Advanced Canoe White Water Leader Training

Please contact us to discuss other dates if those on the calendar do not suit. We are happy to put on a course for a small group.

Overview

An advanced canoe white water leader uses the full range of canoe skills to move in advanced canoe conditions. They are a skilled white water paddler who is capable of leading paddlers in a variety of ways.

Advanced canoe white water leaders are qualified to take participants on advanced white water trips. They can lead grade 3 white water that may have one or two manageable grade 4 rapids. Advanced canoe leaders can make their own decisions about the size of the group but 4 solo canoes or 2 tandem canoes would be seen as a large group.

On an assessment candidates will be expected to be able to:

• Plan and lead an inspirational journey in a way that encourages independence and development for the group.
• Paddle their canoe at a good standard in the top end of the remit, a grade 3(4) white water river.
• Rescue tandem and solo canoes whilst maintaining good group control.
• Demonstrate their ability to manage the likely incidents that could occur.
• Use a pole to travel up and down a simple bit or white water.

Prior to an assessment you will be given the opportunity to contact the group members to gather information about their ability, equipment needs and aspirations for the day. The group will have at least 3 participants.

Location:

These courses will take place in Cumbria. For the majority of our courses, the meeting points/venues will vary depending on weather conditions and water levels.

We provide 2 or 3-day advanced white-water courses in Cumbria during the Lakes paddling season, and 3-day advanced white-water coaching around Fort William throughout summer. These courses are timed with the water releases on the Moriston and Garry, but we may also utilize other classic Fort William locations like the Etive, Orchy, Spean, and Roy, depending on water availability. If you're seeking a tailored experience, please submit a booking request to discuss your preferences.

The most commonly used lakes are Ullswater, Derwentwater and Windermere and the most commonly used rivers are Eden, Leven and Lune. Favourite spots would include Glenridding at the southend of Ullswater, the river Eden north of Penrith, Middle Derwent near Keswick, Lune near Kirkby Lonsdale, Kent through Kendal and the Leven near Newby Bridge.

Pre-requisites for assessment: 

• Full National Association Membership.
• Prior to assessment all candidates must register with British Canoeing.
• Valid (within 3 years) 2 day British Canoeing recognised First Aid Award.
• Valid (within 3 years) Safeguarding Training recognised by British Canoeing.
• White Water Safety and Rescue Training.

Please note:

• 1 day advanced water leader leader assessments require min 2 to run, 2 day require min 3 to run (£350 for 1 to 1 assessments). To book a 1-1 send a message in the chat or create a booking and put a comment in the notes.
• Many leader assessment candidates find refresher training extremely valuable in preparation for their assessment.

Submit a booking request today to register your interest, you can ask any questions you may have before paying!