMORIAL BURSARY The Kathmandu Memorial Bursary was set up by the families of Mick and Sue Hardwick, Dave Harries and Ali Cope (all of whom worked at Plas y Brenin) following a tragic air crash in 1992.

The bursaries are awarded each year by the Trustees and part funds the applicants on National Governing Body Award courses at Plas y Brenin. Applications are invited from volunteer leaders and students. If you would like to be considered for one of these places complete the booking form at the back of the brochure, visit our website on www.pyb.co.uk and complete an application form sending both to the Kathmandu Memorial Fund at Plas y Brenin.

JAMES BROWNHILL MEMORIAL FUND This fund was set up by James’ family following his death on 1st July 2011, on the Frendo Spur in Chamonix, France.

James was an avid climber and mountaineer. His love for climbing led him to develop skills in every climbing style but it was in Alpine and Traditional climbing where he sought to improve most. His consistent passion for climbing led to involvement with his university club, an opportunity to share enthusiasm, skills and knowledge with like minded individuals. The fund aims to encourage and foster a higher level of safety, good practice and sustainability within university climbing clubs. The fund will award volunteer leaders within the clubs with bursaries to undertake courses to consolidate and develop safe climbing practice for teaching new and inexperienced climbers in individual and group situations.

Each year bursaries will be awarded to part fund training courses run by Plas y Brenin National Mountain Centre.

Courses attracting bursaries include Mountain Leader Award, Single Pitch Award, Climbing wall award. Applications for bursaries can be made by completing an application form on the Plas y Brenin website www.pyb.co.uk/brownhill.

GODFREY JACKSON MEMORIAL AWARD Godfrey Jackson was a very keen mountaineer who had a particular love for snow, ice and winter climbing. He derived a great deal of pleasure from the climbing he did throughout the world and always had a keen interest in helping young people to climb. Godfrey was also a good friend and supporter of Plas y Brenin.

Following his death, Godfrey’s family established a trust fund which helps young people between the ages of 18 and 23 gain experience of snow and ice climbing so that they can further their mountaineering. The training is provided through Plas y Brenin. Each year 8 places are available on our Scottish Winter Mountaineering course (see page 22). If you would like to be considered for one of these places complete the booking form at the back of the brochure and send it, together with a brief letter outling your mountaineering experience and why you would benefit from this opportunity, to the Godfrey Jackson Fund at Plas y Brenin.

JONATHAN CONVILLE MEMORIAL TRUST The Trust was set up by the family of Jonathan Conville following his death on the North Face of the Matterhorn at the age of 27. The Trust has provided several thousand subsidised training places on introductory courses in the Alps and in Scotland in winter since 1979. This valuable support to safer mountaineering is now administered and co-ordinated by the Mountain Training Trust and Plas y Brenin. The BMC and The Scottish Mountain Trust also support these places.

Details of the application process for the 100 places on the 3 day courses based in Argentiere in July and the 80 places based in the Cairngorms in January are available on the Plas y Brenin website www.pyb.co.uk/conville.

BENJAMIN BRABNER MEMORIAL FUND

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Ben lived in the Brecon Beacons National Park in Wales with his family. He enjoyed all sorts of sports but especially alpine Sports. He skied, mountain biked and climbed in the USA, Canada and Europe. Even though Ben was diagnosed with diabetes at the age of eight, he never let this interfere with his sport. He loved the mountains and was an able off-piste skier. Ben tragically died at the age of 34. His friendliness and sense of humour will never be forgotten.The Benjamin Brabner bursary is awarded by the Trustees to successful applicants who must be under 25 years of age to provide part funding for 12 places on the Alpine Preparation course and 12 places on the Alpine Essentials course (see page 26 for details).

BUSINESSES AND ORGANISATIONS

Many of today's most successful companies incorporate outdoor training into their staff development programmes and increasingly offer an outdoor experience as a sales incentive or customer reward. Aside form running regular team building breaks, we host countless product launches, retailer training events and trade/media presentations for businesses and organisations who always build an outdoor experience in to the event.

