One of BOS's main functions is to operate and oversee the training schemes described below. Each scheme involves a training courses, consolidation period and separate formal assessment.

The Mountain Skills (MS)
The MS training scheme is for hillwalkers. The course provides all the basic skills required to walk safely and competently in Ireland, when accompanied by people of similar ability. The training does not include leadership skills /techniques. It is suitable for near beginners to those with considerable experience. Topics covered include route planning, equipment, map-reading, navigation techniques, movement on steep ground and coping with emergencies. Typically the training is divided into two blocks MS1 and MS2, each run over a two day period.

For more information on the MS <CLICK HERE>

The Mountain Leader Award (ML)
The ML scheme is intended for those who wish to lead others, particularly beginners or young people, across the mountains of Ireland and Britain. It is ideal for teachers, youth leaders and hike leaders in mountaineering clubs. Even for those without leadership ambitions, it is a useful way of learning more about topics such as navigating in difficult conditions or coping with steep ground, and overnight camping. Trainees must pass the Mountain Skills assessment before starting ML training (5 days). Trainees who complete the ML scheme and successfully pass a 3-day assessment are granted the ML award.

For more information on the ML <CLICK HERE>

The Walking Group Leader Award (WGL) 
The WGL trains and assesses people in the skills required for leading walking parties on the easier hills in Ireland and Britain. This award is below the level of the ML, as the terrain for WGL is limited to non-mountainous areas that do not have steep or broken ground. Before registration, WGL trainees must have a minimum of one year’s walking experience and must have logged at least 20 walks in suitable terrain. Training includes group management skills, navigation, understanding upland hazards, awareness of environmental issues and more. Training and assessment courses are both three days.

For more information on the WGL <CLICK HERE>

The Single Pitch Award (SPA)
The Single Pitch Award enables holders to supervise novices and others on single pitch crags and climbing walls. Topics covered include safe group management, environmental responsibilities, safe climbing techniques and more.  You will learn how to become an effective supervisor, encouraging others to enjoy their climbing, whilst also improving your own climbing skills. The scheme includes a 2-day training course and a 2-day assessment. Trainees must have led at least 15 climbs of Diff. standard or above to register for SPA. 

For more information on the SPA <CLICK HERE>
  

The Multi-pitch Award (MPA) 
MPA training and assessment is available to those who have gained the Single Pitch Award. Again this is a 2-day training course, followed by a 2-day assessment. Trainees must have led at least 15 multi-pitch routes graded Severe or above before attending training. This scheme introduces you to the techniques required to climb safely while supervising others in a multi-pitch situation.

For more information on the MPA <COMING SOON>

Download flow chart of Training Structure <CLICK HERE>