What do you do for work/study?
I'm currently in my last year of sixth form and I have a part time job as a coaching assistant at The Climbing Works.
Why did you want to become an Indoor Climbing Assistant?
I really wanted to get more involved in climbing and the Indoor Climbing Assistant is a qualification that is open to people who are under 18 so it was perfect for me. Becoming an Indoor Climbing Assistant gave me the skills to work in climbing and allowed me the opportunity to work with other more experienced coaches which helps not only with developing my own skills as a coach but also gives me ideas to improve my personal climbing!
How have you used the qualification?
I use the qualification in my part time job at the Climbing Works and I've also been able to use it volunteering with 3rd Rock's ClimbUnity scheme which has been great.
What do you enjoy about assisting with climbing sessions?
I love the variety of people I get to meet; it's really fun to work with a group and help them develop their passion and skill for the sport and I also find it great to help introduce people to the sport; it allows me to share my passion for climbing with them.
What do you wish you’d known before you started the course?
That you don't need to be really worried about having loads of previous experience coaching, there are loads of resources available to you and you'll be able to gain practical experience while both doing the course and assisting in climbing sessions once you have it.
What would you say to someone thinking about doing the course?
Do it! It's a great qualification to have and it opens you up to a lot of climbing opportunities. Plus, the course is a great starting point for coaching if you want to do that in the future!
What are your climbing plans for the future?
I'm currently working towards getting my Climbing Wall Instructor qualification, so in a professional sense my plan for the future is to be able to run climbing sessions on my own! In my personal climbing I want to climb outside more and tick off some 7a's in the Peak District.
Where’s your favourite place to climb?
If I'm climbing indoors then the Climbing Works is definitely my favourite and I've been enjoying climbing at Cratcliffe Tor in the Peak District when I go bouldering outside!
