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On 3 Feb 2005 03:37:38 -0800, "ChipsCheeseandMayo"
wrote: snip Its offsite thats the issue. I get dropped off with eight (older) clients at the lochside. The minibus then leaves. We pile the kids change of clothes (if they have actually managed to bring what was asked) under a Kisu and leave them on the bank. No changing facilities or showers. (I do have a mobile but reception is very dodgy) So I'm there on my own with eight clients and no bank support. This is a pretty huge loch. I explain to the clients that it is important they stay close to the bank and to me. At first they do then they get more confident and we end up spread over say 20 m 50m from the shore, (Why is there always one client who just cant paddle. Another reason two coaches is good one can help the slower ones). And probably a few hundred m from the get in. So if someone falls in I really am on my own. This is the scary bit. Working out a way of keeping the group close together and close to the shore will make your life easier. For example, if you're doing a little journey use short legs to definite points and each time you stop do some teaching/a game/etc. Experiment. Find something that works for you and your location. Maybe I just need to have more confidence in my own abilities (and learn to roll confidently). Its the what ifs that are the issue. What if a client accidentally knocks me out with their paddle? Hopefully all the what-ifs should be dealt with in the risk assessment and operating procedure. Is there a reasonable method of getting assistance if required? (Not necessarily an emergency.) First time I was asked to go out on my own I was pretty horrified. I know what the ratios are but one coach off site seemed a bit (potentially) unsafe. I said I wasnt happy, my boss said not a problem but if you cant do it we cant count your qualification and your wages will be docked accordingly. Fair enough. They could have been a bit more constructive though and helped to find a solution rather than what sounds like blackmail! Im very grateful for all your feedback. Never again will I feel guilty making a client help empty their boat. Geting them back in using a sling sounds interesting - whats a good length to use? Is it likely to snap your paddle? I think it's a 4'/120cm sling (I always get confused about sling sizes!), and it's a case of using it close to the boat so you don't get a big leverage on the paddle. I'd recommend having a practice with it (there are a few different ways to use it) before you have to use it for real (it tends to be a last resort for me). For those of you who coach what ratios do you use? Is it usual for you to take a novice group on your own.? Thanks again... I don't have a fixed ratio. It depends on the group, the conditions and what we're trying to do. I seem to have been lucky in that everywhere I've worked I've had a manager who's supported me if I've turned round and said that I didn't feel a situation was appropriate. In the end it's you that are out there on the water having to deal with whatever happens. However any centre wants to get the highest client : instructor ratio possible for financial reasons so it isn't unusual for an instructor to have a group of beginners on their own. -- Ste, Ambleside |
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I guess I am unsure as to whether I actually am Lvl 2 Kayak coach
standard - surely if I was I wouldn't be worrying like this.... |
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