The National Indoor Climbing Award Scheme (NICAS) is a national scheme designed to introduce young people from age 8 to indoor climbing. There are five levels of increasingly technical skills and development which young people can work through. For young people age 3+ we offer 'Wild Climbers'.
Our young person climbing courses run termly, normally for 5 or 7 weeks. The cost includes hire of all necessary equipment including helmet, harness, climbing shoes, and course registration.
NICAS course levels
NICAS FAQ
How long does the course run?
Our courses run in school term based blocks - normally 5 or 7 weeks.
Participants advance at their own pace and may need more than one term to complete a particular award - particularly the further they progress through the levels.
How is the course assessed?
Participants progress through each level by completing practical assessments and demonstrating competency in various climbing skills.
Do we need any equipment?
The cost includes hire of all necessary equipment including helmet, harness, climbing shoes, and course registration.
What should participants wear?
Clothing that you can easily move and stretch in. The climbing centre can be warm in the summer and cold in the winter so layer appropriately.
Do I need to start at level 1?
Yes - this is normally where participants start regardless of age/ability. NICAS is a progressive scheme, building on learning from previous stages providing the skills and confidence to climb safely. Its therefore important to start at Level 1 unless you can demonstrate the competency and knowledge required for the syllabus of the previous stages.