Getting equipped for the journey

During the induction process Rangers will be assessed against Generic and Specialist competencies and plan their CPD – the Journey. 

During the assessment they will also decide if they should attend Foundation training which assists in the process of getting equipped for the journey by providing an insight of the journey ahead and outlines what opportunities for gaining skills and competencies there are along the way.

Foundation training

The main topic areas for the current Foundation Ranger Training Course are:

• Role of the Ranger – what are we doing now, and why
• The wider context of Rangering, Rangering at the International Level
• Key influences on Scottish Rangering – Biodiversity, Education/Outdoor Learning, Outdoor access
• Know your site – briefing and site visit, report and feedback, exercise - towards a management plan
• Recreation management – site visit, the issues and conflicts
• Dealing with difficult situations - managing self and others, exercise, corporate responses/support
• Rangers working in Outdoor Learning/ Environmental Education – participatory workshop
• Towards integrated management – group exercise
• Effective Presentations – group and individual research and delivery
• Effective Guided Walks – further communication skills 
• So, where from here? Personal action plans.

The course is aimed primarily at those who have been in a Ranger post for up to two years; however it appears to be popular with a broad level of experiences due to the lack of similar training in the past. Many Ranger Services with only one member of staff see this as a valuable networking opportunity and recognise its importance for continuing professional development. 

The content of the course allows for it to be adapted and in future it should reflect the Core Skills and Competencies outlined in the Manual. For those who have not developed a CPD Plan, the ‘Personal Action Plan’ section should cover this area.