Get the Credit: Climbing


Climbing is traditionally and outdoor activity, but today there are a number of climbing walls especially designed and available in Leisure Centres etc.  It is quite practicable to make a useful wall from a number of 8' x 4' sheets of blockboard, However, it is important that while such artificial aids are used for training and the honing of skills, there must be an opportunity to put the learnt skill into use on some natural obstacles.

Grade I
Awarded to Boys who have attended a  course of instruction and can demonstrate a practical ability and knowledge as follows:

  1. Know how to put on a safety harness, and understand something of the different types with their advantages and disadvantages.  NB Safety Belts are NOT acceptable equipment.
  2. Be aware of the basic protective climbing equipment and its safe use.  Be able to make a figure-of-eight knot, and understand its use in climbing.
  3. Understand the basic coordination of hands and feet when ascending a face, and understand the various climbing procedures and commands / language.
  4. Complete an ascentof at least 20 vertical feet demonstrating practical skills as at 3 above.
  5. Abseil down a face a distance of at least 20' in a safe and controlled manner.

Grade II
Awarded to Boys who have attended a  course of instruction and can demonstrate a practical ability and knowledge as follows:

  1. All above items in Grade I.  Items 4 & 5 should be completed outdoors.
  2. Have a basic knowledge of climbing ropes, how to belay and to use the rope for his own safety and that of other members of the party.
  3. Have a working knowledge of rock climbing equipment and their care. This especially includes caribineers and their correct use.
  4. Have a knowledge of the common types of rock, how it was laid down, strata, folding etc.
  5. Be able to act as a second" on climbs up to very difficult standard.

  Grade III
Awarded to members who hold Grade 2 and have had further training and experience and can demonstrate a knowledge/practical ability on the following:  

  1. Have a knowledge of climbing anchorages and their use.  

  2. Understand the principles of route selection with a comprehensive knowledge of the techniques needed to scale all reasonable features.  

  3. Make climbs up to "severe" standard as a "second" with correct use of equipment and safety measures.  

  4. Set up climbing pitches with suitable anchorages. (NB these must be checked by a competent adult before use).