South West Moorland Leader Training Scheme (SWMLTS)

What the SWMLTS is

The SWMLTS provides appropriate training and assessment for leaders of groups in the south west region who do not need a national walking leader qualification.

The scheme will help leaders develop a range of skills and knowledge to safely manage groups. This could be for day walks or multi-night trips in summer or winter conditions.

What the scheme involves

South West Moorland Leader training equips the leader to plan and lead safe outings and expeditions on foot. The Coastal & Countryside award is ideal for those looking to deliver the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh award or looking to take young people out in low level, easy to access terrain. 

The Moorland Leader award allows the leader to lead groups in more challenging terrain including Dartmoor which many use for Silver and Gold Duke of Edinburgh expeditions or Ten Tors.

SWMLTS syllabus

Find more information on the different levels in the SWMLTS syllabus.

Who can use the scheme

Anyone can join the scheme, this includes:

• local authority employees wishing to lead young people
• organisations who want to certify their own staff*
• voluntary organisations
• the Duke of Edinburgh's (DofE) award
• schools and colleges
• further and higher education establishments

*The local authority will accept no liability for use outside their legal areas of responsibility.

Training courses

Register online

Register with the SWMLTS to take part in training courses. There is no fee to register.

Start now

Apply for a SWMLTS course

Contact Derry Billings to request a course place or register your interest in Dorset Council run 2027 courses once dates are confirmed.

Dorset Council works in partnership with other local authorities including Devon County Council and Wiltshire Council to administer the scheme. Candidates can access courses from any of the providers and expect high quality course delivery.

SWMLTS course dates in 2026/2027

Dorset Council currently do not have any training course dates planned. You may book onto courses being run by our colleagues.