Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual

Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual Produced and published by the STA: STA Birch Street Walsall West Midlands WS2 8HZ Phone: 01922-645097 Fax: 01922-720628 Email: sta@sta.co.uk Web: www.sta.co.uk All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, computerised or otherwise, without prior arrangement with the STA.

2 STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual Contents Teaching Programme Completion Declaration 5 1. The STA Pool Snorkelling Programme...6 Acknowledgements...6 Introduction...6 Prerequisites...6 Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q) & Junior Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (J-PAR-Q)...6 Pool Snorkelling Sessions...6 Awards...7 Pool Supervision...7 Safety...7 Pool Clothing...7 Teacher to Student Ratio...7 2. STA Snorkelling Awards Criteria...8 3. Equipment...11 Equipment...11 Masks...11 Snorkels...11 Fins...12 Cleaning and Hygiene...12 Equipment Safety...12 4. Hand Signals...13 5. Skills and Techniques...15 Anti-Fogging of the Mask...15 Correct Fitting of the Mask and Positioning of the Strap...15 Fitting the Fins...15 Entries...15 Clearing a Fogged Mask at the Surface...17 Controlling the Airway...17 Clearing a Snorkel of Water...17 Correct Finning Techniques...18 Equalising the Ears...19 Ascent...19 STA Pool Snorkelling Level 1 Award Skills Check Sheet... 20 STA Pool Snorkelling Level 2 Award Skills Check Sheet... 21 STA Pool Snorkelling Level 3 Award Skills Check Sheet... 22 PHYSICAL ACTIVITY READINESS QUESTIONNAIRE (PAR-Q)... 23 PHYSICAL ACTIVITY READINESS QUESTIONNAIRE (PAR-Q) TUTORS GUIDELINES... 24 PHYSICAL ACTIVITY READINESS QUESTIONNAIRE (PAR-Q) DOCTOR S LETTER... 25 JUNIOR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY READINESS QUESTIONNAIRE (J-PAR-Q)... 26 JUNIOR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY READINESS QUESTIONNAIRE (J-PAR-Q) TUTORS GUIDELINES... 27 JUNIOR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY READINESS QUESTIONNAIRE (J- PAR-Q) DOCTORS LETTER... 28

STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual 3 Teaching Programme Completion Declaration STA Pool Snorkelling Teaching Course Unit Programme Details Candidates Name Membership Number Course Venue Course Date Course Tutor (1) Course Tutor (2) Teachers Qualification Please STA Swimming Teacher Equivalent Please provide details: Pre-requisite Qualifications NaRS T/E Date Awarded: Expiry Date: Details of Pool Rescue Award Please NaRS Pool Lifeguard NaRS Pool Attendant NaRS Poolside Helper NaRS Pool Safety Award Equivalent Please provide details: Date Awarded: Expiry Date: STA Pool Snorkelling Teaching Programme Completion Declaration I confirm that the above named teacher has completed the STA Pool Snorkelling Teaching Programme Signed by the Tutor: Signed by the Candidate: Date:

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STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual 5 Teaching Programme Completion Declaration STA Pool Snorkelling Teaching Course Unit Programme Details Candidates Name Membership Number Course Venue Course Date Course Tutor (1) Course Tutor (2) Teachers Qualification Please STA Swimming Teacher Equivalent Please provide details: Pre-requisite Qualifications NaRS T/E Date Awarded: Expiry Date: Details of Pool Rescue Award Please NaRS Pool Lifeguard NaRS Pool Attendant NaRS Poolside Helper NaRS Pool Safety Award Equivalent Please provide details: Date Awarded: Expiry Date: STA Pool Snorkelling Teaching Programme Completion Declaration I confirm that the above named teacher has completed the STA Pool Snorkelling Teaching Programme Signed by the Tutor: Signed by the Candidate: Date:

