Make a Splash This Summer with West Lancs Scouts Paddlesport 2025!
There’s nothing quite like the feel of water beneath your boat, the fresh air on your face, and the thrill of trying something new. This summer, West Lancs Scouts invites young people and volunteers alike to grab a paddle and dive into an exciting adventure with our Paddlesport programme at Spade Mill Reservoir, Longridge.
Taster Sessions for Scout & Explorer Groups
Have you ever fancied trying canoeing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding? Our taster sessions are the perfect opportunity to dip your toe in (literally!) and try paddlesports. Running every Monday evening from 12th May to 7th July, these sessions are open to Scout and Explorer groups across the county. All sessions are run by experienced volunteers, who are fully permitted and passionate about getting young people safely onto the water.
These sessions are a great way to work towards:
-
A brilliant contribution to your Chief Scout’s Gold Award, Platinum/Diamond Awards (adventure requirements)
Participants can also work towards completing parts of the Young Permit Scheme, allowing them to develop their leadership skills while pursuing adventurous activities with their peers. It’s the perfect stepping stone for future Scouting achievements!
Progressive Skills Course for Explorers & Leaders
For those ready to take their skills to the next level, our Progressive Skills Course offers Explorer Scouts and volunteers the chance to work towards the Paddle UK Discover Award. Running weekly on Tuesday evenings from 13th May to 24th June, this course offers a fantastic opportunity to build confidence, learn advanced techniques, and enhance safety awareness on the water.
Alongside the Discover Award, participants can also work towards:
-
The Chief Scout’s Platinum and Diamond Awards (Skills and Adventure sections)
-
For leaders, a brilliant opportunity to develop personal skills and log hours towards adventurous activity permits via the Young Permit Scheme
How to Get Involved
Both the taster sessions and skills course will be held at the beautiful Spade Mill Reservoir in Longridge, a fantastic venue for paddlesports, with plenty of space to learn, practice, and play.
-
Taster Sessions: Mondays, 6:30-8:30pm
-
Skills Course: Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30pm
-
Cost: £50 for the course (includes equipment, resources, and a Paddle UK certificate upon completion)
To book a place for your group or find out more, drop the team a message at paddlesports@westlancsscouts.org.uk.
Let’s get out there, earn some badges, and make a splash this summer!