NICAS Beginner (5 Sessions)

NICAS Beginners Level 1: New Climber (Ages 8-14)

This week-long introductory course at EICA is the perfect way for novices aged 8-14 to start their climbing journey. Over five days, participants will receive expert instruction on the fundamental skills and safety practices needed to climb confidently and gain the National Indoor Climbing Award Scheme (NICAS) Level 1 award.

Course Details

Who it’s for: Beginners with no prior climbing experience, aged 8-14 years old.

Duration: 2 hours per day, Monday to Friday.

Location: Edinburgh International Climbing Arena (EICA) in Ratho.

Objective: To introduce participants to roped climbing and bouldering, recognising their ability to climb safely under supervision.

What You Will Learn

The course focuses on the foundational skills of NICAS Level 1:

• Correctly fitting a climbing harness
• Tying a climbing knot with confidence (Figure 8 with a stopper knot)
• Learning how to belay
• Basic climbing movement techniques and body positioning
• Developing key physical literacy skills like agility, balance and coordination
• Understanding and managing risks in an indoor climbing environment
• Communicating effectively and building trust with a climbing partner

What’s Included?

• Expert instruction from qualified climbing coaches
• All necessary climbing equipment is provided for the duration of the course (harness, helmet and shoes)
• A NICAS Level 1 logbook to track your progress
• Upon successful completion, participants will receive a NICAS certificate