Over the next few weeks we are doing the Explorer Scout Climbing badge. We began by visiting Byker climbing wall for a session of bouldering.

The requirements of the badge are here:

1. Either hold the Scout section Climber Badge or have completed at least four different climbs each of which should be listed in a climbing guidebook.
2. Know how to put on a harness, set up a belay and the calls used in climbing.
3. Have experience of at least one session (two hours) of single-pitch climbing on a man-made climbing wall, either indoors or outdoors.
4. Be able to use information given in a climbing guidebook. Explain the grading systems for climbs.
5. Select at least five separate climbs, locate the starts on the ground and climb them (the standard should be at least Very Difficult).
6. Be able to abseil down a face of not less than 15 metres also using a safety rope.