NNAS NAVIGATION

An understanding of relevant conservation and environmental issues and awareness of our impacts all form part of each course.

 

 

BRONZE NNAS AWARD - THE LEARNING OUTCOMES
 

• Navigate using a variety of Maps and scales.

• Use 4 and  6 figure grid references with worded descriptions is 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 the navigation area 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 working equipment, safety equipment and emergency procedures.

 

 

SILVER NNAS AWARD - THE LEARNING OUTCOMES: (additional to those of the bronze award)
 

• Utilise the skills and techniques of the bronze award in the context of silver award navigation strategies.

• Relate small hills, small valleys, prominent rear entrance and prominent spares to their corresponding map controls.

• The course is structured using a combination of classroom sessions outdoor practical activities, search exercises, and a short knowledge check. To maximise quality of learning the course numbers are capped to allow a high instructor/participant ratio.

• Use prominent hills, ridges, spurs and valleys as a means of navigation in good visibility.

• Use landforms in point features to orientate the map and as collecting and catching features.

• Use a compass too accurately follow a bearing, aim off, check the direction of handrails and other linear features.

• Deviate briefly from a compass bearing to avoid obstacles or difficult terrain and accurately regain the original line.

• Use back bearings to check route following accuracy.

• Measure distance on the ground in varied open terrain using timing and pacing and make practical allowances for any discrepancies.

• Simplify legs using coarse navigation, attack points and fine navigation.

• Recognise dangerous or difficult terrain on map and ground.

• Plan and implement navigational strategies based on the above skills.

• Maintain route finding accuracy in poor visibility or darkness.

• Recognise the navigation error within a few minutes and apply appropriate relocation techniques.

• Understand how personal fitness and nature of terrain affect route choice both at the planning stage and on the ground.

• Understand the potential consequences of fatigue and physical discomfort and demanding terrain and/or extreme weather.

• Select appropriate clothing, equipment and first-aid items for walking in open country in all weather conditions.

• Demonstrate an understanding of the countryside code, current access legislation and the environmental impact of walkers on the countryside.

• Understand the responsibilities of walkers towards other countryside interests such as farming, forestry and conservation.