Page 38 - 2023 AMA Spring

MISCARTICLE
STRONG
FOUNDATIONS
Having run numerous foundation courses, across several mountaineering disciplines over the years, I thought it would be useful
to pass on a few reflections, hopefully of use to other leaders and those running courses. (Disclaimer: all opinions are my own!)
mentally participants should be shown what a QMD looks and feels like. I have seen too many courses delivered where people who are new to an activity simply undertake a week of skills sessions, are steered away from anything remotely adventurous and are left with very little idea about the actual activity. At best these people are completely put-off the activity and whilst suffering (potentially unknowingly), they do no further damage; but at worst they somehow progress,
Chris Wright
Aims of adventurous training. It is only recently that I have fully got on board with this after observing and reflecting on the value of running ‘skills courses’. As much as I am passionate about the specific disciplines, I have come to accept that they are ‘the mechanism’ for developing other characteristics in participants and the value of ‘adventure’ should never be overlooked in favour of just passing on or refining technical performance. Participants at the foundation level generally need ‘just enough education to perform’; ‘enough’ to keep them safe, but not so much that the activity becomes insufficiently adventurous. I
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always try to progress onto steep, con- sequential terrain with mountaineering foundation groups who have demon- strated that they are good on their feet and able to cope with heights without undue panic. I find that most people relish the challenge and are surprised by their own capabilities, irrespective of whether they share my passion for the activity.
Quality Mountain Days (QMDs).
Foundation courses should be based on QMDs. Not only does JSP 419 state that logbook experience can be gained from foundation courses and count towards subsequent leader training, but funda-