What is an 'Over 14 Sign Off'?
Normally you have to be over 18 to use the centre independently, but if you've been attending the Project for a while then you can attend one of these 'Sign Off' sessions, where a child who is over the age of 14 can get signed off to be able to use the centre without the supervision of an adult.
Who can attend?
Anyone who has attended The Project regularly can attend provided they are over the age of 14 - there are no exceptions. A parent or legal guardian must also be present for the whole session.
What happens during the session?
Firstly, the parents and children will meet with the instructor to discuss the implications of using the centre independently - there are risks involved, and we need to make sure that you are aware of them. A minor can't accept these risks - an adult has to accept the risks on their behalf. That means it's crucial that everyone understand them! You'll watch a video explaining each of the risks involved, and if you're happy to proceed, you will fill in an 'acknowledgement of risk' form for your child.
Your child will then go into the climbing area with the instructor and demonstrate that they are competent to climb or boulder unsupervised. The instructor will be watching with a keen eye to make sure your child is competent, confident, and safe. The instructor will then 'PASS' or 'DEFER' the child depending on their skill. The instructor has to be very strict on these points and if they're on the fence about the child's skills, the child will be deferred.
What happens next?
If you're happy to fill in the form, and your child passes their assessment, then the child will be able to use the centre whenever they like without supervision and without booking into the Project (although they can still attend The Project if they want!).
This is a privilege that is taken very seriously by Boulders staff due to the level of risk involved, and if the child does not follow the rules of participation then this privilege will be taken away.