Whatever event you are planning, whether it’s an internal team development break or something aimed to reward, educate or inspire your customers, dealers or retail staff, The National Mountain Centre can give it the ‘edge’ it needs for your business, brand or organisation to make a real connection.

When you bring your staff, retailers, media contacts or even customers to Plas y Brenin to enjoy the outdoors, you can be sure they will be guided, instructed or coached by high-level performers. Mountain althletes who have been to places and encountered situations that many would not believe - and come home to tell the tale. This high standard of staffing leads to a richer experience for your team, one that will leave a lasting impression on them.

For small groups (up to 14 people), you can stay in our detached farmhouse (see page 68), complete with it’s own kitchen, living room and AV facilities or for larger groups you may choose to stay in our main house where up to seventy guests can enjoy comfortable, modern, single or twin en-suite bedrooms. In both cases a huge step up from the accommodation you would expect from outdoor centres.

You’ll be able to make use of all the meeting rooms and AV facilities you could ever want and you’ll enjoy great food and locally brewed ale in a well-stocked bar with the best views in Wales.

Just give us a call to discuss your plans. perfect plan for your event.

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BRYN ENGAN FARMHOUSE

If you’d like to enjoy the mountains, crags, trails, lakes and rivers of Snowdonia under your own steam, Bryn Engan Farmhouse allows you to do that in style and comfort. Just across the river from the main cenre, the farmhouse’s location means you have easy access to the best North Wales has to offer. What’s more, if you choose to stay at Bryn Engan Farmhouse you’ll be part of the unique atmosphere that makes The National Mountain Centre so special. You’ll be able to soak up that atmosphere in the bar, enjoy an evening lecture or two and for a small fee make use of our impressive facilities, including a mountain bike skills course and pump track, two indoor climbing walls, an indoor heated canoe rolling pool and our private lake and stretch of grade II rapids.

BRYN ENGAN FARMHOUSE This lovingly restored farmhouse has recently been renovated to include 13 first class single en-suite rooms, making it ideal for groups of friends, colleagues and clubs.

Set in tranquil woodland across from the centre, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the peaceful and scenic surroundings of Snowdonia. The farmhouse is situated adjacent to Bryn Engan Cottage and is a five minute walk from the main centre. The farmhouse is accessed along a secure forest track from the main road with plenty of parking outside.

With comfy beds in single en-suite rooms the farmhouse accommodates 13 or 14 as one room can be a twin.

You can cook your own meals in the well equipped, bright and modern kitchen or if you would prefer you can easily arrange to have some or all of your meals in Plas y Brenin’s dining room.

There is a spacious living room with a 42 inch flat screen TV and several comfy sofas, which can be used either for relaxing or as an informal classroom or meeting room for small business groups. There is free wireless internet access throughout.

The farmhouse has its own efficient drying room so you and your group can dry your kit easily ready for the next day.

Bryn Engan Farmhouse has everything you need to enjoy Snowdonia in comfort.

Aside from the farmhouse’s unique facilities, the location is brilliant too. Set in the heart of the Snowdonia National Park, Bryn Engan is ideally situated for hillwalking, whether you plan to enjoy a classic route or you’d just like to stride away from the beaten track. The area also boasts some of the best climbing venues in the UK from wild mountain crags to towering sea cliffs - all within easy reach. If paddling is your thing the farmhouse is in a great position for rivers, open mountain lakes and spectacular coastal waters. And if mountain biking is on your list, there are endless great rides right on your doorstep with the Marin trail nearby and a host of other single track trails, bridleways and other recognised routes all around.

If you’d rather not organise your own adventure then instruction for any of our onsite or offsite activities can be arranged through the centre.

Bryn Engan Farmhouse is not only an ideal base for those keen on adventure but offers first class accommodation for events, conferences or even team management training when combined with excellent meeting room and AV facilities available in the main centre.

With all this on offer Bryn Engan Farmhouse is the ideal base to explore Snowdonia from, whether you are walking, biking or paddling. It’s the perfect choice for any outdoor adventure holiday - at any time of the year. And if your trip isn’t all about outdoor activity, Bryn Engan Farmhouse is an excellent choice for relaxing breaks, get-togethers, business events or small conferences.

