The BLUE BADGE GUIDE Training Course is currently delivered by the University of Edinburgh and usually runs every two years. The latest course started in April 2008 and will finish in early 2010. This part-time study course includes web-supported learning and requires weekend and summer school attendance at the University of Edinburgh and in the field throughout Scotland. The total minimum learning time amounts to 1300 hours.

Candidates must have the following recognised and verifiable qualifications or skills appropriate for guiding:

• a depth of interest in Scotland
• at least one of the following:
  • foreign language fluency
  • relevant work experience
  • an out-door activity qualification
• basic IT skills

Selection includes an interview, followed by an Introductory Course. On successful completion of the Introductory Course, the candidate qualifies for student membership of the STGA and may commence training. Training towards the Final Membership Examinations is provided through our Training Provider, currently the University of Edinburgh, subject to approval of the content and assessment by the STGA Board of Directors.

The course covers Core Knowledge, Professional Guiding Skills and Area Studies.

The Final Membership Examination, under the control of the STGA Board of Directors, takes 4 days and involves a combination of a written tour plan, practical assessment on walks, site visits and coach tours; written and oral questions on Professional Guiding Skills and Regional Studies.

The course fees are likely to be in the region of £225 for the Introductory Course and approximately £5250 for the main two-year course. Fees are usually payable to the training provider in instalments. Career Development loans may be available and STGA will assist students with applications for local funding, however, this cannot be guaranteed.

To request an information pack about our Blue Badge Course, please contact us online, call the STGA office on 01786 447784 or email info@stga.co.uk