Primrose Walk, Loch Katrine
We are always looking for new leaders for all grades of walk. We cannot have a full programme of walks without enough leaders. If you want to see how it is done before committing to leading yourself, why don’t you arrange to go on a recce with one of the current leaders. If you are thinking about leading but are not sure, and want to find out more, please talk to any of the current leaders.
If you are Ramblers’ member and feel ready to lead a walk yourself, there is also plenty of official Ramblers support and advice to help you.
Factsheets
- Information for new walk leaders (click here to download)
Find out how to register and get access to a range of resources on Assemble, the Ramblers’ portal for volunteer support and training. (You must be registered on Assemble in order to become a leader if you are not already a volunteer in any other capacity).
- Buddying for new walk leaders (click here to download)
The benefits of having a buddy or mentor, with useful resources and training.
- Navigation skills learning and development (click here to download)
The basics of map reading, techniques, contours, pacing and timing, grid references and group learning activities.
Visit the Getting Started as a Walk Leader on the Ramblers website for information and advice, as well as online support.
Next steps
If you are now ready for leading group walks, you need to be registered as a volunteer with the Ramblers. To do this, contact our Bearsden & Milngavie branch secretary and ask her to nominate you to the Ramblers so that you can log in.
The following activities are recommended to build up your confidence and skills:
1. The Walk Leadership Foundations online course on the Ramblers website. It only takes a couple of hours to complete and covers the key knowledge and skills you need to know. It involves several scenarios which ask you what you would do in a given situation and it guides you through the answers. It’s nicely presented and enjoyable to complete. It teaches you skills for managing a group, the importance of checking your map and timing during the walk, in case you need to deviate from your plan, and how to weigh up any potential risks beforehand.
2. Walk Leaders Conversations. These online events are where Ramblers from across Scotland share experiences of leading different types of walks. They welcome new walk leaders to join in and put questions to more experienced leaders.
3. Walk Leadership in-person courses. If you’d like to participate in a real live leadership skills session, Ramblers organise days out with an experienced leader and new leaders who want to learn practical skills.
The highlights of such days include finding out what you should carry in your rucksack; practising pacing, timing and navigating with a compass and map; meeting like-minded members and having a good day out.
Do make the most of your Ramblers membership and go online to the Ramblers website or look in your Walk magazine to find out more about training and events that are free for members.
Page last updated on 01/01/2025