A: The answer is - as many as required for the participants to be of the required standard, the minimum is one at each level and for Silver/Gold this must include a minimum of two nights. For example, an experienced Gold group who have completed Silver may only need one practice, but a new Gold group is likely to need a training more training / practice e.g. training weekend in New Forest, training weekend in Gold terrain, unaccompanied practice + final expedition.

A: In terrain 0 (e.g. New Forest) only local district notification (NAN form) is needed. In Wild Country (terrain 1 + 2 + Exmoor) we need to notify the assessor network using the Green form for unaccompanied practices and final expeditions only four weeks in advance (six weeks if assessor needed). Information about this can be found here. A copy must also be emailed to Mike Baxter mk.baxter@virgin.net.

A: The DESC/DC approve people who have relevant experience to train/supervise expeditions in Terrain 0 (non wild country). Those supervising must have a nights away permit and issue a passport to the group if not camping on the same site. Those training/supervising people to go into Wild Country must have a Hilwalking (or other mode of transport) authorisation plus a supervisory endorsement for unaccompanied ventures. A nights away permit or camping endorsement is needed for overnight ventures.

A: Assessors should be familiar with the area/Duke of Edinburgh’s Award 20 conditions and approved by their District Commissioner/DESC. At Bronze they must not have trained the group and at Silver Level be independent of the Scout Group/Unit. From April 2011 they must hold the assessor permit. Assessor networks can also provide assessors.

A: The D of E requires all assessors to complete a one day training course plus supported assessment to assess after April 2011. For other operating authorities, this is already mandatory. More information can be found here.

A: Our expedition training guide is here. It contains the common training syllabuses, planning guide, training guide, kit list, safety card, route card and notes on paddle/horseback ventures.