Do I need previous outdoor qualifications?
No. The course is designed to progressively develop your skills and confidence. Previous experience in activities such as hill walking, climbing, paddlesports or skiing can be helpful, but enthusiasm, commitment and a willingness to learn are far more important.
Do I need to be an expert before I start?
Absolutely not. You don’t need to arrive as a qualified instructor, experienced climber or advanced paddler. The programme is designed to take outdoor enthusiasts and develop them into professional outdoor instructors through structured training, mentoring and real-world experience.
Who is the course suitable for?
The course attracts people from many different backgrounds, including:
- School and college leavers
- Graduates
- Career changers
- Ex-military personnel
- Outdoor enthusiasts
- Anyone looking for a more adventurous and rewarding career
What matters most is your enthusiasm for the outdoors and your willingness to learn
How old do I need to be?
Ideally be at least 17 years old to join the course. There is no upper age limit, and trainees regularly come from a wide range of age groups and life experiences.
Am I too old to become an outdoor instructor?
Not at all. Many trainees join after changing careers or deciding later in life that they want to work in the outdoors. If you’re motivated, reasonably fit and ready for a challenge, age doesn’t need to be a barrier.
How fit do I need to be?
You’ll need a reasonable level of fitness and be prepared for an active, physically demanding programme. The course involves hill walking, paddlesports, climbing, expedition training and other outdoor activities. If you’re unsure whether the course is suitable for you, we encourage you to get in touch.
What qualifications can I gain?
The programme offers access to up to 30 qualifications and training awards across a range of disciplines, including:
- Mountain Leadership
- Rock Climbing Instruction
- Navigation
- Paddlesports
- White Water Rafting
- Outdoor First Aid
- Expedition Leadership
- Risk Assessment
- Safeguarding
Qualifications vary depending on the course pathway and any optional modules selected.
What activities will I learn?
Training includes experience across multiple outdoor disciplines, including:
- Hill walking and mountain leadership
- Rock climbing
- Canoeing
- River and sea kayaking
- Stand Up Paddleboarding
- White-water rafting
- Canyoning and gorge scrambling
- Winter skills
- Ski touring and alpine skiing options
- Expedition planning and leadership
The aim is to help you develop a broad and versatile outdoor skillset.
Where does the course take place?
The course is based at Craigower Lodge Outdoor Centre in Newtonmore, within the Cairngorms National Park in the Scottish Highlands. The surrounding mountains, rivers, lochs and climbing areas become your classroom throughout the programme.
Where will I live during the course?
Self-catered accommodation at Craigower Lodge Outdoor Centre is included within the course fee. You’ll live alongside fellow trainees and become part of a supportive outdoor community.
Is this a full-time course?
Yes. The Instructor Training Course is a full-time programme with at least five days of structured training and development per week.
How long is the course?
There are two core options:
- Summer ITC: 16 weeks and 80 training days
- Winter ITC: 20 weeks and 80 training days, including scheduled holiday periods
You can also extend your training with optional specialist modules.
Can I extend my training?
Yes. Optional specialist modules are available, including:
- Snowsports Performance Development
- PSIA Ski Instructor Pathway
- Climbing Development in Spain
These allow you to tailor the programme towards your career goals and extend your training to five or six months.
What is included in the course fee?
The course fee includes:
- Self-catered accommodation
- Expert coaching and instruction
- Five training days per week
- Transport to training venues
- National Governing Body training and assessment fees
- Personal mentoring and career guidance
- Access to centre equipment during personal time
- Instructor shadowing opportunities
- Access to equipment and clothing Pro Deals
You’ll also have opportunities to participate in activities before the course officially starts.
Will I need my own equipment?
Yes. You will need your own personal outdoor clothing and some technical equipment. Most trainees typically spend between £500 and £2,000+ depending on what they already own. You’ll receive a detailed kit list before the course starts, and access to industry discounts through Pro Deals.
Will I gain real-world experience?
Yes. Throughout the programme you’ll have opportunities to:
- Shadow experienced instructors
- Assist with activity sessions
- Work with groups
- Develop leadership and coaching skills
- Learn alongside working outdoor professionals
This practical experience is an important part of becoming employable within the outdoor industry.
What career opportunities could the course lead to?
Graduates may go on to work in areas such as:
- Outdoor instruction
- Mountain leadership
- Climbing instruction
- Paddlesports coaching
- Adventure tourism
- Outdoor education
- Expedition leadership
- Snowsports
- Freelance instruction
- Outdoor centre management
Many graduates work across the UK and internationally.
Will I get a job after the course?
While employment cannot be guaranteed, the course is designed to help you become employable through a combination of qualifications, practical experience, professional development and industry mentoring. Many previous trainees have gone on to work in outdoor centres and adventure businesses in the UK and overseas.
Can I continue working with Active Outdoor Pursuits after the course?
Successful trainees may have the opportunity to progress onto the Instructor Development Programme, allowing them to continue developing their skills, gain industry experience and work towards more senior instructional roles.
What makes Active Outdoor Pursuits different?
The focus isn’t simply on collecting qualifications. Training is designed to develop you as a professional outdoor instructor through:
- Multi-disciplinary training
- Real outdoor environments
- Practical experience
- Industry mentoring
- Professional skills development
- Career support
The combination of qualifications, experience and personal development helps prepare trainees for long-term careers in the outdoor industry.
Can I visit before I apply?
Yes, and it’s encouraged. You can visit Craigower Lodge Outdoor Centre, meet instructors, view the accommodation, ask questions and get a feel for the lifestyle before making your decision. Subject to availability, you may also be able to join an activity session.
How much does the course cost?
The core course fee is £9,495 and includes self-catered accommodation. Optional specialist modules are available at an additional cost.
Why choose a career as an outdoor instructor?
An outdoor instructor career can offer the opportunity to work outdoors every day, help others achieve their goals, lead adventures, teach new skills and build a lifestyle around activities you genuinely enjoy. For many trainees, the course represents more than professional training. It’s a chance to change direction and build a career around their passion for the outdoors.