General aims

The Level 1 Kayaking Skills Award aims to enable participants to
1.01 perform fundamental Kayaking Skills.
1.02 Understand and explain the fundamental safety rules of canoeing.
1.03 foster further participation in canoeing.

Requirements

Participants must successfully demonstrate the following:
2.01 an understanding of the Basic Safety Rules of canoeing.
2.02 an ability to Enter and Exit a kayak correctly.
2.03 Forward Paddle, Reverse Paddle, and Stop.
2.04 an ability to turn while stationary using Forward Sweep Stroke, Reverse Sweep Stroke and a combination of Forward and Reverse Sweep Strokes.
2.05 Capsize Drill

Assessment:

3.01 There is no formal assessment for the Level 1 Kayaking Skills Award, however, a participant must be able to demonstrate the required skills in the presence of a registered ICU Coach before being given an award.
3.02 All strokes must be demonstrated on both sides.
3.03 The Level 1 Kayak Skills Award is not a compulsory pre requisite for any subsequent ICU skills awards.
3.04 No age restriction applies to this award

Assessment Guidelines

The Level 1 Kayak Skills Award can only be assessed by a currently registered Irish Canoe Union Instructor.

Notes:
Safety Rules of Canoeing
1. You must be able to swim.
2. You must always wear a buoyancy aid.
3. You must always ensure that there is adequate kayak buoyancy.
4. You must never canoe alone.

Entry and Exit

Entry and exit with or without the use of a paddle is acceptable.

Forward and Reverse Paddling

Veering is allowed for, but a participant must be able to maintain reasonable directional stability for at least 25 metres.

Stopping

A participant should demonstrate an ability to stop when moving forward and in reverse.

Forward and Reverse Sweep Stroke

There should be an efficient use of the paddle in turning the kayak.

Capsize Drill

The capsize and exit from the kayak, should be carried out in water of sufficient depth adjacent to the shore/bank. The use of a spraydeck is optional.

General aims
The Level 2 Kayak Skills Award aims to enable participants to
1.01 kayak safely and competently on flat water and Grade 1 rivers as a member of a group.
1.04 assist in basic rescues.
1.05 foster further participation in canoeing.

Requirements
Participant must successfully demonstrate the following techniques and skills
2.01 an understanding of the Basic Safety Rules of canoeing.
2.02 an ability to Enter and Exit a kayak correctly.
2.03 Forward Paddle, Reverse Paddle, and Stop. 
2.06 an ability to turn while stationary using Forward Sweep Stroke, Reverse Sweep Stroke and a combination of Forward and Reverse Sweep Strokes.
2.07 Simple Draw Stroke.
2.08 Low Brace.
2.09 Low Brace Turn.
2.08 Edging while the kayak is moving.
2.09 Capsize Drill.
2.10 an ability to assist in a H Rescue, and in an Assisted X Rescue.
2.11 Lower Body Rotation.

Assessment
3.01 During an assessment all techniques and skills must be demonstrated to an assessor's satisfaction in order to achieve this award.
3.02 No part of an assessment can be taken in a swimming pool. All assessment criteria must be demonstrated outdoors on flat water (i.e. water of Grade I difficulty).
3.03 It may not be feasible for a junior or disabled person to assist fully in rescues - such candidates should, however, have a full understanding of the correct sequence of each of the required rescues and have some role to fulfil in the completion of these rescues.
3.04 A spraydeck must be worn throughout an assessment.
3.05 All strokes should be demonstrated in relevant situations i.e. use of a simple draw stroke to manoeuvre the kayak to the bank. Strokes should be demonstrated on both sides of the kayak.
3.06 The Level 2 Kayak Skills Award is not a compulsory pre requisite for any subsequent Irish Canoe Union skills awards.
3.07 All required assessment rescues are kept until the end of an assessment.
3.08 No age restriction applies to this award.

Assessment Guidelines

 The Level 2 Kayak Skills Award can only be assessed by a currently registered ICU Coach.
 The assessment will be carried out with a maximum of four candidates to one assessor. However, a ratio of 3:1 is preferable.
 Generally guidelines will be given, should a candidate fail an assessment, as to the areas that they need to improve on.

General aims
The Level 3 Kayaking Skills Award aims to enable participants to
1.01 kayak safely and competently on river up to and including Grade 2 rivers as a member of a group.
1.06 be capable of negotiating obstacles likely to be encountered on Grade 2 rivers.
1.03 assist in rescues.
1.04 foster further participation in canoeing.

Requirements
Participants must successfully explain and demonstrate the following techniques and skills at a level higher than that required for the Level 2 Kayaking Skills Award.

Strokes
2.01 Forward Paddle, Reverse Paddle, Emergency Stop.
2.02 Forward Sweep, Reverse Sweep and a combination of Forward and Reverse Sweep.
2.03 Draw Stroke
2.04 Sculling Draw
2.05     Hanging Draw
2.06 Sculling for Support
2.07 Low Brace
2.08 High Brace
2.09 Low Brace Turn
2.10 Stern Rudder
2.11 Bow Rudder

Techniques
2.12 Entry and Exit
2.13 Edging
2.14 Forward Ferry Gliding
2.15 Reverse Ferry Gliding
2.16 Breaking In
2.17 Breaking Out
2.18 Capsize Drill

Rescues
2.19 Assisted X Rescue and an X Rescue
2.20 Eskimo Rescue
2.21     Eskimo Roll

Theory
2.22 Safety Rules
2.23 an understanding of the use of Defensive Swimming
2.24 an understanding of Eddies, Standing Waves, V Waves, Stoppers, and Easy River Routes i.e. the main flow down a Grade II rapid
2.25 an understanding of good control (i.e. responding to various signals and commands)

Assessment
3.01 During an assessment a participant must explain and demonstrate all techniques and skills at a level higher than that required for the Level 2 Kayak Skills Award. All techniques, skills and rescues must be demonstrated to an assessor's satisfaction in order to achieve this award.

3.02 No part of an assessment can be taken in a swimming pool. All assessment criteria must be demonstrated outdoors on water of Grade 2 difficulty as part of a river trip.
3.03 All strokes should be demonstrated in relevant situations i.e sculling in a small stopper. Strokes should be demonstrated on both sides of the kayak.
3.04 Generally, required assessment rescues will be kept until the end of an assessment.
3.05 Participants for this award must be at least 12 years of age.

Assessment Guidelines
 It is recommended that a Level 3 Kayak Skills Award is assessed by a coach other than the coach who ran the training course leading to assessment
 The Level 3 Kayak Skills Award can only be assessed by a currently registered ICU Coach.
 The assessment will be carried out with a maximum of four candidates to one assessor, however, a ratio of 3:1 is preferable.
 Generally guidelines will be given, should a candidate fail an assessment, as to the areas that they need to improve on.

 

Notes for Level 1-3 Kayaking Skills Awards

Safety Rules of Canoeing
1. You must be able to swim.
4. You must always wear a buoyancy aid.
5. You must always ensure that there is adequate kayak buoyancy.
6. You must never canoe alone.

Entry and Exit
Can be carried out with or without the use of paddles, depending on what is most appropriate to the situation.

Forward Paddling
Some directional instability is allowed for. This should not include complete loss of forward movement or continuous veering from side to side, aiming for a point/gap as a task.

Reverse Paddling
Some directional instability is allowed for. This should not include complete loss of reverse movement or continuous veering from side to side.  A wider stroke than that used for forward paddling is permissible.

Stopping
Stopping should occur in a straight line allowing some leeway, but not veering from side to side. Ability to stop should be demonstrated while paddling forward and in reverse.

Forward Sweep Stroke
There should be full arm extension. The sweep should be initiated at the front of the kayak and continued to stern with trunk rotation evident.

Reverse Sweep Stroke
Trunk rotation to place paddle in the water at stern should be evident. There should be continuous sweep to the front of the kayak as the trunk unwinds. There should be full arm extension throughout.

Draw Stroke
The paddle should remain in the water throughout. Some slight bow or stern swing is acceptable.  An ability to maintain the paddle shaft vertical, should be evident. Some body rotation towards the paddling side should be evident.

Low Brace Support
The kayak must be sufficiently tilted for water to reach the spraydeck. A good push down with the elbows above paddle and associated knee lift and lower body rotation should be evident.

Low Brace Turn
The kayak should be moved at an acceptable speed and a turn induced by applying a sweep on the opposite side, followed by edging into the turn, the back of the blade on the surface of the water for support on the turning side and at a suitable angle/feather.

Capsize Drill
While wearing a spraydeck, and followed by a 10 metre swim towing the kayak and paddle to the bank, then emptying the kayak correctly. The paddle should be retained.

Lower Body Rotation
A demonstration of the use of the lower body in controlling the kayak, for example the initial stages of an Eskimo Rescue.

General aims
The Level 4 Kayak Skills Award aims to enable candidates to
1.01 kayak safely and proficiently on rivers up to and including Grade 3 difficulty.
1.02 be capable of negotiating obstacles likely to be encountered on Grade 3 rivers.
1.07 Deal competently with rescue situations that might occur on rivers up to and including rivers of Grade 3 difficulty.
1.08 Develop group awareness.

Requirements
To obtain the Level 4 Kayak Skills Award a participant must successfully explain and demonstrate the following techniques and skills at a level higher than that required for the Level 3 Kayak Skills Award and be capable of demonstrating any combination of the strokes competently and efficiently. The assessment will take place during a river trip of at least three miles on water of Grade 3 difficulty.

Strokes
2.01 Forward Paddle, Reverse Paddle, Emergency Stop.
2.02 Forward Sweep, Reverse Sweep and a combination of Forward and Reverse Sweep
2.03 Edging
2.04 Bow Rudder
2.05 Stern Rudder
206 Low Brace Turn
2.07 Low Recovery
2.08 High Recovery
2.09 Sculling for Support
2.10 Sculling Draw
2.11 Draw Stroke
2.12 Hanging Draw
2.13 Defensive Swimming

Techniques
2.14 an ability to use water conditions available for the effective and efficient manoeuvring of a kayak.
2.15 competence in negotiating water obstructions i.e. Standing Waves, Stoppers, and an ability to utilise it to cross a river.
2.16 competence in negotiating bends where water flows under trees or against vertical riverbank.
2.17 Forward Ferry Gliding (facing upriver).
2.18 Reverse Ferry Gliding (facing downriver).
2.19 Breaking In accurately.
2.20 Breaking Out accurately.
2.21 Eskimo Roll.
2.22 Capable of Self-Rescue.

Rescues and Safety Techniques
2.22 Assisted X and/or an X Rescue.
2.23 Eskimo Rescue (maximum lower body rotation).
2.24 Curl Rescue and/or TX Rescue.
2.25 Stern Carry.
2.26 Unconscious Casualty (method of righting an unconscious person in a capsized kayak)
2.27 an ability to manoeuvre an empty kayak between two specified points.
2.28 an ability to assist an incapacitate paddler in a kayak between two specified points.
2.29 an ability to use a Throw Rope to rescue a swimmer.
2.30 a practical knowledge of First Aid and its relevance to possible situations arising during a canoeing trip to include: Shock, Hypothermia, Head Injuries, Dislocations, Bleeding, CPR, EAR.

Theory
2.31 An understanding of the following: 
River Grading
River Route Finding
Types of GP kayaks and paddles
Towing Systems and methods
Group Control and Awareness
Signals and Commands
Personal Equipment

Applying to attend an Assessment
Before applying to attend a Level 4 Kayak Skills Award Assessment, a candidate must

3.01 have obtained the Level 3 Kayak Skills Award.
3.03 have unrestricted access to a fully equipped kayak, personal equipment and additional equipment. (See Level 4 Kayak Skills List of Equipment)
3.04 be at least 16 years of age.
3.05 have returned to the ICU Office a Level 4 Kayak Skills Assessment application form no later than three weeks before a selected assessment date.

Assessment
4.01 During an assessment a candidate must explain and demonstrate all techniques and skills at a level higher than that required for the Level 3 Kayak Skills Award. All techniques, skills and rescues must be demonstrated to the required level in order to achieve this award.
4.02 All strokes should be demonstrated in relevant situations i.e. sculling in a small stopper. Strokes should be demonstrated on both sides of the kayak.
4.03 All rescues must be executed by the candidate acting as both rescuee and rescuer. Generally, required assessment rescues will be kept until the end of the river trip.
4.04 While it is not compulsory to attend a training course prior to assessment, it is strongly recommended.

Assessment Guidelines
 A Level 4 Kayak Skills Award can only be assessed by a member of the Level 4 Kayak Skills Assessment Panel.

 It is recommended that the award be assessed by a coach other than the coach who ran the training course leading to assessment.

 The assessment will be carried out with a maximum ratio of 4:1.

 Guidelines will be given, should a candidate fail an assessment, as to the areas that they need to improve on.

 No other award may be assessed at the same time as the Level 4 Kayak Skills Award.
Equipment required for Assessment
Properly equipped kayak:

Rigid end loops and/or toggles
Kayaks over 270cm in length must have decklines fitted front and back
Kayaks 270cm or less in length must have cowtails fitted front and back
Method of securing paddles
Suitable buoyancy
Suitable foot rest
A kayak must be of sufficient volume to carry out all necessary safety equipment and perform any rescue as required by the Level 4 Skills Award

Personal canoeing equipment:

Paddle
Wetsuit or sufficient thermal clothing
Spray Deck
Buoyancy Aid
Cagoule
Helmet
Canoe Booties or adequate footwear

Other Equipment:

Towing System
Throw Rope
Bivvy Bag or group shelter
First Aid Kit
Repair Kit which should include (at a minimum) waterproof repair tape and cable ties
Split Paddle
Sling
Karabiner
Waterproof Bag or other method of keeping equipment dry
Knife
Whistle
Torch
Flask and Food
Spare Clothes

Level 5 Kayaking Skills

Introduction
The Level 5 Kayaking Skills Award is designed for kayakers wishing to develop advanced skills and rescue techniques appropriate to Grade 4 & advanced white water rivers. It is an appropriate award for advanced kayakers who kayak with others of Level 4 or higher ability on Grade 4 & advanced white water rivers.

The Level 5 Kayak Skills Award is a pre requisite for progression from the Level 3 to the Level 4 Kayak Coach. The Level 4 Kayak Coach is the appropriate qualification for those wishing to instruct and lead others Grade 4 & advanced white water rivers.

General aims
The Level 5 Kayak Skills Award aims to enable candidates to
1.01 develop the necessary skills, group awareness, and group management to kayak safely and proficiently on rivers up to and including rivers of Grade 4 & advanced white water difficulty.
1.09 deal competently with rescue situations which might occur on rivers up to and including rivers of Grade 4 & advanced white water difficulty.
1.10 deal competently with First Aid situations in the river environment.

