ABSTRACT
This chapter analyses the development of individual professional practice including its recognition and accreditation within the outdoor sector in the UK over the past twenty-five years. We consider the key influences affecting the sector and the future direction for outdoor professional accreditation. We emphasise that, in the UK, the word qualification is used to describe a training process that is assessed and quality assured (by an awarding organisation). This process may lead to or form part of an accreditation, which is awarded by a professional institute or other body that upholds and develops professional standards.
