A fun and diverse weekend of mountain skills training, where you can choose from a broad range of workshops to improve on existing skills, or learn something totally new. During each session, the emphasis is on covering as much practical knowledge as possible, incorporating scenarios and skills training into days out on the hill.
This sociable weekend makes full use of the time available - you simply choose one workshop for each morning and another for the afternoon, followed by entertaining and informative lectures in the evening. Throughout the weekend you'll have the opportunity to furthur quiz our staff on whatever topics you would like to learn more about.
VenueWe meet in the Yorkshire town of Ilkley, gateway to the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Ilkley is easily reached by either train or car and is surrounded by some of the finest scenery and rock climbing venues in Northern England.
Sample Itinerary Subject to weather and conditions we follow the general format below:
Day 1
Sat
Rendezvous for introductions and briefing, before heading out onto the hill.
AM Workshops - choose from:
Mountain navigation - from learning the basics through to advanced navigation skills, a range of topics will be covered appropriate to your ability and experience.
Self rescue for climbers - from hoists and lowers to escaping the system, we'll teach you a hat full of tricks for dealing with problems and emergencies.
PM Workshops - choose from:
Intro to rock climbing - suitable for those completely new to rock climbing, or for anyone making the transition from indoor to outdoor climbing.
Alpine ropework - learn the best ways of taking in coils, roping up for glacier travel and a range of different crevasse rescue techniques.
Evening
Mountain slideshows - (both entertaining and informative!) followed by some well deserved socialising
Day 2
Sun
AM Workshops - choose from:
Altimeter navigation - loads of tricks and techniques for making the best use of an altimeter watch whilst walking, climbing and off piste skiing.
Improvised aid climbing - all the top tricks that you never see in a text book: essential skills for adventure climbers and alpinists.
PM Workshops - choose from:
Bivouacing - how to sleep practically anywhere, whether planned or in an emergency. Top tricks and skills, what kit to carry and how best to use it.
Avalanche transceiver training - learn how to use an avalanche transceiver effectively, for group searchs and rescues.
PM Q+A session, debrief and advice for the future.
Fitness and Experience a basic level of outdoor fitness (see fitness level 1-2) is required for the weekend. Previous climbing ropework skills are neccesary if you plan to do the technical rock workshops, but for intro rock and other skills sessions you just need a sense of humour and enthusiasm to learn.
EquipmentAll climbing safety gear (ropes, helmet, harness etc) and other technical equipment (eg avalanche transceivers) is provided by us. You are expected to bring your own personal clothing, a rucsac and mountain boots.