Training Course Outline
2.01 The Level 5 Kayak Skills Award requires that a candidate attend a training programme and a two-day assessment. The training programme will include the following:
Methods of River Leading
River Reading
Canoeing Equipment for White Water Leading
Management of Rescue Situations
Rescue from a Kayak
Use of a Throw Rope
Rope Rescues
Protection against Hazards
First Aid in the River Environment
Resuscitation in the River Environment
Trip Planning
A least one Grade 4 /advanced white water river trip leading a group under the supervision of a Level 4 Kayak Coach.
Assessment Procedures.

Applying to attend a training course
Before applying to attend a Level 5 Kayak Skills Training Course, a candidate must
3.01 hold a Level 4 Kayak Skills Award.
3.02 have unrestricted access to a fully equipped kayak, personal equipment, and additional equipment as listed for a Level 5 Kayak Skills Assessment.
3.03 be at least 18 years of age at the time of application.
 
Applying to attend an Assessment
Before applying to attend a Level 5 Kayak Skills Assessment, a candidate must
4.01 have attended an approved Level 5 Kayak Skills Training Programme within the 24 months period preceeding a selected assessment date.
4.02 have recorded in a Level 5 Kayak Skills Logbook, following the completion of a Level 5 Kayak Skills Training Programme, at least 10 river trips of a minimum of 20 hours duration of Grade 4 & advanced white water experience under the supervision of at least two registered Level 4 Kayak Coaches.
4.03 in addition to 4.02 a candidate must record in a Level 5 Kayak Skills Logbook evidence of having gained experience over a minimum of three years on a range of advanced river trips showing a bias towards "wild" and Grade 4 & advanced white water rivers. Experience gained on wholly artificial courses/weirs will not be considered as part of the completion of this requirement.
4.04 possess a current and approved First Aid Certificate. (for example, REC Level 3)
4.05 be at least 18 years of age.
4.06 have returned to the ICU Office a completed Level 5 Kayak Skills Logbook accompanied by a Level 5 Kayak Skills Assessment application form no later than three weeks before a selected assessment date.

Format of Assessment
5.01.1 The Level 5 Kayak Skills Assessment will take place over two days and must include a river     trip on a minimum of Grade 4 difficulty over a distance  a 2-5 miles (4-8 Kms.)

The Assessment Group on the river trip element of the assessment may consist of the following
Assessors: Minimum of two registered Level 5 Kayak Skills Assessors
Assessees: Minimum of two and up to a maximum of four Assessees
Other River Trip Participants: Minimum of two and up to a maximum of four participants who must hold Level 4 Kayak Skills Award
Level 5 Kayak Skills Panel Aspirants: Maximum of two Level 5 Kayak Skills Panel aspirants (These may form part of the participant group above)

5.02 The format will include assessment of a candidate's
 personal kayaking skills.
 ability to demonstrate white water and deep water rescue techniques.
 knowledge, both oral and practical, of advanced white water techniques, skills and rescues.
 knowledge, both oral and practical, of First Aid and AR as applied in a high grade river environment.
 interview with assessors

As part of an assessment, a candidate would be expected to
5.03 demonstrate all techniques and skills at a level higher than that required for the Level 4 Kayak Skills Award and at a standard necessary to deal competently with conditions likely to be encountered on Grade 4 & advanced white water rivers.
5.04 demonstrate a thorough knowledge of safety precautions and procedures to be adopted while with a group on Grade 4 & advanced white water rivers.
5.05 demonstrate an ability to assess a group's competence to deal with conditions likely to be encountered on Grade 4 & advanced white water rivers.
5.06 demonstrate an ability to command trust from a group of peers while on rivers of Grade 4 & advanced white water
5.07 demonstrate the necessary skills to communicate effectively with other group members on Grade 4 & advanced white water rivers.
5.08 deal efficiently with rescue situations likely to occur on Grade 4 & advanced white water rivers.
5.09 demonstrate a constant awareness of other group members, their location on the river and within the group.
5.10 demonstrate a sufficient knowledge of the river's environs.
5.11 demonstrate an ability to read white water to a high standard.
5.12 present a suitable and correctly fitted out kayak and other appropriate equipment (see Level 5 Kayak Skills Equipment List). It would be expected that a candidate's equipment be of a standard consistent with the responsibilities of being part of a group undertaking a trip on a Grade 4 & advanced white water river. Equipment should be readily accessible at all times. Examination of equipment will form an important part of the overall assessment.

 Assessment Guidelines
 A Level 5 Kayak Skills Award can only be assessed by two registered members of the Level 5 Kayak Skills Assessment Panel.

 It is recommended that the award is assessed by a coach other than the coach who has run the training course leading to assessment.

 Clear guidelines should be given in writing should a candidate fail an assessment as to the areas which need to be improved upon.

 Candidates cannot depend on any assistance (material or practical) during the course of an assessment.

 No other award or qualification can be assessed during a Level 5 Kayak Skills Assessment.

 The assessment ratio is a maximum of 4 assessees:2 assessors with a minimum of 2 assessees: 2 assessors

Equipment List for Level 5 Kayaking Skills Assessment
A correctly equipped kayak:
Rigid end loops and/or toggles
Kayaks over 270cm in length must have decklines fitted front and back.
Kayaks 270cm or less in length must have cowtails fitted front and back
Method of securing paddles
Suitable buoyancy
Suitable foot rest
A kayak must be of sufficient volume to carry all necessary safety equipment and perform any rescue as required by the Level 4 Kayak Skills Award

Personal canoeing equipment:
Paddle
Wetsuit or sufficient thermal clothing
Spray Deck
Buoyancy Aid
Cagoule
Helmet
Canoe Booties or adequate footwear

Other equipment:
Towing System
Throw Bag
Bivvy Bag or equivalent
First Aid Kit
Split Paddle
Whistle
Repair Kit
Knife
Whistle
Torch
Flask and Emergency Food
Spare Clothes
Waterproof Bag or other method of keeping equipment dry
Karabiners x 2
Sling
Prussic Loops x2
Map
Group Shelter

A candidate's personal and group kit will be evaluated as part of the assessment. Candidates must present suitable personal equipment plus any additional equipment deemed to be appropriate to support other members of the group. Equipment should reflect such things as the season, the abilities of the group, and the grade of the river being undertaken. Borrowed equipment will be assessed as if it were a candidate's own. A candidate should be aware that on advanced grade rivers having too much or inappropriate equipment can nearly be as hazardous as having too little.

1.00 General aims
The Level 3 Sea-kayaking Skills Award aims to enable participants to
1.01 kayak safely and competently on the sea as a member of a group being led.
1.02 paddle competently in following winds, head winds and beams winds of up to force three.
1.03 assist in rescues.
1.04 have an understanding of the importance of weather as a factor in kayaking on the sea.

2.00 Requirements for the Level 3 Sea-Kayaking Skills Award

During assessment, a participant must successfully explain and demonstrate the following techniques and skills at a level higher than that required for the Level 2 Sea Skills Award

Strokes
2.01 Forward Paddle, Reverse Paddle, Emergency Stop.
2.02 Forward Sweep, Reverse Sweep and a combination of Forward and Reverse Sweep.
2.03 Draw Stroke
2.04 Sculling Draw
2.05 Sculling for Support
2.06 Low Brace
2.07 High Brace
2.08 Low Brace Turn
2.09 Stern Rudder
2.10 Bow Rudder

Techniques
2.11 Entry and Exit
2.12 Edging
2.13 paddling in a following wind, beam winds and head winds
2.14 Record and interpret a marine weather forecast
2.15 Paddling into, bracing and turning in small surf. ( 1 Foot)
2.16 Read a tide table to ascertain the time of high-water.
2.17 Capsize Drill in deep water, getting  back into kayak with assistance.

Rescues
2.18 Assisted X Rescue and an X Rescue
2.19 Eskimo Rescue
2.20      Eskimo Roll

Theory

2.21 Safety Rules
2.22 an understanding of staying with your boat in the event of a capsize at sea.
2.23 an understanding of the effects of the wind on the sea with particular reference to the danger of offshore winds.  The candidate should show an understanding of what is meant by a leeshore. dumping surf, riptides and tide races.
2,24     an understanding of good control (i.e. responding to various signals an commands)
          
2.25      Environment recognises several of the significant flora and fauna in the   seashore environment .

3.00 Applying to attend an Assessment

Before applying to attend a Level 3 Sea Skills Assessment, a candidate must

3.01 be at least 12 years of age.
 

 

4.00 Assessment for the Level 3 Sea-Kayaking Skills Award

4.01 During assessment candidates must demonstrate all techniques/skills at a level higher than that required for the Level 2 Skills Award. All techniques, skills and rescues must be performed to an assessor's satisfaction.
4.02 No part of an assessment may be taken in a swimming pool. All assessment criteria must be demonstrated outdoors on non-tidal waters in winds up to a limit of force three.
4.03 It is recommended that the Level 3 Sea-Kayaking Skills Award be assessed by a coach other than the coach who has run the training course leading to the assessment.
4.04 The Level 3 Sea Skills Award can only be assessed by an ICU Coach currently registered with the Irish Canoe Union
4.05 The assessment is to be carried out with a maximum of four candidates to one assessor, however, a ratio of 3:1  is preferable.
4.06 All strokes should be demonstrated in relevant situations i.e. low brace against a small breaking wave at a beach, and demonstrated on both sides of the kayak.
4.07 Guidelines will be given in writing should a candidate fail the assessment as to the areas that they need to improve on.
4.08 It is expected that the assessment will form part of ongoing training towards the Level 4 Sea Skills, or to improve a candidate's skills skills.
4.09 Generally all required assessment rescues will be kept until the end of an assessment.

Level 3 Sea Skills Award Guidelines

Strokes

Entry and Exit
Can be carried out with or without the use of paddles, depending on what is most appropriate to the situation.

Forward and Reverse Paddling
The correct seating position, good trunk rotation, correct width of paddle grip, sufficient power to paddle against the current while the keeping the kayak straight.
Emergency Stop
Using forward and reverse paddling, stopping should be evident within 4 strokes.

Forward and Reverse Sweep Strokes
Candidates should demonstrate effective use of Sweep Strokes on slightly choppy seas.

Draw Stroke
Paddle near vertical, blade well covered, kayak moving in a straight line sideways for at least 5 metres. Top hand pushing while the lower hand is pulling.  The blade must remain in the water throughout. Good body rotation towards the paddling side should be evident.

Sculling Draw
Paddle off vertical, blade covered, kayak moving in a straight line sideways for at least 5 metres. Top hand pushing while the lower hand is pulling with an efficient blade angle. Long strokes while the kayak remains level.

Sculling for Support
Performed sitting upright with the kayak at a precarious angle. The paddle should be kept low with good solid sweeps and confident committal to paddle.

Low Brace Support
The kayak must be sufficiently tilted for water to reach the spraydeck. A good push down with the elbows above paddle and associated kneelift and hip rotation should be evident.

High Brace Support
The water must reach the paddler’s armpit, with good push down. Associated kneelift and hip rotation should be evident.  Paddle shaft no higher than chin level and arms flexed. Must be demonstrated both stationary and in small surf as appropriate.

Low Brace Turn
The Low Brace Turn should be demonstrated in small breaking waves (1 Foot) or in a slightly choppy sea as the conditions allows.

Edging
Demonstrate as a skill that assists in the turning of the kayak.

Stern Rudder
Performed while on the move, a push pull action should be exhibited as well as good truck rotation.

Bow Rudder
In the Bow Rudder the paddler should show excellent posture and the kayak should turn effectively.

Techniques

Paddling in head, beam and following winds.
Candidates must demonstrate that they can control their kayak in wind conditions up to force 3.

Rescues
Candidates must act as rescuer and rescuee.

Eskimo Rescue
A confident capsize and banging of the hull with the rescuer moving in from a distance of 5 metres.  A first time recovery must follow but two attempts are allowed.  Rescuer should approach from the front, or back, of rescuee to lessen the risk to rescuee’s hand. Paddle or Bow Presentation method may be used.

Weather Forecast
A candidate should be able to record that section of the Marine Forecast that is relevant to their geographical area.  They should be able to describe what conditions are to be expected on the sea in Forces of wind from 1 to 5. 

Surf Conditions
This aspect of the assessment involves a candidate demonstrating that they can control their kayak in sea conditions where there are small waves.  If there is no surf present on the day of assessment, sea conditions in up to Force 3 winds will suffice.  On no account should candidates by asked to paddle, as part of the assessment to paddle, in surf conditions with waves of greater than one foot.

High Tide
The candidate must simply demonstrate that they can ascertain what time high water is at the nearest standard port.  They may use newspaper, almanac or local tide guide to get this information.  The candidate is not expected to be familiar with secondary ports or how to work out tidal streams etc.

Capsize Drill in Deep Water
This aspect must be demonstrated both as a rescuee and rescuer.

1.00 General aims
The Level 4 Sea Kayaking Skills Award aims to ensure that successful candidates have sufficient skill and knowledge to competently and safely undertake sea journeys in moderate sea conditions as part of a group. As part of a group candidates will be:-

 Able to kayak safely and competently on the Sea up to and including force 4 conditions, including overfalls and tide races.
 Be capable of negotiating obstacles likely to be encountered in such conditions.
 Able to deal competently with rescue situations that might occur in these conditions.
 Develop group awareness.

2.00 Course Outline
The course should cover all practical and theoretical elements of the syllabus, either over a weekend course or a number of individual days instruction.

While attendance at a course is normally necessary, exceptions to that rule are accepted based on the candidate's presentation of an extensive range of logged sea trips. Attendance at a course is strongly recommended. Before assessment the candidates must present their logged trips.
(See details of qualifying trips in Guidelines)

3.00 Requirements for the Level 4 Sea Kayaking Skills Award
To obtain the Level 4 Sea Kayaking Skills Award, a participant must successfully explain and/or demonstrate the following techniques and skills. It is recommended that practical skills and rescues are assessed in moderate sea conditions.

Moderate Sea Conditions Definition
It is important for the integrity of the award that techniques and skills outlined below be assessed in disturbed sea conditions. Candidates should be aware that certain skills cannot be tested if sea conditions are flat. Aspects of the assessment may subsequently be deferred if conditions are inappropriate

The candidate must demonstrate:
3.01 An ability to control a kayak in following and beam seas.
3.02 an ability to deal with breaking waves.
3.03 efficient forward and backward paddling, turning into and away from the wind (360 degrees in both directions).
3.04 An ability to perform an Eskimo Rescue (Paddle Presentation).
3.05 an ability to perform an Eskimo Rescue
3.06 an ability to perform assisted landings on a variety of shores
3.07 an efficient paddling technique
3.08 an ability to perform a
Draw Strokes
Low Brace Support.
High Brace support
Stern Rudder
Sculling Draw
Sweep Strokes define
Low Brace Turn
Stops
High and Low Recovery strokes
Bow Rudder
Hanging Draw

3.09 An effective X Rescue of a capsized kayak.
3.10 Effective Roll on any side in a moderate sea. Candidate will have to capsize through a full 360 degrees

3.12 An effective method of towing another kayak. Suitable towing method may be either single or multiple tows and utilise a variety of lengths.  The candidate should be familiar with the Fan and Tandem Tow. The Towing System must be readily accessible and have a quick release mechanism.
3.13 Transits. Transits are very important in sea kayaking. The candidates should be able to explain and demonstrate the use of transits up ahead, laterally and behind.
3.14 An ability to follow a compass bearing.
3.15 A basic knowledge of First Aid, to include the symptoms and treatment of exposure and an awareness of the technique of artificial resuscitation. It is recommended but not mandatory that the candidate attend a First Aid course such as REC3
3.16 An introductory knowledge of the coastal environment.

