Hopefully the thing that sets me apart from many other providers is that I specialises in tailored instruction, guiding and courses, which are matched to your individual requirements.
On this page you should, fingers crossed, find plenty of information that should answer those frequently raised questions. If you can't find what you are looking for, or just don't want to wade through the text, feel free to get in touch.
The tailored approach starts with me finding a suitable date that matches your availability. Many instructional, guiding and course days are booked up well in advance, particularly during summer weekends. In the event that I am really busy I may arrange days on the same basis with my colleagues. Regardless, I am commited to small ratio's of 1:1 or 1:2 in many cases, rather than operating 'open courses' where you could be matched with people of very different abilities.
Pricing Policy:
James Thacker Mountaineering strives to keep prices competative and accessible for you, the client. All technical equipment is included in the course cost, so that there are no 'hidden extras'. For a full list of instructional, guiding and course prices have a look at the Booking & Prices page.
Associates:
From time to time James Thacker Mountaineering uses a number of carefully selected Associate Mountain Instructors and IFMGA Mountain Guides to deliver course programmes. All are Mountain Instructors or exceptionally experienced mountaineers, who are chosen due to a mix of their technical skills, qualifications and sound interpersonal skills.
Whats Included?
Prices include all technical instruction, guiding and coaching, technical equipment and ropes.
In addition, for the majority of course programmes you will have to provide your accommodation , lunch and personal equipment. Full kit lists are available in the downloads section. This allows a great deal of flexibility for personal budgets. For a list of recommended providers of accommodation have a look at the accommodation page.
Please feel free to contact us if you require assistance finding somewhere to stay. In the vast majority of cases we are more than happy to provide transport from your accomodation to course venues.
Safety:
I take the safety of my clients very seriously and strive to ensure that everybody has a safe day out on the crags or in the mountains. I believe this is demonstrated by the fact that currently James Thacker Mountaineering has an unblemished safety record (and I hope it stays that way).
However, mountains in summer or winter are dynamic by their nature as are the risks inherent in all hill walking, climbing and mountaineering activities. You need to be aware of and accept these risks when participating.
Although insurance is not mandatory in the UK, I also strongly recommend that you obtain personal accident insurance prior to the start of your course, such policies are available from the British Mountaineering Council (BMC) along with lots of good advice. http:\\www.thebmc.co.uk
Weather:
Sadly mountaineering and its associated activities are always dictated, to an extent, by the weather and the prevailing conditions. As such this may dictate the venues used during a particular course. However, I will always strive to provide a varied and relevant course regardless of the weather.
Disclaimer:
James Thacker Mountaineering's services are subject to a disclaimer. On signing the booking form you are accepting the Terms and Conditions, agreeing to observe any safety requests and accepting responsibility for your own actions.
