Induction Courses

The Induction courses allow the BMG Training committee to validate the applicants’ application and to see if the applicant is ready to proceed with the BMG training scheme.

These courses also provide an opportunity to give valuable training and to discuss the BMG training scheme. They consist of:

1. Rock Climbing Induction Course (October, based in North Wales)
   A one-day formal rock climbing assessment in which candidates demonstrate an ability to climb at El 5b, a successful performance being a pre-requirement for the Summer Assessment. For non MIA applicants their will be a compulsory two-day extension for training in teaching rock climbing and improvised rescue. This is optional for MIA holders but strongly recommended.
2. Ski Technique Course (January, based in the Alps)
   A three-day instructional course immediately before the ski induction day
3. Ski Induction Course (January, based in the Alps)
   A one-day formal ski assessment course based in the Alps.
4. Cascade Guiding Day (January, based in the Alps)
   Training for the specific techniques of guiding cascade ice climbs.
5. Avalanche Course (January, based in the Alps)
   Five days of training followed by one day of assessment looking at snowpack evaluation, avalanche risk assessment and terrain evaluation. This course will be run in an Alpine area in winter and is available once the applicant has finished the ski induction course.
6. Winter Induction Course (March, based in Scotland)
   One day of winter climbing providing an opportunity for candidates to demonstrate their ability to climb at grade V. This will take place in Scotland. For non-MIC applicants their will be a compulsory two-day extension for training in winter skills and teaching. This is optional for MIC holders but strongly recommended.

The induction courses may well be run in less than perfect conditions and candidates must be prepared for this.

Any candidate failing one or more of the induction courses will not be allowed to continue in the BMG training scheme. The Training Committee will decide whether a candidate will be given the opportunity to re-take all the induction courses again the following year.

All the induction courses should be completed before attending the Summer Training. However, if necessary, the Avalanche Course may be attended one year later at the discretion of the Training Committee.

BMG Registrants will be issued with log books which are to be filled in throughout all stages of the scheme with details of any guiding days completed and BMG course reports.

On successful completion of the Induction courses the registrant is allowed to join the Training Scheme, and are called Trainee Guides. Trainee Guides are members of the British Mountain Guides Association and pay a subscription