Canoeing
Canoeing for schools
For schools looking to try something a bit different during their residential school trip in Dorset, Canadian canoeing might be the perfect option. Young people can learn how to manoeuvre this ancient form of transport, while enjoying exclusive use of a private lake. Participants can paddle solo or in tandem with a friend. There will be plenty of opportunities to learn new skills and put them to the test.
KEY INFO
- Put traditional Canadian canoes to the test
- Explore our private lake by paddle power
- Learn new skills and canoeing techniques
Traditional Canadian canoes
Our experienced instructors will help participants familiarise themselves with the fundamentals of canoeing. At the beginning of the session, students will learn how to control a canoe using different paddle strokes. Once the group is happy, they can put their newly acquired skills into practice on the water.
Whilst upholding the highest standards of customer care and safety, we always try and incorporate a bit of fun into our sessions. Where possible we play a range of water-based games, which only add to the experience! These games, whilst intended to be fun and enjoyable, serve an important purpose. They can help improve participants balance, communication and technique.
It’s really important that our students feel comfortable at all times, so we tailor our sessions to the needs of the group.
Traditional Canadian canoes
Our experienced instructors will help participants familiarise themselves with the fundamentals of canoeing. At the beginning of the session, students will learn how to control a canoe using different paddle strokes. Once the group is happy, they can put their newly acquired skills into practice on the water.
Whilst upholding the highest standards of customer care and safety, we always try and incorporate a bit of fun into our sessions. Where possible we play a range of water-based games, which only add to the experience! These games, whilst intended to be fun and enjoyable, serve an important purpose. They can help improve participants balance, communication and technique.
It’s really important that our students feel comfortable at all times, so we tailor our sessions to the needs of the group.
Learning outcomes
Our paddlesports sessions provide students with plenty of opportunities for learning outside the classroom. As well as learning canoeing techniques, students can develop a number of practical and social skills that are transferable to everyday life.
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Coordination & balance
Balance and coordination are vital skills to master in order to canoe efficiently. Handling the canoe proficiently requires hand eye coordination and good special awareness.
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Team work
When paddling in tandem it’s vital to have excellent coordination with a partner. Team work is essential to make sure participants don’t expend unnecessary energy trying to move in opposite direction. Only when students work together is it possible to pick up speed and carry out intricate manoeuvres.
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Water safety
We promote the importance of water safety during our canoeing sessions. Our experienced instructors teach students how to stay safe around water and the various dangers they should look out for when visiting the beach or bodies of water.
Get in touch
Start planning your bespoke school residential trip itinerary today!
Canoeing FAQs
Where can I find your canoeing certificates?
If you would like to see all our canoeing information, including risk assessments, policies, emergency procedures, insurance and affiliation certification, please ask. You will be sent a link to our website with a password to access and download as much as you need.
Are you insured for canoeing?
Yes, we are insured for canoeing and we have £10 million public liability insurance. We are accredited by: Institute of Outdoor Learning, National Coasteering Charter, Adventure Activities Licensing Service, DofE Approved Activity Provider and Learning Outside the Classroom.
Do they need to be able to swim for canoeing?
Yes, students need to be able to swim 25m to participate in a Cumulus Outdoors canoeing session. Don’t forgot, this is with a wetsuit and buoyancy aid on which provides a huge amount of buoyancy. We basically are requiring them to be confident in the water and be able to move forward.
What happens if there is bad weather before canoeing?
Rarely is the weather bad enough to cancel a session. However, if we feel we need to cancel or change the canoeing for session, we will be in touch at least 2 days prior to the activity. We will however always do our best to deliver the activities as per the agreed programme.
What if my child doesn’t want to do canoeing?
During our canoeing sessions we challenge the students to participate voluntarily, to push their comfort zone and test themselves. We operate a ‘challenge by choice ethos’, which allows the students to choose the level they are comfortable with.
What is the instructor to participant ratio for canoeing?
The instructor to participant ratio for canoeing is 1:12.
What kit do they need to bring canoeing?
A spare pair of clothes that may get wet is needed for canoeing. Ideally pack something quick drying – please no jeans or tracksuits and trainers suitable for the water. Please no flip flops, thin wetsuit shoes or crocs! Don’t forget a rucksack for your clothes, snacks, something to drink and any personal medication. We will supply a wetsuit and buoyancy aid.
