02/03/2014
A good alround instructor
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09/01/2015
Baz has instructed frequently at the High Sports climbing wall I manage in Plymouth, both as an employee of High Sports and with external clients. He runs regular climbing instruction, indoor and out, through his own company and I have heard nothing but positive feedback from his clients. He has worked regularly for High Sports with clients of all ages and abilities; running introductory sessions; long term junior clubs - with the aim of teaching children (ages 4-17) to become self-sufficient indoor climbers; frequent involvement with a Plymouth City Council project aimed at increasing accessibility of climbing for children; disability sessions for children and adults with physical disabilities and special educational needs; school and youth groups looking to introduce and improve their members climbing ability; and adult instruction for those looking to begin indoor climbing. He has a superb instructing manner and encourages his groups to achieve all they can, always going beyond the basic skills instructing and focusing on movement skills and technique development. I would not hesitate to employ Baz as an instructor or coach, both in a High Sports wall and for my own clients outdoors.
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12/01/2015
Whenever I've worked with Barry, watched him work, or climbed with him, he has been highly competent, very much approachable, and a good all round instructor. He is easy to talk to and is always keen to improve himself. Whenever I've seen him coach groups and individuals, they have been engaged, interested, and quick to pick up on the skills he is teaching. He is very adaptable in these situations, and as head coach at High Sports Plymouth, I would highly recommend him for any future awards he may consider doing.
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18/05/2019
Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor
I have known Baz for many years in both a work and friend capacity. He is a conscientious and competent climber and mountaineer and will be a great mountaineering instructor. I have observed him in a work capacity and have employed him to work independently on Mountain Training courses I provide. He is a solid pair of hands and I will continue to employ him when the need arises. His enthusiasm for all things hill, crag and mountain is contagious, and this passion shows through in his work. I would wholeheartedly support his progression as a mountaineering and climbing instructor and he will be an excellent addition to the community.
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26/01/2023
Winter Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor
I am Matthew Knapp, Centre Manager for The Dartmoor Centres , and I am pleased to write an endorsement for Barry Thomas. As a centre we have employed Baz over the last 6 years, he is an extremely driven instructor and very goal orientated. He has worked as a member of our team and independently always to the highest standard. I have also walked and climbed with Baz on a personal level during this time, he is the perfect candidate to progress on to the WMCI.
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