SPA Training Course

About the SPA training course:

The Single Pitch award or SPA is a national climbing qualification for those who wish to supervise groups on single pitch crags or climbing walls.

During the SPA training you will cover a range of skills such as rope management, correct use of equipment, group etiquette, group management, emergency procedures, choice of venue, access and conservation.

The SPA training course is normally run over 2 days for a duration of 20 hours. In order to be eligible for the SPA training course candidates must be

• An active rock climber and have an interest in the supervision of novices,
• At least 18 years old,
• Have a minimum of 12 months climbing experience,
• Must have lead 15 outdoor climbs where the protection is leader placed.

Between training and assessment candidates are expected to gain experience both in terms of supervision and personal climbing experience. Every opportunity should be taken to practise the skills learnt from the SPA training course.

The SPA remits:                                                                                                                                                                                                               is climbed without intermediate stances 
is described as single pitch in the guidebook 
is non-tidal 
is non-serious and has little objective danger
presents no difficulties on approach or retreat, such as route finding,
scrambling or navigating