Blackland Farm delivers canoe expeditions for Bronze, Silver and Gold, including training, practice and qualifying expeditions.

Our aim is to make the whole process straightforward for schools and groups (from 12 - 24 participants), while giving participants the skills, confidence and independence they need to successfully complete their Award. Our canoe expeditions combine the challenge and adventure of expeditioning with the practical skills needed to travel safely and confidently on the water.

Training & Practice Expeditions
Our training days and practice expeditions focus on developing the essential skills needed for a safe and successful qualifying canoe expedition. Led by experienced, qualified instructors, participants develop skills including:
• Paddling technique and efficient boat handling
• Launching, landing and safe movement on and around the water
• Capsize awareness and appropriate emergency procedures
• Navigation and route planning
• Understanding waterways, hazards and environmental considerations
• Portaging and managing boats and equipment
• Rucksack and dry-bag packing
• Campcraft and stove use
• First aid and emergency procedures
• Road safety when travelling between waterways
• Environmental awareness and the Countryside Code

Practice expeditions are designed to progressively build confidence, competence and independence. Initially, instructors provide close support and guidance, helping teams develop their paddling, navigation and expedition skills. As participants become more confident, they are encouraged to take greater responsibility for route finding, decision-making, equipment and teamwork.Throughout the practice expedition, instructors meet teams at agreed checkpoints and provide constructive feedback, practical advice and encouragement, helping participants identify and improve any areas that need further development before their qualifying expedition.

Qualifying Expeditions
The qualifying expedition is where participants put their skills into practice and demonstrate that they can operate independently as an expedition team on the water. At the start of the expedition, teams meet their assessor to confirm the requirements and complete a thorough kit and equipment check. This ensures that personal and group equipment is appropriate and that participants are properly prepared for the journey ahead. Once underway, teams are expected to operate independently, with our team providing appropriate remote supervision and support. This can include pre-arranged checkpoint meetings, oversight at agreed locations and assistance if required. Participants take responsibility for navigating their route, managing their boats and equipment, making decisions and working together as a team, while our experienced staff provide the appropriate level of supervision to keep everyone safe. At the end of the expedition, the assessor provides structured feedback, reviewing the team's performance and confirming whether the required criteria have been met.

Assessment reports are completed within two weeks of the expedition and uploaded to the eDofE system.

A Complete DofE Expedition Package
We provide a fully supported canoe expedition service, taking care of the practical details so that group leaders can concentrate on their participants. From initial planning and paperwork through to the final assessment, our dedicated team is here to make the process as straightforward and hassle-free as possible.Every expedition package includes:
• A dedicated Expedition Course Director
• Comprehensive pre-expedition information packs, including kit lists
• Support with expedition paperwork and administration
• Risk-assessed canoe expedition routes
• Vetted campsites and participant campsite fees
• High-quality training delivered in an environment appropriate to the expedition
• Experienced, qualified instructors with relevant National Governing Body awards, First Aid certification and Enhanced DBS checks
• Participant training materials and notes
• Full supervision and developmental coaching throughout the programme, including overnight supervision where agreed
• Award-aligned programme delivery
• Insurance
• Practical, responsive support whenever you need it
• Plenty of smiles and encouragement along the way!

Equipment Provided
We can provide all of the group equipment needed for your canoe expedition as part of your package, at no additional cost where required.

This can include:
• Canoes
• Paddles
• Buoyancy aids
• Tents and group shelters
• Stoves and fuel
• Group first aid kits
• Hi-vis vests for road use
• Maps and compasses

In short, we take care of the planning, equipment, routes, campsites, supervision and administration - giving your staff peace of mind while participants focus on developing their skills, working as a team and completing their DofE expedition.