Past & Current Trainee Profiles

Trainee Scheme 2011

James Scott

From: Hedon, East Yorkshire

Education / Work Experience: Modern Apprenticeship Service Engineering, NVQ level 3 Service Engineering, A1 Assessor for NVQ’s. Three and a half year apprenticeship plant fitting, Two years welding and fabricating in Hull - East Yorkshire, Servicing Engineer repairing and servicing yacht’s and power boats on the Menai Straights, Offshore Roughneck and Motorman in the North sea.Has worked at High Adventure’s Summer Camps in the Lakes & Staffordshire as a ‘Multi-Activity Instructor’.

Prior Outdoor Experience: Have worked at Plas Menai Water Sports Centre delivering sessions in sailing, kayaking, windsurfing for a year. Also delivered NVQ level 1 in engineering. Responsible for organizing and delivering day tips and residential trips for students ie Three Peaks of Yorkshire, Three day adventure trip to Snowdonia, Wales.

Other / General Info: I’ve always liked the outdoors from the early age from when my Dad took me up Blen Cathera in the lakes. Hill walking and kayaking is a passion of mine but saying that every outdoor sport I’ve tried I love doing. Would eventually like to work with all ages and ability’s in the outdoor industry. My ultimate goal is to lead expeditions or manage an outdoor education centre.

Whilst at HA:
First Aid qualified (16 hour ‘outdoor appropriate’ first aid qualification).
Level 1 Cave Instructor Trained – British Caving Association (BCA). Cave Assessment booked for August.
SPA Trained, SPA Assessment booked for October 1/2 Term
BCU FSRT
BCU 1 & 2 Star Canoe & Kayak qualified
BCU Level 1 Paddlesport Qualified (Canoe & Kayak Coach)
MIAS Level 1 Mountain Bike Instructor (Trail Leader) Qualified.
MIAS Level 2 Mountain Bike (Technical Leader) Trained.
In house approved to run High Ropes Course, Low Ropes Course, Archery, Climbing (indoor wall), Abseiling (abseil platform), Bouldering, Team Building, Local Adventure Walk
PCV Minibus – Medical completed. Theory Test next.

Tom Langan

From: Hull, Yorkshire

Education / Work Experience: Open University BSc Geosciences. Has worked at High Adventure’s Summer Camps in the Lakes & Staffordshire as a ‘Multi-Activity Instructor’.

Prior Outdoor Experience: Member of Scouts up to Juniour Scout Leader
World Challenge gap year conservation project in Ecuador
Participated in a caving expedition in the Picas De Europa mountains, Spain
Mountain Climbing in South American Andes and the Italian Dolomites
Long distance biking in England and Vietnam
PADI Divemaster Trainee in the UAE
Summer ML trained

Other / General Info: I have always been interested in science and understanding the world we live in. My time as a scout embedded a passion of all things outdoors. I have a love of walking and climbing in mountains, and more recently, caving under them! A gap year project gave me a travel bug, a love of exploring, and showed the importance of conserving the natural world. I’m setting myself targets of leading VS grade multi pitch, seeing Gaping Gill, getting up to white water standard in kayaking and finally, not dabbing at gisburn!

Kirsteen Swan

From: Amersham, Buckinghamshire

Education / Work Experience: BA Honours Degree in Outdoor Adventure with Leisure and Recreation. Has worked at High Adventure’s Summer Camps in the Lakes & Staffordshire as a ‘Multi-Activity Instructor’.

Prior Outdoor Experience: I have worked as a kayaking instructor in Canada and as a childrens holiday rep/ assistant watersports instructor for TJM in Spain. I have also been a cave leader with the Bucks Scout County caving team for many years.

Other / General Info: I grew to love the outdoors through my experience from scouting. I enjoy climbing as my main activity but as of yet have not found an outdoor activity that i dont enjoy.

Mitchell Bowen

From: Stourbridge, West Midlands

Education / Work Experience: Has worked at High Adventure’s Summer Camps in the Lakes & Staffordshire as a ‘Multi-Activity Instructor’. He also has a BTEC National Diploma in Outdoor Adventure.

Prior Outdoor Experience: Worked for a company called Closer To The Edge for over 3 years and at Evesham Climbing wall for a term.

