Working Afon Ddu & Gorges
MTA CPD workshop – worth 1 CPD point
Gorge Walking is an adventurous activity that falls under combined rock and water adventures ( CRAWA ) It is often part of activity programmes delivered by outdoor residential centres or is a key adventure offering by activity providers.
SPA and ML holders are often used to deliver these sessions, with some staff holding additional paddlesport qualifications. However, as gorge walking does not have a formal NGB structure / qualification then training, guidance, hands on experience and CPD in this area can be difficult to obtain for many SPA and ML holders and freelance staff.
MTA have addressed this for its members, by providing a workshop focused on gorge walking and specifically the Afon Ddu gorge ( North Wales )
The workshop will be practical based and focus on moving up through a gorge. Whilst in the gorge, the issues of spotting, peer spotting, group management, handlines, top ropes, jumping, sliding, hazard awareness and drowning will be addressed.
The workshop will also address, guidance notes, risk assessments and AALA requirements.
This is an ideal opportunity to gain more experience, tick some hands on CPD or get to grip with these skills for a first time alongside sharing / gaining knowledge of working in Afon Ddu
Cost £45.00 per person
You need to be an MTA member to attend = 1 CPD point
Dates : 2023 TBC
CMS– This course is also advertised on the Mountain Training CMS site
Duration 1 day – 9.00 am- 5.00pm
Max ratio 1:6
I have been delivering Gorge walking for over 25 years and have worked in Afon Ddu for a similar time. In addition to this, through my various roles within the industry, I have written guidance, risk assessments and good practice documents for this activity.
I regularly train and assess staff for competency with Afon Ddu and other gorges. I also regular deliver sessions in the gorge to all age groups.
I was part of the small group who form what is now known as “Sustainable use of Snowdonia” (SUS). Their first project being focused on the sustainable use of one of the most popular gorges in North Wales. The groups approach resulted in a new way of working alongside stakeholders concerned with venue overuse.
I recently ( Summer 2020 ) assisted in the update to the code of conduct for Gorge Walking and Canyoning in North Wales and Outdoor Alliance C19 covid secure document for the Welsh Assembly.
