Level One Coach or Level Two Trainee Coach or above
Teacher with Two Star Kayak or higher, subject to approval of Regional Coaching Organiser
Level Four Pool Blade Award Holder
Theory Sample Questions:
What steps should be taken to avoid damage to the pool or surrounds?
State two pool rules
What are the origins of the kayak?
Why put buoyancy in a kayak?
Describe why and where you would wear a buoyancy aid or helmet?
Name three parts of the kayak.
Practical
Take Part in an organised pool session.
No time period given as the aim is to give the candidate a basic level of ability, encouraging safe practise, regard for equipment and fun.
Swim the length of the pool wearing a buoyancy aid.
Candidate should understand difference ber.veen buoyancy aid and, life jacket and demonstrate how to correctly put on and adjust.
Capsize and exit kayak.
If a spraydeck is worn, this may be released before capsizing. The candidate should remain calm, quickly regain and maintain contact with the boat. Swim to the side and empty the boat. Help can be requested , as long as the candidate remains in charge of emptying.
How to get in and out of kayak.
Candidate to demonstrate good lifting technique and carrying principles (assistance may be given). Boat to be afloat and balance to be maintained. The paddle must remain within reach or can be used to assist in getting into the boat.
How to paddle forwards.
Candidates must show evidence that they are able to control the kayak in a straight line over a distance of 10 metres. Some directional instability is likely to occur but this should not include complete loss of forward momentum or careering from side to side.
How to turn the kayak using sweep strokes.
Rotate 360 degrees on the spot. Spinning in both a clockwise and anti clockwise direction.
How to paddle backwards.
The kayak should travel a distance of 5 metres. Turning the trunk and looking over one or both shoulders must be in evidence.
How to stop in both directions.Opposite motion should be in evidence within four strokes.