COURSE OVERVIEW
The Outdoor Recreation PLC course aims to give participants a comprehensive understanding of outdoor sports and the industry in which they exist. The course offers expert instruction in each of the sporting disciplines from our highly motivated, enthusiastic and qualified staff. The course starts in September and follows the academic year concluding in May. The course is recognised at FETAC level 5.
LOCATION
The course is administered through Coláiste Pobail Acla and is run through the Achill Outdoor Education Centre. Achill itself is ideally suited for this type of course as it offers an unspoilt environment made for outdoor activities.
COURSE CONTENT
Sports
Windsurfing: This is a fast and exciting sport that requires both skill and strength to master. Students will learn the basics from lifting the sail and turning to more advanced riding skills such as harness use, planning and may even try small jumps. The sport is taught in one of Europe’s premier locations on modern equipment which ensures fast progress on the course.
Kayaking: From sheltered lakes and tidal inlets to some of the cleanest and most exciting white water rivers in Ireland; kayaking is a sport participants will come to love. Students will learn the basics in the many sheltered lakes and bays Achill has to offer before moving outside the island to try these skills on the many rivers that Mayo has to offer.
Hillwalking: Achill is for many an ideal location for walking and mountaineering. Students will learn how to navigate using maps and compass, camp and look after themselves in a perfect environment unfamiliar to many. From gear selection and food to navigation in foul weather students will safely walk the Irish hills in confidence.
First Aid: The course offers a chance to become qualified as a First Aider an essential skill whether at work or leisure. These skills will then be applied to the outdoor environment giving students a realistic perspective of first aid for an outdoor instructor.
Theory/ Class Elements
Along with the theory involved in the sports this course also goes into detail in other areas of the outdoor industry.
FETAC LEVEL 5 Outdoor Recreation: This module looks at the outdoor industry and the legislation and factors involved in running an outdoor centre.
FETAC LEVEL 5 Outdoor Leadership and Safety: this module concentrated on leadership and group development within the context of outdoor sports.
FETAC LEVEL 5 Communications: This module looks at the techniques of communications and how it has evolved. This element is vital in a dynamic environment such as the outdoors.
FETAC LEVEL 5 Work Experience: This is a chance to put into practice what has already been taught in both the class and field, it also gives students an opportunity to experience another Outdoor Centre.
STUDENT PROFILE
This course is suited to anyone liking for foundation knowledge of outdoor sports and the outdoor industry. Past students have been a mix of adult learners and students straight from school. The course because of its level is ideal for those considering a gap year between school and third level.
A means tested maintenance grant is available to PLC students. Details are available from the Grants Dept. Co.Mayo VEC, Newtown, Castlebar. Tel: (094) 902 4188
