The University of Portsmouth Department of Sport and Recreation is committed to delivering a safe, enjoyable, and high-quality experience through our Climbing Lessons Programme. These Terms and Conditions outline your rights and responsibilities when participating in our climbing lessons. By enrolling your child in the programme, you are agreeing to these terms.
These terms solely relate to climbing lessons. For general behaviour and activities that take place on the climbing wall UOP Sport rules and regulations also apply and you should familiarise yourself with this document.
1. Teaching and Supervision
1.1 All Climbing Instructors are fully qualified and hold an enhanced DBS check.
1.2 Instructors are responsible for children only during the lesson time. Parents/guardians must remain on-site.
1.3 Parents/guardians must accompany their child to and from the lesson area and collect them promptly at the end of the session.
1.4 Instructors must not be interrupted during lessons. All communication should be directed through reception or the Climbing Officer.
1.5 Children must meet the minimum age requirement for the relevant NICAS level or session type. Age limits are set to ensure developmental readiness and safety compliance.
1.6 Written parental/guardian consent is required for all children participating in climbing sessions. This includes agreement to emergency procedures, photography policy (where applicable), and acceptance of risks involved in climbing activities.
1.7 This activity operates in line with the University of Portsmouth’s Safeguarding Policy. Staff are trained in safeguarding and will act in accordance with procedures if concerns about a child’s welfare arise.
2. Health and Wellbeing
2.1 If your child is unwell, they should not attend lessons.
2.2 Parents must inform us of any medical conditions or special requirements at the point of registration and update us of any changes.
2.3 Parents/guardians must disclose all relevant medical, behavioural, or additional needs (e.g. allergies, epilepsy, autism, ADHD) at registration. This enables staff to make any necessary adjustments to keep your child safe
2.4 Children should bring a clearly labelled water bottle to each session. Regular hydration breaks will be provided. Food is not permitted within the climbing instruction area unless required for a medical condition.
2.5 Children must use the toilet before the session begins. Staff cannot accompany children to the toilet; parents/guardians must remain nearby to assist if needed.
3. Climbing Programme Structure
3.1 NICAS climbing lessons typically run for 90 minutes, including register checks and assessments.
3.2 Instructor-to-pupil ratios follow NICAS guidelines (maximum 1:9).
3.3 The programme reserves the right to cancel or reschedule sessions at short notice for operational or safety reasons.
4. Dress Code and Hygiene
4.1 Children must wear appropriate, fitted clothing. Loose items such as hoodies are not permitted.
4.2 Climbing shoes are provided and must be worn.
4.3 All jewellery must be removed (except medical/religious items, which must not interfere with climbing).
4.4 Children should not bring personal climbing equipment unless requested. All safety equipment (e.g. harnesses, helmets, ropes) is provided and checked by instructors. Use of unauthorised personal equipment may not be permitted.
5. Progression and Assessment
5.1 All children follow the NICAS progression framework.
5.2 Instructors continuously assess each child’s development.
5.3 Progression decisions are at the instructor’s discretion and based on NICAS criteria.
5.4 Advancement is subject to space availability at the next level.
5.4 Due to scheduling and demand, we cannot guarantee an immediate space in the next level.
6. Payments and Fees
6.1 Fees must be paid in advance. Current prices are available on our website.
6.2 Direct Debits are taken on the 1st or 15th of each month.
6.3 A joining fee may apply.
6.4 To cancel, email sport-climbing@port.ac.uk with one full calendar month’s notice.
6.5 Failure to provide notice may result in outstanding payments being pursued.
6.6 Price changes will be communicated at least 10 working days in advance.
6.7 Climbing lesson payments do not grant access to any other UOP Sport membership benefits unless otherwise stated.
7. Changing Lessons or Instructors
7.1 You may request a change of time, day, or instructor. Changes depend on availability.
8. Climbing Wall Closures and Cancellations
8.1 In the event of an unplanned closure, we will contact you by email or phone.
8.2 For planned closures, we will attempt to offer an alternative session.
9. Missed Lessons
9.1 Fees are non-refundable for missed sessions or voluntary withdrawal.
9.2 Refunds or credits may be considered in exceptional medical cases with valid documentation.
10. Instructor Changes
10.1 We aim to maintain instructor consistency, but cannot guarantee this.
10.2 Cover instructors may be assigned without prior notice.
11. Communication
11.1 Facility issues should be raised with the Duty Management Team via reception.
11.2 For questions about progression, contact the Climbing Officer at sport-climbing@port.ac.uk.
11.3 A valid email address is required for all communications regarding progression and cancellations.
12. Viewing and Conduct During Lessons
12.1 Parents are not permitted in the climbing instruction area.
12.2 Distractions affect safety and progression. Please avoid interacting with children during lessons.
12.3 Photography or filming is strictly prohibited without written permission from Centre Management.
13. Behaviour and Discipline
13.1 During lessons, children are under the supervision of the instructor.
13.2 Children are expected to: Listen and respond to instructions from instructors. Respect other climbers and staff and use equipment safely and responsibly.
13.3 Persistent disruptive behaviour may result in temporary or permanent removal from the programme without a refund.
14. Liability
14.1 Use of the climbing wall is at your own risk.
14.2 The University of Portsmouth is not liable for personal belongings or injuries beyond the extent permitted by law.