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School Holidays & Weekends Kayak Courses

* Learn to Kayak - Weekends and Holidays - Discover Award *

Learn to Kayak - Weekends and Holidays - Discover & Paddle Safer Award

British Canoeing, the governing body for kayaking and paddlesports, have improved the pathways for young people and adults for learning how to kayak. The NEW "Discover Award" and "Explore Award" aim to simplify the journey from first stepping foot in a kayak, to becoming a knowledgeable, safe and independent kayaker.
The Paddle Safer Course is based on learning and, as such, the ethos of ‘supporting the paddler’ is the main focus of the course, encouraging individuals to consider where they paddle, the equipment they use and provide practical solutions if they get into difficulty. The course covers 4 key modules:
Equipment
Environmental factors
Planning
Rescues
The Discover Award allows young enthusiasts to learn how to kayak, improves their decision making and practical skills to ensure a fun and safe time on the water. The aim is to become a more skilled and independent paddler. Through this award, they will learn how to choose and effectively use equipment, whilst developing an understanding of the factors which can effect kayaking.
 
Who is it for?
Different dates are for different age ranges, if you select the date you will be able to see if it is a Young person only (16 and under) or Family course (a mix of adults and young people!).

How long is the course?
2 days. For specific timings of a particular course, please select the highlighted dates on the calendar.
Please note, each highlighted date on the calendar is the start date of each course.

Are there any prerequisites?
The most important things are enthusiasm to learn and have fun! They also need to be comfortable in water - this means they would not panic if they were to fall in, and would be able to get themselves back to the boat/side without assistance and without panicking.

What will they learn?
  • The awards covers topics such as:
  • Decision making on different bodies of water, covering safety and weather aspects too
  • Preparing for self-guided adventures
  • Equipment you will need for a variety of paddle trips
  • Further developing your kayak skills and rescue skills
Do they get a certificate?
Yes. Two! The course includes an assessment which will take place during the last day of the course. Upon successful completion of each course, you will receive an "e-certificate". Make sure to register your email address correctly upon booking to ensure you receive your certificate!
 
What should they bring?
We will provide all the equipment including all personal safety equipment. We recommend appropriately gripped water shoes or trainers, light sportswear, trousers/shorts or swimming shorts, a waterproof/windproof jacket, additional top layers and of course, spares of everything! Wetsuits can be appropriate but only for planned wet sessions.

How much does it cost? £180 for the full two days. This includes the cost of assessment and certification. Please note they must bring a packed lunch and snacks for both days, this is not included.
 
You can book this course using childcare vouchers or tax free childcare - please email reception@longridge.org.uk to do so.

What's next?
Completed your Discover Award? Great! When you've completed your Discover Award progress to the Explore Award
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