STUDENTS from Duchy College, Stoke Climsland have paddled in the right direction to successfully complete their level one UK canoe coaching award in paddlesport coaching with a 100% success rate.

The students, who are studying a wide range of outdoor pursuits courses, took part in the four day course in Okehampton last week. and all successfully gained their paddlesport qualification. It will allow them to operate as paddlesport coaches in a range of craft in sheltered water environments.

The award is a nationally recognised and enables holders to work within the outdoor industry delivering kayaking, canoeing and bell boating introductory courses.

Duchy College course manager Chris Wilson said that the awards will help them in their future career of outdoor pursuits.

He said: 'Despite the bitter wind and freezing conditions the feedback from the students was fantastic.

'They all enjoyed the week and were all really pleased to have gained the qualification.'