Learn to paddle this Summer
Cherwell Canoe Club runs beginner courses every summer in Banbury and over the years we have introduced hundreds to the joy and excitement of paddlesports.
These take place at Woodgreen Leisure Centre, Banbury’s heated outdoor olympic sized pool on Wednesday evenings from 7pm – 8pm.
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Summer Beginner and Improver Courses
*** Courses starting May 2024 ***
Click HERE to book a course
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Each year we offer 3 courses of 5 weeks each, running from May through to October. There are courses aimed at complete beginners in all 3 slots, with the third slot also having a course for improvers – that is anyone with some prior experience or has already completed a beginners course. Places are limited so book early to avoid disappointment.
The Beginner course is a basic introduction into the sport of canoeing and kayaking with qualified instructors in a safe and controlled environment. All the necessary equipment is provided.
The Improver course looks to build on the skills acquired during the beginner course, during the first few weeks we refine your technique in the pool before heading out to the river and/or canal to improve your paddling confidence in the real world. An optional trip offering the opportunity to experience your first whitewater river journey will conclude the course.
Both courses are suitable for adults and children, although participants must be over 9 years old and be capable of swimming 25 metres. Under 18s must have a parent or guardian’s consent.
Both courses cover the techniques needed to manoeuvre a kayak on flat water as well as important safety principles and is the basis to developing the skills necessary to progress onto whitewater or any of the competitive disciplines.
Each course runs for 5 weeks with an informal assessment at the end. Those that have met the required standard may be receive a British Canoeing Paddle Award. As part of the course there will also be an opportunity to take part on a river trip on a local river (usually on a Saturday or a Sunday).
The use of club equipment and facilities are included in the course fees. There are reduced fees for under 18s and students in full-time education.
In addition, the course fees also include club membership for the remainder of the year and “Club Associate” Membership of British Canoeing.
As a club member you will be able to enjoy our pool sessions on Wednesday evenings (Woodgreen Leisure Centre outdoor pool in the summer and Bloxham School indoor pool in the winter — extra fees apply). There you will have access to informal coaching to further develop your skills. You will also have access to club trips and social events.
Places can be booked and paid for online using our WebCollect booking system.
For more information please Contact Us.
The sessions are held at Woodgreen Leisure Centre in Banbury. For a map click here.
Ongoing coaching is available on an informal basis to groups or individuals within the club during the open sessions on Wednesday evenings at Woodgreen during the summer and at the indoor pool sessions at Bloxham School during the winter. If there is something specific that you want to learn or if you just want some general coaching then please just ask – any of the experienced paddlers in the club will be only too willing to pass on some tips.
