How it works
One skipper goes in, hands held out. The next runs in and holds hands. A turner shouts "break", the pair let go of one hand and the third skipper joins the ring. How many can hold hands in the middle and still jump?
Step by step
- Set up
- First one in
- Second one in
- Break the ring
- Keep it growing
Lee’s teaching notes for each step, the video and the printable coaching card come with the All-Access Skip Pass.
Teach the skydiver with the All-Access Skip Pass
Everything a teacher needs to teach this skill to a whole class, from skip-hop coach Lee Collinson-James:
- Step-by-step teaching: building the ring one skipper at a time
- Where to make the break in the ring
- Spot the fault, with the fix
- A pupil self-check and a link to the Black Award
£149 a year for the whole school, or 6 months free with the whole-school rope set.
Where it fits
Skydiver: Black Award
Black Award: Expert
A related skill for the Black Award: one to include in lessons.
To pass, a pupil:
- Performs 5 double unders (single bounces in between are fine)
- Performs a full 360 degree turn
- Performs a side swing X on both sides
- Leads a group routine including individual, partner and long rope moves
- Keeps the pot boiling in Figure of Eight in a team of 6 to 8: 5 full figures of 8 each (10 jumps), with the whole team succeeding
In the scheme of work
This skill isn't in the scheme of work lessons yet. It's a great one for skipping clubs and playtimes.
What you need
For four or more skippers at once. skip-hop ropes are designed specifically for the skills shown on this site.
SEND and inclusion
Make it work for everyone
Ideas for pupils with SEND, and for anyone who finds skydiver hard. Change one thing at a time.
What usually makes it hard: Running in and holding hands while jumping together.
- PeopleStart with two holding hands.
- CommunicationThe turner says “break” clearly, and the next pupil waits for it.
- EquipmentA slower turn.
Seated or no-jump version. Turn one end and call “break”.
An adapted pass is still a pass on the Skipping Awards. Use your own judgement and each pupil’s care plan. More in SEND and inclusion at skip-hop. Pupil struggling to get started? Try Lee’s tips for pupils who are struggling to skip.