Levels / Ability

It is important to remember that this is a SDCC Internal Grading System and that it is independent of the BCU or any other Ability Qualifications, including our own pool qualifications and that gradings depend solely on performance on SDCC trips.

F (First Timers) - This will include all beginners and NEWCOMERS to the Club REGARDLESS of qualifications and those who have not been on club trips. Hopefully people will not stay at this grade for long, assuming they have mastered a few of the preliminaries in the pool, they should ask to start going on ‘N’ grade trips.

N (Novice) - This grade is for those who have just started river canoeing. Paddlers in this grade should be able to perform the following, (I) Capsize Drill, (ii) Paddle in a straight line, (iii) all basic turning strokes, (iv) Have completed 2 different river trips with the club.

I (Intermediate) - At this grade paddlers will be developing white water skills on moderate water. They will be able to:- (I) Use all basic strokes competently, (ii) Perform breakins and breakouts on moving water, (iii) People on this grade will be competent on International Grade 2 water.

P (Proficient) - At this grade paddlers will be competent to participate in most of the club trips but will not have reached the highest levels of paddling skills. They will be in full command whilst on the river of all necessary paddling strokes and be able to roll in moving water.

X (Excellent) - This grade will contain a small number of paddlers who not only paddle any club trip competently but also display the highest levels of skill in difficult water conditions. They will also display a well developed ‘River Understanding’ including the ability to route find in very rough conditions.

L (Leaders) - These will be appointed by the committee and must meet the following criteria:-

  Be over 18 years of age

  Preferably know the river on which they are able to lead

  Have basic knowledge of first aid with particular reference to canoeing injuries and problems such as exposure

  Have proven leadership qualities

  Know the basic requirements and equipment to be carried on any trips
 

Their grade will be suffixed with an ‘L’ and the rivers on which they can lead will be decided by the committee. Non leaders will be asked to act as trip leaders in order to assess their ability to be graded as a leader.