Are you an outdoor enthusiast looking to improve your navigation skills? The Bronze NNAS course may be just what you need. The Bronze National Navigation Award Scheme (NNAS) is a beginner-level course designed to teach hikers and outdoor enthusiasts the fundamentals of navigation. In this blog post, we will provide you with a comprehensive outline of the Bronze NNAS course, including what it is, why it is important, what it covers, and how you can prepare for it. Let’s dive in!

What is the NNAS and the Bronze NNAS course?

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Before delving into the specifics of the Bronze NNAS course, it is important to understand what NNAS is and its purpose. NNAS is a non-profit organization that aims to promote navigation skills and outdoor safety in the UK. It offers a range of navigation courses that are designed to teach individuals of all skill levels how to navigate safely in the outdoors.

The NNAS courses are divided into three levels: Bronze, Silver, and Gold. The Bronze level is the entry-level course and is suitable for beginners with little or no navigation experience. The Silver level is designed for those who have completed the Bronze course or have some navigation experience and want to improve their skills. The Gold level is the highest level and is suitable for those who have completed the Bronze and Silver courses or have significant navigation experience.

The NNAS courses are recognized by many outdoor organizations and are a great way to develop your navigation skills and gain confidence in the outdoors. In the next section, we will provide a detailed overview of the Bronze NNAS course, including its objectives and what participants will learn.

 

Overview of the bronze NNAS Course

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If you’re interested in taking the Bronze NNAS course, it is important to understand its prerequisites, objectives, and format.

Firstly, there are no formal prerequisites for taking the Bronze NNAS course. However, it is recommended that participants have some experience of walking in the hills or countryside, and a basic understanding of maps and compasses.

The Bronze NNAS course is designed to teach participants the fundamentals of navigation, including map reading, interpretation, and the use of a compass. Participants will also learn about route planning and safety in the outdoors. By the end of the course, participants should be able to plan and follow a route, and navigate safely in the outdoors.

The Bronze NNAS course typically lasts for two days, with a mix of classroom-based theory and practical exercises in the outdoors. The course is delivered by qualified NNAS instructors and follows a structured syllabus.

Overall, the Bronze NNAS course is an excellent way to learn the basics of navigation and develop confidence in the outdoors. In the next section, we will provide a detailed overview of the course content, including the topics covered and how they can be applied in the field.

 

What does the course cover?

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The Bronze NNAS course covers a range of topics that are essential for developing navigation skills and building confidence in the outdoors. Let’s take a closer look at each of these topics.

1. Maps: Participants will learn how to read and interpret Ordnance Survey (OS) maps, including symbols, scales, and contour lines. They will also learn how to use a map to plan a route and navigate from one point to another.

2. Compass: Participants will learn how to use a compass to orientate a map, take bearings, and navigate in poor visibility. They will also learn how to use the compass in conjunction with a map to plan a route and navigate accurately.

3. Route Planning: Participants will learn how to plan a safe and appropriate route, taking into account factors such as weather, terrain, and their own ability.

4. Navigation Techniques: Participants will learn a range of navigation techniques, including pacing, timing, and dead reckoning. They will also learn how to use handrails, catchment features, and attack points to navigate accurately.

5. Safety in the Outdoors: Participants will learn about the potential hazards of the outdoors, including weather, terrain, and wildlife. They will also learn how to manage risk and plan for emergencies.

 

The skills learned in the Bronze NNAS course can be applied in a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and mountain biking. For example, participants can use their map and compass skills to plan a safe and enjoyable hiking route, navigate accurately in poor visibility, and manage risk in an emergency.

Overall, the Bronze NNAS course provides participants with a solid foundation in navigation skills and outdoor safety. In the next section, we will discuss the benefits of taking the Bronze NNAS course and how it can improve confidence in the outdoors.

 

Benefits of taking a Bronze NNAS course

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Learning navigation skills through the Bronze NNAS course can have many benefits for outdoor enthusiasts. Not only can it increase safety in the outdoors, but it can also improve confidence and overall enjoyment of outdoor activities.

One of the main benefits of learning navigation skills is the ability to plan and execute routes with confidence. Being able to navigate using a map and compass allows individuals to explore new areas and take on more challenging routes. This can lead to a greater sense of adventure and achievement.

Another benefit is increased safety. The skills learned in the Bronze NNAS course can help individuals to avoid getting lost or disorientated, which can be dangerous in certain situations. Participants will also learn about safety in the outdoors, including how to manage risk and plan for emergencies.

Finally, learning navigation skills can improve confidence in the outdoors. By developing the skills needed to navigate safely and accurately, individuals can feel more confident in their abilities and be better equipped to tackle new challenges.

Overall, taking the Bronze NNAS course is a great way to learn navigation skills and improve safety and confidence in the outdoors. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced outdoor enthusiast, the skills learned in this course can enhance your overall experience and help you to explore the great outdoors with confidence.

 

How should you prepare for a Bronze NNAS course?

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Preparing both physically and mentally for the Bronze NNAS course is important to get the most out of the course. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

Maps: Participants will learn how to read and interpret Ordnance Survey (OS) maps, including symbols, scales, and contour lines. They will also learn how to use a map to plan a route and navigate from one point to another.

 

1. Physical Preparation: The Bronze NNAS course involves a fair amount of walking and being outdoors for extended periods of time. It is important to prepare physically by going on regular hikes or walks to build up endurance and get accustomed to being outdoors. Additionally, participants should ensure they are comfortable walking on uneven terrain and in different weather conditions.

2. Mental Preparation: Navigation can be challenging and requires focus and attention to detail. Participants should prepare mentally by practicing map reading and taking bearings before the course. This can help to build confidence and make it easier to grasp the concepts taught during the course.

3. Gear and Equipment: Participants will need some essential gear and equipment for the course. This includes a suitable map and compass, appropriate footwear, weather-appropriate clothing, and a small daypack to carry supplies. A full gear list will be provided by the course provider.

4. Additional Resources: Participants can prepare for the course by studying additional resources. The NNAS website offers a range of resources, including videos and instructional materials, which can help participants to become familiar with the course content.

 

In summary, preparing both physically and mentally for the Bronze NNAS course is essential to get the most out of the course. With the right preparation and mindset, participants can develop valuable navigation skills and enjoy the great outdoors with confidence.

 

Final thoughts on the Bronze NNAS course

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In conclusion, the Bronze NNAS course is an essential course for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to develop their navigation skills. By taking the course, participants will learn valuable skills that can improve their safety, confidence, and enjoyment of outdoor activities.

Learning to navigate using a map and compass is a valuable skill that can open up a whole new world of outdoor exploration. It allows individuals to plan and execute routes with confidence, and to safely navigate through challenging terrain and changing weather conditions.

Moreover, taking the Bronze NNAS course can enhance the overall outdoor experience, leading to a greater sense of adventure and achievement. By increasing skills and confidence, participants can explore new areas and take on more challenging routes, which can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience.

We encourage our readers to consider taking the Bronze NNAS course and further developing their navigation skills in the outdoors. With the right preparation and mindset, participants can develop valuable skills that will enhance their outdoor experience and make their adventures safer and more enjoyable.