£408 PER NIGHT (£340 +VAT)

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SLEEPS 14 PEOPLE 13 EN-SUITE BEDROOMS WELL EQUIPPED KITCHEN AV EQUIPPED LIVING ROOM WITH TV FREE WIRELESS CONNECTION BARBECUE / PATIO AREA EFFICIENT DRYING ROOM CLUB DISCOUNTS NO MINIMUM STAY AMPLE PARKING TEAM BUILDING/ACTIVITES AVAILABLE CATERING AVAILABLE SECURE BIKE STORAGE DISABLED BEDROOM AND BATHROOM REMOTE PEACFUL LOCATION ALL LINEN INCLUDED

20% member discount on our self catering bunkhouses or farmhouse for your group, club or team when the person making the booking is a member any of these organisations

SELF CATERING COTTAGES

Plas y Brenin provides the perfect base for exploring all the area has to offer, the fantastic mountains, crags, lakes, rivers and coastline. Our central location provides easy access whatever your plans. During your stay you’ll be able to soak up the unique atmosphere that makes The National Mountain Centre so special, whether relaxing in the bar swapping tales of adventure or whilst enjoying an evening lecture or two and for a small fee you’ll be able to make use of our impressive facilities on the main centre including a mountain bike skils course and pump track, two indoor climbing walls, an indoor heated canoe rolling pool and our private lake and stretch of grade II rapids.

BRYN ENGAN COTTAGE If affordable, flexible accommodation is what suits your group best, look no further. Set in it’s own grounds surrounded by dense forest, Bryn Engan Cottage is a short scenic walk from the main Plas y Brenin site providing a peacful location.

You’ll enjoy easy access by car along a secure forest track and be able to park right outside the door where there is ample space to park vehicles and trailers.

For groups who’d like to train in camping skills there is an ideal camping area easily supervised from the cottage.

If a self-catering stay isn’t ideal for your group, you can easily arrange to have some or all of your meals in Plas y Brenin’s dining room. You can also arrange for instruction in any of our on or off site activities, simply call us and we’ll sort out whatever suits you best.

The cottage has its own efficient drying room so you and your group can dry your kit easily ready for the next day.

On the main Plas y Brenin site the bar and dining room have a free wireless connection and you can arrange to hire a meeting room with av facilities making this a great venue for events and conferences.

Plus we offer club discounts and there is no minimum stay.

£324 PER NIGHT (£270 +VAT)

SLEEPS 20 PEOPLE 2 ROOMS SLEEPING 8 PEOPLE IN BUNKS 2 ROOMS SLEEPING 2 PEOPLE IN BUNKS MALE AND FEMALE SHOWERS DISABLED SHOWER AND TOILETS WELL EQUIPED KITCHEN SEPARTE DINING ROOM/CLASSROOM DRYING ROOM/PATIO AREA

SLEEPS 16 PEOPLE

MOELWYN COTTAGE As our most affordable accommodation option, Moelwyn Cottage has never looked better. Situated on the main Plas y Brenin site within a picturesque courtyard, this great facility has been completely refurbished.

The on-site location makes this choice ideal for those groups who want to be right in the heart of the action, making the most of all of Plas y Brenin’s impressive facilities.

If you’d rather have some or all of your meals prepared for you, you can easily arrange to eat in Plas y Brenin’s dining room. Instruction can also be arranged for any of our on or off site activities, just give us a call to discuss your options.

We have meeting rooms and av facilities available for hire making this a great venue for events and conferences.

In the bar and dining room there is a free wireless connection.

Plus we offer club discounts and there is no minimum stay.

