Page 155 - Microsoft Word - Guiding lights final version 0841 1007 big print.doc
P. 155

assistance which it could not have done as an unincorporated body. It was now recognised by local enterprise organisations and the Scottish Office as the professional body for tourist guides and tourist guide training in Scotland.
Ros Newlands oversaw a new training programme which launched in 1997. ‘We thought we would try to do something different, and that was to run a course throughout Scotland, through a form of distance learning, but allowing people to attend classes in their own area,’ she said. ‘So, we worked with the universities of Aberdeen, Strathclyde, Edinburgh, and Dundee. Trainee guides would go to classes that were open to the public on subjects like history, art, and architecture.
‘We formed a Joint Consultative Council which was all the universities, plus me, plus representatives from other branches. Students were able to do their core knowledge studies at Edinburgh, Strathclyde, Aberdeen or Dundee but their practical guide training was organised from Edinburgh University but took place in all four regions. The course only recruited students who could speak one foreign language as well as English. Originally 400 people expressed interest but just 19 students were accepted for the course which had three parts – Professional Skills, Regional Studies and Core Knowledge. Core Knowledge was provided by the universities as part of their normal Open Studies Courses.
‘This gave trainee guides more flexibility’ Ros explained. ‘They could attend at their local university and even take distance-learning courses. Regional Studies were provided by Edinburgh and Strathclyde Universities as distance learning packs followed by tours. All routes were demonstrated first by guides and lecturers before the students performed on the same route to the STGA standards. It meant there would be no more guiding in places they had never been. Professional skills included how to do it, when to do it, where to do it and how to make some money while you’re at it!’ said Ros. ‘All students had mentors who acted as teachers, advisors, counsellors and shoulders to cry on.
‘Through essay writing and practical assessment over a minimum of two years, the budding guide achieved university credits which could be used for the Scottish Studies Certificate, STGA membership exam entry and even towards degrees.
‘The STGA practical exam was the final hurdle – two weekends of walking, site and coach tours, in English and foreign languages if appropriate, two written exams, interviews on everything from tour planning and emergency procedures, to how to translate a menu. All those who decided to sit the final exam in 1999 had to meet the STGA standard, including at least 70 per cent in the written papers. From the
154




























































































   153   154   155   156   157