The Canoeing Ireland instructor Symposium ran for the second ever time in Gartan Outdoor Education and training centre in Donegal. The aim of the symposium over the last two years has been to bring instructors together to share good practice and explore topics that are of benefit to them as they pass on the skills and knowledge of paddle sports to others. As with last year, we had just over 50 instructors attending with some even making the 8 plus hour journey from Cork to be there. And we had instructors from all disciplines and at all levels from 1 to 5. Over the weekend we had 4 workshops to explore topics facilitated by some of Irelands most knowledgeable instructors including

  • Debriefing and feedback with Shane McElligott,
  • 50 ways to leave and eddy With Stephen Hannon
  • Paddle Able Educate with Emer Carton and Emily Rice
  • Stroke analysis with Kevin “Geo” O’Callaghan

Amongst all the workshops we also presented the new Continuing Professional Development program in its latest form for questions and feedback. The Symposium is partly about the workshops and the learning from it, but also about the networking and learning that many attendees get from each other, while taking an opportunity to be reflective with their practice. And as with last year the attendees were treated amazingly by the staff of Gartan, with excellent food and accommodation, and going above and beyond to make the event a success. The event is perfectly summed up by some of the feedback from the participants –

“Well prepared and professional. Nice mix of topics.”

“Thanks for putting it on. A great opp for learning, and hearing what’s best and current skills for coaching, great way to meet other instructors too”

“Brilliant instructors, all very valuable sessions for me”

“Excellent sessions, great balance between theory and practice.”

“Great staff at Gartan Centre”