£258 PER NIGHT (£215 +VAT)

1 ROOM SLEEPING 10 PEOPLE IN BUNKS 1 ROOM SLEEPING 4 PEOPLE IN BUNKS 1 ROOM SLEEPING 2 PEOPLE IN BUNKS MALE AND FEMALE SHOWERS WELL EQUIPED KITCHEN/DINING ROOM PICNIC TABLES IN QUIET COURTYARD

20% member discount on our self catering bunkhouses or farmhouse for your group, club or team when the person making the booking is a member any of these organisations

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OPPORTUNITIES FOR CLUBS

We are always keen to welcome outdoor clubs at The National Mountain Centre. No matter what you need and however small your budget, we’ll go out of our way to help. So whatever you have planned, give us a call and find out what we can do to help.

To give you an idea of what’s possible, we’ve listed some of the ways we can help below.

AFFORDABLE ACCOMMODATION For clubs affiliated to any of the major National Governing Bodies we can offer a 20% discount on our bunkhousestyle accommodation units. This means you can stay at Plas y Brenin, do your own thing during the day and use the bar and other facilities in the evening. It’s easy to arrange meals too, if that fits your plans better.

GUEST LECTURES, SPEAKERS AND PRESENTATIONS If you have plans to run a lecture or presentation in order to raise funds for you club, why not host it at The National Mountain Centre. You organise the talk and we’ll help you publicise it.

MEETING ROOMS We have a suite of AV equipped meeting rooms which you can arrange to use for club meetings. Just call us up and we’ll do our best to provide you with a suitable room.

PRIVATE COACHING, INSTRUCTION OR GUIDING Our coaches, instructors and guides are available for £250 per day. Depending on your choice of activity you can spread this cost between a group of up to 8 people, making it very affordable indeed. Why not call and discuss your plans?

CONFERENCES, A.G.M S AND CHRISTMAS PARTIES Many large organisations use Plas y Brenin to host major events like Annual General Meetings, Conferences and even Christmas Parties. If it suits you, you can take over the whole centre and fill it with your members, tailoring everything from food and wine to display material and video displays to meet your own requirements. Anything is possible, just call us and discuss things.

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OUTSTANDING FACILITIES

Plas y Brenin, the National Mountain Centre has a special reputation for offering outdoor training courses which are informal, challenging, high quality and fun. The location of Plas y Brenin in the heart of Snowdonia with access to the high mountains and rivers combined with the facilities on site, mean that there is much more available than just the programme of training courses listed throughout the brochure.

CANOE ROLLING POOL With a hothouse atmosphere, water temperature of 27 degrees Celsius and all the kit you need, this is a great modern facility for developing confidence, paddle strokes and rolling technique. The pool is available for hire every day on an hourly basis to groups of canoeists. One person must be qualified and responsible for the party.

CLIMBING WALL & TRAINING WALL Most climbers visit Snowdonia for the quality of real rock on offer but with the fickle, unsettled weather we enjoy, it’s good to know that there is an indoor alternative so that you can keep climbing fit. At Plas y Brenin there is a state of the art indoor climbing gym with an 11 metre high climbing tower offering lead and top rope climbing, high quality bouldering problems, an on-going aggregate competition and an informal atmosphere. Instruction can also be arranged. The wall is open to individuals 360 days a year from 10am to 11pm (last entry at 9pm).

Smaller than the main climbing wall the training wall also has modern climbing surfaces and is specially designed for introducing novices to climbing, teaching about climbing and ropework. Suitable for groups of up to 15 it is available for hire each day on an hourly basis. It is perfectly suited to introducing youngsters to climbing.

ABSEIL TOWER If you’ve got a head for heights, this exhilarating activity will leave you with a real sense of achievement. Groups are taught the basic skills and techniques to safely descend our purpose built abseiling tower.

MOUNTAIN BIKE SKILLS COURSE & PUMP TRACK These are a superb facility for our mounatin bike courses and holidays, they are also available for visitors on any of our other courses to enjoy in the evening. Simply bring your bike along and register at reception.

Visiting groups and individuals can arrange to use the skils course and pump track. Contact reception for availability.

