The Single Pitch Award (SPA) scheme provides training and assessment in the skills required to lead and supervise groups during single pitch rock climbing activities.

A single pitch route is defined as one which is climbed without intermediate stances, is described as single pitch in guidebooks, allows climbers to be lowered to the ground at all times, in non-tidal, non-serious and has little objective danger, presenting no difficulties on approach or retreat.

Course Providers:

The SPA scheme follows the syllabus laid down by BOS and is delivered and assessed by individuals approved by BOS.
Providers of the course are all experienced, qualified Mountain Instructors or Guides who have completed training in the specific required skills to teach and assess others.
The ratio for SPA training is a maximum of one instructor to 4 candidates, and one instructor to four candidates for SPA assessment.
To download a list of providers sorted by county click here
Pre-requisites:

In order to register  for the Walking Group Leader scheme candidates must:

be at least 18 years old
be an individual or club member of Mountaineering Ireland
have a minimum of one year’s rock climbing experience
lead at least 15 graded routes where the protection is leader placed
 

Duration:

SPA training courses are held over a minimum of two days (20 hours) and comprise a mixture of indoor lectures/discussions and outdoor practical sessions.
 

Skills:

technical competence (such as equipment, anchors, belaying, abseiling, and personal climbing skills)
party leadership
group management and supervision
emergency procedures
etiquette
access
conservation
 

Consolidation

On registration with BOS candidates will be issued with a log book.
Between training and assessment, candidates are required to complete and log an absolute minimum of 40 climbs, outdoors, on leader placement protection. Some of these must be at least Severe grade and they should be on as wide a range of venues as possible.
They must also have assisted with the supervision of climbing for approximately 20 sessions at a variety of locations. Ten of these sessions must have been completed under the supervision of an SPA holder or higher award holder. 
Candidates are also expected to gain bouldering experience both as an individual and in a supervisory capacity prior to assessment.
Prior to undertaking SPA assessment, therefore, candidates must also hold a current, relevant first aid qualification.
BOS recommends that all but the most experienced candidates allow a minimum of six months between training and assessment.
 

Assessment:

SPA assessment takes places over two days, and also includes evening sessions.
Candidates will be tested in practical aspects of the syllabus by BOS-approved assessors.
Written tests of some form may also be given in advance of, or during, assessment. They will not determine the final result but will aid the assessors when considering the choice of tasks to be set in the course. Written papers are likely to focus on areas of the syllabus which include the crag environment and knowledge of the sport.

Click here to download a list of Mountain Training Providers sorted by county