Hill Skills Course
The Hill Skills course is a practical, confidence-building introduction to walking safely and independently in hill and open countryside terrain.
Women-only
Female-led
Confidence-building outdoor skills
About the Hill Skills Course
Delivered by Black Girls Hike, this course is women-only and female-led, creating a supportive space to learn essential navigation and outdoor skills without pressure or judgement. It’s ideal if you want to feel more confident outdoors, take on new terrain, or prepare for future leadership training such as Lowland Leader.
This is a two-day practical course, focused on learning by doing.
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This course is open to all women and is ideal if you:
Are new to hill or open countryside walking
Want to improve navigation skills
Want to feel more confident reading maps and using a compass
Are considering Lowland Leader or other leadership training
Volunteer or walk with community groups
Want to understand outdoor safety better
No leadership experience is needed.
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Across the two days, you’ll cover:
Reading maps and understanding terrain
Using a compass confidently
Planning routes and timing walks
Navigation on paths and open ground
Understanding weather and conditions
Personal safety and emergency awareness
Equipment, clothing, and preparation
Environmental awareness and access
The focus is on confidence, understanding, and practical skills — not assessment.
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To attend this course, you must:
Be 16 years or older
Have a basic level of walking fitness
Enjoy being outdoors in varied weather
👉 You do not need:
A Mountain Training qualification
A first aid certificate
Navigation experience
This course is suitable for beginners.
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The Hill Skills course:
Counts as an alternative entry requirement for Lowland Leader training
Helps build confidence before taking on leadership roles
Is valuable on its own — no obligation to progress further
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Duration: 2 days (16 hours contact time)
Terrain: Hills and open countryside
Group size: Maximum 8 participants
Fitness level: Moderate — full days outdoors
What to bring:
Waterproof jacket & trousers
Walking boots or sturdy shoes
Warm layers
Packed lunch & water
Notebook & pen
Map & compass (if you have them — guidance provided)
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Once booked, you’ll receive:
A pre-course welcome pack
Kit guidance
Location details
What to expect on the day
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£160 per person (2-day course)
This reflects:
Small group, women-only delivery
Experienced, female-led instruction
Practical outdoor coaching
Inclusive, community-focused learning
Hill Skills Course
This is a two-day practical outdoor course, focused on learning by doing. The course is delivered in real weather conditions and participants should be prepared for full days outdoors and willing to learn through experience.