Other / General Info: I first discovered I wanted to work in the outdoors when I was studing at Hartpury College. I enjoy all adventurous activities and helping others to experience them. I mainly climb on a regular basis as I find it a challange I also mountain bike, cave and walk in my spare time.

Jonny Smith

From: Harrogate, North Yorkshire

Education / Work Experience: Degree In Sport and Exercise Science, NVQ level 2 Adventurous Activity

Prior Outdoor Experience: Worked at Bewerley Park as a Voluntary Instructor and a Seasonal Instructor in training at Castle Toward OEC in Western Scotland for 18months.

Other/General Info: Iv enjoyed every outdoor activity iv attempted so far and love Mountain biking, climbing and kayaking. Determined to get improve in all these activities i.e go faster and not fall off, get climbing harder grades and white water roll!

Antonio De Luca

From: Cicciano (Naples) – Italy

Education / Work Experience: I have done my studying in Italy. Spent 7 years in the Italian Navy. In January 1987 moved to England and I have worked for 21 years in London within the Banking industry. In February 2009 I finished a four month full time Outdoor Instructor Course.

Prior Outdoor Experience: I have worked at High Adventure’s Summer Camps in the Lakes & Staffordshire as a ‘Multi-Activity Instructor’.

Other / General Info: My family is very important to me. I like to keep fit and try any sport. My passion is football. I am really enjoying all the outdoor activity. My aim is to become a fully qualified outdoor instructor and work with all age groups in particular with disabled/disadvantaged children.

From my four month course:
BCU 2 Star Canoe & Kayak qualified
BCU Level 1 Canoe Coach Qualified
BCU Foundation Safety & Rescue
ML Trained
SPA Trained

Ankia Bester

From: Originally South Africa. Most recently Wales.

Education / Work Experience: First Class Degree in Bsc (Hons) International Tourism Management with outdoor and adventure tourism. I’ve had various travel and tourism related jobs two of which stands out for me; Nature guide for Red Boat Cruises, Milford Sound, NZ and Instructor at Go Ape! Pembrey, South Wales.

Prior Outdoor Experience: Recreational activities such as multi-day hikes, climbing, kayaking and hill walking. I started doing hiking trips with my parents at the age of four and was fortunate enough to have grown up in South Africa where the outdoors are on your doorstep. Worked for Go Ape!

Other / General Info: I have a great love for the outdoors. I love doing multi-day trips and camping out. I love travelling to unexplored places and learning about different cultures. Outdoor instruction is not a job for me, it is a lifestyle and I love every minute of it. Climbing, hiking, snowboarding, writing and photography is what keeps me busy outside of work.

Trainee Scheme 2010

Anta Misina

From: Riga, Latvia

Education / Work Experience: Foundation Degree in Sports Therapy from Plymouth University.

Prior Outdoor Experience: Previously worked for Compass and for High Adventure Summer Camps as a multi activity instructor.

Other / General Info: I am very passionate about all outdoor sports, particularly skiing, snowboarding, rock climbing and mountaineering. I am a qualified snowboard instructor but I also love other sports such as swimming, volleyball etc. Other interests include reading, travel and sports psychology.

Whilst at HA:
First Aid qualified (16 hour ‘outdoor appropriate’ first aid qualification).
Level 1 Cave Instructor Qualified – British Caving Association (BCA).
SPA Qualified
BCU Canoe Safety Test
BCU 2 Star Canoe & Kayak qualified
BCU 3 Star Canoe planned for August 2010
BCU Level 1 Canoe Coach Qualified
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Training planned for October 2010 for any future DI
MIAS Level 1 Mountain Bike Instructor (Trail Leader) Qualified.
MIAS Level 2 Mountain Bike (Techinical Leader) Trained.
In house approved to run High Ropes Course, Low Ropes Course, Archery, Climbing (indoor wall), Abseiling (abseil platform), Bouldering, Team Building, Local Adventure Walk

Dave Hooker

From: Kings Worthy, Winchester

Education / Work Experience: NVQ Level 1, 2 & 3 in Construction Plant Maintenance & Repair and NVQ Level 2 Activities Leadership.

Prior Outdoor Experience: Previously worked at Go Ape, Acron Venture & Kingswood as a climbing and High Ropes Instructor.

