Explore Cornwall - The Wave Project Volunteer Taster Day

About the event

Come down to the beach in St Ives and learn what it takes to become a volunteer surf mentor with The Wave Project! Warm wetsuits, boots and gloves will be available to borrow so you can jump in the surf and learn the skills needed to support young people through surf therapy. We will play some group ice-breaker games, learn practical skills on the sand and have plenty of practice time in the water. Then we will head to the surf house for lunch (BYO) and a cuppa, for an opportunity to learn more about the Wave Project and how to get involved. Expect an action-packed day, braving the wild Cornish elements. If getting in the sea isn’t your thing, feel free to stay dry on the shore, there are other ways to volunteer with the charity such as fundraising, events and photography!

What is the key accessibility information?

• All abilities welcome, although participants wanting to join the water session must be able to swim. You do not need to know how to surf.

• People not wishing to enter the water are still welcome to come and watch and learn about Wave Project and other ways to be involved.

• Warm wetsuits are provided free of charge, but the ocean and air temperature is cold this time of year, participants are encouraged to get out if they feel uncomfortable.

• The activities on the beach include group games and learning board skills in the waves in pairs. Participants can feel free to sit out any activity they don’t want to do.

• There are two unisex, accessible toilets available for all to use close to the surf school.

• The surf house is available for participants to use during the session and for lunch. It is heated and has a kettle, microwave and toilet facilities. The building is wheelchair accessible. There is only one room. It can fit 30 people but it can be noisy, although those needing time out from the crowd can access the balcony (weather permitting.)

• Dogs are allowed on the beaches this time of year, so there may be dogs near us during the beach activities.

Who is running the event?

This event is being run by The Wave Project and The SU. Our Meet the Team page includes information about every member of The SU team.

If you need a buddy to support you with arriving at the event, please email The SU on info@thesu.org.uk and we will work out what we can arrange to help. This might be someone meeting you before the event start time or simply talking you through more details of what to expect. We want to help you access our events so let us know what you need.

Where is the event taking place?

This event is taking place at Tregenna Surf House, Porthmeor Beach, St Ives, TR26 1JZ. We'll be travelling via minibus to the event, so please check back on this page for updated travel information closer to the time.

What should I expect?

There will be a member of staff present to support the event and answer your questions. There will be photography and videography at this event that will be used for SU and Wave Project marketing, please speak to the member of staff if you don’t want your photo taken.

This event is only for students of Falmouth University and the University of Exeter Cornwall Campus.