Vertical Program - Stages 1 & 2

Gilwell Park Adventure Centre
From$29.50 per person
Category Scout Groups

Reach new heights with a day full of climbing, abseiling and high-ropes fun!
The Vertical Adventure program at Gilwell Park introduces Joeys and Cubs to the thrill of vertical activities in a safe, supportive environment. Across four engaging sessions — Climbing, Abseiling, Flying Fox, and a Belay Challenge such as Leap of Faith, Crate Stack, or Jacob’s Ladder — participants build courage, confidence, and teamwork while progressing through their Outdoor Adventure Skills (OAS) Vertical Stages 1 and 2.

Under the guidance of qualified instructors, young Scouts learn how to wear and adjust helmets and harnesses, follow safety rules, and use the buddy system. Each activity encourages communication, trust, and resilience while ensuring the experience is full of excitement and achievement.

OAS Vertical Stage 1

OAS Vertical Stage 2

Included/Exclude

  • Harness and Helmets
  • Qualified Instructors to run the Activity
  • Personal Clothing Equipment
  • Food

Sample Itinerary

  • Welcome, introductions, and aim of the day

  • Talk about the purpose of helmets and what clothing is best for vertical activities

  • Explain and demonstrate the buddy system and activity boundaries

  • Discuss sun safety, hydration, and equipment care

OAS Links: Stage 1 – clothing choice, buddy system, helmet purpose; Stage 2 – safety precautions before a rock activity

  • Demonstrate how to wear and adjust harnesses and helmets correctly

  • Learn basic climbing techniques: hand/foot placement, balance, and communication

  • Practise safety checks (“Harness, Helmet, Belay On”)

  • Encourage teamwork by spotting and cheering on others

OAS Links: Stage 1 – safety rules for climbing structures & helmet use; Stage 2 – putting on harness and helmet properly

  • Learn how an abseil system works and practise body position and rope control

  • Demonstrate and explain harness and carabiner checks

  • Abseil with instructor-controlled belay for confidence building

  • Discuss how to protect the environment around climbing areas

OAS Links: Stage 1 – care for trees and environment; Stage 2 – explain harness and carabiner checks and impact on vegetation

  • Understand launch area safety rules and signals

  • Fit helmet and harness independently and double-check each other’s gear

  • Enjoy multiple runs to build confidence and trust

  • Discuss what to do in an emergency and who to contact (000/112)

OAS Links: Stage 1 – know how to contact emergency services; Stage 2 – appropriate actions in an accident

  • Choose between Leap of Faith, Crate Stack, or Jacob’s Ladder

  • Learn about belay systems and knots used for safety

  • Practise communication: “Ready to climb?”, “Climb on!”

  • Emphasis on team support and celebrating achievements

OAS Links: Stage 2 – why knots and belaying are important, tie two knots used in vertical activities

  • Clean and store equipment with leaders’ guidance

  • Circle time discussion:

    • What was fun? What did you learn?

    • How did you feel when you were up high?

    • What would you like to try next time?

  • Record progress toward OAS Vertical Stages 1–2

OAS Links: Stage 1 & 2 – reflect on what they enjoyed, learnt, and would improve for next time

  • Instructor-controlled belay systems only

  • All participants wear fitted helmets and harnesses

  • Continuous adult supervision (1 instructor : 6 participants)

  • No free climbing or unsupervised descents

  • Activities matched to age, height and confidence levels

  • Focus on encouragement and success over technical skill

Location

Booking Form

Information

Max Guests 80
Recommended Age Joeys and Cubs