We have been canoeing and kayaking since June, until this week. Lots of skills developed inc. kitting up, gear, launching, controlling speed, controlling direction and journey skills. Just when two paddlers get comfortable with each other, the boat partners are shuffled so they have to re-start trusting each other and learn to communicate correctly.  Learners were coached with differing styles – Guided Discovery, Direct Command,  Reciprocal. Using different styles of coaching allows different learners to access learning whatever needs they may have eg struggle to communicate, struggle to work with others.

Mr T showing the correct technique for carrying a canoe by yourself, over your neck, using the centre yoke. Normally four pupils carry each boat, to prevent injury.

We have paddled in all weathers from burning hot sun to strong winds and torrential rain. We have the use of the kit and the canal so we have been lucky to get out every day we planned. Unfortunately we have not managed to get away to another venue – loch, reservoir – for capsize drills and swims !

The class chose kayaks or canoes after trying both disciplines out. Next spring we will do an Overnight Expedition to test journey skills out.

Although Dale and Grace both capsized kayaks a few weeks back, they were keen to kayak the next week !

Getting all the kit launched.

Steph modelling the latest canoe fashions ! – essential kit, waterproofs and paddle with PFD. (personal flotation  device). learners cannot be on the pontoon near the water or in a canoe without a PFD on. This is  a very basic but essential piece of safety equipment.

There are many heritage aspects to a journey along the canal, including many bridges. This one at Polmont railway station, was built in 1859.

Dragonfly spotting, this day we observed around 8 dragonflies landing on vegetation. None of the class had seen them before.

Hold on to the raft ! Steph doing a good job holding the kayaks together.

The team listening to coaching input from Mrs H.