Juniors

Overview

The Juniors programme at OTRC is a dedicated pathway for young rowers aged 11 and above. Just like the adult side of the club, juniors have the same range of ambitions - some want to race, some want fitness, and some just want to be part of something active and social.

Saturday morning sessions start at 8am with qualified, DBS-checked coaches who understand how to work with young people. Coaching is age-appropriate, building skills, confidence, and a genuine love for the sport. The aim is to develop well-rounded young rowers who enjoy what they do.

Junior racing is available for those who want it - J14, J16, and J18 events at local and regional level. But racing is always optional. Some juniors prefer to focus on skills and fitness, and that's equally valued. The programme follows the British Rowing junior development pathway, ensuring progression is structured and safe.

Above all, it's fun. Rowing gives young people something different - teamwork, discipline, fresh air, and a sense of achievement that comes from mastering a genuinely challenging sport.

Training Schedule

Parent & Guardian Involvement

Parents and guardians play an important role in junior rowing. We rely on your support with transport to and from sessions, help at events and regattas, and general encouragement from the bank.

Communication is open and straightforward. Parents have access to the member portal where they can view session schedules, track attendance, and stay informed about upcoming events. Coaches are always available to discuss your child's progress and answer questions.

Many parents find they enjoy the club environment so much that they take up rowing themselves. It wouldn't be the first time a junior's parent ended up in a Learn to Row course.

Safeguarding

The safety and welfare of young people is non-negotiable at OTRC. We maintain the highest standards of safeguarding across everything we do:

• All coaches working with juniors are DBS checked
• British Rowing safeguarding guidelines are followed at all times
• Designated safeguarding officers are in place at the club
• Age-appropriate supervision ratios maintained at every session
• Clear reporting procedures for any concerns
• Regular safeguarding training for all coaching staff

Parents are welcome to stay and watch sessions from designated areas at the club

Junior Learn to Row

We run an adapted version of our adult Learn to Row programme specifically for younger participants. The course covers the same fundamentals - ergo technique, water safety, boat handling, and crew rowing - but delivered in a way that's engaging and appropriate for young people.

No previous experience is needed. We take complete beginners and build their skills step by step, always making sure they're safe, supported, and having a good time.

What We Need from Parents

• Completed registration and consent forms
• Emergency contact details
• Confirmation that your child can swim 50m in light clothing
• Details of any medical conditions or additional needs

Competition Pathway

For juniors who want to race, there's a clear pathway from local events through to regional and national competition:

Local Events

• St Neots Junior Regatta
• Peterborough Junior Regatta
• Star Club Junior Head

Regional & National Events

• Eastern Region Junior Championships
• British Junior Championships
• National Schools Regatta (for school crews)

Competition is always based on commitment, ability, and coach recommendation. We make sure every junior who wants to race gets opportunities appropriate to their level.