Theory
The candidate should demonstrate a basic knowledge of the following:
3.17 Tidal Streams, causes and effects and how to predict them.
3.18 Weather Forecasting, obtaining and understanding forecasts.
3.19 Sea Kayaks, equipment and clothing.
3.20 Sea Kayaking Camping Procedures.
3.21.1 Sea Kayaking Safety Procedures.
3.21.2 Sea Charts and Ordnance Survey maps
3.21.3 The effects of wind on sea conditions.
3.24 Navigation while at sea, including feature recognition, self-location, ability to route –plan to alternate locations such as escape route

4.00 Format of Assessment

4.01 On the day of an assessment there will be a short written assessment followed by a sea trip.
4.02 The assessment trip will be of 3-4 hours duration and will include a lunch break. The practical skills taught on the Level 4 Sea Skills course will be assessed on this trip.
4.03 The assessment must be taken at sea under moderate conditions
 Chart exercises with specified conditions and group parameters, these trips may be anywhere along the Irish Coast. No conferring is allowed
4.04 Before setting off on the trip the candidate will be required to produce a route summary for the day based on information gleaned from the chart, tide tables, pilot and weather forecast. No conferring is allowed during this trip planning and it is recommended that each candidate come independently prepared with everything necessary to plan a trip.
4.05 Using waterproof bags each candidate must pack the following in their
kayak:
Packed lunch
Flask
Emergency food/drink
Spare clothing
Bivvy Bag
First Aid Kit (to include, at a minimum, tape and something to    dry out a kayak)
Torch
Whistle
Flares (one red parachute flare and one red pinpoint flare)
Tow and Deck Lines Bailer/Sponge
Repair Kit
Spare paddles (can be shared between candidates)
Charts (or copies of OS maps containing all relevant trip planning information)
Compass
Watch
Recommended additional group equipment:
Kisu
VHF
Mobile Phone
Strobe

4.06 All equipment should be stored in a logical fashion with emergency equipment secure and allowing easy access at all times. Equipment must remain secure during rescues and spare clothing should be dry at the end of the day. The candidate must be fully conversant with the use of all equipment carried. It is not appropriate that the retrieval of emergency equipment should require assistance

 

Level 4 Sea-Kayaking Skills Award Guidelines

Qualifying Trips

On trips the candidate undertakes, no unnecessary risks should be taken and all necessary planning and preparations should be seen to have been taken. It is recommended that the candidates seek to gain his/her experience in a measured way and not attempt trips they haven't the experience for.

Details of four qualifying sea trips must be submitted, along with an application for assessment to the ICU office. At least one of the qualifying sea trips must be on the Atlantic coastline. The candidate must show active participation in navigation and planning of trips. Qualifying trips should be of at least three hours paddling duration and should include a lunch stop.
  
The candidate should seek to include trips in a logbook that includes the following categories:

Coastal trips with simple tidal considerations –it being necessary to identify which way the tide is running in order to plan the trip to take advantage of tides.
Coastal trips with a crux i.e. a trip where you wish to be at a specific location at a specific time to benefit from predicted tidal conditions.
Open crossings where knowledge of tidal streams is necessary.

In planning the above it is advised that initially the candidate make use of the many “sea meets” and that they paddle with more experienced paddlers until sufficiently competent /confident to begin logging their own trips. Sea Paddlers of varying experience seek Level 4 Sea Skills training and it is not always safe or appropriate that trainees immediately seek to paddle without competent leaders. It is necessary to seek the advice of the course organiser on this issue.

1.00 General aims of the Level 5 Sea Kayaking Skills Award
The purpose of the Level 5 Sea Skills course and assessment is to encourage, train and qualify sea kayakers wishing to lead others on advanced sea journeys.

The course also aims to provide the candidates with the necessary skills and knowledge to help develop sea kayaking and help promote awareness of safety procedures with the groups they lead.

2.00 Course Outline
The course for the Level 5 Sea Skills may be held on one or two weekends.  Training on a Level 5 Sea Skills Training course prior to assessment is necessary.

3.00 Previous Experience
On presenting themselves for assessment it is recommended that a candidate would have a minimum of at least 20 trips of varying types and difficulty. There should be a minimum of six quality sea Kayak trips (see notes on qualifying trips) in a variety of locations with no more than two on the East coast of Ireland. In addition, one other trip with at least one hour in darkness must be shown , This can take place in any section of the coast.

The candidate must have an advanced first aid certificate such as the REC or an equivalent.

It is expected that the candidate make safety a priority in the planning of the sea trips and that the candidate seeks to increase their experience by a measured approach. Proper attention to preparation and safety should be in evidence in the candidate's log.

Given that the advanced paddler will, in the course of their sea kayaking, be paddling and leading others with sea kayaks, it is essential that the assessment be undertaken in a sea kayak (a boat with bulkheads or other method of storing appropriate equipment for an overnight trip, usually over 14ft m equiv.).

On the logged or additional trips, evidence of having been exposed to the following should be shown:

3.01 Open crossing of at least 7 miles, 3 miles of which should be one mile from the coast
3.02 Navigation in poor visibility
3.03 Wind of at least Force 4
3.04 Tidal Streams of at least 2 knots

Strokes

As per EPP and Level 4 Sea Skills

3.05 Exposure to no landing zones
3.06 Overfalls and clapotis
3.07 One of the trips should include an overnight reached by carrying all the equipment in the canoes, this camp should preferably be an island.
3.08 Surf landing and launching during a trip
3.09 There should be evidence of having undertaken trips of at least 20NM in a day or 30NM over a two day period.

 

4.00 Format for the Level 5 Sea-Kayaking Skills Assessment

4.01 The candidate will pack the kayak with suitable equipment for an overnight camp in preparation for a two-day journey. The assessment will be carried out with kayaks thus loaded and may include an overnight camp. The candidate must be prepared for the paddling to continue into darkness, and must be able to navigate their kayak in hours of darkness.

4.02 Flares must be easily accessible and the candidate must be conversant with the procedures for firing them.

4.03 The candidate must demonstrate an ability to keep a compass course on open water and make good a course across a tide stream using transits.  He/she must demonstrate an ability to take bearings on known features.

4.04 Candidates must demonstrate an ability to plan from a chart an alternative route to a safe landing whilst afloat on a journey, in the event of a change in weather or emergency, taking into consideration the tidal stream.

4.05 The candidate must demonstrate an ability to effect successful landings and launchings in a variety of situations. The ability to handle their kayak competently in 1-2 metres of surf including the full range of turning manoeuvres and rolling must be demonstrated in either breaking waves, tide races or overfalls.

The following skills must be demonstrated in an area of choppy water as these are the conditions in which they are most likely to be needed:

4.06 Capsize and exit from a kayak followed by a successful solo re entry and retreat to calmer water to bail out.  Rafted assistance may be given to empty out the kayak.

4.07 Demonstrate an Eskimo Roll after capsizing to the left and to the right and be able to roll both sides.

4.08 Tow a capsized casualty and kayak from an area of disturbed water into a calmer area for a rescue. The participant should be aware of the need for flexibility in towing and be able to drop and pick up the tow with ease. Towing demonstrations required may be single or multiple tows.

4.09 Show sufficient leadership skills under a variety of situations.

4.10 The group to be lead should be a minimum of a level 3 proficiency and be challenged appropriately during the trip. This group should not be a peer group except in exceptional situations (e.g. F7 or other eventuality). This needs to be discussed further (other comments welcome).

4.11 In order to challenge participants appropriately, the assessment should be in an appropriate venue and should be in venue unfamiliar to candidates where possible.

Whilst afloat, a candidate must demonstrate their ability to cope with problems of the following kind:

4.10 Repairing a holed kayak
4.11 Towing an incapacitated person e.g Dislocated shoulder)
4.12 Safely landing an injured paddler
4.13 Demonstrate an approved method of resuscitation
4.14 Produce spare paddles
4.15 Produce whistle, emergency food, and bivvy bag or preferably group shelter
4.17 Deal with likely emergency situations or incidents.
4.18 Produce flares that are easily accessible.

 Show an efficient and effective forward paddling technique.
 Demonstrate an ability to manoeuvre and control a kayak in a variety of different situations. Paddling strokes are the same as those outlined in the level 4 sea proficiency
 Exercise group control and show concern for the general welfare of other group members.
 Demonstrate the capability to handle a range of incidents.

5.00 Theory
Answer questions on the following:

5.01 Repairs and maintenance of sea kayaks

5.02 General knowledge of sea kayaking, its history, kayak design and
equipment.

5.03 Sea conditions and the effects of wind, particularly on: Shelving Bottoms, Lee Shore, Rips, Overfalls, Tide Races.
Causes of tides and tidal streams, how to allow for them, and the cause and effect of clapotis.

5.04 Weather forecasting from observation of cloud formation e.g. recognising approaching fronts and line squalls, and the means of obtaining and understanding weather forecasts.

5.05 Group Leadership and Control.

5.06 Estuary kayaking to include buoyage, understanding of chart symbols, light and sound signals, particular dangers such as moorings, moorings in tide ways, and movement of shipping.

5.07 The Irish coastline and marine environment.

 

 

6.0 Chartwork

6.01 Plan an advanced sea journey using an unfamiliar chart, pilot atlas, and tide tables.

6.02 A weather forecast will be given which may take the form of a shipping forecast.

6.03 The prepared journey should be summarised to a form whereby it may be simply explained to a group as instructions for a day's paddle.  Instructions should include the following information:

• Estimated paddling speed, compass bearings, and times estimated allowances made for wind.
• Tidal considerations.
• Places of interest (scenic or seascape).
• Transits for gauging progress.
• Departure and estimated time of arrival.
• Sound and light signals in the area.
• Information for shore contact.

7.00 Lecture
7.01 As part of the assessment candidates will be given a presentation topic at least one week in advance, and will have to prepare a 10 minute presentation  on this topic and answer any relevant questions those present.

Level 5 Sea Kayaking Skills Award Guidelines

• It is necessary to hold the Level 4 Sea Skills Certificate or equivalent before applying for assessment.

• All trips must be logged and sent to the Training Officer at least 14 days prior to the assessment.

• Copy of First Aid Certificate must also be sent to the Training Officer at least 14 days prior to the assessment.

• The assessment should take place in a location where sea conditions are likely to be moderate i.e. choppy. All personal skills must be assessed under these conditions. If the conditions do not present themselves on the day reference may be made to logged experience. If possible an area with some tidal interest should be chosen.

 

Assessment Programme 

Evening 1     - Navigation Exercise and presentations

The navigation exercises will be for areas outside the assessment areas and have a time constraint. The exercise is to be an ‘exam type format’.

Day 2    Sea Trip

Navigation exercise for the trip. The trip may include a camp and go on beyond dark. This day should examine personal skills, equipment, safety and rescues. 

If the trip does not go into the night, then a night navigation exercise should follow.

Day 3 – Sea Trip

Group leadership day. Candidates will be required to plan a trip for a group and execute the planned trip and ancillary activity associated with the trip. This trip should challenge the group appropriately. The Assessor may have to have an input here in some situations.

Level 1 Canoe Skills Syllabus

1.00 General aims of the Level 1 Canoe Skills Award
The Level 1 Canoe Skills Award aims to encourage and foster participation in canoeing and to enable participants to:

1.01 perform fundamental Canoeing skills.
1.02 understand and explain fundamental canoeing safety rules.

2.00 Requirements for the Level 1 Canoe Skills Award
To obtain this award, participants must successfully demonstrate the following techniques and skills:

2.01 an understanding of the Basic Safety Rules of canoeing.
2.02 an ability to Enter and Exit a Canoe.
2.03 Forward Paddle, Reverse Paddle, and Stop. 
2.04 an ability to turn while stationary using Forward Sweep, Reverse Sweep and a combination of Forward and Reverse Sweep.
2.05 Capsize Drill.

3.00 Assessment
3.01 There is no formal assessment for the Level 1 Canoe Skills Award, however, a participant must be able to demonstrate the required skills in the presence of a registered ICU Coach before being awarded the Certificate.
3.02 All strokes must be demonstrated on both sides.
3.03 The Level 1 Canoe Skills Award is not compulsory nor a pre requisite for any subsequent Irish Canoe Union awards. 

Level 1 Canoe Skills Award Guidelines

Safety Rules of Canoeing
1. You must be able to swim.
2. Always wear a buoyancy aid and ensure that there is adequate Canoe buoyancy.
3. Never canoe alone.

Entry and Exit
Entry and exit with or without the use of a paddle is acceptable.

Forward and Reverse Paddling
Veering is allowed for but the participant must be able to maintain reasonable forward direction for at least 25 metres.

Reverse Paddling
Veering is allowed for but the participant must be able to maintain reasonable direction in reverse for at least 15 metres.

Stopping
The participant should demonstrate an ability to stop when travelling forward and in reverse.

Forward and Reverse Sweep Stroke
There should be an efficient use of the paddle in turning the Canoe.

Capsize Drill
The capsize and exit from the Canoe, to be carried out in water of sufficient depth adjacent to the shore/bank.

1.00 General Aims
The Level 2 Canoe Skills Award aims to enable participants to

1.01 canoe safely and competently on water of Grade I difficulty.
1.02 assist in basic rescues.

2.00 Requirements
To obtain the Level 2 Canoe Skills Award, a participant must successfully explain and/or demonstrate the following techniques and skills.

The participant should be capable of carrying out all the strokes in both double and solo canoe (where the stroke is relevant).

2.01 an understanding of the Basic Safety Rules of canoeing.
2.02 an ability to enter and exit correctly.
2.03 Forward Paddle.
2.04 Reverse Paddle.
2.05 Stopping.
2.07 An ability to turn the canoe through 360 degrees in both directions using a combination of Forward and Reverse Sweep Strokes.
2.08 Simple Draw Stroke and Pry.
2.09 Brace.
2.10 Pry.
2.11 Capsize Drill.
2.12 X Rescue.
2.13 Knots.

3.00 Assessment

3.01 During an assessment all techniques/skills must be performed to an assessor's satisfaction in order to achieve this award.