Other / General Info: I have a love of all things ‘outdoors’. Particular passions include kayaking, climbing, snow boarding & power kiting.

Whilst at HA:
First Aid qualified (16 hour ‘outdoor appropriate’ first aid qualification).
Level 1 Cave Instructor Training – British Caving Association (BCA)
Level 1 Cave Instructor Assessment planned for October 2010
SPA Qualified.
BCU Canoe Safety Test
BCU 2 Star Canoe & Kayak qualified
BCU 3 Star Canoe planned for August 2010
BCU Level 1 Canoe Coach Qualified had prior to arrival at HA
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Training planned for October 2010 for any future DI
MIAS Level 1 Mountain Bike Instructor (Trail Leader) Qualified.
MIAS Level 2 Mountain Bike (Techinical Leader) Qualified.
In house approved to run High Ropes Course, Low Ropes Course, Archery, Climbing (indoor wall), Abseiling (abseil platform), Bouldering, Team Building, Local Adventure Walk

Gone on to: Dave has accepted a position as a Developing Instructor at High Adventure starting in January 2011

Kris Rawson

From: Leeds, West Yorkshire

Education / Work Experience: BA (Hons) Leisure, Recreation & Management from lancaster University.

Prior Outdoor Experience: West Lancashire Scouts and High Adventure Summer Camps as a multi activity instructor.

Other / General Info: My main interests are travel & outdoor pursuits. I am currently working towards my Mountain Leaders qualification, my other passions are climbing, running & mountain biking.

Whilst at HA:
First Aid qualified (16 hour ‘outdoor appropriate’ first aid qualification).
Level 1 Cave Instructor Qualified – British Caving Association (BCA).
SPA Qualified.
BCU Canoe Safety Test
BCU 2 Star Canoe & Kayak qualified
BCU 3 Star Canoe planned for August 2010
BCU Level 1 Canoe Coach Qualified
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Training planned for October 2010 for any future DI
MIAS Level 1 Mountain Bike Instructor (Trail Leader) Qualified.
MIAS Level 2 Mountain Bike (Techinical Leader) Qualified.
In house approved to run High Ropes Course, Low Ropes Course, Archery, Climbing (indoor wall), Abseiling (abseil platform), Bouldering, Team Building, Local Adventure Walk

Laura Noades

From: Gosport, Hampshire

Education / Work Experience: A Levels in Classical Civilisation, Photography, Psychology & English Literature.

Prior Outdoor Experience: I have no previous outdoor centre experience but I have a total comittment & drive to work in an outdoor centre. I have recently completed a 300 mile expedition paddling the South Nahanni River in the North West Territories of Canada, this was 300 miles of grade 3 river.

Other / General Info: I love all outdoor sports, particularly canoeing, climbing & hill walking, my other interests include Scuba Diving, Photography (particularly outdoor photography) and Judo.

Whilst at HA:
First Aid qualified (16 hour ‘outdoor appropriate’ first aid qualification).
Level 1 Cave Instructor Qualified – British Caving Association (BCA).
SPA Trained & assessment planned for December 2010.
BCU Canoe Safety Test
BCU 2 Star Canoe & Kayak qualified
BCU 3 Star Canoe planned for August 2010
BCU Level 1 Canoe Coach Qualified
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Training planned for October 2010 for any future DI
MIAS Level 1 Mountain Bike Instructor (Trail Leader) Qualified.
MIAS Level 2 Mountain Bike (Techinical Leader) Trained
In house approved to run High Ropes Course, Low Ropes Course, Archery, Climbing (indoor wall), Abseiling (abseil platform), Bouldering, Team Building, Local Adventure Walk

Gone on to: Laura has accepted a position as a Developing Instructor at High Adventure starting in January 2011

Neil Jackson

From: South Croxton, Leicestershire

Education / Work Experience: HNC in Mechanical Engineering.

Prior Outdoor Experience: I have a love for all things ‘outdoorsy’, particularly climbing, kayaking and hill walking. Currently got my Level 2 kayak Coach, 4* kayak, 2& Canoe and CST.

Other / General Info: Passionate about sports expeditions. I have recently been to Nepal & the White Nile on kayaking expeditions and also the French Alps. I love climbing and have just done my first E1, currently looking to push my grades further.

