Climbing takes place as a sport three times a week. Due to limited numbers and demand these sessions are principally for sixth form. There is a separate ‘club’ with two sessions a week for which lower and middle school pupils can sign up at the College Carnival. Climbing on Tuesday & Saturday is top-roping at the Wellington wall, taking students from beginners who need to learn safe routines, through intermediate levels of developing core movements and strength, to technique and power-endurance training for the advanced.
On Thursday they train at Oakwood, a commercial bouldering centre. Bouldering develops greater power and dynamism, and students also learn the etiquette and responsibility needed to become independent climbers at commercial centres.
Competitions happen about twice a year – the national Independent Schools comp and the English Schools comp. Outdoor climbing trips happen to Swanage or the Wye Valley when there is a keen core group.
Wellington has its own climbing coaches who are qualified instructors and coaches, and many are also keen climbers themselves.
Coaches
Ian Morris
Climbing Coach
Bio: I have always loved climbing, starting with necky solos on high Cotswold stone walls as a boy. I started climbing regularly when Oakwood climbing centre opened and now climb at least twice a week and get outdoors when I can. My favourite places to climb and boulder are Dartmoor, the Peak District and Snowdonia.
irm@wellingtoncollege.org.uk
Sean Farrell
Climbing Coach
Bio: I’m an avid fan of the outdoors, and my climbing serves to prepare me for accessing beautiful wild places safely. I am particularly passionate about the positive benefits of the outdoors on mental health and well-being.
saf@wellingtoncollege.org.uk
Simon Allcock
Climbing Coach
Bio: I been climbing for 20 years. Indoor climbing (lead and bouldering) is mainly training for outdoors where I climb trad when I’m feeling brave, sport when I need a sunny holiday, and alpine routes when I can find a partner. The next dream climb on my ticklist is the Pierre Allain on Les Drus. I have an SPA qualification to coach indoor and outdoor climbing, and CWDI qualification to coach lead-climbing.
sxa@wellingtoncollege.org.uk
What you need
Essential Kit:
All kit is provided, but some students choose to bring their own climbing shoes.
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