STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual … · Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual Produced and published by the STA: STA Birch Street Walsall West Midlands WS2 8HZ

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: [email protected] 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

STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual v1.0 STA © 2009

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



PHYSICAL ACTIVITY READINESS

QUESTIONNAIRE (PAR-Q) ................................ 23


QUESTIONNAIRE (PAR-Q) TUTORS

GUIDELINES........................................................... 24


QUESTIONNAIRE (PAR-Q) DOCTOR’S

LETTER..................................................................... 25

JUNIOR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY READINESS

QUESTIONNAIRE (J-PAR-Q).............................. 26


QUESTIONNAIRE (J-PAR-Q) TUTORS

GUIDELINES........................................................... 27


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)

Pre-requisite Qualifications

Teachers Qualification – Please ��

STA Swimming Teacher �� NaRS T/E ��

Equivalent �� Please provide details:

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:


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:



This Page Left Blank



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)

Pre-requisite Qualifications

Teachers Qualification – Please ��

STA Swimming Teacher �� NaRS T/E ��

Equivalent �� Please provide details:


Details of Pool Rescue Award – Please ��

NaRS Pool Lifeguard �� NaRS Pool Attendant �� NaRS Poolside Helper �� NaRS Pool Safety Award �� Equivalent �� Please provide details:


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:



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.



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.

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

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.

Teacher to Student Ratio

A maximum ratio of one qualified STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teacher to 16 students is recommended.



2. STA Snorkelling Awards Criteria

Pool Snorkelling Level 1 Award

Teaching Objectives

Learning Outcomes Assessment Standards

1. Prepare and fit the equipment correctly (with teacher assistance).

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.

2. Perform a safe entry into shallow water.

Slide in entry or walking (if appropriate for environment).

3. Clear water from the snorkel by using the blast method and resume breathing through the snorkel without lifting the face from the water.

Water must be cleared from the snorkel with one blast; the snorkel must remain in place to continue breathing in the prone position.

4. Fin 25 metres. Alternate up and down relaxed leg action with slight knee bend.

5. Understand 4 hand signals. Correctly interpret and respond to 4 different hand signals.

6. Perform a surface dive and return to the surface – clearing the snorkel on the surface using the blast method.

Completely submerge on the surface dive; water must be cleared from the snorkel with one blast on surfacing.

7. Exit the water safely and remove all snorkelling equipment independently.

Climbing out from shallow water or walking backwards from a ‘beach’ area.

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.

8. Participate in a snorkelling game.

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.




Teaching Objectives


1. Prepare and fit the equipment correctly (without teacher assistance).

Anti-Fog the mask prior to fitting it; correctly fitting of the mask and positioning of mask strap; fitting fins.

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).

Entries must be controlled and safe, showing awareness of safe space.

3. Clear a ‘fogged’ mask at the surface.

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.



6. Swim 20 metres at the surface in water ‘too deep to stand’ while wearing snorkelling equipment (depth of water permitting).

Prone position, face down, using snorkel for breathing, relaxed fining leg action.

7. Perform one deep and one shallow surface dives, clearing the snorkel on returning to the surface.

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.

8. Equalise the pressure on the ears while underwater to accommodate a change in depth.

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.

9. Swim 15 metres underwater. Completely submerged for a minimum of 15 metres using a single breath.

10. Ascend safely from a depth of 1.5 metres, (depth of water permitting).

Ascend safely to the surface with an

arm outstretched above the head,

looking upwards towards the surface.

11. Exit deep water safely and remove all snorkelling equipment independently.

Climb out without the use of steps.

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.


• Communication.

• Playing games.

12. Participate in 2 different snorkelling games.





Teaching Objectives


1. Clear water from the snorkel by using the displacement method.

As the hand breaks the surface,

blow out steadily, continuing to blow

out as the head & snorkel break the

surface.

With a Buddy

2. Perform 3 different types of safe entries into the water from: Giant Stride, Backward Roll, Slide in Entry and Walking .



4. Swim 15 metres underwater and exchange hand signals.

Completely submerged for a minimum of 15 metres and correctly interpret and respond to each others hand signals.

5. Exchange and correctly interpret and respond to ALL 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.

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.

7. Ascend safely from a depth of 1.5 metres, depth of water permitting.

Communicate and ascend safely to the surface with an arm outstretched above the head, looking upwards towards the surface.

8. Exit deep water safely and remove all snorkelling equipment.

Communicate and climb out without the use of steps.

Reinforce:

• Skills learnt in previous awards.

Introduce:

• Working with a ‘Buddy’.

Develop:

• Breathing techniques.

• Safe entries and exits.