3.02 No part of an assessment may be taken in a swimming pool. All assessment criteria must be demonstrated outdoors on flat water (i.e. water of Grade I difficulty).

3.03 It may not be feasible for a junior or disabled person to assist fully in rescues - such candidates should, however, have a full understanding of the correct sequence of required rescues and have some role to play in the completion of the rescues.

3.04 All strokes should be demonstrated in relevant situations i.e. use of a simple draw stroke to manoeuvre the canoe to the bank. Strokes should be demonstrated on both sides of the canoe.

3.05 The solo aspect of the assessment is to serve as an encouragement to the participants and further training is recommended where time and ability allows.

3.06 The strokes carried out in the canoe should be very competent.

3.07 The Sweep and Pry should ideally be carried out as a manoeuvre to move the canoe sideways to avoid an obstacle etc. in a small flow.

3.08 Only those on Open Canoe Assessment Panel may examine for skills.

3.09 The assessment will be carried out with a maximum of four candidates to one assessor.

3.10 Generally, guidelines will be given, should a candidate fail an assessment as to the areas that they need to improve on.

3.11 All required assessment rescues will be kept until the end of an assessment.

 

Level 2 Canoe Skills Award Guidelines

Enter and Exit
Using paddles across the thwarts for balance. For entering, stepping into the centre line, rear canoeist entering first should be demonstrated.

Forward Paddle
A Goon Stroke is sufficient for the solo canoe, some straying off course is permissible, but a straight line of at least 50 metres is required. Small use of Stern Rudder and Sweep permissible in both solo and double.

Reverse Paddle
Veering is permissible.

Stopping
Should occur in a straight line within two strokes.

Turn
Sweeps should not continue beyond the paddler in the direction of the center of the canoe, and there should be a confident lean over the stroke. This will be assessed by trying to avoid an obstacle by moving sideways.

Simple Draw Stroke and Pry
The canoe should move sideways in a reasonably straight line. Roles to be reversed if demonstrated in double.

Brace
Horizontal loom extended beyond the gunnel.

Pry Turn
Under movement the canoe should be turned sharply using pry at the back of the canoe, and sweep at the front.

Capsize Drill
After capsizing, the canoe should be held and towed 10 metres to the bank where it should be emptied correctly.

X Rescue
To be carried out on a half full upright canoe.

Knots
A figure of eight and a round turn with two half hitches.

Level 3 Canoe Skills

1.00 General Aims
The Level 3 Canoe Skills Award aims to enable participants to:
1.01  canoe safely and competently on rivers up to and including rivers of Grade II difficulty
as a member of a group being led.

1.02  be capable of negotiating obstacles encountered on water of Grade II difficulty

1.03  assist in rescues.

2.00  Requirements
To obtain the Level 3 Canoe Skills Award, a participant must successfully explain and demonstrate the following techniques and skills at a level higher than that required for the Level 2 Canoe Skills Award.

The participant should be capable of carrying out all the strokes in both double and solo canoe (where the stroke is relevant).

Strokes
2.01  Forward Paddle, a Forward J Stroke
2.02  Reverse Paddle, a Reverse J Stroke to be used in the solo
2.03  Emergency Stop
2.04  Cross Bow Sweep forward and reverse to be shown in solo
2.05  Draw Stroke and Pry
2.06  Bow Rudder
2.07  Cross Bow Rudder
2.08  Brace for Support
2.09  Stern Rudder

Techniques
2.10  Enter and Exit
2.11  Edging
2.12  Forward Ferry gliding
2.13  Reverse Ferry gliding
2.14  Breaking in and out
2.15  Knots
2.16  Capsize Drill

Rescues
2.16  X Rescue
2.17 Defensive Swimming

Theory
2.18  Safety Rules

2.19  Feature Recognition

2.19  Knowledge of wind effect on the canoe and trimming of the canoe for wind load and shooting rapids, i.e. weight at back for running with the wind, forward for heading into wind. Sitting towards centre in rapids/drops etc should be known.
The ropes at either end of the canoe should be easily accessible during the trip, but should not be able to wrap around the participant's legs whilst they are in the canoe.

2.21  an understanding of good control (i.e. responding to various signals and commands).

3.0 Applying to attend an Assessment
Before applying to attend a Level 3 Canoe Skills Assessment, a candidate must
3.01  be at least 12 years of age.

4.00  Assessment
4.01  During assessment candidates must demonstrate all techniques/skills at a skills level
 higher than that required for the Level 2 Canoe Skills Award. All techniques and skills
 must be performed to an assessor's satisfaction in order to achieve this award.

4.02  All assessment criteria must be demonstrated on Grade II water as part of a river trip.

4.03  It is recommended that the Level 3 Canoe Skills Award is assessed by an coach other than the coach who has run the training course leading to the assessment.

4.04  The Level 3 Canoe Skills Award can only be assessed by a Level 3 Open Canoe Coach.

4.05  The assessment to be carried out with a maximum of four open canoes to one assessor

4.06  All strokes should be demonstrated in relevant situations and demonstrated on both sides of the canoe.

4.07  Guidelines will be given should a candidate fail in a debrief session after the assessment .Guidelines as to the areas that need to be improved upon will be given.

4.09  Generally all required assessment rescues will be kept until the end of an assessment.

Level 3 Canoe Skills Award Guidelines

Forward Paddle, a Forward J Stroke
To be demonstrated in the single canoe with only a small amount of veering, near vertical paddle shaft

Reverse Paddle, a Reverse J Stroke
To be used in the solo

Emergency Stop
The paddle can cross the canoe in order to stop the canoe veering when solo

Cross Bow Sweep
Forward and reverse sweeps to be carried out confidently with a full extension of the paddle away from the canoe and the handle of the paddle at the gunnel

Draw Stroke and Pry
To be used in moving water to avoid obstacles while keeping the canoe in a straight line

Bow Rudder
To be demonstrated in break out and break in manoeuvres

Cross Bow Rudder
The beginnings of this stroke should be evident on flat water, taking care not to over rotate the body

Bracing
Will be assessed as part of your canoe handling in grade II rapids

Edging
To be shown as part of a Breaking In and Breaking Out manoeuvre.

 

Stern Rudder
Used to compensate at the stern of a double or for maintaining direction. Gunnel can be used for lever

Forward Ferry gliding (facing upriver)
Candidates must ferryglide in a straight line between two selected points on the river

Reverse Ferry gliding (facing downriver)
Can commence in the mid stream rather than from a breakout

Breaking In and Out
May be carried out using many of the above strokes, confident strokes with edging and leaning should be evident

Knots
An ability to tie a round turn and two half hitches, and clove hitch.

Capsize Drill
An attempt should be made in Grade II water to bring the canoe to the bank and if unsuccessful should form the basis for assessment rescue.

X Rescue
To be carried out in a double canoe with the other canoe to be fully flooded and upside down, the rescuees can assist. All participants should act as rescuer and rescuee

Defensive Swimming
Participants must fully understand the technique and its uses i.e swimming on your back feet downstream, with knees flexed and using arms and legs to move sideways

General aims.
The Level 4 Open Canoe Skills Award aims to enable participants to:
• Canoe safely and competently on rivers up to and including rivers of Grade II–III difficulty

• Be capable of leading and negotiating obstacles encountered on water of Grade II–III difficulty

• Be capable of executing efficiently, effectively and safely certain rescues as required during the Level 4 Open Canoe Skills Assessment

• Develop group awareness

• Holding the Level 4 Solo Award is a requirement for attending a training course for the qualification of Level 3 Open Canoe Coach.

Requirements
Prior to assessment, a participant must have obtained the Level 3 Open Canoe skills award. 
The assessment will take place during a river trip of at least three miles on water of Grade II–III difficulty.
During assessment, a participant must successfully explain and demonstrate the following techniques and skills at a level higher than that required for the Level 3 Open Canoe skills award and be capable of demonstrating any combination of the strokes competently and efficiently:

Strokes
• Forward Paddle, Reverse Paddle and Emergency Stop
• All Sweep strokes, including Outside Pivot Turn and Inside Pivot Turn.
• Trim
• Bow Rudder, Cross Bow Rudder, Stern Rudder.
• Bow Jam
• Recovery Strokes
• Draw, Sculling Draw Strokes
• Defensive Swimming

Techniques
• An ability to use water conditions available for the effective and efficient manoeuvring of an Open Canoe
• Competence in negotiating water obstructions i.e. Standing Waves, Stoppers during the course of a trip
• Competence in negotiating bends where water flows under trees or against vertical  river bank
• A working knowledge of positive group discipline for the duration of a river trip
• Forward Ferry Gliding (facing upriver)
• Reverse Ferry Gliding (facing downriver)
• Breaking in accurately
• Breaking out accurately

Rescues and Safety Techniques
• Assisted X and/or X Rescue
• Self Rescue
• Deep Water Rescue of an incapacitated paddler
• Curl Rescue
• Rescue and Tow
• An ability to use a Throw Rope to rescue a swimmer
• Possess an approved current First Aid Certificate

 

Theory
An understanding of the following
• River Grading
• River Route finding
• Types of Open Canoes and Paddles
• Towing systems and methods
• Group control and awareness
• Signals and Commands
• Personal Equipment

Applying to attend a Level 4 Open Canoe Skills Assessment
Before applying to attend an assessment, a candidate must
• Have obtained the Level 3 Open Canoe Skills Certificate
• Be a member of the ICU either as an individual member or as a member of an affiliated club.
• Have unrestricted access to a fully equipped open canoe, personal equipment and additional equipment (see Level 4 skills list of equipment)
• Be a least 16 years of age

Assessment

During assessment candidates must demonstrate all techniques/skills at a skills level higher than that required for the Level 3 Open Canoe skills award in order to achieve this award.  All techniques, skills and rescues must be demonstrated and assessed to the required level in order to achieve this award.

It is recommended that, the Level 4 Open Canoe skills Award is assessed by an coach other than the coach who has run the training course leading to the assessment.  Notwithstanding this, a Level 4 Skills Award can only be assessed by a member of the Level 4 Open Canoe Skills Assessment Panel.

The candidate assessor ratio should be a maximum of 4:1

All strokes and techniques must be demonstrated on both sides of the Open Canoe and in relevant situations.

All rescues must be executed by the candidate acting as both rescuee and rescuer.  Generally the required assessment rescues will be kept until the end of the assessment river trip

Clear guidelines will be given in writing should the candidate fail an assessment as to the areas they need to improve on.

While it is not compulsory to attend a training course prior to assessment, it is strongly recommended.

No other award may be assessed at the same time as the Level 4 Open Canoe Skills Award

Equipment required

A properly equipped Open Canoe must include
Suitable Buoyancy
End Grabs
Sufficient length of painters
Method of securing paddles

Personal equipment must include:
Paddles
Wetsuit or sufficient thermal clothing
Buoyancy Aid
Cagoule
Canoe booties or adequate footwear
Where the candidate is not secured into the canoe, helmets are not compulsory and are worn at the discretion of the candidate.
Where the candidate is secured into the Canoe helmets are compulsory.

Equipment must also include
Towing system
Throw Rope
Bivvy bag or equivalent
First aid kit
Repair kit
Spare paddle
Spare dry clothes
Flask and emergency food
Waterproof bag or other method of keeping equipment dry
Whistle

Level 5 Canoe Skills Syllabus

This award is designed for Open Canoeists wishing to develop advanced paddling and rescue techniques appropriate to grade 3+ water.  It is an appropriate award for Open Canoeists who paddle with others of Level 4 or higher ability on Grade 3+ rivers.

The Level 5 Canoe Skills Award is a pre-requisite for progression to Level 4 Canoe Instructor.  The Level 4 Canoe Instructor is the appropriate qualification for those wishing to teach others on Grade 3+ water.

1.00 General aims
The Level 5 Canoe Skills Award aims to enable candidates to
1.01 Develop the necessary skills , group awareness and management to paddle safely and proficiently on rivers up to and including rivers of Grade III+ difficulty.
1.02 Deal competently with rescue situations, which might occur, on rivers up to and including rivers of Grade III + difficulty.
1.03  Deal competently with First Aid situations in a river environment.

2.00 Course Outline
The Level 5 Canoe Skills Award requires that a candidate attend a training programme and a two-day assessment. The general course outline is as follows
Methods of River Leading
River Reading
Canoeing Equipment for White Water Leading
Management of a Rescue Situation
Rescues from a Canoe
Use of a Throw Rope
Rope Rescues
Protection against Hazards
First Aid in the River Environment
Resuscitation in the River Environment
Trip Planning - a River Trip on a minimum of Grade II/III water leading a group under the supervision of a Level 4 Open Canoe Instructor
Open Canoe Skills Award.
Assessment Procedures

3.00 Applying to attend a Training Course
Before applying to attend a Level 5 Canoe Skills Course, a candidate must
3.01 hold the Irish Canoe Union  Level 4 Canoe Skills Award.
3.02 have unrestricted access to a suitable Canoe and the necessary equipment.
 (See Canoe Skills List of Equipment)
3.03 Be registered, with the ICU Office, as a Level 5 Canoe Trainee
3.04 Be at least 18 years of age at the time of application.

 

4.00 Applying to attend an Assessment
Candidates applying for assessed for the Level 5 Canoe Skills Award must
4.01 Attend an approved Level 5 Canoe Skills training programme.

4.02 Complete training in the two consecutive years preceding an assessment.

4.03 Complete at least 25 hours of varied river experience on the water under the supervision of two Level 4 Canoe Instructors. This requirement can only be completed following participation in a full Level 5 Canoe Skills training programme.

4.04 In addition to 4.03 the candidate must provide documentary evidence of a range of river trips.  These must show experience of low/medium volume rivers as well as technical rivers.  Such experience must have been gained over a minimum of three years’ white water paddling, showing a bias towards ‘wild rivers’.  Wholly artificial courses and weirs would not count towards the evidence

4.05 Have a current REC 3 First Aid Certificate or equivalent

4.06 Be at least 18 years of age

A candidate will only be invited to attend an assessment on the satisfactory completion of a logbook detailing all the above compulsory requirements for the Level 5 Canoe Skills Award.

5.00 Format of the Level 5 Canoe Skills Assessment

5.01 The Level 5 Canoe Skills assessment will take the format of a
• personal skills test
• river trip of 3 - 5 miles on a minimum of Grade 3 + water
• test of white water rescue techniques and deep water rescues
• written test
• oral and practical First Aid and AR test as applied in the canoeing environment
• interview

As part of the Level 5 Canoe Skills Assessment, a candidate will be expected to

5.02 Demonstrate all techniques/skills at a skills level higher than that required for the Level 4 Canoe  Skills Award and of a standard comparable with the techniques/skills necessary to paddle competently on water of Grade II to III+.

5.03 Demonstrate a thorough of knowledge of safety precautions and procedures to be adopted while paddling with a group on water of Grade III+.