Whilst at HA:
First Aid qualified (16 hour ‘outdoor appropriate’ first aid qualification).
Level 1 Cave Instructor Training – British Caving Association (BCA)
Level 1 Cave Instructor Assessment planned for October 2010
SPA Qualified.
BCU Canoe Safety Test
BCU 2 Star Canoe & Kayak qualified
BCU 3 Star Canoe planned for August 2010
BCU Level 1 Canoe Coach Qualified
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Training planned for October 2010 for any future DI
MIAS Level 1 Mountain Bike Instructor (Trail Leader) Qualified.
MIAS Level 2 Mountain Bike (Techinical Leader) Qualified.
In house approved to run High Ropes Course, Low Ropes Course, Archery, Climbing (indoor wall), Abseiling (abseil platform), Bouldering, Team Building, Local Adventure Walk

Gone on to: Neil has accepted a position as a Developing Instructor at High Adventure starting in January 2011

Steve Stannard

From: Fareham, Hampshire

Education / Work Experience: BSc (Hons) Sport and Physical Education from the University of Bedford.

Prior Outdoor Experience: YMCA Fairthorn Manor & Super Camps as a multi activity instructor.

Other / General Info: My main interests are all things ‘sporty’, my long term aim is to become a PE Teacher, but with the intention of increasing the amount of ‘outdoor activities’ to the mainstream PE curriculum, hence my reasons for becoming an outdoor instructor.

Whilst at HA:
First Aid qualified (16 hour ‘outdoor appropriate’ first aid qualification).
Level 1 Cave Instructor Qualified – British Caving Association (BCA).
SPA Trained & assessment planned for December 2010.
BCU Canoe Safety Test
BCU 2 Star Canoe & Kayak qualified
BCU 3 Star Canoe planned for August 2010
BCU Level 1 Canoe Coach Qualified
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Training planned for October 2010 for any future DI
MIAS Level 1 Mountain Bike Instructor (Trail Leader) Qualified.
MIAS Level 2 Mountain Bike (Techinical Leader) Qualified.
In house approved to run High Ropes Course, Low Ropes Course, Archery, Climbing (indoor wall), Abseiling (abseil platform), Bouldering, Team Building, Local Adventure Walk

Trainee Scheme 2009

Jena English

From: Birmingham, West Midlands

Education / Work Experience: Worked in the Youth Sector / Youth Service.

Prior Outdoor Experience: No formal experience, training or qualifications, just a passion for the outdoors.

Whilst at HA:
First Aid qualified (16 hour ‘outdoor appropriate’ first aid qualification).
Level 1 Cave Instructor Qualified – British Caving Association (BCA).
SPA Training & assessment- qualified climbing instructor.
BCU Canoe Safety Test
BCU 2 Star Canoe & Kayak qualified
BCU 3 Star Canoe qualified
BCU Level 1 Canoe Coach Qualified
BCU 3 star Kayak planned for August 2009
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Trained
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Assessment planned for November 2009
MIAS Level 1 Mountain Bike Instructor (Trail Leader) Qualified.
MIAS Level 2 Mountain Bike (Techinical Leader) Qualified.
In house approved to run High Ropes Course, Low Ropes Course, Archery, Climbing (indoor wall), Abseiling (abseil platform), Bouldering, Team Building, Local Adventure Walk

Gone on to: Jena has accepted a position as a Developing Instructor at High Adventure starting in January 2010

Lindsey Buckman

From: Ipswich, Suffolk

Education / Work Experience: National Diploma in Public Services

Prior Outdoor Experience: Worked at NST after finishing college, then worked at PGL in Wales for three seasons as an Activity Instructor. I also worked at a summer camp in America.

Other / General Info: I have a love for the outdoors and discovered I wanted to be an instructor when I walked Blencathra with my college. In my free time I enjoy walking, canoeing and snowboarding.