EQUIPMENT HIRE Our equipment stores is packed with the latest gear, all up to date and well maintained. We have a full range of mountaineering equipment and much of it is available for hire at good rates. Whether you need a pair of boots, ice axe, pair of crampons, or a rucksack it’s worth getting in touch to check out the cost of hiring our gear. We are just about the only place in North Wales where you can hire technical equipment. When you come on a course or holiday at Plas y Brenin equipment is provided without charge.

THE SNOWDON BAR With wireless internet access, our bar has a friendly casual atmosphere and an unrivalled view of the Snowdon Horseshoe. A great place to settle down to a drink or a bar meal after you’ve been climbing, walking, canoeing or mountain biking. The television won’t be on, the music will and there will always be someone with a tale or two to tell.

COMFORTABLE EN-SUITE BEDROOMS Now completely refurbished, all our bedrooms are en-suite, equipped with tea and coffee making facilities, flat screen TV’s, wireless internet access and cleaned daily.

EFFICIENT DRYING ROOMS Whilst you are here you will have free access to one of our secure, spacious drying rooms which you can use to dry any climbing, paddling, riding or walking kit at the end of each day, so it will be ready for action the next day.

ALL ABILITY

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Like many old buildings the configuration of the rooms and facilities at Plas y Brenin is not ideal if you have restricted mobility. However, we have made modifications which give wheel chair access to the ground floor and we have four bedrooms with en-suite facilities fully equipped for disabled access.

USEFUL INFORMATION

HOW DO I BOOK? You can book a place on a course by filling in a booking form on our website and securely pay by credit/debit card.

Simply visit www.pyb.co.uk and follow the link to the course description.

Alternatively you can post or fax a completed booking form from the back of this brochure along with a cheque, debit/credit card details or gift voucher. If your company or school wish to pay then send your booking form along with a purchase order and we will invoice them for your course. If you need further information just pick up the phone.

Please note we will not pass your details on to a third party under any circumstances.

WHAT DO COURSES INCLUDE? All courses based at Plas y Brenin include: • Instruction/coaching and equipment • In course transport • Secure boat and bike storage • Free use of climbing wall, gym, MTB skills course & rolling pool • Free tea, coffee or selected hot drinks for the duration of your visit • Afternoon tea and cakes • Free wifi access • Parking with CCTV surveillance • Secure storage, showers and toilets The ‘RESIDENTIAL’ option for courses based at Plas y Brenin also include: • Ensuite accommodation the night before your course and during your course (rooms vacated by 10am on final day) • Breakfast, lunch and evening meal (there is no evening meal the night you arrive or depart) • Railway station pick up & drop off from Llandudno Junction Train Station, for more information please go to www.pyb.co.uk/find-us. Please call or email to reserve yourself a place.

For Scottish courses and courses based away from Plas y Brenin please see the website for details.

Please note registration and fees for National Governing Body coaching and award schemes are NOT included.

WHEN DO I ARRIVE/DEPART? Your course will start at 9am with a welcome meeting on the first day e.g. for courses advertised 20-24 May your course starts on the 20 May at 9am.

If you have chosen to book the ‘RESIDENTIAL’ option for your course then your room will be available from 6pm the evening before your course starts. If you decide not to arrive until the following morning please let us know and ensure you arrive by 9am. An evening meal is not included on your arrival but our bar will be serving meals from 7-8.45pm.

Most courses finish around 4.30pm on the final day of your course after a review with your instructor over tea and cakes e.g. for courses advertised 20-24 May your course finishes on the 24 May at around 4.30pm. If you have chosen to book the residential option for your course then you will need to vacate your room by 10am on the final day of your course. Secure storage facilities, showers and toilets are available for you to use, just ask at reception.

For Scottish courses and courses based away from Plas y Brenin please see the website for details.

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING/WEAR? Each course description includes a detailed kit list of what to bring on your course and equipment which is available to borrow from our equipment stores free of charge. If you have any questions please give us a call or drop us an email.

HOW OLD DO I NEED TO BE? All our skills courses (unless otherwise stated) are aimed at adults. We accept 16 and 17 year olds provided their booking form is signed by a parent or legal guardian. For most qualification courses you need to be 18 years old or above, please check with the national governing body for the minimum age requirement.