5.04 Demonstrate an ability to assess any group's competence to deal with conditions likely to be encountered on water of Grade III+.

5.05 Demonstrate an ability to command trust from a group of peers.

5.06 Demonstrate the necessary communications skills on water of Grade III+.

5.07 Deal with rescue situations that are likely to occur on water of Grade III+.

5.08 Be capable of knowing where on the river a group is at any time and have sufficient knowledge of the river's environs.

5.09 Demonstrate an ability to read white water to a high standard.

5.10 Present a suitable and correctly fitted out canoe and other appropriate personal equipment (See Level 5 Canoe Skills List of Equipment). It would be expected that a candidate's equipment would be of a standard consistent with the responsibilities of paddling with others on grade 3+ rivers. Examination of equipment will form part of the overall assessment.

 

List of Equipment suggested for the Level 5 Canoe Skills Assessment

A properly equipped open canoe must include
Suitable Buoyancy
End Grabs
Sufficient length of painters
Method of securing paddles

Personal equipment must include:
Paddles
Wetsuit or sufficient thermal clothing
Buoyancy Aid
Cagoule
Canoe booties or adequate footwear
Helmet for Moving water work

Equipment must also include
Towing system
Throw Rope
Bivvy bag or equivalent
First aid kit
Repair Kit   (For repairs to both fibreglass and plastic kayaks)
Waterproof Bag or other method of keeping equipment dry
Spare paddle
Spare dry clothes
Flask and emergency food
Waterproof bag or other method of keeping equipment dry
Whistle
Knife
Torch
Karabiners x 2 
Sling
Prussic Loop 
Map

The candidate’s personal and group kit will be evaluated.  Candidates must present with suitable personal equipment, plus any additional equipment deemed to be appropriate to support other paddlers in the group.  Equipment should reflect such things as the season, the ability of his/her peers and the difficulty of the waters to be paddled.  Borrowed equipment will be assessed as if it were the candidates own.  The candidate should be aware that on the level of water being paddled, having too much equipment can be nearly as hazardous as having too little.

Level 5 Canoe Skills Award Guidelines
• All assessments must be approved by the Irish Canoe Union Training Committee

• It is recommended that the Level 5 Canoe Skills Award is assessed by an Instructor other than the Instructor who has run the training course leading to the assessment. Notwithstanding this, a Level 5 Canoe Skills Award can only be assessed by a member of the Level 5 Canoe Skills Assessment Panel

• Candidates cannot depend on any assistance (material or practical) during the course of the assessment.

• No other award may be assessed at the same time as the Level 5 Canoe Skills Award.

• Clear guidelines will be given in writing should a candidate fail an assessment as to the areas that they need to improve on. 

The candidate/assessor ratio should be a maximum of 2:1.

1.00 General Aims
The Level I Kayak Coach Qualification aims to enable candidates to

1.01  become qualified to instruct Level 1,2 &3 kayaking skills on water of no higher than
  Grade I difficulty including Very Sheltered water , Designated Lake Areas, and in
  Designated Sheltered Tidal Areas.
1.02  assess for the Level 1 Kayak Skills Award.

A Level I Kayak Coach is specifically not qualified to lead groups and is restricted to static instructional sessions only.

2.00 Course Outline
2.01  The Level I Kayak Coach Qualification requires that a candidate attend a two day
  training course (or a programme of similar duration) and a one day assessment.

3.00 Applying to attend a Training Course
Before applying to attend a Level I Kayak Coach Training Course, a candidate must

3.01  have registered with the ICU Office as a Level I Kayak Coach Trainee.

3.02  be of a skills level equivalent to the Level 3 Kayak Skills Award

3.03  be at least 16 years of age at the time of application.

3.04  have unrestricted access to a fully equipped kayak, personal equipment, and additional equipment as listed for a Level I Kayak Coach Assessment.

4.00 Applying to attend an Assessment
Before applying to attend a Level I Kayak Coach Assessment, a candidate must

4.01  have maintained registration as a Level I Kayak Coach Trainee.

4.02  have obtained a Level 3 Kayak Skills Award.

4.03  be at least 16 years of age.

4.04  have unrestricted access to a fully equipped kayak, personal equipment, and
  additional equipment as listed for a Level I Kayak Coach Assessment.

4.05  have attended an approved Kayak Level I Coach Training Course or Programme within
  the 24 months preceding a selected assessment date.

4.06  have recorded in a Level I Kayak Coach Logbook following the completion of a Level I
  Coach Training Course at least 25 hours (on the water) of instructional experience
  under the supervision of at least two registered ICU Coachs who hold a Level 3 Kayak
 Coach qualification or who are members of the Level 1 Kayak Coach Mentor Panel.

4.07  have recorded in a Level I Coach Logbook as part of the 25 hours supervised
  instructional experience details of assisting in the preparation of a group for a Level 2
  Kayak Skills Assessment. The group must consist of at least three participants.

4.08  possess a current and approved First Aid Certificate( e.g. REC 2 ).

4.09  be recommended for assessment by a registered ICU Level 3 Coach.

4.10  return to the ICU Office, a completed Level I Kayak Coach Logbook accompanied by a
  Level I Kayak Coach Assessment Application no later than three weeks before a
  selected assessment date.

5.00 Format of a Level I Kayak Coach Assessment
5.01  During a Level I Kayak Coach Assessment, candidates must satisfy an assessor that
  they are competent to instruct on water of Grade I difficulty. Apart from teaching and
 personal canoeing ability, candidates must also demonstrate that they are sufficiently
 mature and responsible to manage a group.

5.02  During assessment, a candidate's personal canoeing skills and First Aid may be
 assessed. It would be expected that a candidate would have maintained a skills level
 equivalent to that of the Level 3 Kayak Skills Award and where possible improved on
 this.

As part of a Kayak Level I Coach Assessment, a candidate will be expected to

5.03  select a lesson plan lasting up to three hours and to organise an instructional session
 for a novice/basic level group on water of Grade I difficulty or in a Sheltered Tidal
 Area.

5.04  teach any stroke, technique, or rescue applicable to flat water as outlined in the Level
 3 Kayak Skills Syllabus.

5.05  prepare a self-appraisal of the lesson plan/water session

5.06  demonstrate techniques and skills as required by the Level 3 Kayak Skills Award, if
 requested to do so.

5.07  demonstrate an ability to carry out the following rescues efficiently and effectively:
 Self-Rescue, X or Assisted X-Rescue, All-in Rescue, Unconscious Casualty, Curl or TX
 Rescue and Eskimo Rescue.

5.08  demonstrate an ability to roll competently without any prior set-up.
5.09  demonstrate an effective method of towing a kayak

5.10  present a suitable kayak correctly fitted out for instruction and with other appropriate
 personal equipment (See List of Equipment). It would be expected that a candidate's
 equipment would be of a standard consistent with the responsibilities likely to be
 encountered. Examination of equipment will form an important part of the overall
 assessment.

5.11  demonstrate effective group control, group rapport, and instructional ability.

5.12  demonstrate a thorough knowledge of basic First Aid as well as a thorough working
 knowledge of the cause/effect/treatment of Shock, Hypothermia, EAR, and CPR.

5.13  answer questions on aspects of canoeing covered during the Level I Kayak Coach
 Training Course.

5.14  attend an interview, where the candidate will present their self-appraisal.

5.15  have recorded in the Level I Kayak Coach Logbook following registration as a trainee,
 all canoeing activities relevant to the Level 1 Coach Pre Assessment requirements,
 including details of the Level I Coach Training Course. Details of canoeing activities
 prior to applying for the Level I Kayak Coach Award should also be recorded.

 

List of Equipment required for Assessment

A properly equipped kayak:

• Rigid end loops and/or toggles
• Kayaks over 270cm in length must have decklines fitted front and back
• Kayaks 270cm or less in length must have cowtails fitted front and back
• Method of securing paddles
• Suitable buoyancy
• Suitable foot rest
• A kayak must be of sufficient volume to carry out all necessary safety equipment and perform any rescue as required by the Level 4 Skills Award Personal canoeing equipment:

Paddle
Wetsuit or sufficient thermal clothing
Spray Deck
Buoyancy Aid
Cagoule
Helmet
Canoe Booties or adequate footwear Equipment must also include:

Towing System
Bivvy Bag and/or group shelter
First Aid Kit
Whistle
Flask and Food
Waterproof Bag or other method of keeping equipment dry
Repair Kit*
Spare Clothes*

*Those items marked with an asterisk need not be carried in the kayak during assessment but should be on site.

Level I Kayak Coach Qualification Guidelines

A Level 1 Kayak Coach Qualification can only be assessed by a member of the Level 1 Kayak Coach Qualification Assessor Panel

It is recommended that the Level 1 Kayak Coach Qualification is assessed by an Coach other than the Coach who has run the training course leading to the assessment.

Clear guidelines should be given in writing should a candidate fail the assessment as to the areas they need to improve on.

Candidates cannot depend on any assistance (material or practical) during the course of the assessment.

No other award may be assessed at the same time as the Level 1 Kayak Coach Assessment.

The candidate/assessor ratio should be maximum of 3:1 though 2:1 is preferable

A Level 1 Kayak Coach under 18 years must be accompanied on the water by another qualified and registered adult Coach

General aims
The Level 2 Kayak Instructor Qualification aims to enable candidates to

1.01 become qualified to instruct introductory, basic, and intermediate skills level kayaking skills on water of no higher than Grade I difficulty including very sheltered waters and/or sheltered tidal areas.
1.02 Become qualified to journey on
• Canals 
• Sections of  a river that does not include rapids or weirs
• Defined shorelines  around a lake  The Instructor is specifically  not qualified to journey across a lake 
• Harbours and Very sheltered Tidal Waters

1.03    Assess for the Level 1 & 2 Kayak Skills Award

Training Course Outline
2.01 The Level 2 Kayak Instructor Qualification requires that a candidate attend a two day training course (or a programme of similar duration) and a one day assessment.

Applying to attend a Training Course
Before applying to attend a Level 2 Kayak Instructor Training Course, a candidate must

3.01 have registered with the Irish Canoe Union as a Level 2 Kayak Instructor Trainee.

3.02 Hold the Level 3 Kayak Skills Award or equivalent.

3.04 Be at least 18 years of age at the time of application.

3.05 Have unrestricted access to a fully equipped kayak, personal equipment, and additional equipment as listed for a Level 2 Kayak Instructor Assessment.

Applying to attend an Assessment

Before applying to attend a Level 2 Kayak Instructor Assessment, a candidate must

4.01 have maintained registration as a Level 2 Kayak Instructor Trainee.

4.02 have obtained a Level 3 Kayak Skills Award.

4.03 be at least 18 years of age.

4.04 have unrestricted access to a fully equipped kayak, personal equipment, and additional equipment as listed for a Level 2 Kayak Instructor Assessment.

4.05 Have attended an approved Level 2 Kayak Instructor Training Course or Programme within the 24 months period preceding a selected assessment date.

4.06 have recorded in a Level 2 Kayak Instructor Logbook following the completion of a Level 2 Kayak Instructor Training Course at least 25 hours (on the water) of instructional experience under the supervision of at least two registered Level 3 Kayak Instructors.

4.07 Have recorded in a Level 2 Kayak Instructor Logbook as part of the 25 hours supervised instructional experience details of assisting in the preparation of a group for a Level 2 Kayak Skills Assessment. The group must consist of at least three participants.

4.08 Have recorded in a Level 2 Kayak Instructor Logbook experience details of assisting in  two Level 2 Kayak Skills Assessments.

4.09 Possess a current and approved First Aid Certificate (e.g. REC Level 2)

4.10 Possess a Certificate of Attendance of an approved Child Protection in Sport Workshop

4.11 Be recommended for assessment by a registered Level 3 Kayak Instructor.

4.12 Have returned to the Irish Canoe Union Office a completed Level 2 Kayak Instructor Logbook accompanied by a Level 2 Kayak Instructor Assessment application form no later than three weeks before a selected assessment date.

Format of Assessment
5.01 During a Level 2 Kayak Instructor Assessment candidates must satisfy an assessor that they are competent to instruct on water of Grade I difficulty. Apart from teaching and personal canoeing ability, candidates must also demonstrate that they are sufficiently mature and responsible to manage a group.

5.02 during assessment, aspects of a candidate's personal canoeing skills and First Aid may be assessed. It would be expected that a candidate would have maintained a skills level equivalent to that of the Level 3 Kayak Skills Award and where possible to have improved on this.

As part of an assessment, a candidate would be expected to
5.04 Select a lesson plan lasting up to three hours and to organise an instructional session for a novice/basic level group on water of Grade I difficulty or in a Sheltered Tidal Area.

5.04 teach any stroke, technique, or rescue applicable to flat water as outlined in the Level 3 Kayak Skills Award Syllabus.

5.05 prepare a self-appraisal of their lesson plan/water session.

5.06 demonstrate techniques and skills as required by the Level 3 Kayak Skills Award if requested to do so.

5.10 Demonstrate an ability to carry out the following rescues efficiently and effectively: Self-Rescue, X or Assisted X-Rescue, All-in Rescue, Unconscious Casualty, Curl or TX Rescue and Eskimo Rescue.

5.11 Demonstrate an ability to roll competently without any prior set-up.

5.12 Demonstrate an effective method of towing a kayak.

5.10 Present a suitable kayak correctly fitted out for instruction along with other appropriate personal equipment (See Level I Kayak Instructor List of Equipment). It would be expected that a candidate's equipment would be of a standard consistent with the responsibilities likely to be encountered by a Level 1 Kayak Instructor. Examination of equipment will form an important part of the overall assessment.

5.11 demonstrate effective group control, group rapport, and instructional ability.

5.12 demonstrate a thorough knowledge of basic First Aid as well as a thorough working knowledge of the cause/effect/treatment of Shock, Hypothermia, EAR, and CPR.

5.13 answer questions on aspects of canoeing covered during a Level 2 Kayak Instructor Training Course.

5.14 attend an interview at which their self-appraisal is presented.

5.15 have recorded in a Level 2 Kayak Instructor Logbook, following registration as a Trainee, all canoeing activities relevant to the Level 2 Kayak Instructor assessment requirements including details of their Level 2 Kayak Instructor Training Course/Programme. Details of canoeing activities prior to applying to attend a Level 2 Kayak Instructor Training Course should also be recorded.

Level 2 Kayak Instructor Qualification Guidelines

 It is recommended that a Level 2 Kayak Instructor Qualification is assessed by an Instructor other than the Instructor who runs the training course leading to assessment. Notwithstanding this, a Level 2 Kayak Instructor Qualification can only be assessed by a registered member of the Level 2 Kayak Instructor Assessment Panel.

 Clear guidelines should be given in writing should a candidate fail an assessment as to the areas which need to be improved upon.

 Candidates cannot depend on any assistance (material or practical) during the course of an assessment.

