Available courses

Scouterhorn Operations Training (mobile climbing tower)

The purpose of this course is to prepare the student to operate as the climb master for the 24' Spectrum Sports Drop-A-Rock mobile climbing tower. 

This course is designed to partially satisfy the requirements defined in the National Camping Accreditation Program (NCAP) standards.

Students are expected to have successfully passed this course prior to attending hands on training.

In order to be consider "trained", students must successfully accomplish all training objectives specified in this on-line course and the hands-on practicum.

Per NCAP standards, Level 1 instructors/facilitators are assessed annually; Level 2 training is good for 3 years.

NCAC Climbing Instructor I Course

This Course will prepare interested climbers to seek an assessment for Climbing Instructor in order to lead units in rock climbing and rappelling activities.  The course will develop the below key skills but also include other elements to improve a participants competency in leading unit activities.  By the end of the three-session training, each instructor should be able to

  • Explain the purpose of a climbing/rappelling program and discuss how it relates to the aims and methods of Scouting and the personal development of participants.
  • Describe the responsibilities that a BSA climbing instructor must assume before, during, and after the use of a climbing/rappelling site.
  • Demonstrate a mastery of belaying, climbing, rappelling, spotting, and any other activities the instructor will teach and oversee.
  • Identify each piece of equipment used in a BSA climbing/rappelling program. Show how each piece is inspected, used, inventoried, and stored. Explain the importance of keeping records of the use of each rope and piece of gear, show how that recording is done, and discuss when and how an item of gear is to be retired.
  • Tie the knots and hitches to be used during a BSA climbing/rappellingprogram. If commercial seat harnesses will be used during the program, show how to match or adjust them to fit participants of various sizes.  If tied harnesses will be used (tied-seat or knotted leg-loop), show how they are to be tied.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of anchor points and anchoring systems, and their proper uses.
  • Prepare the climbing/rappelling area for participant activities.
  • Discuss safety and first aid.
  • Demonstrate rescue procedures used for ­climbing and rappelling.
  • Explain the use of the buddy system during BSA climbing/rappelling activities.
  • Work well as a team member with other members of the BSA climbing staff.
  • Lead a group through a climbing/rappelling experience.
  • Evaluate one's own performance as an instructor on the course, and make needed corrections.

Students may work at their own pace and collaborate on skills building.  Students must pass the online course final examination to attend session two and three assessment training to complete certification of climbing instructor training training and receive a climbing instructor level 1 card issued by NCAC.