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Sources of Funding

At Glenmore Lodge, Scotland’s National Outdoor Centre our aim is to encourage more people to enjoy outdoor and adventurous activity more often as safely as possible.

The most effective way for us to achieve this is through delivering world class instruction, specifically qualifications to the next generation of outdoor instructors.

We are aware that the cost associated with qualifying as an outdoor instructor can be high, especially for those working as volunteers, however help is at hand!

Below is a list of possible sources of funding to help you cover the cost of your qualifications. All these schemes are managed by external organisations and therefore have their own terms and conditions. Hopefully these can help to support the cost of your qualification. It is even possible to combine some of these funds meaning your training could actually be FREE!

If you are unsure of which qualification is right for you, the best place to start is the National Governing Body delivering that award, however, as your National Outdoor Centre we are here to help and if you need any further information please feel free to contact us.

National Schemes

Mountain Training Scotland – Bursary Scheme

Mountain Training Scotland annually offers a limited number of bursaries to support candidates wishing to understake a training or assessment (including re-assessment) course in one of the Mountain Training Qualification schemes provided by Mountain Training Scotland, and for whom the personal financial constraints may be a be a barrier to participation and whose participation may promote MTS’s commitment to diversity, equity, equality and inclusion aims:

  • Identify and seek to address the challenges facing candidates accessing and completing a Mountain Training qualification.
  • Support and promote greater diversity of participation in walking, climbing and mountaineering related activities.
  • Develop links between leadership and safe participation, and other relevant agendas including education, health and wellbeing.

Funding: Bursaries are available for up to a maximum of £250 to cover the cost of a Mountain Training course (Note: NOT including registration fees) and must be claimed within 6 months of the Bursary being awarded. The Mountain Training course must be in one of the Mountain Training qualification schemes provided by Mountain Training Scotland and delivered by a Mountain Training Scotland approved provider.

More information: Mountain Training Scotland Bursary Scheme (mountain-training.org)

AMI Founder’s Bursary – WMCI Training

Simon Powell was the Founder of the Association of Mountaineering Instructors and has set up an annual Bursary to pay for one AMI member to gain a paid place on a WMCI Training Course. It is the intention that the Bursary goes to someone who may have otherwise struggled to pay for their WMCI training.

AMI will invite eligible Members to submit applications on 1st May and keep applications open until 31st July.

More information: AMI Founders Bursary (mountain-training.org)

SCA – UKCC Coaching Scholarships

What is it: A scheme administered by the Scottish Canoe Association (SCA) made possible with investment from sportscotland recognising the importance of new coaches coming into sport and the need for accessible, affordable coaching courses.

Who is eligible: Candidates must be SCA members and must be able to evidence current or planned deployment as a Paddle sport coach.

Which qualifications does it cover: The funding is only available for British Canoeing (UKCC) courses.  Below is the detail of which courses are covered and the level of funding available for each.

  • Level 1 – 40% up to £100
  • Level 2 – 70% up to £400 (inc, L2 Training or Transfer, CPD module, L2 Assessment)
  • Level 3 – up to 75%. (inc, Core, Intermediate modules and Discipline Specific Training or Assessment)

How do I apply: You’ll need to complete an online application to sportscotland. Sportscotland will then confirm in writing.  You will need to pay for your course in full, then submit your claim (including receipts) to SCA.  You must complete your application 4 weeks PRIOR to the start of your course


More information: The SCA has details of this and other possible funding sources on its website, http://canoescotland.org/courses-training/funding-support

SCA – Other Funding Support

A range of funding opportunities are available via the Scottish Canoe Association and may vary from time to time. Visit their website for more information

Skills Development Scotland – Flexible Training Opportunities

What is it: Flexible Training Opportunities gives Scottish businesses with up to 100 employees the opportunity to apply for up to £5,000 towards employee training costs. This award is only applicable for businesses (including freelances, or sole traders) and cannot be applied for by individuals working for a larger organisation.

Who is eligible: There are detailed terms and conditions but the core criteria are; employees resident in Scotland, working for a business based in Scotland that is NOT run or funded by the public sector and has less than 100 employees. Full terms and conditions are available here.

Which qualifications does it cover: The programme will provide funding for the uptake of skills that will contribute to business productivity and success. The link between this learning and business priorities must be demonstrated within the application by reference to the desired outcomes. The types of training that is eligible for support include:

  • Master Classes
  • Learning based on National Occupational Standards
  • Industry recognised qualifications
  • Management and supervisory training
  • Workshops
  • Taster sessions

How do I apply: Download the Flexible Training Opportunities Application Form. Included in this document are help notes for completing the form and a rules and guidance section. Once you’ve completed the application form please save your changes and send it to the following email address: [email protected].  If you need assistance please call them on 0800 783 6000.

How do I get more information: Skills Development Scotland has a dedicated page on its website.

Non-Scottish Funding

The funding sources above are only for those resident in Scotland. Get in touch with your home nations provider for details of any funding that may be available to you.

Charities

Glenmore Lodge provides course places at a discounted rate to those receiving funding support from the below charities

Martin Moran Foundation

The Neil Mackenzie Trust