Whilst at HA:
First Aid qualified (16 hour ‘outdoor appropriate’ first aid qualification).
Level 1 Cave Instructor Qualified – British Caving Association (BCA).
SPA Training & assessment- qualified climbing instructor.
BCU Canoe Safety Test
BCU 2 Star Canoe & Kayak qualified
BCU 3 Star Canoe qualified
BCU Level 1 Canoe Coach Qualified
BCU 3 star Kayak qualified
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Trained
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Assessment planned for November 2009
MIAS Level 1 Mountain Bike Instructor (Trail Leader) Qualified.
MIAS Level 2 Mountain Bike (Techinical Leader) Qualified.
In house approved to run High Ropes Course, Low Ropes Course, Archery, Climbing (indoor wall), Abseiling (abseil platform), Bouldering, Team Building, Local Adventure Walk

Gone on to: Lindsey has accepted a position as a Developing Instructor at High Adventure starting in January 2010

Matt Stapley

From: Surrey

Education / Work Experience: Certificate of Higher Education in Accounting & Finnace, 3 A-C A Levels.

Prior Outdoor Experience: Previously worked as a mountaineering & climbing instructor within the British Army.

Other / General Info: I am a very keen triathlete and ultramarathon runner, but love all things outdoors, running is my main passion though.

Whilst at HA:
First Aid qualified (16 hour ‘outdoor appropriate’ first aid qualification).
Level 1 Cave Instructor Qualified – British Caving Association (BCA).
SPA Training & assessment- qualified climbing instructor.
BCU Canoe Safety Test
BCU 2 Star Canoe & Kayak qualified
BCU 3 Star Canoe qualified
BCU Level 1 Canoe Coach Qualified
BCU 3 star Kayak planned for August 2009
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Trained
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Assessment planned for November 2009
MIAS Level 1 Mountain Bike Instructor (Trail Leader) Qualified.
MIAS Level 2 Mountain Bike (Techinical Leader) Trained and Assessment planned for October 2009
In house approved to run High Ropes Course, Low Ropes Course, Archery, Climbing (indoor wall), Abseiling (abseil platform), Bouldering, Team Building, Local Adventure Walk

Gone on to: Matt has accepted a position as a Developing Instructor at High Adventure starting in January 2010

Laura Dooher

From: Huddersfield, West Yorkshire

Education / Work Experience: Diploma Level 3 Anatomy & Physiology, Swedish Massage, 9 grade A-C GCSE’s

Prior Outdoor Experience: Worked at Kingswood Outdoor Education Centre as an instructor for 12 months. Prior to that has been involved in a lot of outdoor sports throughout childhood and later years. Personal interests lean heavily towards climbing & paddling.

Other / General Info: Never really enjoyed a 9-5 job and as such really enjoyed working as an outdoor instructor / within the outdoor industry. Interacting with children and seeing their enthusiasm is the rewards I seek to help motivate me to be an outdoor instructor.

Whilst at HA:
First Aid qualified (16 hour ‘outdoor appropriate’ first aid qualification).
Level 1 Cave Instructor Qualified – British Caving Association (BCA).
SPA Training & assessment- qualified climbing instructor.
BCU Canoe Safety Test
BCU 2 Star Canoe & Kayak qualified
BCU 3 Star Canoe qualified
BCU Level 1 Canoe Coach Qualified
BCU 3 star Kayak planned for August 2009
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Trained
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Assessment planned for November 2009
MIAS Level 1 Mountain Bike Instructor (Trail Leader) Qualified.
MIAS Level 2 Mountain Bike (Techinical Leader) Trained
In house approved to run High Ropes Course, Low Ropes Course, Archery, Climbing (indoor wall), Abseiling (abseil platform), Bouldering, Team Building, Local Adventure Walk

Caroline Bales

From: Cornwall

Education / Work Experience: BA (Hons) Outdoor Education. Used to teach & perform dance.

Prior Outdoor Experience: Previously worked at an activity centre for disabled people & freelanced at an outdoor education centre in Devon. Scuba Diver.

Other / General Info: Come from a dance background, has now moved into the outdoors for the ‘freedom & challenge’ the outdoors provides.

