Training for Underground Explorers

This website has predominantly been set up to support candidates working through the LCMLA scheme. There’s a number of resources available on this site, all of which are free to access although some may need a password to access. You can request the password (again free) however will need to register an email address to gain access.

You can also use this site to book an assessment course, or arrange a training course.

In addition I can provide a variety of underground exploration courses, from guided adventures, personal tuition in SRT (Single Rope Technique), or nationally recognised governing body award (Local Cave & Mine Leader) training or assessments.

Up and coming courses are listed above, just click on the photo, or book a place directly on the form below.

Our December 2021 LCMLA Panel Courses can be booked here

Log into the QMS here: https://britishcaving.azolve.com/ You'll need to register with the BCAs Leadership Award Scheme prior to attending any courses
Note a copy of your booking enquiry form will be sent to your invoice address in addition to your own address,

Assessment Candidates, please read


Before presenting for assessment please double check you have the minimum log-book experience as outlined in the BCA Handbook

  • Have at least 1 year cave/mine exploration
  • 30 trips in 10 different systems (including 2 different type of mines for Mine Leader)
  • A proportion of these should be as a leader under supervision
  • Some trips may be above and beyond the remit of the level 1

5 of these must be quality days, defined as satisfying at least 4 of the following. Please nominate and highlight the 5 trips you consider best reflect quality days in your logbook when presented

  • Exploration of a new route or system
  • Incorporate at least 4 or 5 hours underground exploration
  • An experience that develops an individuals caving/mine exploration knowledge, skills and awareness
  • Incorporates skills above the level of the candidates qualification
  • Self led
  • Involve some vertical skills or digging
  • Exploration of a cave that responds to rainfall

Please be prepared to present your log book on request. This can be done by posing or dropping off your log book to Oaklands OEC, or by sending us photos or a scan of your logbook.