Learn to Lead Climb - 5 Days

Don’t rush yourself to the sharp end of the rope, immerse yourself in our 5 day Learn to Lead course and enjoy the process. You have time to learn at the pace that suits you. This course is also perfect for those trying to progress for a particular expedition or challenge, or training for the British Stunt Register.

The course will start with the basics of belaying, tying into the rope and seconding your instructor up some classic trad climbs. You will learn how best to spot good anchors, place your own protection (nuts, cams, hexes etc) and how to belay up your second. As well as this you will be introduced to the technique of climbing on single and double ropes, and then descending safely to the ground while protecting yourself.

There are so many awesome places to go climbing around the UK and taking this 5 day course gives you the chance to explore the beautiful scenery and push your climbing ability. Popular places include, Peak District, Dorset, the Lakes and North Wales.

At the end of this course, you will have the confidence and skills to head off and climb on the sharp end of the rope! If you are already a confident climber and want to learn how to lead a little faster, then you can sign up to our intensive 2 Day Lead Climbing Course.

Information

Season

March to October

Duration

5 Days

Group Size

2-4

Restrictions

Minimum age: 18 Max weight: 18 stone (115kg).

Aim

To learn how to lead climb on traditionally placed climbing gear, construct belay stances and protect an abseil.

Who is it for?

Complete beginners, indoor climbers or those that would prefer to learn to lead climb over 5 days. We also run a 2 day learn to lead climb course.

Prerequisites

None- however, there is a lot to learn in 5 days. Having the ability to learn quickly, a good head for heights and fair fitness levels are a must. If you do have previous climbing experience, we recommend you can climb to an English 4b/c standard.

Accepting Risk

By its very nature lead climbing increases the risk of serious personal injury in the event of a fall. By booking this course you accept this risk.

YOU WILL BE REQUIRED TO LEAD ROCK CLIMBS USING LEADER PLACED PROTECTION AND SECOND OTHERS. This is, potentially, a dangerous activity with the risk of serious injury or death. You may take falls onto equipment placed by you but not checked by us. It is impossible for us to guarantee your safety at all times, as sometimes you may be out of our direct control. If you feel unhappy about any of this, please DO NOT join the course. More information is available if you require it. Hatt Adventures will not accept liability for accidents/injuries in such cases unless CLEARLY due to their negligence.

For more info. please see our Terms & Conditions.

Itinerary

The course is structured according to the needs of the group, and progression will be guided by our experienced instructor, but a typical course would look like:

Day 1 - 'Bottom' and 'top' rope climbing to assess your rope and climbing skills. Work on personal climbing techniques.
Day 2 - Start to 'second' a lead climber, looking at equipment removal techniques.
Day 3 - More 'seconding' and climbing, working on rope skills and climbing techniques.
Day 4 - Start lead climbing and progress at your pace, anchors, building belays, equipment maintenance.
Day 5 - More lead climbing, self protected abseils and avoiding problems.

Skills Covered

  • Using guide books and route selection
  • Route selection
  • Communication on crags
  • Equipment selection
  • Anchors and runners
  • Removing protection
  • Setting up a belay stance
  • Self protected abseiling
  • Single and double ropes
  • Equipment safety and maintenance
Locations

Courses can be held in a number of climbing locations throughout the UK

Equipment

Equipment supplied

Trad climbing and safety equipment is supplied including:

  • Trad lead rack
  • Ropes

Equipment needed

You will need your own personal climbing kit including harness and climbing shoes (these can be provided on request although personal kit will benefit you more).

For all outdoor climbing courses you must have extra warm clothes and waterproofs, we will provide you with a full kit list upon booking.

  • Comfortable clothing, suitable for the time of year*
  • Waterproof jacket and trousers
  • Approach shoes / trainers**
  • Climbing shoes
  • Harness
  • Helmet
  • Rucksack (approx. 40-50ltr)
  • Packed lunch and plenty of water
  • Medication / Tablets / Inhaler etc.

The above list is just a guide and appropriate clothing for the time of year should be worn.

*Clothing should comprise of several layers to trap the warmth. Please do not wear denim as it restricts movement, is cold when wet and is slow to dry.

**For the walk-ins we’d recommend sturdy approach shoes or trainers with a substantial tread should be worn. Walking boots can be a good option but if we’re attempting long routes and climbing with kit they’ll be very heavy to carry.

Please remember the crags can be a fair walk or scramble from the car park, so it important to put all of your kit in a suitable size rucksack leaving space for climbing equipment.

Equipment shop

Take a look at our online shop for any equipment you might want for your outdoor adventures. We stock a variety of equipment and can give expert advice if you have any queries. Choose to collect your order on a course (free of charge) and your instructor will have it ready and waiting for you when you arrive.

Transport

To reduce the environmental impact, we actively encourage people to lift share where possible. Our instructors may be able to share transport from Brighton, London and the South East, or we will meet at the venue.