Foundation Caving Course

The Foundation Caving Course is a two day practical caving course. A minimum of 2 people in Derbyshire or the Yorkshire Dales will cover a range of caving topics including; equipment for cavers, cave geology, weather and its impact on caves (flood risks). Rope work will be taught for exploring less technical caves. Other things like where to go, how to choose an appropriate cave for your experience, essential rope work skills, cave maps and surveys. How to recognize and avoid hazards, procedures for underground emergency - and the next steps in your progression as a caver.

Your 2 days with us will maximise time spent underground, including practical tips on equipment, how to operate as part of a team, safeguard sections of steep cave passage with ropes, learn key knots and how to risk assess a wide variety of passageways.
You'll become involved in decisions about ground conditions and how the weather conditions impact on the caves we use. At the end of the process you will have enjoyed at least 2 significant caving experiences, understand how caves form and develop, be competent at tying the knots most frequently used by cavers. You’ll be capable of safeguarding a team of cavers in appropriate terrain and know the next steps in your caving journey.
These courses are tailored to meet your needs – they are person focused, meaning they target the skills that you need to know. The foundation caving course will definitely enrich your knowledge, build up your skill base and give you the confidence to become part of an active team or club member.

1. Safely explore caving with the help of your own guides
2. Obtain skills you can take with you on your next independent trip
3. Covid secure

Equipment needed: Warm clothing and waterproofs

Food and Drink: Please bring food and drink

Parking and Toilets: At beginning meet point

Weather: This caving course is available all year round and usually not too affected by the weather but Acclimbatize reserve the right to cancel in extreme circumstances