Tim Blakemore Mountain Guide

I moved to the North East of England in my mid teens and discovered the Cheviot Hills, and have never looked back.

After a serving my time as a fitter I spent 8 years or so searching out every inch of rock in Northumberland, the Lakes and Scotland. The Alps and greater ranges were a natural progression and although a cliché, I was always happier eating noodles under a rock after a long route than disco dancing. Only time will tell if I have invested wisely.

I have a background in outdoor education and at 25 went to work at an outdoor centre for young people. This led to an interest in education culminating in a position of Deputy Head of a large local education authority centre. The flexible working hours associated with this industry also allowed me to accrue the experience required to be a guide (which was fortuitous as I was soon to be made redundant).

Alpine Ice Climbing in the Chamonix Valley

What was the training process like?

One of my colleagues described the scheme as a ‘roller-coaster’ and I think it’s an apt metaphor. You’ve got to go with it and try and avoid being flung off at the tricky bits. Thankfully I clung on and in hindsight can say it’s been one of the most rewarding processes I’ve been involved in. By far and away the highlight is the aspirancy period. Working alongside all manner of guides (from all backgrounds and nationalities) remains one of the strongest facets of the scheme.

I also had a background in the UK Instructor awards (I had gained the MIC in 2000/1 I think). Whilst in some ways I was at an advantage over those who had no instructional background (structuring lessons, teaching progressions etc) it was a challenge to break preconceptions and paradigms I had picked up over the years.

What’s the work/life as guide like?

Challenging. I really think potential applicants should spend a moment or two chatting with established guides to get a feel for it. I personally love the variety of the work, the physical and mental stimulation and the awe that mountains still engender within me. The IFMGA carnet is also a truly international qualification. Last year I worked in France, Italy, Switzerland, Scotland, Norway and Nepal. Next year will also see me in New Zealand, Australia and SE Asia as well as my normal alpine haunts. Lastly, the camaraderie of the British Guides is a major factor in my continuing enthusiasm for this career as well as a major factor in deciding to live in the Chamonix Valley.

Brilliant Cascade Ice Climbing in Norway

What advice would you give potential applicants?

Have a chat with a few guides first. Have a chat with your partner. Really sit down and visualise what you want to do with the carnet if you achieve it. Gaining the carnet and working as a full time guide are two very different things. It’s worth thinking about that and all it entails. Go and enjoy the mountains. I still get excited about climbing big routes!

Find more about Tim's current work as a Mountain Guide based in the French Alps on the Northern Mountain Sport Blog