Rise & Summit Testimonials

What an excellent few days with Kevin, in the stunning Wye Valley. I started mountaineering just as we went into Lockdown and am now 35 days in, having climbed in Scotland, Wales, the Swiss Alps and Africa. I seek out professionally accredited guides/instructors, folks that will keep me safe but also push me, enabling maximum progress. Kevin is the latest of ten such individuals that I have had the pleasure to learn from. A current objective is to move up from ‘trad competent second’ level to one where I am leading. Although I had only the three days to spare, Kevin delivered excellent instruction and support, climbing in Symonds Yat, Wintour’s Leap and at Red Point climbing centre, Worcester. Kevin pays meticulous attention to detail, he took time to understand my general objectives and very quickly made an assessment of my ability. I left my ‘comfort zone’ almost immediately, small steps, all building confidence. Unique amongst the instructors that I have met so far, Kevin has a fascinating interest in climbing psychology (and has published a book on the subject). He explained how my own body was reacting as we climbed and offered very helpful tips, particularly around ‘negative self-talk’, ‘stress’ and ‘breathing’. Technically, there is also a lot to take in, moving into the ‘lead’ role but I now have the confidence to keep up that momentum. ‘Always a little further….’, many thanks Kevin.

Had a great day out with Kev learning to fall on trad gear. Been back climbing for a few years now and well aware of the bad habits I have. Lockdown and lack of leading has lead to a bit of a crisis in confidence.

Needed a bit of input and got just that. Kev took us through where and how to use various types of nuts, cams and hexes to maximum safe effect. We talked kN and fall factors and then got on some classic climbs at Symond's Yat to place the gear and take the falls. Using a top rope while leading, put me under pressure to climb carefully and place gear which then had to work. And it did, every time. Thank you, Kev.

Have just done a trad falling workshop with Kev. Was very well run, personalised and professional. Kev packed a lot into the day, and imparted a huge amount of wisdom on good/bad gear placement, route strategy and more. He even managed to get us taking falls in gear and feeling confident and safe throughout! Would highly recommend to anyone looking to progress in climbing - already thinking about what course I can do next.

Kevin, good day yesterday, thank you. I've always been a bit uncomfortable about lead climbing so it's good to have put that gremlin to bed!

Kevin was great. My brother and I have the climbing bug for sure. Will want to keep practicing for sure.

We had a great experience sleeping on the side of a cliff as a thrill experience. Felt safer than we thought we would, thanks to Kevin. Would highly recommend, as a very unusual and fun thing to do for non climbers.

I just wanted to drop you a line to thank you again and let you know how much your psychology course has improved my climbing. I've recommended quite a few people your way.

Not sure if you remember, but before the course I was stuck on 6b/6b+ routes. I red pointed my first 7a week before last, and I got myself up a 7b+ last week. I'm also practising regular fall drills and am now completely fine with going for moves I probably can't stick above clips.

Great session at the Warehouse with Kevin. The psychology of falling!
Certainly helped to overcome some of the instinctive fears I have. Need to carry on with the practice and use it to get up some routes this summer.

Just got back from a week of winter skills and ice climbing with Kevin - awesome! Seriously good teacher and all around friendly guy who gave a really personalised experience. You can tell Kevin has a big passion for the outdoors and is great at what he does.

Thanks again and hopefully see you soon!

"The psychology of Climbing session was amazing. I went from crying on top rope at the beginning of the session to touching the next clip and falling off. Thank you Kevin!"

"Did a days trad at the Avon gorge with Kev recently and left feeling confident in going out and doing it without an instructor. Great style of teaching that allows you to assess your own and others work before Kev tells you what he thinks. Highly recommend to anyone wanting to learn trad or brush up on technique, gear placement etc."

“Wasn’t sure what to expect, as my boyfriend booked the experience for my birthday. As soon as we arrived, Kevin gave me the confidence, and reassured me. It was an unforgettable experience. And felt looked after throughout the two days. Thank you again Kevin.”

“I really enjoyed my course with Kevin. He was very patient and worked with me to build my confidence in gear placement and leading. I would certainly recommend his courses. Thank you so much for 2 extremely informative, fun days. Kevin was very supportive, patient and knowledgeable. I feel much more confident with leading, gear placement and anchor building. I can't wait to get back out on the rock! ”

“We had a great time, was scared at first, and wasn’t sure what to expect. Kevin was very reassuring and made the experience go flawlessly, and felt safe throughout the stay on the portaledge.”