Paddling Program - Stage 1
The Paddle & Build Adventure at Gilwell Park introduces Joeys and Cubs to the excitement of paddling in a safe and supportive environment. Through hands-on learning and guided play, participants explore water safety, teamwork, and the basics of canoeing while working toward their Outdoor Adventure Skills (OAS) Paddling Stage 1.
There is no pre-required learning or experience for this activity day.
Under the guidance of experienced instructors, young Scouts learn how to wear a lifejacket correctly, practise simple paddling strokes, and float confidently in their PFD. The day finishes with an engaging raft-building challenge — a creative team activity that encourages cooperation, problem-solving and plenty of laughter.
Perfect for early adventurers, this program builds water confidence and introduces lifelong outdoor skills through authentic, nature-based fun.
Included/Exclude
- PFDs, Paddles and Boats
- Qualified Instructors to run the Activity
- Access to Shower and Washing Facilities
- Personal Clothing Equipment
- Personal Shower and Washing Equipment
- Food
Sample Itinerary
Know what a PFD (lifejacket) is and why it’s important
Dress correctly for paddling (sun-smart, fast-drying clothing)
Understand the buddy system and basic water safety rules
Try forward and backward strokes with a paddle
Float safely in their PFD for 2 minutes
Enjoy a short paddling adventure as part of a team
Help care for their equipment and reflect on their favourite part of the day
Icebreaker + names game
Story or quick chat: “Why do we wear a lifejacket?”
Demonstrate and fit PFDs — let each child lift their arms to test fit
Discuss sun safety (hat, sunscreen, shirt, water bottle)
Introduce the buddy system — partner up for the day
OAS links:
“I can explain what a PFD is for.” “I can explain the buddy system.”
Identify bow and stern of a canoe
Practise holding paddles correctly on grass (“air paddling”)
Fun drills: “Simon Says – Forward! Back! Stop!”
Learn how to sit safely and balance in the canoe
Discuss “What happens when we paddle forward or backward?”
OAS links:
“I know what a forward and backward stroke are.”
Launch safely one canoe at a time (2 youth + 1 adult per craft)
Practise forward and backward strokes with instructor help
Play follow-the-leader and turn-around-the-island games
Float in PFDs for 2 minutes as a confidence activity
OAS links:
“I can swim 10 metres with a PFD.” “I can float for 2 minutes.”
Gather in patrols or sixes
Build a small raft using barrels, poles, and ropes (adult-supported)
Teach basic knots (half-hitch, reef knot) through games
Test the raft by floating it near shore — everyone takes turns climbing on/off
Celebrate teamwork and problem-solving
OAS links:
“I can take care of my equipment for the duration of a paddling trip.”
Go for a short group paddle (~20 minutes) along the shoreline
Practise steering and teamwork in pairs
Encourage communication between buddies
Observe wildlife and discuss looking after the environment
OAS links:
“I have taken part in a short paddling adventure of at least one hour.”
Wash down canoes and paddles
Pack away PFDs correctly
Circle-time reflection:
“What was your favourite part?”
“What did you learn today?”
“What will you do next time you paddle?”
Always within 10 m of shore or instructor’s craft
Calm water only, no deep-water rescues
Continuous adult supervision, minimum one adult per canoe
Use short, high-energy activities (10–15 min each)
Regular hydration, shade, sunscreen, and rest breaks
Keep emphasis on fun and confidence, not distance or technique
- 2 x sets of appropriate clothes for getting wet (There will be 2 extended periods of being on and in the water
- Closed toe shoes appropriate for getting wet (E.g. Old runners, no Crocs)