Whilst at HA:
First Aid qualified (16 hour ‘outdoor appropriate’ first aid qualification) – had prior to arrival at High Adventure Outdoor Education Centre
Level 1 Cave Instructor Qualified – British Caving Association (BCA).
SPA Trained – Climbing instructor trained prior to arrival at HA
SPA Assessment planned for September 2009
BCU Canoe Safety Test
BCU 2 Star Canoe & Kayak qualified
BCU 3 Star Canoe qualified
BCU Level 1 Canoe Coach Qualified
BCU 3 star Kayak qualified
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Trained
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Assessment planned for November 2009
MIAS Level 1 Mountain Bike Instructor (Trail Leader) Trained and Assessment planned for October 2009.
In house approved to run High Ropes Course, Low Ropes Course, Archery, Climbing (indoor wall), Abseiling (abseil platform), Bouldering, Team Building, Local Adventure Walk

Gone on to: Caz has accepted a position as a Developing Instructor at High Adventure starting in January 2010

Rory King

From: Newcastle Upon Tyne

Education / Work Experience: Whitley Bay High School

Prior Outdoor Experience: Previously worked at Kingswood Outdoor Education Centre.

Other / General Info: Interested in climbing & paddlesports in particular but like all things outdoors, archery and bushcraft as well as general hill walking, mountain biking and other outdoor sports.

Mark Chyrssanthou

From: Leeds

Whilst at HA:
First Aid qualified (16 hour ‘outdoor appropriate’ first aid qualification).
Level 1 Cave Instructor Qualified – British Caving Association (BCA).
SPA Training – Climbing instructor Trained
SPA Assessment planned for May 2009
BCU Canoe Safety Test
BCU 2 Star Canoe & Kayak qualified
BCU 3 Star Canoe qualified
BCU Level 1 Canoe Coach Qualified
BCU 3 star Kayak planned for August 2009
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Trained
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Assessment planned for November 2009
MIAS Level 1 Mountain Bike Instructor (Trail Leader) Qualified.
MIAS Level 2 Mountain Bike (Techinical Leader) Qualified.
In house approved to run High Ropes Course, Low Ropes Course, Archery, Climbing (indoor wall), Abseiling (abseil platform), Bouldering, Team Building, Local Adventure Walk

Trainee scheme 2008 – 09

David Maw

From: West Yorkshire

Whilst at HA:
First Aid qualified (16 hour ‘outdoor appropriate’ first aid qualification) – had prior to arrival at High Adventure Outdoor Education Centre
Level 1 Cave Instructor Qualified – British Caving Association (BCA).
Level 2 Cave Training sometime in 2009.
SPA Qualified
BCU Canoe Safety Test
BCU 2 Star Canoe qualified
BCU 3 Star Canoe qualified
BCU Level 1 Canoe Coach trained & qualified
BCU 2 & 3 star Kayak booked for September 2008.
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Trained
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Assessment planned for December 2008
In house approved to run High Ropes Course, Low Ropes Course, Archery, Climbing (indoor wall), Abseiling (abseil platform), Bouldering, Team Building, Local Adventure Walk

Gone on to: David has accepted a place on the Developing Instructor (DI) scheme starting 1st February 2009.

Chris Reade

From: Derbyshire

Education / Work Experience: Degree in Outdoor Activities Management

Prior Outdoor Experience: Has been actively involved in outdoor activities from a young age through his involvement in the scouting movement. Chris’ main interests are kayaking, hill walking & climbing.

Other / General Info: Over the following year I want to work towards my NGB awards in caving, climbing & canoeing.

Whilst at HA:
First Aid qualified (16 hour ‘outdoor appropriate’ first aid qualification) – had prior to arrival at High Adventure Outdoor Education Centre
Level 1 Cave Instructor Qualified – British Caving Association (BCA).
SPA Qualified
BCU Canoe Safety Test
BCU 2 Star Canoe qualified
BCU 3 Star Canoe qualified
BCU Level 1 Canoe Coach trained & qualified
BCU 2 & 3 star Kayak booked for September 2008.
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Trained.
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Assessment planned for December 2008
In house approved to run High Ropes Course, Low Ropes Course, Archery, Climbing (indoor wall), Abseiling (abseil platform), Bouldering, Team Building, Local Adventure Walk

Gone on to: Chris has accepted a place on the Developing Instructor (DI) scheme starting 1st February 2009.

