Paddlesport & Education
Paddlesport is a challenging activity in an environment that
opens up many new experiences for children and young people. It can provide them
with the opportunity to:
-
Take responsibility for developing themselves in a different
type of controlled environment
-
Experience outdoor activities
-
Mix with other children from different backgrounds
-
Learn new skills
How to get started
There are a number of types of paddlesport experience children can enjoy.
These include:
 The
Bell Boat
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A great way to get 12 children afloat at one time
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Good for developing teamwork.
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A very stable craft.
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A teacher can become qualified to helm the boat after a short
half-day course - no paddling skills or experience required!!
-
Ideal for a larger stretch of water or river
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An excellent floating classroom
Open Canoes
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Can fit 3-4 in one boat or up to 8 in two rafted together
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Good for developing team work
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Stable when rafted together
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Will fit into a swimming pool!
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Requires teacher to be qualified to BCU Level 1 Coach to
operate in a swimming pool or sheltered lake
Kayaks
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Provide opportunity for youngster to take responsibility for
themselves
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Encourages independence
-
Can be used on any type of water, from swimming pools to
rivers
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Usually one child per kayak (although there are 2 & 4 person
kayaks)
-
Need a coach qualified to level 1 to lead the group in a
swimming pool or sheltered lake.
WCA Value - Added Support
The WCA have a number of Paddlesport
Development Officers (PDOs) who can give further help and guidance. They
can help you to:
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