MIAS Level 1 and Level 2 Training

On Wednesday and Thursday last week I delivered my first MIAS (Mountain Bike Instructors Award Scheme) Level 1 and Level 2 Training course. Day 1 was delivered in the Bridgwater area and day 2 was delivered on the Quantock Hills AONB. The weather was stunning on both days with blue skies and sunshine.

The four candidates were staff from Bridgwater College looking to gain a qualification to allow them to take groups on non-technical terrain and assist other already qualified staff to take groups on technical terrain.

Over the two days we covered all aspects of the syllabus with a focus on the difference between non-technical and technical terrain, checking and maintaining equipment, leadership techniques and group management. The course also touched on basic navigation skills, legal responsibilities, ratios and access.

All 4 candidates successfully passed their Level 1 and are now trained at Level 2. 

If you are interested in becoming a mountain bike leader then get in touch for future course dates. 

Somerset 100 Road Cycling Event

As a way of getting together and socialising while raising some money for a worthwhile local charity, a few of us from Bridgwater College decide to enter the Somerset 100. A 100 mile road cycling sportive starting and finishing at Sweets cafe near Wedmore.

The route took in some lovely quiet roads around the various parts of the Somerset Levels before climbing up onto the Mendip Hills AONB towards the end. See the photo above for the actual route. 

As we decide to park our vehicles a little way from the venue start we covered a total of 106 miles in the day. 

A good day out with a great group of guys.

Climbing at the Dewerstone

Yesterday was the last day of the 2015 residentials for the Bridgwater College FdSc Public Services students. 

Gwilym and I took the students to the Dewerstone near Shaugh Prior in Dartmoor National Park for some rock climbing. We set up a number of routes on top ropes, the students then managed themselves having a go at all of the routes. 

As part of their ongoing assessment for the module they also took part in a session looking at suitable anchors and building belays. This was all done at ground level before Gwilym and I set up the climbs.

It was a good end to the two blocks of three days on Dartmoor. The students all showing good progress in the activities.