6 STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual 1. The STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Acknowledgements The STA wishes to thank the following individuals for their help in the production of this programme: Martin Candler Mike Jenkins Tara Lewis John Ollman, for the kind use of the facilities at Risca Leisure Centre, Caerphilly Introduction The STA Pool Snorkelling Programme is a series of 3 progressive awards (levels 1, 2 and 3), which are designed to introduce anyone from the age of 8 to the skills and techniques required for safe and enjoyable snorkelling in a pool environment. The STA recommends that if students wish to progress to snorkelling in open water, they must receive appropriate training and qualifications, from a scuba diving association such as the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (www.padi.com) or the British Sub Aqua Club (www.bsac.com). Prerequisites All participants must be a minimum of 8 years of age and competent swimmers. Competent Swimmers are defined as: Levels 1 and 2 swimmers who are able to: 1. Swim unaided for at least 50m. 2. Enter deep water by jumping/striding and recover to a swimming/tread water position. 3. Swim without swimming goggles. 4. Tread water/float for a minimum period of 30 seconds. (e.g. Swimmers holding Shark 1 or equivalent) Level 3 in addition to the skills above swimmers who are able to: 1. Swim unaided for at least 100m. 2. Tread water/float for a minimum period of 1 minute. (e.g. Swimmers holding Shark 3 or equivalent) Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q) & Junior Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (J-PAR-Q) All students must complete, and have reviewed, the standard STA PAR-Q form before commencing the course (page 23). If students are under 16 years of age, they must have their parent/legal guardian complete the STA Junior PAR-Q (page 26) and have their parent/legal guardian sign it. If a student answers YES to any of the questions please refer to the Tutors guidelines for the appropriate action(s) to take. (PAR-Q page 24 or J- PAR-Q page 27). If a student needs to be referred to their Doctor please supply them with a Doctors Letter (PAR-Q page 25 or J-PAR-Q page 28). These documents must be kept securely, by the Tutor, for a minimum of 5 years. Pool Snorkelling Sessions Level 1 Award This is an introduction to snorkelling, equipment, and its use. A minimum of 1 hour contact time is recommended before students are eligible to undertake the level 1 award and progress to level 2. At this level the fitting and adjustment of the equipment will be performed with assistance from the Teacher. A variety of different snorkelling games (depending on student ability) are recommended to develop confidence and add an element of fun to the sessions. Some suggested games are relay races, swimming through weighted plastic hoops (set at different levels in the pool), searching for plastic weighted objects, in-water tug of war, etc. Level 2 Award This level reinforces the skills taught in the previous award, developing and introducing new skills. A minimum of 5 hours contact time is recommended before students are eligible to undertake the level 2 award and progress to level 3. Level 3 Award This advanced level reinforces the skills taught in the previous awards, developing skills and introducing snorkelling with a Buddy. A minimum of 5 hours contact time is recommended before students are eligible to undertake the level 3 award.

STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual 7 Awards Students who successfully demonstrate competence in all the assessment criteria and achieve the prescribed learning outcomes will be eligible for the appropriate Pool Snorkelling Award (levels 1-3). These are available for purchase in advance from the STA. Note: Skills check sheets on pages 20 to 22 can be photocopied (and laminated) as an aid memoir for poolside. Pool Supervision The teacher is responsible for the safety of the students and should be satisfied that there is adequate and competent lifesaving cover available; this could be the teacher provided that he/she is properly trained and has assessed the risks. If the teacher is in the water with the students STA recommend separate lifesaving cover on poolside. diving to depths greater than 1.5 metres. All participants must be taught how to equalise their ears before submersions below this depth are allowed. Students suffering from any infections/illnesses that block the sinuses must not participate in submersion activities Pool Clothing If you are in the water demonstrating skills, then you must wear appropriate clothing. Due to the skills required to be taught on this course, a t-shirt is not suitable to wear in the water. A suitable alternative is an item such as a rash vest. Safety Teachers are responsible for the safety and welfare of those in their care and must ensure that all steps are taken to prevent injury. It is important to ensure equipment that student s bring with them is safe and suitable for pool use. All participants (and their parent/guardian if under 16), must be warned of the risks associated with increased pressure on the ear drums when surface Teacher to Student Ratio A maximum ratio of one qualified STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teacher to 16 students is recommended.

8 STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual 2. STA Snorkelling Awards Criteria Teaching Objectives Introduce: Pool rules and regulations. Hygiene. Water safety. Preparation and fitting of equipment. Correct and safe entries and exits. Breathing techniques. Swimming techniques. Communication. Playing games. Pool Snorkelling Level 1 Award Learning Outcomes 1. Prepare and fit the equipment correctly (with teacher assistance). 2. Perform a safe entry into shallow water. 3. Clear water from the snorkel by using the blast method and resume breathing through the snorkel without lifting the face from the water. 4. Fin 25 metres. Assessment Standards Anti-Fog the mask prior to fitting it. Correctly fitting of the mask and positioning of mask strap, with assistance from the Teacher. Fitting fins with assistance from the Teacher. Slide in entry or walking (if appropriate for environment). Water must be cleared from the snorkel with one blast; the snorkel must remain in place to continue breathing in the prone position. Alternate up and down relaxed leg action with slight knee bend. 5. Understand 4 hand signals. 6. Perform a surface dive and return to the surface clearing the snorkel on the surface using the blast method. 7. Exit the water safely and remove all snorkelling equipment independently. 8. Participate in a snorkelling game. Correctly interpret and respond to 4 different hand signals. Completely submerge on the surface dive; water must be cleared from the snorkel with one blast on surfacing. Climbing out from shallow water or walking backwards from a beach area. Suggested activities - relay races, swimming through plastic hoops (weighted to rise, just touching the surface and on the pool floor), finding plastic weighted objects, inwater tug of war or similar.

STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual 9 Teaching Objectives Reinforce: Hygiene Pool Rules and regulations. Water safety. Introduce: Clearing a mask. Equalisation techniques. Ascending safely. Develop: Preparation and fitting of equipment. Safe entries and exits. Swimming techniques. Communication. Playing games. Pool Snorkelling Level 2 Award Learning Outcomes 1. Prepare and fit the equipment correctly (without teacher assistance). 2. Perform 3 different types of safe entries into the water from: Giant Stride, Backward Roll, Slide in Entry and Walking (depth of water permitting). 3. Clear a fogged mask at the surface. 4. Fin 100 metres. 5. Understand 6 hand signals. 6. Swim 20 metres at the surface in water too deep to stand while wearing snorkelling equipment (depth of water permitting). 7. Perform one deep and one shallow surface dives, clearing the snorkel on returning to the surface. 8. Equalise the pressure on the ears while underwater to accommodate a change in depth. 9. Swim 15 metres underwater. 10. Ascend safely from a depth of 1.5 metres, (depth of water permitting). 11. Exit deep water safely and remove all snorkelling equipment independently. 12. Participate in 2 different snorkelling games. Assessment Standards Anti-Fog the mask prior to fitting it; correctly fitting of the mask and positioning of mask strap; fitting fins. Entries must be controlled and safe, showing awareness of safe space. Allow water into the mask by pulling the corners of the bottom of the skirt away from the face. Re-seal the mask look down so the lens surface is horizontal and swish the water around to rinse away the fog. Pull the skirt out again to let the water out, while looking upwards. Alternate up and down relaxed leg action with slight knee bend. Correctly interpret and respond to 6 different hand signals. Prone position, face down, using snorkel for breathing, relaxed fining leg action. Completely submerged on the surface dives; a differentiation of depth must be shown between the two dives; water must be cleared from the snorkel with one blast on surfacing. Options: Close the mouth, pinch the nostrils closed with the thumb and forefinger and gently blow through the nose. Pinch the nose and swallow. Swallow and wiggle the jaw. A combination of all the above techniques. Completely submerged for a minimum of 15 metres using a single breath. Ascend safely to the surface with an arm outstretched above the head, looking upwards towards the surface. Climb out without the use of steps. Suggested activities - relay races, swimming through plastic hoops (weighted to rise, just touching the surface and on the pool floor), finding plastic weighted objects, inwater tug of war or similar.

10 STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual Teaching Objectives Reinforce: Skills learnt in previous awards. Introduce: Working with a Buddy. Develop: Breathing techniques. Safe entries and exits. Swimming techniques. Communication. Playing games. Pool Snorkelling Level 3 Award Learning Outcomes 1. Clear water from the snorkel by using the displacement method. 2. Perform 3 different types of safe entries into the water from: Giant Stride, Backward Roll, Slide in Entry and Walking. 3. Fin 100 metres. 4. Swim 15 metres underwater and exchange hand signals. 5. Exchange and correctly interpret and respond to ALL hand signals. Assessment Standards As the hand breaks the surface, blow out steadily, continuing to blow out as the head & snorkel break the surface. With a Buddy Entries must be controlled and safe, showing awareness of safe space. Alternate up and down relaxed leg action with slight knee bend. Completely submerged for a minimum of 15 metres and correctly interpret and respond to each others hand signals. Correctly interpret and respond to all hand signals. 6. Snorkel 400 metres without lifting the face out of the water; during the swim perform 4 surface dives and swim at least 15 metres underwater on each dive. 7. Ascend safely from a depth of 1.5 metres, depth of water permitting. 8. Exit deep water safely and remove all snorkelling equipment. 9. Participate in 3 different snorkelling games. Prone position, face down, using snorkel for breathing, relaxed fining leg action; completely submerged on the surface dives; water must be cleared from the snorkel when surfacing. Communicate and ascend safely to the surface with an arm outstretched above the head, looking upwards towards the surface. Communicate and climb out without the use of steps. Suggested activities - relay races, swimming through plastic hoops (weighted to rise, just touching the surface and on the pool floor), finding plastic weighted objects, inwater tug of war or similar.

STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual 11 3. Equipment Equipment Minimum Requirements: Mask One per student. Snorkel One per student. Fins One pair per student. Weighted hoops for swimming through. Objects to pick up from pool floor. masks used have a tempered glass lens plate(s). If these are broken, the glass is less likely to shatter into hazardous slivers. Most new masks are coated with a protective film that you will need to remove; otherwise you will not be able to defog it. To remove the film clean the lens with a soft cloth and tooth paste (nongel) or a similar low abrasive cleaner. Warning: The above only applies to standard tempered glass masks, not to non-fog or prescription masks. Before scrubbing any diving mask, read the printed material that accompanies it. Anti-fog, and some prescription masks can have plastic inserts which may be severely damaged by even mildly abrasive substances like toothpaste. These masks will usually be supplied with their own cleaner/defogger solutions. Fitting a mask To test if a mask fits correctly, place it against the face and breathe in through the nose. The vacuum created in the mask should hold it against the face when the hands are taken away. If the mask does not stay in place repeat the process with other masks until a suitable one is found. Note: Hoops and submersible objects are available through www.staswimshop.com Snorkels Masks Masks are designed to create an airspace which allows the eyes to focus underwater. As there is an airspace, they also need to enclose your nose to allow you to equalise the pressure in the mask, which may be felt during submersions. Masks come in a wide variety of sizes, colours and styles and vary from single to double panel lenses. You must however, ensure that all Snorkels are for breathing air from above the water surface when the user's mouth and nose are submerged. They come in a variety of colours and styles, usually with an attachment to secure them to the mask strap. Snorkels should be chosen based on comfort and appropriate fit for the size of the individual s mouth, and for minimal breathing resistance. The snorkel should not rub the lips or gums and cause the jaw to become tired. You should be

