In reply to jamiegoscote: If you want a great job with poor pay (relative to the hours worked, the experience needed and the responsibility shouldered) then become a Mountaineering Instructor!
Whilst working towards MIA/MIC you will need to gain your ML and most people do their SPA to make themselves employable in the earlier stages. Many outdor centres offering 'taster' or personal development work to school offer trainee instructor programs (even less pay, or food and board whilst you earn some experience)e.g.
http://www.ardroy-oec.co.uk/training.asp
Of course if you are super talented and dedicated (and can support yourself financially through the process) then you could go straight to:
http://www.bmg.org.uk/index.php/eng/Guide-Training
I'd recommend giving serious consideration to having another string to your bow e.g. teaching for when your body wears out, work seems thin on the ground or you get a wife and a mortgage (I didn't behave this sensibly and still manage).
Have fun, PM me if you have a specific question.
Al
