What is the Starfish Nippers Program?
The Starfish Nipper Program is a modified Nipper program for children and young adults with special needs, which will be run in conjunction with the regular JSLP (Nipper) program.
The Starfish Nipper Program caters for children and young adults from 6 years and over with a disability – including autism, Down syndrome, physical and intellectual disabilities and learning difficulties. The Starfish Nipper Program was created by Anglesea SLSC (see link to video below) and is now operating at many lifesaving clubs around Victoria. We need many dedicated helpers/trainers for the Starfish Nippers Program as the minimum ratio of trainers to Nippers is 1:1 (and 2:1 in some cases).
What qualifications do trainers need to have? Who can become a trainer?
Trainers will be volunteer club members, many of whom will have their Bronze Medallion or Surf Rescue Certificate. They will be selected for their passion for supporting the program and reliability for attending the majority of sessions. Experience working with people with a disability is not required. All trainers must have a current Working with Children card and will complete an induction program.
What kind of membership is needed?
You will need a Point Leo SLSC membership to participate in the Starfish Nipper Program. If you are under 18, you can join as part of a family. If you are over 18 you need an individual membership.
Why do I need to provide so much information at enrolment? How is the information used?
As part of the enrolment process, parents are asked to include details regarding any medical, social or communication issues their child has. This is so we can provide the highest level of safety for your child and offer the best possible program suited to their individual needs. Please let us know if any of these details change. The information will be kept by the Program Coordinator in a folder on the beach during all sessions.
When will the sessions run?
For the 24/25 season, sessions will be held from 9am-10:15am over 3 weeks:
Week 1: Sat 28/12/24, Sun 29/12/24
Week 2: Tues 31/12/24, Thurs 2/1/25, Sat 4/1/25, Sun 5/1/25 (Carnival Day)
Week 3: Tues 7/1/25, Thurs 9/1/25, Sat 11/1/25, Sun 12/1/25 (Club Championships)
Is there a Starfish interclub carnival?
Yes – Jan Juc will be hosting the Victorian Starfish Carnival – Last Saturday in January. We will aim to keep Starfish running on Sundays (same time as the Point Leo Junior Surf Life Saving competition program) for training until then.
For NEW starfish participants – This is the link to a from for EOIs – https://forms.gle/LtqBNf65zm8xhkc76
For NEW starfish trainers- This is the link to a from for EOIs – https://forms.gle/QMjyxAwstwvKKAPe6
If you have any other comments or questions, please contact Jane Starr at starfish@pointleoslsc.com.au