Active schools make a splash in Fort William

Nearly two hundred primary 6 and 7 pupils in the Fort William area have taken part in free canoe and kayak sessions this term as part of The Highland Council’s Active Schools Programme.

The sessions were a mixture of curricular and after school sessions, and have involved all nine primary schools in Greater Fort William.

The project was a partnership between The Highland Council’s Active Schools Coordinators, West Highland College and Outward Bound. 

Eighteen students from the Bachelor of Arts Adventure Tourism and National Certificate Programmes used the sessions to improve their coaching skills under the supervision of experienced coaches.

Bridget Thomas, Highland Council’s Active Schools Coordinator for Fort William said: “Despite, or possibly because of, some interesting conditions out on the loch, with wind and rain some days and blazing sunshine on others, the sessions were a huge hit with the pupils.  Some have now signed up for a five week block of sessions, designed to improve their skills and confidence further.  There are also opportunities in the Highland Council’s Summer Events Programme for families to sign up for sessions and for individuals to progress onto moving water.”

For further information on the Council’s Summer Events programme see the listings on the Council’s website at: http://www.highlandactivities.org.uk/