SAFETY AND FITNESS All providers of adventure activities to young people under 18 need to be licensed.

Our Adventure Activity Licensing Authority number is L10935/R0528.

As a general rule, the fitter you are the more you will get out of your course. Our winter courses are particularly demanding and consequently require higher levels of fitness. We can accommodate varying degrees of fitness within our programme but we do reserve the right to curtail participation or in (rare) extreme cases we may ask you to withdraw from activities if we feel your lack of fitness is causing excessive difficulties for you or other course members.

If you are unsure please give us a call for advice.

GIFT VOUCHERS Plas y Brenin Gift Vouchers make an ideal christmas or birthday present. They can be purchased for any amount over the telephone or on our website. Simply call us on 01690 720214 or go www.pyb.co.uk.

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Booking Form

OFFICE USE ONLY

P l e a s e u s e o n e f o r m p e r p e r s o n b o o k i n g. U s e b l o c k c a p i t a l s t h r o u g h o u t .

Only use this form to book standard courses (with instruction) as advertised in the Plas y Brenin brochure.

PLEASE USE ONE FORM PER PERSON PER COURSE. If you don’t have enough forms, use a photocopy, download a form from our website (www.pyb.co.uk) or contact us for more. Acceptance of any booking is subject to us receiving a signed and completed ‘booking form’ with payment. Please contact us for further information.

PERSONAL DETAILS

Choosen course

Title (Ms/Mr)

Title

First Name

Date

Surname Age

Date of Birth Alternative Date (If the above date is unavailable)

Occupation Address

Residential

Non Residential

FEES Postcode

The balance of your course fee is due 6 weeks before the start of your course. You should send your DEPOSIT and insurance premium if required, along with this form.

TELEPHONE NUMBERS (With Codes)

The full fee for my course is

£

Home Work

Mobile

I am paying:

Full Course Fee (If booking is within 6 weeks) £80.00 Deposit (£200 for courses 10 days or more)

E-mail

Please do not send course notes - I will download them from www.pyb.co.uk

We recommend that you take out insurance including cancellation insurance. We can provide insurance, for details and prices please see our website www.pyb.co.uk or contact our bookings team on 01690 720214.

I would like to receive your regular e-mail newsletter Total Payment £ SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS

EITHER I enclose a CHEQUE payable to Plas y Brenin, for the appropriate amount.

MEDICAL CONDITIONS, ALLERGIES OR SIGNIFICANT DISABILITIES

OR

I authorise you to charge my CREDIT/DEBIT CARD account with all amounts due, or becoming due, in respect of this booking, as they fall due under the relevant Terms and Conditions of Booking Set out on this Booking Form

OR

I enclose an authorised, official purchase order - please invoice my company directly.

I WISH TO SHARE A ROOM WITH (We try to meet these requests, but cannot guarantee to do so)

CARD NO.

(SWITCH/MAESTRO

SECUITY NUMBER (USUALLY ON BACK

AWARDS & PAST EXPERIENCE OF CHOSEN ACTIVITY EXPIRY DATE

ISSUE NO/VALID FROM

Mountain Training Board registration no. (if applicable)

Card holders signature

NAME AND TELEPHONE NUMBER OF A PERSON WE CAN CONTACT IN AN EMERGENCY

ADDRESS (if it differs from that given above)

POSTCODE I have had brought to my attention the Terms and Conditions relating to this booking, in particular, those concerning cancellation.

I understand that bookings are accepted on the understanding that Plas y Brenin safety regulations are observed.

I accept that Plas y Brenin, is not under any liability whatsoever in respect of loss or damage to personal property, not caused by the negligence or default of Plas y Brenin, its suppliers, its agents and employees whilst attending the course.

I have had my attention drawn to the information on insurance cover, terms and conditions.

Participation in adventurous activities entails some risk of injury. Plas y Brenin staff are trained and appropriately qualified to run activity sessions and will at all times proceed in a manner to limit the risk of injury. However participants accept that accidents and injury may occur.

