Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council has announced two outdoor instructor training programmes intended to provide accredited qualifications and routes into employment in the outdoor recreation sector.

The Positive Pathways programme will deliver five fully funded instructor training courses in skiing and paddle sports. Up to 60 participants will be trained in local outdoor settings to gain National Governing Body instructor qualifications, including Snow Sports England Level 1 Ski Instructor Training and Paddle Sports NI Instructor Training.

The first course, the Snow Sports England Level 1 Ski Instructor Training Programme, begins on 5 December 2026 at Craigavon Golf and Ski Centre, described as Northern Ireland's only outdoor artificial snow slope.

The project is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body. PEACEPLUS is co-funded by the European Union, the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the Government of Ireland, and the Northern Ireland Executive.

Lord Mayor Councillor Mary O'Dowd said the programme offers an opportunity for those with a passion for learning and working in outdoor recreation. She said it would support participants with personal development, tailored training and pathways to employment, and would enhance the borough's provision of outdoor sports activities.

Training will also cover leadership skills, teamwork and problem-solving, with a focus on routes into employment in an outdoors environment.

The programmes are open to people aged 16 and over with an interest in pursuing a career in outdoor leisure. No previous experience is required. Participants must be resident in the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough and available to attend the full training programme.

Further information is available at www.getactiveabc.com/positivepathways/.