Introduction

The Single Pitch Award (SPA) is the only nationally recognised award of its kind. There has been a tremendous increase over recent years in the number of groups enjoying climbing sessions on outcrops, crags, quarries and climbing walls throughout the United Kingdom.

The intent of this award is to promote high standards of supervision so that both enjoyment and safety are enhanced, without compromising either the sport of climbing or the participation of other crag or wall users. It is valid throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland and is recognised by the Adventure Activity Licensing Authority (AALA).

The scheme is for those who are in a position of responsibility during single pitch rock climbing activities. It is primarily concerned with good practice, leading to the safe and quiet enjoyment of the activity. Completion of a training course alone, without taking an assessment course, is not a qualification in itself, although it maybe of considerable benefit to the trainee.
Whilst the award does include a measure of personal competence it is not designed as such, and should not be used as either an entry requirement or measure of suitability for individuals who wish to climb on climbing walls or crags.

Course Content

Both the training and assessment courses cover the following areas:

Group management and supervision

• Organisation
• Supervising sessions
• Group management

Technical Competence

• Equipment
• Anchors
• Belaying
• Abseiling
• Personal climbing skills
• Background Knowledge

The Climbing Environment

• Access
• Conservation
• Etiquette

The training course in particular aims to provide the candidate with a basis of training from which they can then consolidate their experience This will be done by completing a log-book of personal climbing and supervising group climbing sessions. By training with others of a similar standard, but from a variety of backgrounds, the course provides a varied and stimulating environment in which to learn both from others on the course and through expert guidance.

Entry requirements

Assessment

 Prior to attending an assessment course candidates must:-

• Be 18 years of age.
• Have completed a training course or received exemption from the from one of the MLTUK boards
• Experience of climbing on a variety of rock types and at a variety of locations.
• Have led a minimum of 40 climbs, outdoors on leader placed protection. (Some of these must be at least Severe grade.
• Assisted with the supervision of climbing for approximately 20 sessions at a variety of locations.
• Hold a valid first aid certificate.

Further information

SPA courses (training & assessment) are run over a two day period lasting for a minimum of 20 hours. Details of course dates for 2008 can be found here . Note however that additional courses can be arranged for candidates wanting to arrange courses for groups of individuals. A minimum of four (4) are needed for both training courses and assessment courses. If you would like further information or you would like to speak with a course director please contact us .