TRAINING AND ASSESSMENT

• Aim
  To provide an assessment of technical competence and group management skills required by those wishing to take responsibility for others underground. Equal consideration is placed on group safety and the conservation of a fragile environment.
• Scope
  The scheme is for leaders undertaking limited objectives within a single caving region. Level 1 covers horizontal systems and Level 2 includes pitches up to 18m explored with ladders, although SRT is an option for the leader. The final assessment report includes a list of named caves or parts of caves that the leader is approved to operate in. The Award must be re-validated every five years.
• Experience required
  Registration with the BCA Training Administrator (01629 650261) or via the BCA website for the LCL scheme prior to the course. Prior to attending a Level 1 Training course candidates should have undertaken a minimum of twelve caving trips. At Level 2 candidates should be familiar with vertical cave systems and have gained some experience using ladder and line. As we include the 'SRT for Leader' module during this course candidates must also be proficient in Single Rope Technique.
  Prior to attending Assessment at Level 1 candidates need to gain more than 12 months experience in at least two caving areas covering 30 caving trips as a minimum. Some of this experience should be as a leader under supervision. For Level 2 an additional 30 caving trips including vertical pitches should be undertaken, of which a proportion should be as a leader under supervision.
• Content
  Courses will cover all major aspects of the syllabus in both practical (surface and underground) and theoretical sessions. Navigation, weather, underground hazards, access and conservation, hypothermia and accident procedure, technical skills, and party leadership, will be included. Training courses take place over two days. Assessments are in two parts each with a different Assessor. Please enquire for further details.
• Minimum age
  18 Years