 No other award or qualification can be assessed during a Level 2 Kayak Instructor Assessment.

 The assessment candidate/assessor ratio is a maximum of 3:1

 

Equipment List required for a Level 2 Kayak Instructor Assessment

A correctly equipped kayak must include:
Rigid end loops and/or toggles
Deck lines
 Kayaks over 270cm in length must have decklines fitted front and back.
 Kayaks 270cm or less in length must have cowtails fitted front and back
Method of securing paddles
Suitable buoyancy
Suitable foot rest

A kayak must be of sufficient volume to carry all necessary safety equipment and perform any rescue as required by the Level 3 Kayak Skills Award.
 Personal kayaking equipment must include:

Paddle

Wetsuit or sufficient thermal clothing

Spray Deck

Buoyancy Aid

Cagoule

Helmet

Canoe Booties or adequate footwear
 Equipment must also include:
Towing System

Bivvy Bag or equivalent

First Aid Kit

Whistle

Mobile Phone

Repair Kit   (For repairs to both fibreglass and plastic kayaks)

Flask and Food

Spare Clothes

Waterproof Bag or other method of keeping equipment dry

1.00 General aims
The Level 3 Kayak Instructor Qualification aims to enable participants to:

1.01  become qualified to instruct and lead kayaking groups safely on water of no higher
 than Grade 2 difficulty including very Sheltered Waters and/or Sheltered Tidal Areas.

1.02  assess for the Irish Canoe Union Level 2 and Level 3 Kayak Skills Awards.

1.03  have an awareness of the competitive canoeing disciplines.

2.00 Training Course Outline
The Level 3 Kayak Instructor Qualification requires that a candidate attend a four-day training course (or a programme of similar duration), an optional  two-day preparation for assessment (which can be credited as 10 hours of the 25 hours logging requirement) and a two-day Assessment. The course content is as follows:

Kayak Teaching on Flat Water (Day 1))
1. Teaching novice and basic level students.
2. Analysis of basic strokes, skills, and techniques.
3. Development of lesson programmes and teaching skills.
4. Use of focussed games and tasks in teaching canoeing
5. Maximising pool use for teaching canoeing

Teaching on Moving Water (Day 2)
1. Personal skill instruction & Briefing groups
2. Instructing at a static Site. Introduction to moving water
3. Teaching basic level students
4. Analysis of intermediate Strokes, Skills, and Techniques
5. Progressions in instructing during river trips
6. Selecting locations on rivers for tasks, goal setting and skill application

Teaching on Moving Water (Day 3)
1. Trip planning
2. Communication & Leadership styles and group control on moving water
3. Teaching advanced whitewater technique and freestyle manoeuvres.
4. Assessment of Level 1, 2 and 3 Kayak Skills Awards
5. Promoting awareness of the competitive disciplines within canoeing

River Safety (Day 4)
1. Reading White Water
2. River Rescues - Throw Ropes and Rescues from Kayaks
3. Hazards - Methods of Leading, Protection and Prevention, etc.
4. Group Safety - Management and Communication
5. Equipping yourself for river rescue
6. Management of a rescue / first aid incident in a river setting

3.00 Applying to attend a Training Course
Before applying for this course, a candidate must

3.01  Have registered, with the Irish Canoe Union Office, as a Level 3 Kayak Instructor Trainee.

3.02  Be of a skills level equivalent to the Level 4 Kayak Skills Award

3.03  Be at least 18 years

3.04  have unrestricted access to a fully equipped kayak, personal equipment and additional
 equipment as listed for a Level 3 Kayak Instructor Assessment.

4.00 Applying for an Assessment
Before applying to attend a Level 3 Kayak Instructor Assessment, a candidate must

4.01  Have maintained registration as a Level 3 Kayak Instructor trainee

4.02  Have attained a Level 4 Kayak Skills Award

4.03  Be at least 18 years of age

4.04  Have unrestricted access to a fully equipped kayak, personal equipment and additional
 equipment as listed for a Level 3 Kayak Instructor Assessment

4.05  Have attended an approved Level 3 Kayak Instructor Training Course or Programme as
 organised by the Irish Canoe Union within the 24 months period preceding a selected
 assessment date.

4.06  Attended two Level 2 kayak skills and two Level 3 Kayak Skills Assessments.

4.07  Recorded in a Level 3 Kayak Instructor Logbook, following the completion of a Level 3
 Kayak Instructor Training Course at least 25 hours * (on the water) of instructional
 experience under the supervision of at least two (2) registered Level 3 Kayak Instructors

4.08  Recorded as part of the 25 hours supervised instructional experience (on at least three
 different river trips) details of assisting in the preparation of a group for a Level 2 or
 Level 3 Kayak Skills Assessment. This group must consist of at least three
 participants.

4.09  Possess a current and approved First Aid Certificate (e.g. REC 3 or equivalent )

4.10  Be recommended for assessment by a registered Level 3 Instructor

4.07  Returned to the Irish Canoe Union Office a completed Level 3 Kayak Instructor Logbook
 accompanied by all the pre -assessment requirements and a Level 3 Kayak Instructor
 Assessment application no later than three weeks prior to a selected assessment date.

5.00 Format of the Assessment

5.01  During the Level 3 Kayak Instructor Assessment candidates must satisfy the assessors
 that they are mature, responsible and competent to instruct, lead and control a group
 on water of Grade 2 difficulty. Apart from teaching and personal kayaking ability,
 candidates must also demonstrate that they are sufficiently mature and responsible to
            manage a group

5.02  During the period of the Level 3 Kayak Instructor Training Course, and if necessary, at      
            the Level 3 Kayak Instructor Assessment a candidate's personal kayaking skills and
            First Aid  may be assessed. It would be expected that a candidate would at least have
 maintained a skills level equivalent to that of the Level 4 Kayak Skills and where
 possible improved on this.

           As part of the Level 3 Kayak Instructor Assessment, a candidate will be expected to

5.03  organise and lead an instructional session for beginners or intermediates over the
 course of a river trip.

5.04  Teach any stroke, technique or rescue applicable to water up to and including Grade 2
 difficulty as outlined in the Level 4 Kayak Skills Award demonstrate effective group
 control, group rapport, and instructional ability.

5.05  prepare a self-appraisal of the lesson plan water session for the Assessor.

5.06  demonstrate techniques and skills as required by the Level 4 Kayak Skills Award if
 requested to do so

5.07  Demonstrate an ability to carry out the following rescues efficiently and effectively Self
 Rescue, X and /or Assisted -X Rescue, All-in-Rescue, Unconscious Casualty, Curl and
 /or TX Rescue and Eskimo Rescue

5.08  Demonstrate an ability to roll competently without any prior set-up
5.09  Demonstrate an effective method of towing a kayak

5.10  Present a suitable kayak correctly fitted out for instruction along with other
 appropriate personal equipment (See Level 3 Kayak Instructor List of Equipment). It
 would be expected that a candidate's equipment would be of a standard consistent
 with the responsibilities likely to be encountered by a Level 3 Kayak Instructor.
 Examination of equipment will form part of the overall assessment.

5.11  Demonstrate effective group control, group rapport and instructional ability

5.12  Demonstrate a thorough knowledge of First Aid in the canoeing environment as well as
 a thorough working knowledge of the cause, effect and treatment of Shock,
 Hypothermia, EAR, CPR and the treatment of an unconscious casualty.

5.13  Answer questions on aspects of canoeing covered during a Level 3 Kayak Instructor
 Training Course

5.14  Present a short lecture on a canoeing topic with the use of teaching aids

5.15  Attend an interview at which a self appraisal is presented

5.16  Have recorded in a Level 3 Kayak Instructor Logbook, following registration as a  
            Trainee and participation on a Training Course all activities relevant to The Level 3   
            Kayak Instructor pre-assessment requirements. This should include details of  
            participation on a Level 3 Kayak Instructor Training Course.

Candidates will only be invited to attend an assessment on the satisfactory completion of all the requirements including the submission of a logbook and attendance at a full Level 3 Kayak Instructor Training Course

Level 3 Kayak Instructor Qualification Guidelines

• It is recommended that Instructors other than the Instructor who has run the training course leading to the assessment assess a Level 3 Kayak Instructor Qualification. Notwithstanding this, a Level 3 Kayak Instructor Qualification can only be assessed by members of the Level 3 Kayak Instructor Assessor Panel

• Clear guidelines should be given in writing should a candidate fail an assessment as to the areas that need to be improved on.

• Candidates cannot depend on any assistance (material or practical) during the course of an assessment.

• No other award may be assessed at the same time as the Level 3 Kayak Instructor Qualification.

• The candidate/assessor ratio should be a maximum of 8:2 but 6:2 is preferable

• A Level 3 Kayak Instructor Assessment must be assessed by a minimum of two members of the Level 3 Kayak Instructor Assessor Panel

Equipment required for the Level 3 Kayak Instructor Assessment

A properly equipped kayak must include:
• Rigid end loops and/or toggles
• Kayaks over 270cm in length must have decklines fitted front and back
• Kayaks 270cm or less in length must have cowtails fitted front and back
• Method of securing paddles
• Suitable buoyancy
• Suitable foot rest
A kayak must be of sufficient volume to carry out all necessary safety equipment and perform any rescue as required by the Level 4 Skills Award Personal canoeing equipment must include:
Paddle
Wetsuit and /or sufficient thermal clothing
Spray Deck
Buoyancy Aid with integrated harness
Cagoule
Helmet
Canoe Booties or adequate footwear
 Equipment must also include:
Towing System
Throw Rope
Bivvy Bag or equivalent
First Aid Kit
Repair Kit
Split Paddle
Waterproof Bag or other method of keeping equipment dry
Knife
Whistle
Torch
Flask and Food
Spare Clothes
Group Shelter
Sling
Karabiner

1.00 General aims
The Level 4 Kayak Coach Qualification aims to enable candidates to:

1.01  Become qualified to instruct and lead groups safely on water of Grade 3+ difficulty in a
 kayak.
1.02  Assess for the Irish Canoe Union Levels 2, 3 and 4 Kayak Skills Awards.
1.03  Foster further participation and improvement in kayaking standards
1.04  Promote safe kayaking standards.

2.00 Course Outline
The Level 3 Kayak Coach Qualification requires that a candidate attend a one day assessment. A further optional one day training workshop is highly recommended though not compulsory.

The course/workshop content should include the following:

Advanced Kayak teaching on white water
1. Kayak Design appropriate for students and activity
2. Advanced River grading
3. Assessment of the Level 4 Kayak Skills award.
4. Feedback techniques
5. Different methods of instruction and use of Audio Visual aids
6. Leadership & Decision Making – running Grade 3 + rapids
7. Management of a rescue / first aid incident in the river setting
8. Teaching advanced Whitewater techniques and freestyle manoeuvres such as boofs, flares

3.00 Applying to attend a Level 4 Kayak Coach Workshop
Before applying for this course/workshop a candidate must

3.01  Be currently registered with the Irish Canoe Union Office as a Level 3 Kayak Coach
3.02  Hold the Level 5 Kayak Skills Award or equivalent
3.03  Have unrestricted access to a suitable kayak, personal equipment and additional
 equipment as listed for the Level 5 Kayak Skills award
3.04  Be at least 18 years of age at the time of application.
3.05  Complete a course application and return to Canoe Union office

4.00 Applying to attend a Level 4 Kayak Coach Assessment

Candidates will only be invited to attend an assessment on the satisfactory attainment of Level 5 Kayak Skills award and hold the Level 3 Kayak Coach qualification for at least one year

Before applying to attend a Level 4 Kayak Coach Assessment, a candidate must

4.01  Be a Level 3 Kayak Coach for a minimum of one year
4.02  Be currently registered as a Level 3 Kayak Coach
4.03  Hold the Level 5 Kayak Skills award
4.04  Attend two Level 4 Kayak Skills Assessments
4.05  Be at least 18 years of age at the time of application.
4.06  Have unrestricted access to a suitable kayak, personal equipment and additional
 equipment as listed for the Level 5 Kayak Skills award
4.06  Possess a current First Aid Certificate approved by the Training and Development
 Committee (REC 3 or WFA 3 or equivalent)

4.07  Return a completed Level 4 Kayak Coach assessment application to the Irish Canoe
 Union Sport HQ Park West Dublin 12 no later than two weeks (14 days) prior to the
 assessment date.

5.00 Format of a Level 4 Kayak Coach Assessment

The Level 4 Kayak Coach Assessment will take place over one day and must include a river trip on Grade 3+ difficulty over a distance of 2-5 miles (4-8 kilometres)

The Assessment Group on the river trip of the assessment should consist of the following:

Assessors Minimum of two registered Assessors on the Level 4 Kayak Coach Assessor Panel
Assessees Minimum of two and up to a maximum of four Assessees
Other River Trip Participants Minimum of two and up to a maximum of four participants who must hold at minimum the Level 3 Kayak Skills Award

During the assessment a candidate must
• Satisfy the assessors that they are mature, responsible and competent to instruct, lead and control a group on a river trip of Grade3+ difficulty at a minimum.
• Show an ability to instruct a group of students on a river trip of Grade3+ difficulty.
• Have knowledge, both oral and practical, of advanced white water techniques, skills and rescues.
• Have knowledge, both oral and practical, of First Aid and CPR as applied in a high grade river environment.
• Have maintained a skills level equivalent to that of the Level 5 Kayak Skills.
• Attend an interview with assessors

As part of the Level 4 Kayak Coach Assessment, a candidate will be expected to

5.01  Present a suitable kayak correctly fitted out for instruction and other appropriate
 personal equipment (See Coach List of Equipment). It would be expected that a
 candidate's equipment would be of a standard consistent with the responsibilities likely
 to be encountered by a Level 4 Coach. Examination of equipment will form part of the
 overall assessment.

5.02  Organise and lead a group of intermediate level paddlers on a river trip of Grade 3+
 difficulty over a distance of 2-5 miles (4-8 kilometres )

5.03  During the course of the river trip teach any stroke, technique or rescue applicable to
 Grade 3+ water while demonstrating effective group control, group rapport, and
 instructional ability. In addition teach any modern river running technique as outlined
 on Level 5 Kayak Skills syllabus such as boofs, flares etc.

5.04  Satisfy the assessors that he/she is mature, responsible and competent to instruct,
 lead and control a group on a river trip of Grade 3+ difficulty.

5.05  Be able to demonstrate white water and deep water rescue techniques on a Grade 3 +
 water
5.06  As part of an interview give a debrief of the river trip for the Assessors and answer
 questions, either written and oral, on relevant aspects of kayaking such as modern
 kayak design , advanced river grading , feedback techniques , suitable kayaks for
 students and activity and assessing skills.

