MTUKI and the UK Qualifications framework

As the official awarding body for these qualifications, Mountain Training UK and Ireland took the administrative decision not to enter the (Winter and) Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor (MCI and WMCI) onto the the UK qualification framework, due to the relatively small numbers taking part in this qualification scheme compared to the cost involved. Due to the universal recognition of these qualifications within the UK there is little demand at this time for MTUKI to make this investment.

It should be noted however that one of the prerequisites for registering onto the MCI is holding the Mountain Leader: this qualification is on the framework at a qualification level 3 - which is equivalent of a European Qualification Framework EQF level 4. Due to requiring this qualification, the higher level of experience and personal and professional skill, and the extended time of training and assessment, we would recommend the MCI and WMCI as a very minimum at the same level as the ML, or more likely they would come in at UK level 4 and EQF 5.

The Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor has also been recognised by the International Mountaineering Federation, the UIAA, as fulfilling the requirements of the UIAA Training Standards for both hill walking and rock climbing qualifications. Members of the Association of Mountaineering Instructors are authorised to use the UIAA logo on their membership card due to the membership requirements of holding the Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor or Winter Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor and also completing compulsory professional/personal development (CPD).

Steve Long, MTUKI Technical Officer and Chair of UIAA Training Standards Panel.