SIGNATURE DATE. (Signature of parent, or guardian if applicant is under 18. If you are signing for someone under eighteen please check that we receive details of any medical or other conditions which may be relevant.

If you are unsure about a conditions’ relevance, please call and ask.

Any disclosures will be treated in the strictest confidence.)

74 Plas y Brenin is committed to honouring the price and terms and conditions printed in this brochure but reserves the right to make changes due to unforseen circumstances

TERMS AND CONDITIONS Please read this section carefully before filling in your booking form.

1. FEES 1.1 All brochure courses are exempt of VAT 1.2 Places can only be reserved by submitting the following: 1.2.1 A completed booking form & non-refundable deposit of £80.00 for courses 9 days or less in duration or £200 for courses 10 days or more in duration, or; 1.2.2 A completed booking form & a valid purchase order (see note below) 1.3 Course places cannot be provisionally booked or reserved by telephone, fax, e-mail or letter.

1.4 All balances must be paid 6 weeks prior to the commencement date of the course. If the deposit is paid by credit/debit card, the balance will be automatically debited from your card on the due date.

1.5 If a booking is made within the six-week period prior to commencement the whole fee must be submitted upon booking.

1.6 NB: An official purchase order must be issued by a recognised buying authority confirming acceptance of our terms and conditions.

1.7 An administration fee of £5.00 will be charged for bounced cheques.

2. AMENDMENTS BY THE CUSTOMER 2.1 Substitution of the original customer for another can be made provided at least 2 weeks notice is given by the substituted customer to the company and the substituting customer satisfies the requirement of the course. All substitutions must be made with the consent of the company with both the substituted and substituting customer being jointly and severally liable for the total course fee as well as an administrative cost of £25.00 per course/substitution.

2.2 A customer may apply, in writing, to change course or course dates as long as the original booking is more than 6 weeks from the date of the request. The new course must be one that appears on our website or is in the current brochure. An administrative charge of £25.00 is payable at the time of change.

2.3 Any requests to change course or course dates within the 6 week period will be dealt with under the terms and conditions relating to cancellation by the customer.

3. CANCELLATION BY THE CUSTOMER 3.1 All cancellations must be in writing and acknowledged by Plas y Brenin.

The financial cost of cancellation is as follows: 3.2 Deposits are non-refundable 3.3 75% of the total course fee where cancellation takes place less that 4 weeks but more than 2 weeks before the commencement of the course; or 3.4 100% of the total course fee where cancellation takes place within the period of 1-14 days before the commencement date of the course; or 3.5 100% of the total course fee where cancellation takes place on or after the commencement date of the course.

4. CANCELLATION BY THE COMPANY 4.1 Whilst every attempt is made to ensure that courses/activities actually run, the company will notify the customer of cancellation as soon as practicable where it believes on reasonable grounds that cancellation is necessary due to dangerous and/or unsuitable conditions for the course/activity.

4.2 The company shall notify the customer of cancellation not less than five days prior to the commencement of the course where numbers as a result of either customer(s) cancellation or booked numbers have failed to reach a workable minimum.

4.3 Cancellation by the company does not affect a customer's right to a refund of travel costs that he/she may have incurred prior to the cancellation and since lost except in the circumstances set out in the clauses 4.1 and 4.2.

4.4 In the event of cancellation customers will be offered the choice of the following options: 4.4.1 • Full refund of the fee paid; or 4.4.2 • Another booking on a different date.

INSURANCE For up to date details on the range of travel and cancellation insurance options we have on offer, please visit www.pyb.co.uk

All our terms and conditions are available by visiting www.pyb.co.uk.

Alternatively, if you are unable to access these terms and conditions contact us on 01690 720214 and we will be pleased to send a copy by post.

1955

2015

PLAS Y BRENIN

www.pyb.co.uk +plasybrenin

@plasybrenin

/plasybrenin

/plasybrenin

Capel Curig Conwy LL24 OET Tel: 01690 720214 Fax: 01690 720394 Email: info@pyb.co.uk Website: www.pyb.co.uk