12 STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual able to relax your jaw without losing the mouthpiece. The snorkel should always be fitted onto the left side of the mask. (If students progress from snorkelling to scuba diving then this fitting method prevents the snorkel from interfering with the regulator), using a clip or snorkel keeper. Adjust it, so the top of the snorkel sits at the crown of the head, with the mouthpiece in place. A good snorkel should: Have a large bore so it s not like breathing through a straw. Not be too long it is harder to clear and you will be re-breathing a lot of expired air. 43cm/17 inches is a suitable length. Be designed with smooth, rounded bends sharp bends add breathing resistance. Contour to the shape of the head this will help minimise drag in the water. Many modern snorkels also have additional features: A self draining feature making it easier to clear water from a snorkel. A flexible lower portion this allows the mouthpiece to drop away from the mouth when not required. A splash guard to keep the snorkel dry. Warning: Snorkels create a "dead air space", during use some of the previously exhaled air remains in the snorkel and is recycled into the lungs. This reduces the breathing efficiency and may cause carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) retention; at high levels this can cause shortness of breath, headache, confusion and possible drowning. Fins come in a variety of different shapes, features and colours, but they all have pockets for the feet and blades for propulsion. They provide a large surface area to allow a person to use their leg muscle to propel them through the water. Modern fins come in two basic styles: Full foot these enclose the heel and fit like a rubber shoe. When fitting these they should feel comfortable, but not loose. Adjustable strap these are required to be worn with neoprene footwear. They have an open heel and an adjustable strap to secure them in place. Cleaning and Hygiene Following each session it is the teacher s responsibility to ensure that all masks, fins and snorkels are thoroughly rinsed with fresh water and sanitised in accordance with manufacturer s recommendations. Equipment Safety It is the teacher s responsibility to ensure that all equipment is safe to use prior to each session. This includes checking mask straps and lens plates, snorkel mouthpieces and fin pockets/ straps and buckles prior to each session. The serviceability of equipment is a must and participants should be taught what to look for and how to spot damaged or dangerous equipment and know when not to use it. Fins

STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual 13 4. Hand Signals OK - At Surface Come Here OK Underwater Stop Look at/watch Slow Down (slowly, wave hand up and down) Me Going Up (going down if reversed)

14 STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual Problem / Something is wrong Get with your buddy Go that way I am Cold Go that way Distress / Help

STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual 15 5. Skills and Techniques Anti-Fogging of the Mask You can purchase a commercially prepared defogging solution from any scuba diving retailer. Squeeze a drop or two onto the inside lens of the mask and gently rub the solution around to cover the inside completely. Dip the mask briefly into water, swirl the water around the inside of the mask very quickly and empty the water from it. Hold the mask against your face. Pull the strap over your head and position it at the widest section of your head, which is at the top of the back of your head. Ensure that the skirt is not folded or creased. Your buddy can do this for you. Make sure it fits comfortably around your eyes and nose. Fitting the Fins For full foot fins, prepare them by folding the back of the fin underneath itself. Alternatively use a natural defogging solution, your saliva. Your saliva will prevent your mask from fogging just as well as any commercial defogging solution. The enzymes in your saliva stick to the lens of your mask like a commercial solution. Correct Fitting of the Mask and Positioning of the Strap Fold the strap over the front of the mask so that it is out of the way. Then, either sit down and put your foot in your lap or if standing up, place a hand on your buddies shoulder and have them do the same to you. Put your foot in the fin, then either roll up the rear lip over your heal, for the full foot fin, or pull the strap up and snap it into place for the strapped model. Entries Slide In (Suitable for any depth of water)

16 STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual Sit on the side of the pool and look to ensure your entry point is clear of any other swimmers/snorkelers. With one hand, hold your mask and snorkel in place. Hold your other hand into your body. Look out to the horizon. Place both hands on the pool side to take your weight. Raise one foot up directly in front of you and take a giant stride forward, keeping the body upright. Tread water. Turn to the side and signal that you are OK. Turn to face the poolside and carefully lower yourself into the water. Signal that you are OK. Backwards Roll (Only suitable for, and to be taught in water with a minimum depth of 1.8 metres) Giant Stride (Only suitable for, and to be taught in water with a minimum depth of 1.8 metres) Stand on the side of the pool, close to the edge. Look to ensure your entry point is clear of any other swimmers/snorkelers. STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual v1.0 STA 2009

STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual 17 Sit down and cross your legs. Wiggle backwards until your backside just hangs over the edge of the poolside. Clearing a Fogged Mask at the Surface Look over your shoulder to ensure your entry point is clear of any other swimmers/ snorkelers. With one hand, hold your mask and snorkel in place. Hold your other hand into your body. Tuck your chin in to your chest. Let a little bit of water into the mask by pulling the corners of the bottom of the skirt away from your face. Re-seal the mask on your face, then look down so the lens surface is horizontal and swish the water around to rinse away the fog. Pull the skirt out again to let the water out, while looking upwards. Controlling the Airway Roll backwards. Tread water. Turn to the side and signal that you are OK. Walking (Only suitable for pools with a beach area) With all your equipment on and in place, get with a buddy, face away from the pool and stand side by side. Place your nearest hand on your buddies shoulder and vice versa. Walk backwards, shuffling your feet. Look over your shoulder to ensure your entry point is clear of any other swimmers/ snorkelers. When you are in water deep enough you can sit down. Turn to the side and signal that you are OK. To minimise any water from entering your mouth, while breathing through a snorkel, use your tongue as a splash guard. Put the tip of your tongue behind your lower teeth, roll your tongue forward blocking the mouth piece. Clearing a Snorkel of Water Blast Method Allow yourself to sink below the water until you face is just under the water. Take a breath through your snorkel. Hold your breath. Completely submerge yourself and the snorkel in the water. Rise to your original position. Blow a sharp blast of air through the snorkel.

18 STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual Slowly inhale to see if there is still water in it, air will bubble through the water, but you may still get a little water entering your mouth. If there is still water in the snorkel, blow another short blast into it. When the snorkel is clear, continue to breathe normally through it. Tips: Try not to exhale all your air on the first blast. When checking to see if the airway is clear don't suck in a huge gulp of air. Do it slowly. To aid in the development of this skill, you can firstly get the candidates to fill their snorkel with water, put it in their mouth and then blast the water out. They can then progress on to the full method as described above. This works particularly well with younger candidates. Displacement Method Self Purge Valve A lot of modern snorkels have a self draining feature. This causes nearly all of the water to drain away when you surface. Just exhale a small burst of air to remove any water trapped below the mouthpiece. Correct Finning Techniques Flutter Kick This is a simple up-down kick. The legs move up and down in opposing directions, with the forward thrust being provided by the downward stroke of each fin. The legs are kept more or less straight, though the knees are bent a little. Modified Flutter Kick This is a flutter kick with the knees bent. It still propels the snorkeler, but at reduced efficiency and less effort. Frog Kick Ascend to the surface with an arm outstretched above your head, looking upwards towards the surface. As your hand breaks the surface, blow out steadily, continuing to blow out as the head & snorkel break the surface. Look forward. Slowly inhale to see if there is still water in it, air will bubble through the water, but you may still get a little water entering your mouth. If there is still water in the snorkel, blow another short blast into it. When the snorkel is clear, continue to breathe normally through it. This technique is much easier on the lungs, but much more reliant upon technique. This is not a very efficient kick in terms of overall propulsion. It requires a kick similar to the kick used in the breast stroke but having to twist the ankle/lower leg at a right angle in order to achieve proper orientation of the fin. Dolphin Kick The same kick used in the butterfly stroke with both legs together.

STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual 19 Equalising the Ears When submerging under water, pressure is placed between the middle and outer ear. The process of "clearing ears" or equalising pressure between the middle and outer ear is a very important skill. The most popular and widely used technique is called the Valsalva Maneuver. If you feel pain, you have already descended too far. Stop and ascend. Equalise early and often. Other methods which can be used are: Pinch the nose and swallow. Swallow and wiggle the jaw. A combination of all the techniques. Ascent To perform this, you close your mouth, pinch your nostrils closed with your thumb and forefinger and gently blow through your nose. Safety Notes If you blow too hard it is possible to rupture your ear drum. Ascend safely to the surface with an arm outstretched above your head, looking upwards towards the surface. As you ascend slowly rotate around, observing the surface for any potential hazards.