• Communication.

• Playing games.





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.

Note: Hoops and submersible objects are available through www.staswimshop.com

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

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 (non-gel) 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.

Snorkels

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



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 (CO2) retention; at high levels this can cause shortness of breath, headache, confusion and possible drowning.

Fins

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.



4. Hand Signals

OK - At Surface

OK – Underwater

Look at/Watch

Me

Come Here

Stop

Slow Down (slowly, wave hand up and down)

Going Up (going down if reversed)



Get with your buddy

Go that way

Go that way

Problem / Something is wrong

I am Cold

Distress / Help



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.

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.

• 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.

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)



• Sit on the side of the pool and look to ensure

your entry point is clear of any other

swimmers/snorkelers.

• Place both hands on the pool side to take

your weight.

• Turn to face the poolside and carefully lower

yourself into the water.

• Signal that you are ‘OK’.

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.

• With one hand, hold your mask and snorkel in

place. Hold your other hand into your body.

• Look ‘out to the horizon’.

• 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’.

Backwards Roll

(Only suitable for, and to be taught in water

with a minimum depth of 1.8 metres)



• Sit down and cross your legs.

• ‘Wiggle’ backwards until your backside just

hangs over the edge of the poolside.

• 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.

• Roll backwards.

• Tread water.


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’.


Clearing a Fogged Mask at the Surface

• 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

• 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.



• 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

• 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.

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

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.



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.

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.

• 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

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.



STA Pool Snorkelling Level 1 Award Skills Check Sheet


1. Prepare and fit the equipment correctly (with teacher assistance).

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.

2. Perform a safe entry into shallow water. Slide in entry or walking (if appropriate for environment).

3. Clear water from the snorkel by using the blast method and resume breathing through the snorkel without lifting the face from the water.

Water must be cleared from the snorkel with one blast; the snorkel must remain in place to continue breathing in the prone position.



6. Perform a surface dive and return to the surface – clearing the snorkel on the surface using the blast method.

Completely submerge on the surface dive; water must be cleared from the snorkel with one blast on surfacing.

7. Exit the water safely and remove all snorkelling equipment independently.

Climbing out from shallow water or walking backwards from a ‘beach’ area.

8. Participate in a snorkelling game.






1. Prepare and fit the equipment correctly (without teacher assistance).

Anti-Fog the mask prior to fitting it; correctly fitting of the mask and positioning of mask strap; fitting fins.

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.

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.



6. Swim 20 metres at the surface in water ‘too deep to stand’ while wearing snorkelling equipment (depth of water permitting).

Prone position, face down, using snorkel for breathing, relaxed fining leg action.

7. Perform one deep and one shallow surface dives, clearing the snorkel on returning to the surface.

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.

8. Equalise the pressure on the ears while underwater to accommodate a change in depth.

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.

9. Swim 15 metres underwater. Completely submerged for a minimum of 15 metres using a single breath.

10. Ascend safely from a depth of 1.5 metres, (depth of water permitting).

Ascend safely to the surface with an arm outstretched

above the head, looking upwards towards the surface.

11. Exit deep water safely and remove all snorkelling equipment independently.

Climb out without the use of steps.







1. Clear water from the snorkel by using the displacement method.

As the hand breaks the surface, blow out steadily,

continuing to blow out as the head & snorkel break the

surface.

With a Buddy 2. Perform 3 different types of safe entries into

the water from: Giant Stride, Backward Roll, Slide in Entry and Walking.



4. Swim 15 metres underwater and exchange hand signals.

Completely submerged for a minimum of 15 metres and correctly interpret and respond to each others hand signals.

5. Exchange and correctly interpret and respond to ALL 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.

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.

7. Ascend safely from a depth of 1.5 metres, depth of water permitting.

Communicate and ascend safely to the surface with an arm outstretched above the head, looking upwards towards the surface.

8. Exit deep water safely and remove all snorkelling equipment.

Communicate and climb out without the use of steps.





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.

Are you pregnant? 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.

• 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.

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?

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:…………....................................................................................................................................

YES NO

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

YES NO

1

2



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.




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.

Name: ………………………………………………………………………...............…

Surgery: …………………………………………………………………………….……….

Date: ………...................................................................................

Signature: ...................................................................................

Doctor’s Official Stamp



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. 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: ………..................................................

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

YES NO

1




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.




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: ……………………………………………………………………………………

Date: ………...........................................................................................

Signature: ............................................................................................

Doctor’s Official Stamp

STA Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual … · Pool Snorkelling Programme Teaching Manual Produced and published by the STA: STA Birch Street Walsall West Midlands WS2 8HZ

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