First Active Thames coaching observation session a success at Laburnum Boat Club

On 22 August 2024, Laburnum Boat Club hosted the inaugural Active Thames Coaching Observation session, marking a significant step in fostering a stronger coaching community along the Thames. This session, open to young people aged 9-18, showcased the inclusive, mixed-ability approach Laburnum has established, with around 30% of participants having disabilities such as autism or down syndrome.  

Activities, led by Paddle UK Coach Award qualified staff, were shaped by the young participants, with land-based games kicking off the session, followed by on-water activities in a range of different craft. 

Beth Ettinger of Laburnum Boat Club emphasised the club's commitment to inclusivity:

"At Laburnum, we try to be as inclusive as we can. We are always happy to share hints and tips with other coaches, and peer observation is a great coach development tool to use." 

Chris Sawyer, Thames Vision and Partnerships Lead at the Port of London Authority, highlighted the broader impact:

"Peer observation of coaching is a fantastic way to enhance the collective quality of coaching and learning across the Active Thames network. It encourages ongoing reflection and development and fosters a greater sense of community among coaches doing invaluable work on the tidal Thames and the inland waterways of Greater London, Kent and Essex." 

Ben Burchell, of Danson Park Adventures spoke about the value of these peer-to-peer observation sessions:

“I find it a useful tool to be able to get to other centres/clubs and see how sessions are run both by the club/centre and the individual coaches. This allows me to develop my own coaching by seeing new techniques, games, and different venues, as well as seeing what we can adapt and run at our own centre.” 

Laburnum Boat Club, a voluntary organisation managed by local people for local people, remains dedicated to being a positive force for change by providing safe, supportive opportunities for personal development through water-based activities. This session was just one example of how the club continues to make a lasting impact on the community.