National navigation award scheme (NNAS)

National Navigation Award Scheme

Bronze Award For Beginner navigators and those with little experience Winter/Spring 2023.

What is it?

The National Navigation Award Scheme (NNAS) is a personal performance, non-competitive, incentive scheme for all ages to learn navigation skills and gain confidence to get out and enjoy the countryside.

Who is it for?

Each course level is officially acknowledged by a National Navigation Award Scheme certificate. The NNAS scheme is highly regarded by many organisations as a quality assured standard and is useful for DofE supervisors, teachers and leaders who may be developing skills towards national governing body awards (e.g. Lowland leader), walkers and even runners or anyone who wants to get out and about in lowland countryside areas. Courses are run on a one to one or one to two basis, couples and groups are also welcome, and courses can be arranged to suit.

How long is the course?

The Bronze award is run over two days and covers navigation in the countryside using paths, tracks and other linear features, basic map interpretation including basic compass work.

Learning outcomes

Bronze NNAS Award – The Learning Outcomes

  • Navigate using a variety of maps and scales.
  • Use 4 and 6 figure grid references with worded descriptions to define the position of a map feature and to locate a feature on the ground.
  • Orientate the map using handrails, obvious point features and major landforms.
  • Use linear features (e.g. paths, tracks, clear boundaries) as handrails in simple navigation exercises.
  • Relate prominent landforms such as large hills and valleys to corresponding contour information on the map.
  • Orientate the map by aligning a compass needle against grid north and be aware that magnetic variation causes an inaccuracy.
  • Use an orientated map to confirm direction of travel.
  • Use clearly identifiable features to confirm position along the route and to recognise when the target has been overshot.
  • Measure horizontal distance on the map and estimate distance on the ground using timing, pacing and simple visual judgements e.g.100m.
  • Plan and implement simple routes and navigation strategies based on the above skills.
  • Recognise a navigation error within a few minutes and apply simple relocation techniques using handrails and prominent features.
  • Demonstrate an awareness of local and national access issues, access legislation, personal responsibilities and the Countryside Code.
  • Demonstrate appropriate knowledge of walking equipment, safety equipment and emergency procedures.

What is the cost

The cost for two day training and assessment is £125

Location

Chiltern hills and Hertfordshire countryside other locations on request.

Course dates

Coming Winter Spring 2023

February

Please use the contact form below to enquire

What you will need

ALL map reading equipment is provided and each candidate will receive an official NNAS certificate on successfully completing the course and navigation assessment. Course joining details are sent a couple of weeks before the course start date and will include comprehensive details to get to the start locations and what to bring.