Mark Lovett

From: Bristol

Whilst at HA:
First Aid qualified (16 hour ‘outdoor appropriate’ first aid qualification) – had prior to arrival at High Adventure Outdoor Education Centre
Level 1 Cave Instructor Qualified – British Caving Association (BCA).
SPA Qualified
BCU Canoe Safety Test
BCU 2 Star Canoe qualified
BCU 3 Star Canoe qualified
BCU Level 1 Canoe Coach trained & qualified
BCU 2 & 3 star Kayak booked for September 2008.
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Trained.
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Assessment planned for December 2008
In house approved to run High Ropes Course, Low Ropes Course, Archery, Climbing (indoor wall), Abseiling (abseil platform), Bouldering, Team Building, Local Adventure Walk

Gone on to: Mark has accepted a job with Outward Bound Aberdovey.

Justyna Baryla

From: Poland

Education / Work Experience: MA in Polish Language & Journalism; BA in Teaching English as a Foreign Language.

Prior Outdoor Experience: Spent 1 year working in 2 outdoor centres in Wales, gaining an excellent insight into the British Outdoor Industry and also at working with a variety of school & youth groups.

Other / General Info: Really enjoys kayaking & climbing, particularly limestone climbing. Just starting to fall in love with Yorkshire Gritstone.

Whilst at HA:
First Aid qualified (16 hour ‘outdoor appropriate’ first aid qualification) – had prior to arrival at High Adventure Outdoor Education Centre
BCA Level 1 Cave training & assessment – Justyna chose not to do the caving qualification.
SPA Qualified
BCU Canoe Safety Test
BCU 2 Star Canoe qualified
BCU 3 Star Canoe qualified
BCU Level 1 Canoe Coach trained & qualified
BCU 2 & 3 star Kayak – had prior to arrival at High Adventure Outdoor Education Centre.
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Trained.
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Assessment planned for December 2008
In house approved to run High Ropes Course, Low Ropes Course, Archery, Climbing (indoor wall), Abseiling (abseil platform), Bouldering, Team Building, Local Adventure Walk

Gone on to: Teaching assistant whilst Justyna works towards qualifying as an English Teacher.

Piotrek Baryla

From: Poland

Education / Work Experience: MA in Politics

Prior Outdoor Experience: Enjoys Hill & Mountain Walking, Kayaking, Climbing and Caving.

Other / General Info: Passion in life is all things outdoors. Wants to go on and run his own outdoor education centre.

Whilst at HA:
First Aid qualified (16 hour ‘outdoor appropriate’ first aid qualification) – had prior to arrival at High Adventure Outdoor Education Centre
BCA Level 1 Cave training & assessment – Piotrek chose not to do the caving qualification.
SPA Qualified
BCU Canoe Safety Test
BCU 2 Star Canoe qualified
BCU 3 Star Canoe qualified
BCU Level 1 Canoe Coach trained & qualified
BCU 2 & 3 star Kayak – had prior to arrival at High Adventure Outdoor Education Centre.
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Trained.
BCU Level 2 Canoe Coach Assessment planned for December 2008
MIAS Mountain Bike Trail Leader qualified
In house approved to run High Ropes Course, Low Ropes Course, Archery, Climbing (indoor wall), Abseiling (abseil platform), Bouldering, Team Building, Local Adventure Walk

Gone on to: Freelance outdoor instructor.

Trainee scheme 2007 – 08

Adam Godwin

From: Rossendale, East Lancs.

Education / Work Experience: Bsc Computer Science.

Outdoor Experience: Fell runner since the age of 10, a general interest in all things. ‘outdoors’ but with little technical expertise or knowledge in canoeing, climbing or caving. Very keen outdoor enthusiast with a passion for all outdoor sports.

Other general Information: Adam is developing software that is designed to help fell runners choose the quickest route over mountainous terrain. This development work is a combination of Adams passion for the outdoors & his degree in Computer Science.

Gone on to: Got a job as an instructor with Outward Bound Ullswater.
Whilst at HA:Adam has become a qualified canoe instructor, SPA Climbing instructor and ML trained and a cave leader. Adam now works as an instructor at Outward Bound Ullswater.

Nath Hill

From: Worcestershire

Education / Work Experience: HND in Outdoor Recreation Management.
Outdoor Experience: Has had an interest in outdoors since his early school years. Mainly enjoys kayaking, climbing & hill walking with a bit of snow sports thrown in.

Whilst at HA: Nath has become a qualified climbing & canoeing instructor.

