How did you find out about the apprentice scheme?
Richard
“I’d been working in the venue team at Derwent Hill for a while & realised that I would like to get involved in working with young people in the outdoors.”
David
“I’d done a BTEC in Outdoor activities & found the job advertised on the Institute for Outdoor Learning website.”
What training do you get
“We have done an NVQL2 in outdoor education with Kendal College & we work alongside the Derwent Hill tutors & get training sessions with them. We also get to go on nationally recognised training & assessment courses. (Richard has just gained his Mountain Leader Award).”
What’s a typical week like?
“We spend Monday morning doing routine maintenance & checks to make sure everything is ready for the course arriving. In the afternoon we will meet our group & help them get settled in & do our first activity which could be something such as the ropes course.”
“For the rest of the week we work with our group doing variety of different activities (sometimes alongside another tutor & sometimes on our own) – making sure that all the young people have a great time learning in the outdoors. One evening we will take a group for a night walk – a great experience. On Friday afternoon it’s sorting out & getting ready for the next course.”
Best thing about the apprenticeship?
Richard
“Learning from the great team of tutors at Derwent Hill – great to be given real responsibility.”
David
“Living and learning in such a great environment.”
Advice for next year’s apprentices?
Richard
“Make the most of your time as it goes by very fast.”
David
“Get out into the mountains and on the lake as much as possible even on the grey winter days!”
What Next?
Richard
“Carry on learning & getting more qualifications & do some travelling.”
David
“This winter I’m hoping to do a ski season in the Alps & then a summer job in the outdoors next year.”
