Duke of Edinburgh Hillary Award

All good leaders have a plan of where they want to go, what the group wants to achieve, an alternative plan, a backup plan and a trip plan or trip intentions left with someone responsible. TRIP PLANNING

Risk depends on: environment equipment technical skills of the leader skill level of the group RISK MANAGEMENT

Number ONE priority at all times GROUP SAFETY

There are many ways to manage a group, so this is one of the hardest skills to learn. Factors that influence group management: Environment Age, gender and fitness of group members Equipment available Group skills Available time GROUP MANAGEMENT

Do your research – know the environment you are going to ENVIRONMENT

When planning make sure you have planned for any additional equipment that may be required. Eg rope, spare clothing, Group first aid kit EQUIPMENT

Brief, to the point, no discussion Useful if time is short or there is no choice. Leader must be fairly confident they are right. STYLE: DIRECTING

Leader maintains overall authority, but consults with members of the group with the specific required skills. Eg if some members of the group have prior knowledge of the route OR Some members of the group have climbing skills ETC STYLE: FUNCTIONAL

Leader involves entire group in decisions in certain situations. Members become more motivated and involved. Eg deciding menus STYLE: SITUATIONAL

Leader allows the group to make the decisions. Leader must retain overall responsibility, though. STYLE: SHARED

Skills of both the leader and the other group members are important. Consider fitness, knowledge and experience when planning a trip SKILLS

Sometimes the leader has to make quick or important decisions SKILLS: DECISION-MAKING

Includes instructional, organisational and individual awareness skills. Fitness, climbing, water skills etc SKILLS: TECHNICAL

Being able to manage situations and people SKILLS: MANAGEMENT

Open communication between individuals and the group SKILLS: COMMUNICATION

On your own or in consultation with others SKILLS: PROBLEM SOLVING