National Tour Guiding (6S20232 QQI Level 6 Special Purpose Award) is aimed at people who have a keen interest in heritage, culture, history and traditions of Ireland and their local areas with an enthusiasm for sharing this with others.
The course is located in An Corrán, Achill, in the heart of the Gaeltacht, along the Wild Atlantic Way and beside the Great Western Greenway. Achill has a well-established tourism industry, blue flag beaches, spectacular mountains and a particular focus on ecotourism and the outdoors. It has a rich heritage, history and culture and its unique light and dramatic landscape has attracted painters, photographers, writers, artists and outdoor enthusiasts for centuries. It is also unrivalled in its diversity of ecosystems, habitats and culture.
As part of the course, we also visit heritage, cultural, ecological and archaeological sites in other areas in County Mayo and beyond for field trips, training and guiding opportunities.
Participants can also apply to the Erasmus + Programme to travel abroad: accommodation, travel and living expenses covered.
A work placement in a related field is an integral part of the programme.
This is a one year full time course and runs from September to June
This course will provide you with the relevant knowledge, skills and competencies to provide a variety of guiding experiences to visitors in a safe and professional manner in accordance with relevant statutory guidelines.
On successful completion of the course, you will receive the National Tour Guiding Badge (white) and be included in the Fáilte Ireland Industry Qualified Tour Guide Directory.
You will be ideally placed to source employment or self-employment in several guiding and responsible tourism related sectors.
Edel
“I absolutely love this course. Both the Coastal and National Tour Guiding courses provide a wealth of information into ecology, geology, archaeology, history, culture, folklore and much more. A mix of in classroom and outdoor activities, field trips, hikes, and guiding skills, provides a varied learning experience and opens the m ind to future employment options.”
There are no fees to study this course.
6N20229 – Irish Tour Guiding
6N20230 – National Tour Management
6N20231 Irish Natural Heritage and Culture
In addition to qualifying as a National Tour Guide, you can gain additional accreditation and skills in the following:
This course will include classroom-based learning, as well as regular field trips, site visits, guest speakers and workshops from regulatory bodies, Local Agencies/Service providers as well as other relevant tour operators and industry experts.