 

 

 

Equipment required for the Level 4 Kayak Coach Assessment

A correctly equipped kayak must include:
Rigid end loops and/or toggles
Kayaks over 270cm in length must have decklines fitted front and back.
Kayaks 270cm or less in length must have cowtails fitted front and back
Method of securing paddles
Suitable buoyancy
Suitable foot rest
A kayak must be of sufficient volume to carry all necessary safety equipment and perform any rescue as required by the Level 4 Kayak Skills Award.

Personal canoeing equipment must include:
Wetsuit or sufficient thermal clothing
Canoe Booties or adequate footwear
Cagoule
Helmet
Buoyancy Aid with integrated harness
Spray Deck
Paddle Flask and Emergency Food
Bivvy Bag or equivalent
Spare Clothes
Group Shelter
First Aid Kit
Waterproof Bag or other method of keeping equipment dry
Map
Split Paddle
Whistle
Repair Kit
Torch Throw Bag
Knife
Sling
Prussic Loops x2
Karabiners x 2
Towing System with quick release

Recommended Contents of First Aid Kit:
Rubber gloves
Paramedical shears
Roll of first aid tape
Roller bandages (assorted 3sizes)
Notebook and pencil Vent aid or resuscitation barrier device
Tweezers
Triangular 3bandages
Foil blanket or emergency blanket
Sam splint Assorted plasters
Safety pins
3Wound dressings (assorted sizes)
Penlight or snap light Waterproof container (to keep supplies dry)

Candidates must present suitable personal equipment plus any additional equipment deemed to be appropriate to support other members of the group.
Equipment should reflect such things as the season, the abilities of the group, and the grade of the river being undertaken.
Borrowed equipment will be assessed as if it were a candidate's own.
A candidate should be aware that on advanced grade rivers, having too much or inappropriate equipment can nearly be as hazardous as having too little.

Level 4 Kayak Coach Qualification Assessment Guidelines
• No other award may be assessed at the same time as the Level 4 Kayak Coach Qualification
• Clear guidelines will be given in writing should a candidate fail an assessment as to the areas that they need to improve on.
• Candidates cannot depend on any assistance (material or practical) during the course of an assessment.

1.00  General aims
The Level 3 Sea Coach Qualification aims to enable participants to:

1.01  Become qualified to instruct and lead groups safely on coastal trips in Moderate seas.
1.02  train and assess participants for the Irish Canoe Union Level 1,2 and 3 Sea skills.
1.03  understand and instruct basic sea kayaking navigation.

2.00 Course Outline
The Sea Coach qualification requires that a candidate attend 4 days of training and a two-day assessment. Those participants who are previously qualified as Level 1 or 2 Coaches are not obliged to attend the first 2 days of the course. The course content is as follows:

Teaching in Sheltered Waters or within harbours (Day 1))
1. Teaching novice and basic level students.
2. Analysis of basic strokes, skills, and techniques.
3. Development of lesson programmes and teaching skills.
4. Use of focussed games and tasks in teaching canoeing
5. Maximising pool use for teaching canoeing

Instructing during basic sea trips (Day 2)
1. Personal skill instruction & Briefing groups
2. Basic Sea Trip Leadership and Communication
3. Teaching basic level students
4. Analysis of intermediate Strokes, Skills, and Techniques
5. Progressions in instructing during sea trips
6. Selection and Planning of Basic Sea trips

Trip Planning (Day 3)
1. Trip planning
2. Communication & Leadership styles and group control on Sea Trips
3. Caves, Coastal exploration, Rock Hopping
4. Assessment of Level 1, 2, and 3 Sea Skills.
5. Promoting awareness of Environmental issues in Sea Kayaking
6. Weather and Tide. Revision of Level 4 Sea Skills Content.
7. Sea Kayaking Camping Procedures

Safety at Sea (Day 4)
1. Safety procedures on the Sea
2. Towing on the sea
3. Hazards
4. Group Safety - Management and Communication
5. Equipping yourself for leading on the Sea
6. Management of a rescue / first aid incident on the sea

3.00  Applying to attend a Level 3 Kayak Coach Series
Before applying for this course, a candidate must

3.01  have registered, with the Irish Canoe Union Office, as a Sea Coach Trainee.

3.02  have unrestricted access to a suitable kayak and the necessary equipment.

3.03  be of least Level 4 Sea Skills standard (formally the Sea Skills Award). Candidates
 must have completed the Level 4 Sea Skills before assessment.

3.04  be at least 18 years of age at the time of application.

3.05  complete the appropriate application form.

4.00  Applying for an Assessment
Before applying to attend an Assessment, a candidate must

4.01  attend a full training course approved by the Irish Canoe Union.

4.02  attend two Level 3 Sea Skills courses and one Level 3 Sea Skills Assessment.

4.03  assist in preparing a group, during the course of the Level 3 Sea Coach Series, of
 novice canoeists for a Level 3 Sea Skills Assessment or alternatively prepare a group
 of canoeists of a basic skills level for a Level 4 Sea Skills Assessment. In each case the
 group must consist of at least three participants.

4.04  during the course of the Coach Series, complete at least 25 hours (minimum of five
 different sessions) of basic and/or intermediate instruction on the sea under the
 supervision of at least two different Sea Coaches.

4.05  during the course of the Sea Coach Series, instruct on at least three different sea trips
 totalling a minimum of 10 hours in charge of different groups of canoeists under the
 supervision of Irish Canoe Union Coaches.

4.06  obtain a current REC First Aid Certificate or one approved by the Training and
 Development Unit.

4.07  Return the Level 3 Sea Coach Logbook completed, with all the above pre assessment
 requirements fully detailed, to the Coach Officer c/o The Irish Canoe Union House of
 Sport. (Not later than three weeks before the assessment date)

4.08  have completed the Coach training programme within two consecutive years preceding
 an assessment.

5.00  Format of the Level 3 Sea Coach Assessment

5.01  During the Level 3 Kayak Coach Assessment candidates must satisfy the assessor that
 they are responsible and competent to instruct, lead and control a group on a coastal
 sea trip in Moderate seas. (See definition)

5.02  During the period of the Level 3 Sea Coach Series, and if necessary at the Assessment
 a candidate's personal sea kayaking skills and First Aid may be assessed. It would be
 expected that a candidate would at least have maintained a skills level equivalent to
 that of the Level 4 Sea Skills (formally the Sea Skills Award) and where possible
 improved on this.

As part of the Coach Assessment, a candidate will be expected to

5.03  organise and lead an instructional session for beginners or intermediates over the
 course of a coastal sea trip.

5.04  demonstrate effective group control, group rapport, and instructional ability.

5.05  demonstrate, when requested, such rescues as are required by the Training, Coaching
 and Accreditation Scheme.

5.06 prepare a debrief of the instructional session for the Assessor.

5.07  demonstrate all techniques and skills as required by Level 4 Sea Skills Award.

5.08  demonstrate a thorough knowledge of First Aid in the sea kayaking environment as
 well as a thorough working knowledge of the cause/effect/treatment of Shock,
 Hypothermia, EAR, CPR and the treatment of an unconscious casualty.

5.09  Possess a sea kayak correctly fitted out for instruction and other appropriate personal
 equipment (See Sea Coach List of Equipment). It would be expected that a candidate's
 equipment would be of a standard consistent with the responsibilities likely to be
 encountered by a Sea Coach. Examination of equipment will form part of the overall
 assessment.

5.10  Before setting off on the assessment trip the candidate will be required to produce a
 route summary for the day based on information gleaned from the chart, tide tables,
 pilot and weather forecast.

5.11  Present a short presentation on a Sea Kayaking with the use of teaching aids. This
 presentation can be undertaken while on the sea, on the shore or indoor and should
 include content suitable for beginner to intermediate participants in sea kayaking

5.12  answer questions written or oral, on aspects of sea kayaking covered during the
 training Series or in the support literature

5.13  Have recorded (in the prescribed logbook) during the Sea Coach Series, all sea
 kayaking trips. The logbook should reflect a wide range of sea kayaking experience
 during the training series. Details of canoeing activities prior to applying for the Sea
 Coach Training Course should also be recorded.

Candidates will only be invited to attend an assessment on the satisfactory completion of all the requirements including the submission of a logbook and attendance at the Sea Coach Series.

List of Equipment required for the Level 3 Sea Coach Assessment

A properly equipped kayak:
Rigid end loops and/or toggles
Decklines front and back
Method of securing paddles
Watertight bulkheads and additional airbags where appropriate
Suitable foot rest Personal canoeing equipment:
Paddle
Sufficient thermal clothing or Wetsuit
Spray Deck (and spare Spray Deck)
Lifejacket or Buoyancy Aid
Cagoule
Adequate footwear or Canoe Booties

Equipment must also include:
Spare Clothes
Towing System specific to the needs of sea kayaking
Bivvy Bag
First Aid Kit
Repair Kit (For repairs to both fibreglass and plastic kayaks)
Split Paddle
Waterproof Bag or other method of keeping equipment dry
Knife Whistle
Torch
Flask and Food
Sea Charts (or copies)
1:50,000 Map of area
Watch
Compass
Emergency food/drink
Pump or Sponge
Flares (one red parachute flare and one red pinpoint flare)

1.00 General aims
The Level 2 Open Canoe Coach qualification aims to enable participants to:

1.01  Become qualified to instruct and lead groups safely on water of Grade I difficulty.
1.02  Assess for the Irish Canoe Union Level 1 Open Canoe skills award
1.03  Have an awareness of the competitive canoeing disciplines
1.04  Instruct in the following sea areas:
(a) Within Harbours (b) Designated sheltered non-tidal areas.

Course Outline
2.01  The Level 2 Canoe Coach requires that a candidate attend a three day training course
 (or a programme of similar duration) and a one day assessment.

Applying to attend a Training Course
Before applying to attend a Level 2 Canoe Coach Course, a candidate must
3.01  have registered, with the Irish Canoe Union Office, as a Level 2 Canoe Coach Trainee.

3.02  have unrestricted access to a suitable canoe, personal equipment, and additional
 equipment as listed for a Level 2 Canoe Coach assessment.

3.03  be at least 16 years of age at the time of application for a Level 2 Canoe Coach
 Training Course.

Applying to attend an Assessment
Before applying to attend a Level 2 Canoe Coach Assessment, a candidate must

4.01  have maintained registration as a Level 2 Canoe Coach Trainee.

4.02  have obtained a Level 3 Canoe Skills Certificate.

4.03  have attended an approved Level 2 Canoe Coach Training Course or Level 2 Canoe
 Coach Training Programme within the 24 months proceeding a selected assessment
 date. If a candidate has a Level 1 Kayak Coach Certificate or has completed a Level 1
 Kayak Coach Training Course, that candidate can opt for a one-day skill transference
 course as an alternative to the Level 2 Canoe Coach Training Course/Programme.

4.04  have unrestricted access to a fully equipped canoe, personal equipment, and additional
 equipment as listed for a Level 2 Canoe Coach assessment.

4.05  have recorded in a Level 2 Canoe Coach Logbook at least 25 hours (on the water) of
 varied instructional experience. This instructional experience should be under the
 supervision of a member of the Level 2 Canoe Coach Assessment Panel.

4.06  have assisted in the preparation of a group, during the period between a course and
 assessment of novice canoeists for a Level 2 Canoe Skills Assessment. The group must
 consist of at least three participants.

4.07  possess a current First Aid Certificate approved by the Training and Development
 Committee.

4.08  be at least 18 years of age.

4.09  be recommended for assessment by a registered Irish Canoe Union Coach.

4.10  return to the Irish Canoe Union Office, a Level 2 Canoe Coach Assessment Application
 and a completed Level 2 Canoe Coach Logbook, with all pre assessment requirements
 fully detailed no later than three weeks before a selected assessment date.

Format of Assessment

5.01  During a Level 2 Canoe Coach Assessment, candidates must satisfy an assessor that
 they are competent to instruct on water of Grade I difficulty. Apart from teaching and
 personal canoeing ability, candidates must also demonstrate that they are mature and
 responsible to manage a group.

5.02  During assessment, a candidate's personal canoeing skills and First Aid may be
 assessed. It would be expected that a candidate would have maintained a skills level
 equivalent to that of the Level 3 Canoe Skills Award and where possible improved on
 this.

As part of a Level 2 Canoe Coach Assessment, a candidate will be expected to

5.03  organise an instructional session for a novice/basic level group on water of Grade I
 difficulty or in a Sheltered Tidal Area harbour.

5.04  teach any stroke, technique, or rescue applicable to flat water as outlined in the Level
 2 Canoe Skills Award. Also teach any Knots etc. on Level 2 Canoe Skills Award.

5.05  prepare a self-appraisal of the water session.

5.06  demonstrate all techniques and skills as required by the Level 3 Canoe Skills Award, if
 requested to do so.

5.07  demonstrate an ability to carry out the following rescues efficiently and effectively: X
 Rescue, Assisted X-Rescue, and an All-in Rescue. All rescues may be required to be
 demonstrated both as a rescuer and rescuee.

5.08  present a suitable canoe correctly fitted out for instruction and with other appropriate
 personal equipment (See Level 2 Canoe Coach List of Equipment). It would be
 expected that a candidate's equipment would be of a standard consistent with the
 responsibilities likely to be encountered by a Level 2 Canoe Coach. Examination of
 equipment will form an important part of the overall assessment.

5.09  demonstrate effective group control, group rapport, and instructional ability.

5.10  demonstrate a thorough knowledge of basic First Aid as well as a thorough working
 knowledge of the cause/effect/treatment of Shock, Hypothermia, EAR and CPR.

5.11  answer questions on aspects of canoeing covered during the Level 2 Canoe Coach
 Training Course.

5.12  attend an interview, where the candidate will present their self-appraisal.

5.13  have recorded in the Level 2 Canoe Coach Logbook during the period between the
 course and assessment, all canoeing activities including details of the Level 2 Canoe
 Coach Course/Programme. The Logbook should reflect a wide range of interests and
 experience. Details of canoeing activities prior to applying for the Level 2 Canoe Coach
 should also be recorded.

 

 

 

 

Equipment required for the Level 2 Canoe Coach Assessment

A properly equipped open canoe must include:
Sufficient length of painter
Method of securing paddles
Suitable buoyancy Personal equipment must include:
Paddles
Wetsuit or sufficient thermal clothing
Buoyancy Aid
Cagoule
Helmet
Canoe Booties or adequate footwear Equipment must also include:
Towing System
Throw Rope
Bivvy Bag or equivalent
First Aid Kit
Repair Kit (For repair to both fibreglass and plastic canoes)
Spare Paddle
Spare Dry Clothes
Flask and Emergency Food
Waterproof Bag or other method of keeping equipment dry
Whistle

 

Level 2 Canoe Coach Guidelines
A Level 2 Canoe Coach can only be assessed by a member of the Level 2 Canoe Coach Assessment Panel.

• It is recommended that the Level 2 Canoe Coach is assessed by an coach other than the coach who has run the training course leading to the assessment.

