4.9 Open Country Activities

Overview

Open country activities provide valuable opportunities for challenge, exploration and personal development. However, they take place in environments where terrain, weather and remoteness may increase risk. Careful planning and competent leadership are essential.

For the purposes of approval, open country is generally defined as land that is above 300 metres in height or more than 1 kilometre from vehicular access. This definition is intended as guidance rather than a strict boundary.

If you are unsure whether a proposed activity falls within this definition, seek advice from your Educational Visits Adviser before proceeding.

Leadership and Responsibility

Responsibility for the safety of participants during open country activities must rest with either:

• An approved external provider, or
• A competent member of school staff who has been approved to lead the activity.

Where an external provider delivers the activity, they are responsible for the technical safety and instruction. Where required, providers should hold an Adventure Activities Licensing Authority (AALA) licence.

School staff accompanying the group retain their pastoral duty of care for pupils at all times and should monitor the provider.

School-Led Activities

If the activity is led by a member of school staff, the leader must be formally approved by the Head/Manager, usually through the EVOLVE system.

As a leader, you must demonstrate appropriate competence for the terrain, conditions and activity involved.

Leadership arrangements should be discussed early in the planning process to allow time for approval and, where necessary, additional advice or training.

Minimum Competence Expectations

[highlight this section]

The level of qualification or experience required depends on the terrain and location of the activity.

Walking Groups Outside the UK or IrelandLeaders should hold the International Mountain Leader (IML) award.

Walking Groups in Mountainous Terrain (UK or Ireland)Leaders should hold the Mountain Leader Award (Summer or Winter as appropriate) or have a written statement of competence from a competent Technical Adviser.

Walking Groups in Non-Mountainous Hilly TerrainThis may include upland, moorland, hill, fell or downland environments with identifiable boundaries and manageable hazards. Leaders should hold the Hill and Moorland Leader Award (HMLA) or have a statement of competence from a competent Technical Adviser.

Walking Groups in Easier Terrain

For less demanding environments, leaders should demonstrate suitable competence through relevant qualifications, recent experience, visit leader training or assessment by the Head/Manager.

Good Practice

Early planning and clear leadership arrangements help ensure open country activities are safe, enjoyable and educationally valuable.

If there is any uncertainty about leadership competence or terrain classification, seek advice from your Educational Visits Coordinator (EVC) or Educational Visits Adviser before finalising plans.