We deliver Training and Assessment for the BCA Local Cave Leader Scheme for both

Cave Leader & Vertical Leader

The Local Cave and Mine Leader Assessment (LCMLA) Scheme provides an award recognising the competence of those wishing to take responsibility for others underground, for the benefit of employers or others in authority. The main considerations are equally the safety of the group and the conservation of a fragile environment.

The scheme has four stages, enrolment, training, assessment and issue of an award. Prior to entering the scheme, prospective candidates should have experience of the exploration of caves, mines and potholes. The prospective candidate should then enrol in the scheme and receive a log book in which progress is recorded. The candidate should be over 18 and have achieved a suitable level of experience before undertaking a training course. The candidate should then go forward to be assessed against a set of modules. On successful completion of a set of modules, the candidate shall be given an award.

The award reflects the level of competence of the holder in specified caves and mines and is set at two levels: Cave Leader for non-vertical systems, or Vertical Leader for vertical systems with pitches up to 18m explored with ladders, although single rope techniques is an option for the leader only. Those wishing to undertake more ambitious objectives should register for the Cave Instructor Certificate Scheme. The award is only valid for a period of three years and is subject to conditions of maintaining a level of activity and holding a valid first aid certificate. An award holder can update their award for periods of an additional three years by undergoing an update process.