Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor training - New format information

As a result of the ongoing review of the Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor pathway, the first change being implemented is a new training course format.

 

In 2026, Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor training will take place over two separate 5-day courses. They will be known as: Training Part 1 and Training Part 2.

 

General information

Training Part 1 must be completed before Training Part 2.

 

There is no required minimum time between Training Part 1 and Training Part 2. However, in 2026 Training Part 1 and Training Part 2 should be booked with the same provider.

 

It is not necessary to complete both parts in the same year.

 

Booking

Training Part 1 and Training Part 2 can be booked at the same time. Alternatively, candidates can complete Training Part 1 before deciding how long they need to practise the skills introduced.

 

View course dates

 

Between Training Part 1 and Training Part 2

During Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor Training Part 1, providers will give advice about appropriate experience to be gained ahead of Training Part 2, how to do this safely and how to maximise learning. This experience is not mandatory, however one of the main advantages of the new format is the opportunity to learn and embed skills progressively.

 

To optimise the learning experience, we recommend a maximum period of two years between Training Part 1 and Training Part 2. If this is exceeded, please get in touch with the provider before booking for advice about currency and pre-course preparation.

 

Course delivery and content

Training and assessment courses are currently delivered by two national centres: Glenmore Lodge and Plas y Brenin. A variety of cost packages are available, depending on what's included (food, accommodation etc) so you can choose one that's right for you.

 

Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor Training Part 1

This course introduces the core knowledge, skills and behaviours required to become a Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor, making use of single and multi-pitch venues as well as classroom-based sessions.

 

Topics covered include:

• Risk management and risk assessment as an ongoing process underpinning safety and good practice.
• Single pitch climbing - modelling good practice in all aspects of climbing and abseiling, including operating within and beyond the scope of a Rock Climbing Instructor. 
• The foundation skills of problem solving and improvised rescue. 
• Mountaineering and scrambling introduction, including operating within and beyond the scope of a Mountain Leader, and short roping with one person.
• Multi-pitch climbing - good practice while taking people climbing, making use of in series and parallel rope systems.
• Navigation skills, including teaching navigation.
• Advice and action plans for candidate practice between training courses - maintaining safety and maximising learning.

 

Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor Training Part 2

Training Part 2 builds on the knowledge, skills and behaviours introduced in Training Part 1, making use of more complex tasks in varied terrain.

 

Topics covered include:

• Teaching climbing - all aspects of guiding and teaching multi-pitch climbing including teaching lead climbing.
• Mountaineering and scrambling progression - including managing two people on the rope on complex terrain.
• Problem solving and improvised rescue skills on multi-pitch venues. 
• Teaching scrambling and mountaineering. 
• Advice and action plans for consolidation phase and meeting assessment requirements while maintaining safety and maximising learning. Ideas for additional support, workshops and insurance.

 

Consolidation

Once the Training Part 2 course report has been processed, you will receive an email offering you complimentary trainee membership of the Association of Mountaineering Instructors (AMI) until the end of the membership year. Click the link in the email if you would like to accept the offer.

 

Association of Mountaineering Instructors offers trainee workshops and peer-led learning opportunities to help you during your consolidation phase.