British Canoeing‘s Paddlesport Instructor Award is aimed at those running taster/starter sessions and short journeys in very sheltered water environments, within the safety management systems of clubs/centres or other organisations.

The qualification will support the instructor with practical skills such as kitting up a group and getting afloat, initial familiarisation activities, games and activities to support learning and how to use mini journeys to support learning, inspire adventure and exploration.  This will be enhanced with support on how these sessions can be delivered in a way that is enjoyable, safe and rewarding.  

The process of completing the qualification aims to help prepare candidates for their first paddlesport instructing role; ‘primed and ready’.  

The Paddlesport Instructor Award will cover a range of stable craft including kayak (this can be open-cockpit or closed-cockpit), open canoe, sit on top and stand up paddleboard (SUP). Candidates will be certificated in one craft but able to instruct a mixed fleet. 

This award is perfect for those taking their first steps in teaching others, and can be attended by anyone over the age of 14. You need to have completed the Foundation Safety and Rescue course prior to attending the course (we deliver these too!). Registration with British Canoeing is required to attend the course, this can be done via your National Association (Canoe Wales / Canoe Scotland / CANI (Northern Island) / British Canoeing (England / International)).

The award is ideal for centres and clubs, and for those looking to embark on a career in the Outdoors! Contact us now to discuss your needs and to enquire about our next course.

To be able to get the most out of your course, we would recommend that you can paddle to the standard of one of the following Personal Performance Awards: Touring Award, Canoe Award, SUP Sheltered Water Award, Sea Kayak Award, White Water Award, Surf Kayak Award, Racing Explore Award, Flat Water Freestyle Award, Polo Explore Award, Slalom Explore Award or the Wild Water Explore Award.