Map Reading and Navigation Courses

Gold Navigator Award Overview

The Gold Navigator Award builds on the skills acquired at the Bronze and Silver levels and adds techniques and skills for dealing with complex contour features both large and small. 

Our courses are taught in mountainous terrain and involve periods where you’ll be navigating away from established paths and tracks.

The NNAS Gold Navigator Award is accredited by the Scottish Credit & Qualifications Framework (SCQF) at Level 6, and 2 SCQF credit points are awarded on completion. 

Gold Navigator Award Syllabus 

• Utilise the skills and techniques of the Bronze and Silver Awards in the context of Gold Award navigation strategies.
• Utilise contours and fine detail as the prime method of navigation.
• Accurately: follow a route, judge distance, check progress against time, use relevant compass skills and maintain continuous map contact.
• Use back bearings and transits to confirm current position.
• Use aspect of slope as an aid to relocation.
• Select appropriate techniques within an overall navigation strategy.
• Navigate in intricate terrain in reduced visibility i.e mist or darkness.
• Select an appropriate, safe route in relation to height gain and loss, dangerous terrain and other major hazards.
• Assess the route ahead in the field in relation to prevailing conditions or changing circumstances (e.g. weather, time, ability/fitness) and re-plan the route appropriately if necessary.
• Shorten a route, use an escape route and know emergency procedures.
• Recognise the occurrence of a navigational error within a few minutes and apply appropriate relocation techniques.
• Select appropriate clothing, equipment and first aid for walking in remote areas in all weather conditions.
• Understand the physical demands created by hill and moorland terrain in all weather conditions.
• Understand the effects of cold, heat, fatigue and discomfort on decision making and execution of a selected route. 

The Gold Navigation Award includes pre- and post-course question papers.  These will be given to candidates when they book with their chosen Course Provider. 

Who is the Gold Navigator Award for? 

Candidates should have attended one of the following courses: Silver NNAS, Mountain Leader Training or Hill & Moorland Leader Training.

​A general level of fitness is required for a days walking in upland and mountainous terrain.