Surfing is one of Australia's favourite sports, it's healthy, challenging, social, and most of the time downright fun.  And the people with the biggest smiles are usually the beginner surfers. 

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Participants within the program are provided with quality coaching by qualified people.  This is where the relationship between the Learning's Program and Rainbow Beach Learn to Surf, developed.  See their reveiws here...  or check out their website from the button below.

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Surfing was the first activity chosen within the Learning's Program design, as Surfing is not only a uniquely satisfying sport, but also because of the enormous benefits that have been observed by Dean, families, and participants.  

Surfing is an activity that offers many positive challenges, provides an opportunity to engage in social activities, promotes healthy physical activity, is a great stress reliever, and for many it is an important part of their identity. 

Within the program Surfing offers an opportunity to explore how a participant approaches learning, manages their emotions, and challenging negative self statements or beliefs.  It is very natural for first time surfers to be anxious/nervous but this in itself is one of the greatest buzzes in surfing when someone overcomes these thoughts.

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As each individual is different, the way we approach learning to surf can be quite different.  For some participants an assessment may include pool work prior, and for others gradual steps are taken before surfing such as spending time in the water. We are happy to work with organisations, disability support workers, schools etc within the lessons (or as additional support).  We find that your inclusion adds positively to relationships.

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Surfing is a life-long activity, so we think long term in our teaching (i.e. the right ways).

Progress in surfing depends naturally on ability, time spent in the water, and conditions.  However you could expect that after 1-2 lessons you are standing and riding waves with some paddling included, and between 3-6 lessons you would be catching white water waves on your own with some competence.  Naturally if you are engaged in Surf-Skate or Paddle Boarding this will improve your overall control and balance on the board.  

Probably one of the most common things we here after the first lessons from participants is how much more comfortable and confident in the water they feel.  In surfing, tension and anxiety play a great role in how you surf or deal with the surf, so we are constantly reflecting on these and adding tools and strategies to manage this.  

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