Guidance for rowing with us

Here are some tips for enjoying the river and how to make the most out of your session:

1. Rowing a skerry is obviously an outdoor sport, therefore students and staff should wear suitable sports clothing that is both comfortable and is ideally made of synthetic material, so it will dry quickly. Footwear should be trainers or shoes with good grip and no heels.

2. If it is hot or if the sun is out, the students should ideally bring water, a sun hat, sun cream (subject to your schools policy). Be aware that on the river the UV light reflects back from the water so there is an increased chance of sunburn.

3. If it is wet, or cold, students should bring a fleece and a waterproof outer layer to put on. When the student is coxing, after having been rowing, they can become very cold and these layers are important.

4. Unfortunately, there are no changing facilities by the river, so students should change before leaving school. Please discourage your group from bringing large bags with them to the sessions – just the minimum needed to hold their water, their hand sanitiser, waterproofs and anything else that may be essential to them.

5. Please also be aware that toilets are not available at our sites, although there are some close by.

6. The member of staff from your school should brief the students about the standards of behaviour expected from them during the session.

7. Please arrive 15 minutes before the timed start of your session so we can sort out appropriate Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs) for all members of your group, including the group leader. PFDs MUST be worn at all times when on the river.

8. Medical issues: please let the lead coach know if there are any health concerns that they should be aware off e.g., if any member is asthmatic or has a medical issue that may affect their ability to exert themselves when rowing. If any of your group is required to carry an Epipen, please make sure that they do so.

9. Safety on the river: it is important that all of your group understands that they must listen carefully and follow the instructions given to them by the coach leading the group – disruptive behaviour will not be tolerated and will result in the row returning to land.