Progress your climbing with NICAS

The National Indoor Climbing Award Scheme (NICAS) is the UK's leading program for developing skilled, confident climbers. Think of it as swimming badges, but for climbing. It’s a fun, structured, and nationally recognised way to progress.

Find your NICAS course

Showing 6 of 6 results

  • NICAS Wild Climbers

    NICAS Wild Climbers is an exciting and dynamic program designed to inspire young climbers to explore the thrilling world of rock climbing.

    Aimed at developing skills, confidence, and a love for the sport, NICAS Wild Climbers encourages participants to challenge themselves in a fun, supportive environment. With a focus on safety, technique, and personal growth, climbers will build strength, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork as they conquer a variety of climbing routes.

    Whether you're a beginner or looking to improve your skills, *NICAS Wild Climbers* is the perfect adventure for young climbing enthusiasts to reach new heights!

    Suitable for ages 4-7

    Please note: NICAS registration is payable seperately.

    • £46 (6 week course)
    • Suitable for ages 4 to 7
    • 1 hour
    View more info

    Locations

    • Audley Climbing Centre

    Availability

    • Weekends

    Suitability

    • Minimum age: 4

    Good for

    • Individuals

    What's included

    • Instruction
    • Safety Equipment

    Not included

    • NICAS Registration

    Optional extras

    These can be purchased at the point of booking online, or at the center on the day.

    • NICAS Registration
  • NICAS (7-11 years old)

    What better way for your children to spend their free time than working towards a NICAS climbing qualification?

    You can get your NICAS levels 1, 2 & 3 with us here at Audley Climbing Centre.

    Things to consider:

    • Our weekly Thursday sessions consist of 90-minutes.
    • Please Note: NICAS registration is an additional cost.
    • £12.50 per session
    • Suitable for ages 7 to 11
    • 1.5 hours
    View more info

    Locations

    • Audley Climbing Centre

    Availability

    • Weekdays

    Suitability

    • Minimum age: 7

    Good for

    • Individuals

    What's included

    • Instruction
    • Safety Equipment

    Not included

    • NICAS Registration

    Optional extras

    These can be purchased at the point of booking online, or at the center on the day.

    • NICAS Registration
  • NICAS (12-16 years old)

    What better way for your teens to spend their free time than working towards a NICAS climbing qualification?

    You can get your NICAS levels 1, 2 & 3 with us here at Audley Climbing Centre.

    Things to consider:

    • Our weekly Thursday sessions consist of 90-minutes.
    • Please Note: NICAS registration is an additional cost.
    • £12.50 per session
    • Suitable for ages 12 to 16
    • 1.5 hours
    View more info

    Locations

    • Audley Climbing Centre

    Availability

    • Weekdays

    Suitability

    • Minimum age: 12

    Good for

    • Individuals

    What's included

    • Instruction
    • Safety Equipment

    Not included

    • NICAS Registration

    Optional extras

    These can be purchased at the point of booking online, or at the center on the day.

    • NICAS Registration
  • NICAS After School Club (7-11 years old)

    What better way for your children to spend their free time than working towards a NICAS climbing qualification?

    You can get your NICAS levels 1, 2 & 3 with us here at Audley Climbing Centre.

    Things to consider:

    • Our new after school 6 week block will consist of 90-minute sessions.
    • Please Note: NICAS registration is an additional cost.
    • £60 per 6 week course
    • Suitable for ages 7 to 11
    • 1.5 hours
    View more info

    Locations

    • Audley Climbing Centre

    Availability

    • Weekdays

    Suitability

    • Minimum age: 7

    Good for

    • Individuals

    What's included

    • Instruction
    • Safety Equipment

    Not included

    • NICAS Registration
  • NICAS After School Club (12-16 years old)

    What better way for your teens to spend their free time than working towards a NICAS climbing qualification?

    You can get your NICAS levels 1, 2 & 3 with us here at Audley Climbing Centre.

    Things to consider:

    • Our new after school 6 week block will consist of 90-minute sessions.
    • Please Note: NICAS registration is an additional cost.
    • £60 per 6 week course
    • Suitable for ages 12 to 16
    • 1.5 hours
    View more info

    Locations

    • Audley Climbing Centre

    Availability

    • Weekdays

    Suitability

    • Minimum age: 12

    Good for

    • Individuals

    What's included

    • Instruction
    • Safety Equipment

    Not included

    • NICAS Registration

    Optional extras

    These can be purchased at the point of booking online, or at the center on the day.

    • NICAS Registration
  • Adult NICAS (14+)

    Our adult climbing sessions are the perfect way to build confidence, improve technique, and take your rope climbing to the next level. Enjoy 90 minutes of guided climbing with our experienced instructors, covering everything from knots and equipment to movement skills, route reading, and top-rope climbing. Whether you’re looking to manage the pump, refine your technique, or overcome a fear of falling, these sessions are tailored to help you progress. 
    You’ll have the chance to meet other climbers, make new friends, and work towards the National Indoor Climbing Award Scheme (NICAS) — a structured, nationally recognised programme designed to develop competent, versatile, and independent climbers.
    All basic equipment is included (harness, belay device, instructor, and shoes where available), plus a free hot drink to keep you fuelled. A fun, supportive way to develop your skills and discover your next hobby. 

    Things to consider:

    • Our weekly Monday sessions consist of 90-minutes.
    • This session is for adults only.
    • £12.50 per session
    • Suitable for ages 14+
    • 1.5 hours
    View more info

    Locations

    • Audley Climbing Centre

    Availability

    • Weekdays

    Suitability

    • Minimum age: 14

    Good for

    • Individuals
    • Families

    What's included

    • Instruction
    • Safety Equipment

    Not included

    • NICAS Registration

    Optional extras

    These can be purchased at the point of booking online, or at the center on the day.

    • NICAS Registration

A quick look at the levels

  • Level 1: New climber

    Learn the basics of climbing, safety, and how to use a bouldering wall.

  • Level 2: Foundation climber

    Master the core skills, including how to tie in and belay your climbing partner safely.

  • Level 3: Technical climber

    Develop your technique and learn to climb independently, becoming a competent and self-sufficient climber.


NICAS: FAQs

    • What's the difference between the "6 week course" and "NICAS club"?

      This is a great question! Our "6-week courses" are the perfect introduction for beginners (especially ages 4-8) to build confidence and learn the basics.

      The "NICAS after school clubs" (for ages 7+) are the next step, where you follow the official national scheme, work through 5 levels, and track your progress in a logbook.

    • My child is 6. Can they join the NICAS club?

      The official NICAS scheme starts at age 7. We highly recommend enrolling them in our "6-week climbing course (4-8 years old)" first. It's the perfect preparation, and they'll be ready to move up to the NICAS club once they're 7.

    • Is NICAS just for kids, or can adults join?

      NICAS is for everyone! We have a dedicated "Adult NICAS (14+)" course that follows the same fantastic, structured program. It's the perfect way to learn the skills properly and gain a nationally recognised qualification.

    • I'm an experienced climber. Do I have to start at Level 1?

      Not necessarily. If you're already a competent climber, have a chat with our instructors. They can assess your current skill level and may be able to fast-track you, signing off on some of the early logbook competencies right away.