Rock Climbing Instructor
Course
Rock Climbing Instructor (RCI) Course in Wales
If you’re looking to gain the Rock Climbing Instructor (RCI) qualification, you’re in the right place! As an experienced provider of the RCI qualification, we offer both RCI training and RCI assessment courses here in Wales.
The RCI qualification is ideal for anyone who wants to lead groups on single-pitch crags or indoor climbing walls, covering climbing, abseiling, bouldering and much more. This course will challenge and develop your personal climbing skills, along with your ability to manage groups safely. Alongside climbing techniques, you’ll also explore the fauna and flora of the area, giving you a well-rounded understanding of the environment you’ll be working in.
Why Choose Our RCI Course?
We’re passionate about helping you develop into a skilled and confident Rock Climbing Instructor. Our RCI training and assessment courses are tailored to provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to confidently lead groups in a variety of climbing settings. We offer comprehensive, practical training that prepares you for the assessment process and beyond.
Our courses are led by a highly qualified and experienced instructor with a deep passion for rock climbing. With decades of experience in the UK, Alps, Andes, North America, Africa, and the Himalayas – both for personal adventure and as a guide – Stu has truly “been there and done it” and you can be confident that you’re in expert hands. With Stu, you’ll learn from someone who’s fully up-to-date, operates at the highest standard, and is passionate about helping you reach your potential.
What to Expect on Your RCI Course:
- Climbing and abseiling – Develop essential personal skills
- Group management – Gain the confidence and knowledge to manage groups of climbers in a safe, supportive manner
- Safety – Relevant legislation, risk assessment and more to ensure a safe experience for all participants. Emergency procedures problem solving and avoidance in various scenarios
- Practical skills – Develop your ability to manage novices at climbing venues, set up group climbs and abseils, coach useful skills and manage them bouldering
- Fauna and flora awareness – Understand the natural environment around you to enhance your teaching and leadership
- Access and Conservation knowledge
- Assessment preparation – Receive guidance to ensure you’re ready for the RCI assessment and confident in your abilities as a climbing instructor
Whether you’re new to the RCI scheme or looking to refresh your skills, we offer an approachable and professional training environment, backed by years of experience in climbing instruction. You will receive the highest standard of training, tailored to your needs in an open and supportive environment.
DATES, PRICES & BOOKING
Minimum participants 2
RCI training course – £250pp
RCI assessment course – £200pp
Can’t quite find what you’re looking for or perhaps you’d rather alternative dates?
What experience do I need to start the Rock Climbing Instructor course?
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- You should be an experienced indoor and outdoor rock climber.
- You must have led a minimum of 15 outdoor trad routes, 5 outdoor sport lead climbs and 15 indoor lead climbs – the more experience you come with the better!
- You should have a genuine interest in climbing and the supervision of groups.
- If you have that minimum experience, then see below on how to sign up!
How do I register/sign up for the RCI scheme?
- You must be a member (club or individual) of a mountaineering council (BMC, Mountaineering Ireland, Mountaineering Scotland).
- You must create an account on the Mountain Training system and register for the Rock Climbing Instructor qualification on there.
- You’ll need to get your climbing experience on the DLOG (Mountain Trainings online log book).
- Once you’ve accomplished all that – get in touch and we can get you booked on a course!
Do I need to bring my own climbing equipment?
Yes, you will need to bring your own personal climbing equipment, including a harness, helmet, belay device, and climbing shoes. We can provide some of the kit (e.g., ropes, protection, etc.) during the course, but it’s recommended to have your own basic gear. If you’re unsure what to bring, let us know, and we can advise you on the best equipment.
What will I learn during the Rock Climbing Instructor course?
- Rock Climbing Instructor training lasts for three days and will cover:
- The Rock Climbing Instructor syllabus
- What to expect at assessment
- Feedback on your performance and areas to focus on prior to assessment
What happens if the weather doesn’t cooperate during the course?
In the event of poor weather conditions (e.g., heavy rain, high winds), we’ll adjust the course itinerary as needed. We’ll work with you to ensure that you get the most out of the course, and if conditions prevent us from climbing, we’ll focus on other important aspects like theory, coaching, and problem-solving exercises. Safety is always our priority, and we’ll make sure you have a productive and enjoyable experience, regardless of the weather.
Is transport and accommodation provided?
No, transport and accommodation are not provided. We can advise on where to stay if needed. We generally meet on the first day at the climbing wall, and then subsequently meet at the venue for the day to maximise our time out, rather than meeting then having to drive a distance.
Climbing Equipment:
- Climbing Harness
- Climbing Helmet
- Climbing Shoes
- Chalk Bag
- Belay device
- Rope Protector/Mat
- Carabiners – A selection of locking (screw gate) and non-locking carabiners, more screw gates than you might normally use due to the group set ups!
- Selection of slings, 120cm and 240cm.
- Prusik Loops
- Climbing Rope – Generally, ropes can be provided, but if you want to bring your own, a 50m dynamic climbing rope is ideal.
- Rigging/static rope – 50m is ideal, we will have some spares.
- Trad Protection– Basic set of protection (e.g. nuts, hexes, cams) for placing gear during lead climbs. If you don’t own your own rack, we can provide some bits.
- Quickdraws – 8-10 quickdraws, a couple of Alpine draw’s (60cm)
- A lanyard such as the Petzl adjust connect is super useful
- If you have any fancy belay devices, sport climbing kit etc – bring along!
Miscellaneous:
- Climbing Guidebook – we can advise on which (though your instructor will have one too).
- Notebook & Pen – For jotting down any important notes or tips during the day.
- Phone – To stay in contact and to take photos/videos of what we do.
- Personal First Aid Kit
- Group shelter (we will have this)
If you have any of your own climbing equipment, feel free to bring it along, as long as it meets safety standards. Let us know in advance if you need any additional help with kit or suggestions for your day!