20 STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual STA Pool Snorkelling Level 1 Award Skills Check Sheet Learning Outcomes 1. Prepare and fit the equipment correctly (with teacher assistance). 2. Perform a safe entry into shallow water. 3. Clear water from the snorkel by using the blast method and resume breathing through the snorkel without lifting the face from the water. 4. Fin 25 metres. 5. Understand 4 hand signals. 6. Perform a surface dive and return to the surface clearing the snorkel on the surface using the blast method. 7. Exit the water safely and remove all snorkelling equipment independently. 8. Participate in a snorkelling game. Assessment Standards Anti-Fog the mask prior to fitting it. Correctly fitting of the mask and positioning of mask strap, with assistance from the Teacher. Fitting fins with assistance from the Teacher. Slide in entry or walking (if appropriate for environment). Water must be cleared from the snorkel with one blast; the snorkel must remain in place to continue breathing in the prone position. Alternate up and down relaxed leg action with slight knee bend. Correctly interpret and respond to 4 different hand signals. Completely submerge on the surface dive; water must be cleared from the snorkel with one blast on surfacing. Climbing out from shallow water or walking backwards from a beach area. Suggested activities - relay races, swimming through plastic hoops (weighted to rise, just touching the surface and on the pool floor), finding plastic weighted objects, in-water tug of war or similar.

STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual 21 STA Pool Snorkelling Level 2 Award Skills Check Sheet Learning Outcomes 1. Prepare and fit the equipment correctly (without teacher assistance). 2. Perform 3 different types of safe entries into the water from: Giant Stride, Backward Roll, Slide in Entry and Walking (depth of water permitting). 3. Clear a fogged mask at the surface. 4. Fin 100 metres. 5. Understand 6 hand signals. 6. Swim 20 metres at the surface in water too deep to stand while wearing snorkelling equipment (depth of water permitting). 7. Perform one deep and one shallow surface dives, clearing the snorkel on returning to the surface. 8. Equalise the pressure on the ears while underwater to accommodate a change in depth. 9. Swim 15 metres underwater. 10. Ascend safely from a depth of 1.5 metres, (depth of water permitting). 11. Exit deep water safely and remove all snorkelling equipment independently. 12. Participate in 2 different snorkelling games. Assessment Standards Anti-Fog the mask prior to fitting it; correctly fitting of the mask and positioning of mask strap; fitting fins. Entries must be controlled and safe, showing awareness of safe space. Allow water into the mask by pulling the corners of the bottom of the skirt away from the face. Re-seal the mask look down so the lens surface is horizontal and swish the water around to rinse away the fog. Pull the skirt out again to let the water out, while looking upwards. Alternate up and down relaxed leg action with slight knee bend. Correctly interpret and respond to 6 different hand signals. Prone position, face down, using snorkel for breathing, relaxed fining leg action. Completely submerged on the surface dives; a differentiation of depth must be shown between the two dives; water must be cleared from the snorkel with one blast on surfacing. Options: Close the mouth, pinch the nostrils closed with the thumb and forefinger and gently blow through the nose. Pinch the nose and swallow. Swallow and wiggle the jaw. A combination of all the above techniques. Completely submerged for a minimum of 15 metres using a single breath. Ascend safely to the surface with an arm outstretched above the head, looking upwards towards the surface. Climb out without the use of steps. Suggested activities - relay races, swimming through plastic hoops (weighted to rise, just touching the surface and on the pool floor), finding plastic weighted objects, in-water tug of war or similar.

22 STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual STA Pool Snorkelling Level 3 Award Skills Check Sheet Learning Outcomes 1. Clear water from the snorkel by using the displacement method. 2. Perform 3 different types of safe entries into the water from: Giant Stride, Backward Roll, Slide in Entry and Walking. Assessment Standards As the hand breaks the surface, blow out steadily, continuing to blow out as the head & snorkel break the surface. With a Buddy Entries must be controlled and safe, showing awareness of safe space. 3. Fin 100 metres. 4. Swim 15 metres underwater and exchange hand signals. 5. Exchange and correctly interpret and respond to ALL hand signals. 6. Snorkel 400 metres without lifting the face out of the water; during the swim perform 4 surface dives and swim at least 15 metres underwater on each dive. 7. Ascend safely from a depth of 1.5 metres, depth of water permitting. 8. Exit deep water safely and remove all snorkelling equipment. 9. Participate in 3 different snorkelling games. Alternate up and down relaxed leg action with slight knee bend. Completely submerged for a minimum of 15 metres and correctly interpret and respond to each others hand signals. Correctly interpret and respond to all hand signals. Prone position, face down, using snorkel for breathing, relaxed fining leg action; completely submerged on the surface dives; water must be cleared from the snorkel when surfacing. Communicate and ascend safely to the surface with an arm outstretched above the head, looking upwards towards the surface. Communicate and climb out without the use of steps. Suggested activities - relay races, swimming through plastic hoops (weighted to rise, just touching the surface and on the pool floor), finding plastic weighted objects, in-water tug of war or similar.

STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual 23 Safety Training Awards The Awarding Body of the STA PHYSICAL ACTIVITY READINESS QUESTIONNAIRE (PAR-Q) SECTION 1 Please complete this section for ALL NaRS and Manual Handling Courses including T/E courses. 1 YES NO Are you pregnant? 2 Within 15-20 minutes of contact with latex, for example blowing up of balloons, wearing of rubber gloves or using any other latex product, have you ever have suffered from: - Swelling of lips/face, Itching, Redness/blistering? SECTION 2 Please complete this section for ALL NaRS Pool and Manual Handling courses, including T/E courses. During your course you will be required to participate in a variety of practical sessions. All activities have been carefully risk assessed, and will be demonstrated by your Tutor before you are asked to perform them. However, there may still be the risk of Musculo-Skeletal Injuries from the lifting and moving of objects (and people for pool courses) and the physical activities in water. These activities will also place extra demands upon your cardiovascular (heart & lungs) system. 3 4 5 6 7 In order for the tutor to train you safely and provide guidance pertinent to you personally he/she will need to know about any pre-existing condition which you may have. Please read the questions carefully and answer each one honestly. If you knowingly give incorrect information the Tutor and STA can bear no responsibility for any resultant injury or pain. YES NO Has your doctor ever said that you have a heart condition and that you should only do physical activity recommended by a doctor? Do you feel pain in your chest when you do physical activity? In the past month, have you had chest pain when you are not doing physical activity? Do you lose your balance because of dizziness or do you ever lose consciousness? Do you have a bone or joint problem that could be made worse by a change in your physical activity? 8 Is your doctor currently prescribing drugs (for example, water pills) for your blood pressure or heart condition? 9 Do you know of any reason why you should not do physical activity? If you answer YES to any of the questions 3 9, then you are required to obtain your Doctors written permission BEFORE attending a course. Name:....Date:... Signature:...

24 STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual Safety Training Awards The Awarding Body of the STA PHYSICAL ACTIVITY READINESS QUESTIONNAIRE (PAR-Q) TUTORS GUIDELINES For most people, physical activity should not pose any problem or hazard. PAR-Q has been designed to identify the small number of people for whom physical activity might be inappropriate and those who should have medical advice concerning the type of activity most suitable. The PAR-Q SHOULD be given to students PRIOR to them attending any course and returned to the Tutor/Teacher for review. If this is not possible it MUST be completed by the students PRIOR to them commencing any type of physical activity and reviewed by the Tutor/Teacher. Once completed, the form and any information disclosed on it, MUST be treated with confidence. If a student does not wish to complete the form, then it must be explained to him/her, that they will not be allowed to participate on the course. If you allow a student to participate on a course, then the STA will not be held liable in the event of any injury or accident. Your STA insurance will also be null and void. Students must be encouraged to answer all questions honestly. Students must be informed of the possible risks associated with their course and its activities i.e. Musculo-Skeletal Injuries from lifting and casualty handling, overexertion from aquatic activities etc Question 1 If the student answers YES to this question, she should be advised that if she feels any discomfort in any of the skills/techniques that she is performing then she is to stop them immediately and inform you. Similarly if she is asked to perform a skill/technique that she does not feel comfortable with then she should not perform it, and she must discuss it with you. Question 2 If the student answers YES to this question, then he/she should be treated as if he/she has a latex allergy. In this case you MUST ensure that ALL equipment used is latex free i.e. gloves, manikins etc Questions 3-9 If the student answers YES to any of these questions, then he/she MUST consult with his/her Doctor and obtain WRITTEN permission to undertake the course. The Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire Doctor s Letter, should be completed by the Tutor and given to the student to take to his/her Doctor for completion. On completion all information disclosed on the letter must be kept in the strictest of confidence. The letter must accompany the student s application form when returned to Anchor House.

STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual 25 Safety Training Awards The Awarding Body of the STA PHYSICAL ACTIVITY READINESS QUESTIONNAIRE (PAR-Q) DOCTOR S LETTER Dear Sir/Madam, has applied to undertake the following course: (Enter person s name) Pool Lifeguard Pool Attendant Poolside Helper Pool Safety Award Manual Handling Snorkelling Programme (Please appropriate course ) Unfortunately he/she have answered YES to the following question on the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (Please Question(s) answered YES to): Has your doctor ever said that you have a heart condition and that you should only do physical activity recommended by a doctor? Do you feel pain in your chest when you do physical activity? In the past month, have you had chest pain when you are not doing physical activity? Do you lose your balance because of dizziness or do you ever lose consciousness? Do you have a bone or joint problem that could be made worse by a change in your physical activity? Is your doctor currently prescribing drugs (for example, water pills) for your blood pressure or heart condition? Do you know of any reason why you should not do physical activity? It is the Association s policy that potential course students who answer yes to any of these questions consult with their Doctor and seek approval to undertake the course. For Pool Courses The student will be required to participate in a variety of classroom and aquatic based practical sessions. These will place demands upon his/her cardiovascular and muscular systems. For Manual Handling Courses The student will be required to participate in a variety of classroom based practical sessions involving the lifting and moving of objects. These will place demands upon his/her cardiovascular and muscular systems. To Be Completed By The Doctor The individual named above is able / not able (please delete as appropriate) to fully participate in the course that they have applied for. Doctor s Official Stamp Name:... Surgery:.. Date:... Signature:...

