The National Navigation Award Scheme is for those that want nationally accredited recognition for their map reading skill. Learn essential map reading skills, develop skills to navigation with confidence and learn strategies by progressing through the award scheme levels. A rewarding and fun way to learn how to use a map and compass.
Each course level is officially acknowledged by a National Navigation Award Scheme certificate. Whilst not navigation qualifications the NNAS scheme is highly regarded by many organisations as a quality assured standard. The NNAS Bronze award is accredited by the Scottish Credit & Qualifications Framework (SCQF) at Level 4, and 2 SCQF credit points are awarded on completion.
Beginners start at the NNAS Bronze Award allowing them to confidently navigate tracks and paths using a map and compass. Those looking to improve intermediate skills can start at NNAS silver allowing them to navigate more open countryside, sometimes away from main tracks and paths, the finer details of map reading and further compass techniques. NNAS gold is for those who want to navigate UK hills and mountains using precise navigation strategies, precision map and compass skills and by utilising contour information.
Bronze and Silver training and assessment courses are around 12-13 hours in total (two day course for each level) and take place in the New Forest. Group sizes are up to a maximum of 6 people and are taught a pleasant 'learning pace' for people to comfortably learn skills.
ALL map reading equipment is provided and each candidate will receive an official NNAS certificate on successfully completing the course and navigation assessment. Proper maps and quality compasses are provided for the course. You just need to bring food, drink and yourself!
Course joining details are sent a couple of weeks before the course start date and include comprehensive details to get to the start locations.
The National Navigation Award Scheme silver can be delivered as a 3-day course for small groups, couples and individuals, without doing the NNAS bronze first. The NNAS bronze is a fantastic group or team learning adventure that can be tailored to suit i. It is deal for lowland leaders, DofE leaders and participants, walking group leaders and groups of friends who want to explore with more confidence.
