The purpose of the Mountain Bike Instructors Award Scheme is to promote the safe enjoyment of mountain biking in an off-road environment. The scheme provides training and assessment in the technical and group management skills required by those who wish to lead groups in a variety of on and off-road environments in the UK and abroad.

It integrates training, experience and assessment in a variety of testing conditions as well as some basic on road training. Since its introduction in Birmingham in 1989 the award has become recognised by Local Authorities, MOD, Emergency Services, Outdoor Education Centres and statutory Youth Services as providing technical excellence in this field.

The scheme is recognised throughout the UK and abroad It is the national gauge against which standards of competence are measured.

Non technical Terrain – (2 days) this award allows access into low-level terrain, with few potential hazards. This is a specific award designed for organisations such as outdoor education that use MTB as part of their organisation and the AMBL is working under the guidance of a qualified MIAS MTB member of staff. 16 years+ We also have Junior MTB Leader (JMBL) 14+

Non Technical Terrain – (2 days) this award allows access into low-level terrain, with few potential hazards, i.e. country parks, canal towpaths, and non-wilderness areas where help is almost immediately accessible. Includes blue forest trail routes.

Technical Terrain – (2 days +) this award allows access into open country, with the potential hazards that surround such terrain. The leader will operate within 30 minutes of cycling assistance. AALS may also require you to hold additional qualifications to work in this terrain. Includes red forest trail routes.I

This award is used outside the UK in altitudes above 600 meters to lead groups on cycle/mountain bike routes that are defined by map and ground. (Consideration should be given to MBL3 for leading groups in harsh mountain terrain on non-recognised routes).

Mountainous Terrain – (2 days +) this level covers areas defined as mountainous by the Mountain Training UK, but excludes ridges and potential hazardous routes such as ridges or routes involving scrambling. To lead groups on accessible routes to cyclists that are defined by map and ground. AALS may also require you to hold additional qualifications to work in this terrain e.g. ML, WGLA or equivalent MOD qualifications. Includes red/black forest trail routes.

Every member of the services is entitled to £175 per year to put towards the cost of personal development courses. All of our military courses qualify for this funding support for MOD staff members. These training courses lead to civilian-recognised qualifications SLC’s accepted.

Royal Navy

Everyone in the Royal Navy and Royal Marines has the opportunity to study for extra qualifications regardless of their rank. Generous levels of financial support are available for external training, whether directly relevant to the Royal Navy or not, all Naval personnel can claim up to £175 per year, for all kinds of training courses.

Who to talk to:

• Resettlement Information Officer (NRIO)

• Education & Resettlement Officer (ERO)

• Fleet Education Officer (FEDO)

British Army

Entitled service personnel are eligible to claim 80% of fees, up to a maximum of £175 per year, towards the cost of personal development courses.SLC and IRTC can be used together for resettlement courses in accordance with the DIN.

Who to talk to:

• Single Service Representative (SSR)

• Education Centre ETS Officers

Royal Air Force

The Standard Learning Credit (SLC) Scheme allows personnel to obtain financial assistance for learning costs. You are able to claim 80% of your course fees up to a maximum of £175 per Financial Year.

To qualify for SLC funding, the course of study must lead to a nationally recognised qualification, have substantial developmental value and directly benefit the Service.

Who to talk to:

• Personal Learning Adviser (PLA)