• Clear guidelines will be given in writing should a candidate fail the assessment as to the areas they need to improve on.

• Candidates cannot depend on any assistance (material or practical) during the course of the assessment.

• No other award may be assessed at the same time as the Level 2 Canoe Coach.

• The candidate/assessor ratio should be maximum of 3:1 although a ratio of 2:1 is preferable. Assessment to be carried out in solo canoes.

1.00 General aims of the Level 3 Canoe Coach Qualification
The Level 3 Canoe Coach Qualification aims to enable participants to:

1.01  become qualified to instruct and lead groups safely in canoes on water of Grade II
  difficulty
1.02  assess for the Level 1, 2 and 3 Canoe Skills Awards.
1.03  have an awareness of the competitive canoeing disciplines.
1.04  instruct in the following sea areas (a) within harbours (b) designated sheltered non-
 tidal areas.

2.00 Course Outline
The Level 3 Canoe Coach Qualification requires that a trainee attend a four-day training course and a two-day assessment. The course content is as follows.

Teaching on Flat Water (Day 1)
Teaching novice and basic level students.
Analysis of basic skills level strokes, skills, and techniques.
Development of lesson programmes and teaching skills.
Use of focussed games and tasks in teaching canoeing.

Teaching on Moving Water (Day 2)
Personal skill instruction. Briefing groups.
Instructing at a static site. Introductions to moving water.
Instructing basic skills level students.
Analysis of intermediate skills level (Level 3 Canoe Skills) strokes, skills, and techniques.
Assessment of Level 1, 2 and 3 Canoe Skills Awards.
Selecting locations on rivers for tasks, goal setting, and skill application.

Teaching on Moving Water (Day 3)
Trip planning.
Communication, leadership styles, and group control, on moving water.
Teaching advanced white water techniques.
Progressions in instructing during river trips.
Promoting awareness of the competitive disciplines within canoeing.

River Safety (Day 4)
Reading white water.
River rescues - throw ropes, and rescues from canoes.
Hazards - methods of leading, protection, and prevention, etc.
Group safety ¡V management, and communication.
Equipping for river rescue.
Management of rescue/First Aid incidents in a river setting.

3.00 Applying to attend a Training Course
Before applying to attend a Level 3 Canoe Coach Training Course, a trainee must

3.01  have registered, with the Irish Canoe Union Office, as a Level 3 Canoe Coach Trainee.
3.02  be of at least Level 4 Canoe Skills Award standard. Candidates must hold the Level 4
 Canoe Skills Award before an assessment.
3.03  be at least 18 years of age at the time of application.
3.04  complete and return the appropriate application form.

 

 

4.00 Applying to attend a Level 3 Canoe Coach Assessment
Before applying to attend a Level 3 Canoe Coach Assessment, a trainee must

4.01  attend a complete Level 3 Canoe Coach Training Course run under the auspices of the
 Irish Canoe Union.

4.02  attend two Level 2 and one Level 3 Canoe Skills Award assessments.

4.03  assist in preparing a group of canoeists for a Level 2 or Level 3 Canoe Skills Award
 Assessment during the course of the Level 3 Canoe Coach Training Course. In either
 case the group must consist of at least three participants.

4.04  during the course of the Level 3 Canoe Coach Training Course, complete at least 15
 hours (minimum of five different sessions) of basic or intermediate level skills (on the
 water) instruction under the supervision of at least two different registered Level 3
 Canoe Coaches.

4.05  during the course of the Level 3 Canoe Coach Training Course, instruct on at least
 three different river trips totalling a minimum of 10 hours under the supervision of a
 Level 3 Canoe Coach.

4.06  obtain or possess a current REC First Aid Certificate or one approved by the Training &
 Development Committee.

4.07  return a completed Level 3 Canoe Coach Logbook with all the above pre assessment
 requirements fully detailed, to the Canoe Officer, Irish Canoe Union, House
 of Sport, Long Mile Road, Dublin 12, not later than three weeks before a selected
 assessment date.

4.08  have completed a Level 3 Canoe Coach training course within two consecutive years
 preceding an assessment.

5.00 Format of the Assessment

5.01  During a Level 3 Canoe Coach Assessment, trainees must satisfy an assessor that they
 are mature, responsible, and competent to instruct, lead, and control a group on a
 river trip of Grade II difficulty.

5.02  During the period of a Level 3 Canoe Coach Training Course and if necessary at an
 assessment, a trainee’s personal canoeing skills and First Aid may be assessed. It
 would be expected that a trainee would at least have maintained a skills level
 equivalent to that of the Level 4 Canoe Skills Award and where possible improved on
 this.

As part of a Level 3 Canoe Coach Assessment, a candidate will be expected to

5.03  organise and lead an instructional session for a group of canoeists with basic and/or
 intermediate level skills during the course of a river trip.

5.02  demonstrate effective group control, group rapport, and instructional ability.

5.03  demonstrate, when requested such rescues as are required by the Training, Coaching
 & Accreditation Scheme.

5.04  prepare a debrief of the instructional session for an assessor.

5.05  demonstrate all techniques and skills as required by the Level 4 Canoe Skills Award.

5.06  demonstrate a thorough knowledge of First Aid in the canoeing environment as well as
 a thorough working knowledge of the cause/effect/treatment of Shock, Hypothermia,
 EAR, CPR and the treatment of an unconscious casualty.

5.07  possess a suitable canoe correctly fitted out for instruction and other appropriate
 personal equipment (see Coach list of equipment). It would be expected that a trainee’s equipment would be of a standard consistent with the responsibilities likely
 to be encountered by an coach. Examination of equipment will form part of the overall
 assessment.

5.08  present a short lecture on a canoeing topic with the use of teaching aids.

5.09  answer questions either written and oral on aspects of canoeing covered during the
training course.

5.10  have recorded (in the prescribed logbook) all canoeing activities including details of
 the Level 3 Canoe Coach Training Course. A logbook should reflect a wide range of
 canoe experience during the period of the Training Course. Details of canoeing
 activities (both kayak and/or canoe) prior to applying for the Level 3 Canoe Coach
 Training Course should also be recorded.

Candidates will only be invited to attend an assessment on the satisfactory completion of all the requirements including the submission of a logbook and attendance on a complete Level 3 Canoe Coach Training Course.

Equipment required for the Level 3 Canoe Coach Assessment

A properly equipped canoe must include
Suitable buoyancy
End grabs
Sufficient length of painters
Method of securing paddles Personal equipment must include
Paddle
Wetsuit or sufficient thermal clothing
Buoyancy Aid
Cagoule
Canoe booties or adequate footwear
 Equipment must also include
Towing system
Throw rope
Bivvy bag or equivalent
First Aid kit
Repair kit
Spare paddle
Spare dry clothes
Knife
Flask and emergency food
Waterproof bag or other method of keeping equipment dry
Whistle

Where the candidate is not secured into the canoe, helmets are not compulsory and are worn at the discretion of the candidate.
Where the candidate is secured into the canoe e.g. Playboats, helmets are compulsory.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Level 3 Canoe Coach Assessment Guidelines

A Level 3 Canoe Coach Qualification can only be assessed by members of the Level 3 Canoe Coach Assessor Panel

It is recommended that Coaches other than the Coach who has run the training course leading to the assessment assess a Level 3 Canoe Coach Qualification.

Clear guidelines should be given in writing should a candidate fail an assessment as to the areas that need to be improved on.

Candidates cannot depend on any assistance (material or practical) during the course of an assessment.

No other award may be assessed at the same time as the Level 3 Canoe Coach Qualification.

The candidate/assessor ratio should be a maximum of 8:2 but 6:2 is preferable

A Level 3 Canoe Coach Assessment must be assessed by a minimum of two members of the Level 3 Canoe Coach Assessor Panel and should include, where possible, a qualified First Aid Trainer approved.

Introduction
The RSR is a 1 day course designed for canoeists of all levels who wish to undertake relevant training in Safety and Rescue Techniques appropriate for water of Grade 2.This is an ideal stepping stone for those canoeists who are interested in taking more in -depth advanced rescue and safety training.

General aims of the RSR1
The RSR1 aims to enable candidates to

1.01 Develop an understanding of rescue / safety protocols
1.02 To apply the appropriate method and equipment for particular situations
1.03 Execute self rescue
1.04 Rescue of others in Grade 2 water
1.05 Rescue of equipment in Grade 2 water

Course Outline
This is designed to be a flexible course depending on trainee’s needs and previous experience levels-notwithstanding this the core elements of the syllabus must include:

2.01 Personal Equipment
2.02 Prioritising Rescue
2.03 Systematic approach to a rescue
2.04 Self Rescue
2.05 Throwrope rescue techniques
2.06 Basic Hydrology /Dynamics of river features
2.07 Shallow Water Crossings
2.08 Defensive/Offensive swimming
2.09 Communication
2.10 Leadership roles and decision-making on a riverbank
2.11 Stabilisation lines

3.00 Requirements to attend a Course
This Course is open to any canoeist who wishes to improve river safety skills

Recommended Equipment List
4.01 River Rescue Buoyancy Aid with integrated harness
4.02 Throw Bag
4.03 Knife
4.04 Length of Webbing / Open Sling 4-5 metres long
4.05 Closed Sling
4.06 Screw Gate Karabiner x 2
4.07 Adequate Footwear
4.08 Wetsuit or Drysuit
4.09 Thermals
4.10 Helmet
4.11 Whistle

Guidelines
•The RSR 1 course should be delivered and run on water of grade 2 difficulty at a static site
•The Course Provider must be a Level 3 Kayak Instructor on the RSR I Course Trainer Panel
•The student /trainer ratio is a maximum of 6:1

Introduction

The RSR 2 is a two -day course designed for intermediate and advance level canoeists who wish to undertake relevant training in River Safety and Rescue techniques appropriate to water of Grade 3 and above difficulty. This is a follow on from RSR 1 introducing more advanced rescue and safety training and techniques.

1.00 General aims of the RSR 2
The RSR 2 aims are to enable candidates to

1.01 To further enhance the understanding of rescue / safety protocols
1.02 To apply the correct method and equipment for a given situation
1.03 Execute self-rescue
1.04 The rescues of others in grade 3 / 3+ water
1.05 The recovery of equipment from grade 3 / 3+ water

2.00 Course Outline
This is designed to be a flexible course to allow for students needs and previous experience- notwithstanding this the core element of the syllabus must include:

2.01 Personal Equipment
2.02 Prioritising Rescue
2.03 Systematic approach to Rescue
2.04 Extraction of Foot / Body Entrapments, Broaching / Pinning
2.05 Self Rescue
2.06 Throw Rope Rescue Techniques
2.07 Advance Hydrology / Dynamics of River Features
2.08 Advance Anchor Points and Belaying
2.09 Shallow Water Crossing Methods
2.10 Defensive, Aggressive and Combat Swimming
2.11 The Use and Applications of Vector Pull, Tensioned Diagonal,V-Lower, Z Drag
2.12 Communication
2.13 Leadership roles and decision making on a riverbank.

3.00 Applying to attend a course
This course is open to all who have completed RSR1 and wish to build on their river safety skills.

4.00 Recommended Equipment List
4.01 Buoyancy Aid with integrated harness
4.02 Throw Bag
4.03 Knife
4.04 Length of Webbing / Open Sling 4 /5 metres in length
4.05 Closed Sling
4.06 Screw Gate Karabiner x 2
4.07 Prussic Loop x 2
4.08 Adequate Footwear
4.09 Wet suit / Dry suit
4.10 Thermals
4.11 Helmet
4.12 Whistle

Guidelines

• The RSR 2 training course should be delivered and run on water of Grade 3 / 3+ difficulty at a static site.

RSR 2 course can only be delivered by a currently registered Level 4 Instructor who is a member of the RSR 2 Course Trainer Panel.

•The course student / trainer ratio is a maximum of 4:1

For certain ICU Skills Awards and  Instructor & Coach Qualifications, a First Aid certificate is required in order for a candidate to progress to assessment.
The Irish Canoe Union does not deliver First Aid training. Instead they recommend that canoeists attend a reputable First Aid course such as Rescue Emergency Care (REC). Most First Aid certificates require re-validation every 3 years.

It is required that all instructors and coaches hold a current first aid certificate in order to validate their qualification.   
Instructors & First Aid Courses
Under current guidelines the Rescue Emergency Care (REC) and Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certified courses are the only acceptable qualifications.  These courses are specially designed to equip candidates with the skills to deal with injuries that may occur where environmental and weather conditions can have a significant effect.  The table below shows the appropriate levels.
 
ICU Instructor
Award Rescue Emergency Care (REC) Wilderness First Aid (WFA) Other

Level 1 Level 2 Level 2 Equivalent

Level 2 Level 2 Level 2 Equivalent

Level 3 Level 3 Level 3 Equivalent

Level 4 Level 3 Level 3 Equivalent

With increasing public awareness of health and safety issues in Ireland the range of First Aid courses on offer has expanded considerably.  Most courses deal with "Urban" First Aid where rapid access the emergency services is assumed. If you wish to determine if a course is acceptable please contact the ICU Office with a copy of the course syllabus and details of the awarding body ready for review.  In general no "Occupational First Aid" or "Order of Malta Course" is acceptable as they do not deal with non-urban aqueous environments, but always contact the ICU Office to confirm.
 
First Aid Kits
Recommended minimum contents for a First Aid Kit for Instructors & Coaches:
Rubber gloves
Vent aid or resuscitation barrier device
Paramedical shears
Tweezers
Safety pins
Roll of first aid tape
Triangular bandages x3
Wound dressings (assorted sizes) x3
Roller bandages (assorted sizes) x3
Foil blanket or emergency blanket
Penlight or snap light
Notebook and pencil
Sam splint
Waterproof container (to keep supplies dry)

First Aid Training Providers
The Rescue Emergency Care (REC) First Aid training scheme has been specially designed for outdoor sports and remote environments. It is the recommended training for Instructors by ICU Training Unit
Course Providers
Tomas Aylward 087 2494847 Kerry
Paul Butcher 086 8506611 Dublin
Paul Cahill 087 6639922 Meath
Jane Carney  086 2933477 Wicklow
Liam Kavanagh 086 8893387  Wicklow
Vaughan Mason 087 2851081 Dublin
Joe O'Gorman  01 2989719 Dublin
Eithna Synnott  00441693738333 Northern Ireland
Pat Reid -First Aid for Life 086 8210349  Kildare
 Barry Redmond - First Response  086 8210112  Meath /Dublin
 Bernie Stenson - First Response  086 6034126  Countrywide
    

15 Cleevaun, Naas Co Kildare.
045 866117
086 8210 349.
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Wild Places Emergency Care - Paul Cahill
66 Riverside Lawns , Kinnegad , Co Westmeath,
087 6639922
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it Ireland: Tollymore Mountain Centre
0044 48 43 72 21 58