This course will be based at Herefordshire College, Holme Lacy Campus

These courses equip students with the outdoor adventure skills, knowledge and understanding necessary to achieve high performance in the UK and international outdoor adventure environment. They will also provide insight and understanding into the diversity of roles within outdoor adventurous activities, and provide students the opportunity to develop the skills, techniques and personal attributes essential for successful working lives in the industry.

The Level 4 programme lays the foundations of learning by providing a specialised introduction to outdoor adventure in the UK landscape. The programme provides an introduction to the subject area via a mandatory core of learning while allowing for the acquisition of skills and experience through non-mandatory units and an understanding of a range of occupational sectors at Level 4. This effectively builds underpinning core skills while preparing students for subject specialisation at Level 5. Students will gain a wide range of sector knowledge tied to practical skills gained in research, self-study, directed study and workplace scenarios. By the end of Level 4 students will have sound knowledge of concepts of outdoor adventure in the UK, and be competent in a range of subject-specific skills as well as general skills and qualities relevant to the industry.

The Level 5 programme builds upon previous learning, enabling students to develop a sound understanding of the principles in their field of study and how to apply those principles more widely. Students will have to learn to evaluate the appropriateness of different approaches to solving problems. They will be able to perform effectively in outdoor adventure management scenarios and will have the qualities necessary for employment in situations requiring the exercise of personal responsibility and decision-making in the industry.

The Outdoor Adventure HNC/HND is taught by a range of highly experienced industry professionals and the aim of the course is to develop your theoretical and practical knowledge of outdoor adventure related subjects. There is a well balanced programme of study between theoretical and practical aspects of learning, with opportunities to undertake practical activities across the region and further afield. The courses are designed to equip learners with specialist skills, knowledge and understanding to progress to subsequent studies in higher education institutions or into employment in the UK outdoor adventure sector at a senior level. Support is also in place – mentoring services, workshops, and tutorials, to help support you along your journey.

HNC/HND courses are recognised by Higher Education providers as meeting admission requirements to many relevant Outdoor Adventure and Outdoor Education degree courses such as a BA (Hons) in Outdoor Education and Leisure. Other progression routes include entering employment, continuing existing employment, completing a higher apprenticeship programme, linking with the appropriate Professional Body, or committing to Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

Studied full-time over one year, students will attend college 13.5 hours per week. The timetable for September 2025 entry is yet to be confirmed, but will be communicated when available with those who express interest.

Further fee info: Students may need to purchase some specialist personal equipment/

clothing such as the equipment necessary for backpacking and a pair of climbing shoes.