Simon Lucas

From: Durham

Outdoor Experience: Very keen paddler from the age of 9. And has always had an interest in the outdoors covering a wide variety of activities.
Other general Information: Involved in informal coaching in a variety of kayaking disciplines for 7 years, it was after considering what I had been doing that I realised I wanted to go and get my ‘tickets’ in several outdoor sports.

Whilst at HA: Simon has gained his qualifications as a kayak instructor, canoe instructor, he is also a climbing & caving instructor. Simon now works for Outward Bound – Ullswater.

James Miller

From: Roker, Sunderland

Education / Work Experience: 7 GCSE’s A – C; 3 AS Levels. Has worked at Sunderland Climbing Wall for over a year.

Outdoor Experience: Lots of experience gained from involvement in the cubs, scouts, sea scouts & venture scouts and in addition to this was involved in a 200 hour voluntary work placement with an outdoor company.

Other general Information: Into kite boarding, music particularly playing the guitar and juggling.

Whilst at HA: James has become a qualified climbing & canoe instructor and caving instructor.

James Atkinson

From: Colne, East Lancashire

Prior Outdoor Experience: James came with a broad experience in all things outdoors with a preference towards climbing & paddling.

Whilst at HA: James is a qualified canoe instructor, climbing instructor (SPA) & Cave instructor. James now works as an instructor for Newlands.

2006 – 07

Ben Seal

Outdoor Experience: Keen outdoor enthusiast particularly climbing.

Gone on to: Full time instructor with Derbyshire LEA having become a fully qualified climbing instructor, caving instructor & canoeing instructor whilst at High Adventure OEC. Ben also gained his PCV driving licence enabling him to drive 17 seater minibuses.

Gemma Dixon

From: Woodbridge, Suffolk

Education / Work Experience: Degree in Social Policy from York University.
Outdoor Experience: Very keen paddler, particularly kayaking. She has also had experience at some other centres on summer schemes.

Gone on to: Full time instructor with High Adventure OEC.

Whilst at HA: Gemma has gained her canoeing and caving instructor qualifications, her SPA training and has also passed her PCV Minibus driving test, she is now a full time instructor with High Adventure OEC.

Phil Dostal

Education / Work Experience: Bsc Degree in Geology.

Outdoor Experience: Keen Cyclist all round outdoor sports.

Gone on to: Full time instructor with Acorn Venture having become a fully qualified climb, cave & canoe instructor.

Kirsty Chuchla

Outdoor Experience: Keen outdoor enthusiast with no particular strengths prior to starting her Trainee Year.

Gone on to: Full time instructor with Ardroy OEC having become a qualified climb, canoe & cave instructor.

2005 – 06

Caroline Brown

Education / Work Experience: Degree in Economics.

Other general Information: Keen all rounder outdoor enthusiast with lots of endurance experience in running / adventure racing.

Gone on to: Running her own Corporate Team Building & Training Company – Ignite Corporate Events.

John Wilson

Outdoor Experience: Keen walker & climber also interested in the environment & conservation.

Gone on to: Working as an instructor at Ardroy OEC.

Fiona Sellar

Education / Work Experience: University graduate

Outdoor Experience: A keen skier and outdoor enthusiast with no particular strengths.

Gone on to: Working as an instructor at Howtown OEC.

Gary Burdett

Education / Work Experience: University Graduate

Outdoor Experience: Keen climber, surfer and outdoor enthusiast.

Gone on to: Full time instructor at Outward Bound Aberdovey.

Liz Lee

Outdoor Experience: Keen climber, caver and outdoor enthusiast.

Gone on to: Full time instructor at Sutherland Lodge.

Drew Kibble

Outdoor Experience: Keen caver, climber and outdoor enthusiast.

Gone on to: Working as an instructor for PGL – Spain.

2004 – 05

Helen Maddox

Education / Work Experience: University Graduate.

Outdoor Experience: A keen outdoor enthusiast with no paticular strengths.

Gone on to: Full time instructor at Outward Bound Aberdovey.

Emma Proctor

Outdoor Experience: A keen outdoor enthuisiast with no particular strengths.

Gone on to: Working as an instructor with ProActive Education.

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High Adventure Outdoor Education Centre