Scheme Syllabus
At assessment, candidates will be assessed on their background knowledege and their ability to demonstrate technical competence and safe supervision of a group of novice climbers.
Background Knowledge
Candidates must demonstrate a basic understanding of the following:
The history, traditions and ethics of UK rock climbing The home nation training boards and MLTUK
The mountaineering councils
Competition climbing, local clubs and opportunities
Technical Competence
Candidates must demonstrate competence in the following areas:
Equipment
Identify equipment suitable for personal and group use at a climbing wall
Demonstrate an ability to evaluate the condition of equipment and ensure appropriate care and maintenance, identify worn equipment when necessary and decide when such equipment should be removed from service
Demonstrate the ability to use climbing wall equipment appropriately
Make appropriate decisions when presented by students using their own equipment
Belaying
Connect self and others to the rope
Use a variety of different belay techniques and devices competently and choose the most appropriate for a given situation
Hold falls and carry out lowers
Supervsion
Candidates must demonstrate competence in the following areas:
Organisation
Plan a climbing wall session including:
• Assessing the abilities and objectives of the group participating in this session
• Checking the underlying aims and the objectives of the activity
• Demonstrating an awareness of responsibility to any authorising organisation
• Having built-in flexibility when planning activities in order to respond to changing circumstances
• Knowing how to call for expert help in the case of an accident or injury
Group Management
Demonstrate the safe and responsible management of all group members irrespective of whether or not they are directly involved in the climbing activity
Brief individuals and the group appropriately
Manage the individuals and the group effectively by:
• Good communication skills
• Setting and reviewing targets
• Identifying and reacting to the needs of the group in relation to involvement, interest, enjoyment and
achievement
Supervise a group of novice climbers belaying
Manage time appropriately
Supervising the Session
Issue appropriate rock climbing equipment, check correct fitting and use
Deliver technical instruction to individuals and the group including:
• Choice and fitting of suitable harnesses
• Choice and fitting of climbing shoes (if used)
• Attaching the rope to the harness
• Advice, demonstration and coaching on climbing movement
• Demonstration of effective use of the chosen belay device
Demonstrate an understanding of how to avoid common problems
Solve common problems including:
• Stuck climber whilst on a safety rope
• Weight differences between the climber and belayer
• Twisted climbing ropes
• Incompetent belaying
Demonstrate the use of bouldering activities with groups
Demonstrate an understanding of warming up and injury avoidance techniques