Canoeing Scoutcraft Badge

The Canoeing Scoutcraft Badge is designed to introduce a scout to the sport of canoeing and reach a minimum standard of skill.

Badge Requirements

Canoeing

1. Pass or have passed the requirements of the Swimming Scoutcraft Badge.
2. Show a knowledge of canoeing as a sport, and its value for healthy exercise.
3. Show a knowledge of canoeing accessories, such as buoyancy, paddles, clothing items, rudders, seats, splash covers, etc. Discuss the advantages of the different types of accessories, and how to select these.
4. Discuss the various types of canoes available, the materials used in their construction, and how these apply to various forms of canoeing. Name the main parts of a canoe.
5. Demonstrate sound safety measures when canoeing, including the correct use of lifejackets, buoyancy, pre-check items, rules of the road and the buddy system.
   
   DO EITHER POINT 6 OR POINT 7
6. Take charge of a Canadian canoe, with a bow paddler, in which you perform the following manoeuvres, using single paddles:
   1. Handle the canoe into water and make fast.
   2. Board the canoe from the bank or in shallow water.
   3. Demonstrate correct paddling techniques, including posture and paddling grip, forward stroke, J-stroke, backwater stroke emergency stop, draw strokes.
   4. Paddle 100 metres on a straight course.
   5. Paddle 100 metres on a slalom course, around 8 to 10 buoys to demonstrate the above strokes.
   6. Correctly disembark onto the bank.
   7. Dressed in normal canoeing gear, capsize in deep water at least 50 metres from the bank. Right the canoe, climb into it and paddle the submerged canoe back to the bank. Empty the water without assistance.
7. Perform the following manoeuvres in a single-seater kayak, using double-bladed feathered paddles
   1. Handle the kayak into the water and make fast.
   2. Board the kayak from the bank or in shallow water.
   3. Demonstrate correct paddling techniques, including posture and paddling grip, forward stroke, emergency stop, draw strokes.
   4. Paddle 100 metres on a straight course.
   5. Paddle 100 metres on a slalom course, around 8 to 10 buoys to demonstrate the above strokes.
   6. Correctly disembark onto the bank.
   7. Dressed in normal canoeing gear, capsize in deep water at least 50 metres from the bank. Perform a deep-water rescue with assistance from your buddy and paddle back to the bank

Safe From Harm: Whilst completing the requirements for this badge, Scouts must not be placed in hazardous or dangerous situations under any circumstances. All activities must comply with SCOUTS South Africa Safe from Harm framework and be supervised by responsible adults. Participation should offer meaningful learning or service experiences while ensuring the Scout's safety and well-being at all times.

Badge Requirements in printable PDF format

• Canoeing Scoutcraft Badge (PDF)

What You Need First

The following Scoutcraft and/or Interest Badges must be completed before undertaking this badge:

• Swimming Scoutcraft Badge

Next Steps - Where This Badge Leads

Completion of this badge is required for the following Scoutcraft and/or Interest Badges:

• Canoeist Scout Interest Badge

Explore More Opportunities

• My Scout Journey - An overview of your path in Scouting - from joining to earning top awards like the Springbok Award.
• Scout Advancement Programme - The core steps Scouts follow to build skills and earn theme badges and advancement badges.
• Scoutcraft Badges - Aimed at Scouts 11 to 13. Fun, hands-on badges that build confidence, essential skills, and lay the foundation for Interest Badges.
• Scout Interest Badges - Aimed at Scouts 13 and older. Badges that promote personal growth through exploring interests, hobbies, and skills.