As someone with a huge passion for the outdoors, I was very eager to put my experience to good use and pursue my dream of becoming a Mountain Leader. After researching the courses available, I came across the MTA and all the wonderful opportunities across the board in the UK. First I needed to attend a Mountain Training course, and Bryn Williams came highly recommended.

Course booked, I headed to Snowdonia where we would be based for the six days of training. I was both nervous and excited about the entire prospect, but once I met Bryn and my small team on the first morning, my mind was immediately put at ease and I genuinely couldn't wait to get started, put my current knowledge to the test and learn so much more as the week progressed.

The six day MLT Scheme covered both theory and practical aspects, including how to read a surface pressure chart in the classroom to using our maps outdoors and taking bearings and reading contours on both 1:25 and 1: 40 maps. Not only this, but over the week we put into practice a variety of navigational skills, micro-nav, pacing, how to scramble over rocky ground along with coaching, spotting and protecting each other.



Two of the days consisted of practicing rope work (which I personally loved!), mountain hazards, first aid and emergency procedures and how the MRT operate. It was then on to an epic wildcamp on the Friday night in the Moelwynion mountain range where we learned a lot of tips and tricks about what gear to carry before heading out in the dark evening to work on our night nav.

It was the best week of my life to date! It was also a real treat to see the beauty of Snowdonia itself. Bryn took us to a variety of places every day, ranging from Cnicht in Moelwynion to the Ogwen Valley.