26 STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual Safety Training Awards The Awarding Body of the STA JUNIOR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY READINESS QUESTIONNAIRE (J-PAR-Q) During the course students will be required to participate in a variety of practical sessions. All activities have been carefully risk assessed, and will be demonstrated by the Tutor before they are asked to perform them. However, there may still be the risk of Musculo-Skeletal Injuries from the physical activities in the water. These activities will also place extra demands upon their cardiovascular (heart & lungs) system. In order for the tutor to train you safely and provide guidance pertinent to the individual, they need to know about any pre-existing condition which you may have. Participants on snorkelling courses will be performing surface dives. Surface diving to depths greater than 1.5 metres, will place increased pressure on their ear drums. Please read the questions carefully and answer each one honestly. If you knowingly give incorrect information the Tutor and STA can bear no responsibility for any resultant injury or pain. YES NO 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Within 15-20 minutes of contact with latex, for example blowing up of balloons, wearing of rubber gloves or using any other latex product, has he/she ever suffered from: - Swelling of lips/face, Itching, Redness/blistering? Has his/her Doctor ever said that they have a heart condition and that they should only do physical activity recommended by a doctor? Does he/she feel pain in their chest when he/she do physical activity? In the past month, has he/she had chest pain when they are not doing physical activity? Does he/she lose balance because of dizziness or does he/she ever lose consciousness? Does he/she have a bone or joint problem that could be made worse by a change in their physical activity? Is his/her Doctor currently prescribing him/her drugs for blood pressure or heart condition? Do you know of any reason why the person should not do physical activity? If you answer YES to any of the questions 2 8, then you are required to obtain your Doctors written permission before the student is able to attend a course. To Be Completed By Parent / Guardian Students Name:.. Date of Birth:. Age:.. Parent/Guardians Name:... Signature:... Date:...

STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual 27 Safety Training Awards The Awarding Body of the STA JUNIOR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY READINESS QUESTIONNAIRE (J-PAR-Q) TUTORS GUIDELINES For most people, physical activity should not pose any problem or hazard. PAR-Q has been designed to identify the small number of people for whom physical activity might be inappropriate and those who should have medical advice concerning the type of activity most suitable. The form MUST be completed by the student s parent/guardian. Once completed the form, and any information disclosed on it, MUST be treated with confidence. The PAR-Q SHOULD be given to students PRIOR to them attending any course and returned to the Tutor/Teacher for review. If this is not possible it MUST be completed by their parent/guardian PRIOR to them commencing any type of physical activity and reviewed by the Tutor/Teacher. If a student s parent/guardian does not wish to complete the form, then it must be explained to them, that the student will not be allowed to participate on the course. If you allow a student to participate on a course, then the STA will not be held liable in the event of any injury or accident. Your STA insurance will also be null and void. Parents/guardians must be encouraged to answer all questions honestly. Parents/guardians and students must be informed of the possible risks associated with their course and its activities i.e. Musculo-Skeletal Injuries from physical activities, surface diving, overexertion from aquatic activities etc Question 1 If the student answers YES to this question, then he/she should be treated as if they have a latex allergy. In this case you MUST ensure that ALL equipment used is latex free i.e. masks, fins, snorkels etc Questions 2-8 If the parent/guardian answers YES to any of these questions, then he/she MUST consult with his/her Doctor and obtain WRITTEN permission from them for the student to undertake the course. The Junior Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire Doctors Letter, should be completed by the Tutor and given to the parent/guardian to take to his/her Doctor for completion. On completion all information disclosed on the letter must be kept in the strictest of confidence. The letter must accompany the student s application form when returned to Anchor House.

28 STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual Safety Training Awards The Awarding Body of the STA JUNIOR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY READINESS QUESTIONNAIRE (J- PAR-Q) DOCTORS LETTER Dear Sir/Madam, has applied to undertake the following course: (Enter persons name) Introduction to Snorkelling Snorkelling Award Advanced Snorkelling Award (Please as appropriate) Unfortunately his/her parent /guardian has answered YES to the following question on the Junior Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (Please Question(s) answered YES to): Has his/her Doctor ever said they have a heart condition and that they should only do physical activity recommended by a doctor? Does he/she feel pain in their chest when they do physical activity? In the past month, has he/she had chest pain when they are not doing physical activity? Does he/she lose their balance because of dizziness or do they ever lose consciousness? Does he/she have a bone or joint problem that could be made worse by a change in their physical activity? Is his/her Doctor currently prescribing drugs for his/her blood pressure or heart condition? Do you know of any reason why he/she should not do physical activity? It is the Associations policy that potential course students who answer yes to any of these questions consult with their Doctor and seek their approval to undertake the course. The student will be required to participate in a variety of classroom and aquatic based practical sessions, including submersions. These will place demands upon their Cardiovascular and Muscular Systems. To Be Completed By Doctor The individual named above is able / not able (please delete as appropriate) to fully participate in the course that they have applied for. Name:... Surgery: Doctor s Official Stamp Date:... Signature:...