Gain confidence and practical skills for safe white water paddling with our comprehensive 2-day course. Designed for paddlers operating on grade 2(3) rivers, you'll learn emergency planning, rescue techniques, and more, ensuring you can handle common issues and respond appropriately to incidents.
This course is structured into nine modules over two days. Each module focuses on different aspects of white water safety and rescue techniques.
Day one starts with understanding the motivations and decisions behind paddling, followed by a practical river trip covering pre-checks, collaborative support, and equipment considerations. Emergency planning and procedures are also covered, teaching you how to call for assistance and handle equipment.
Day two delves deeper into rescue scenarios. You'll practice chase boating and equipment rescues, learn to swim and rescue swimmers in different conditions, and explore methods for retrieving people and equipment. The day concludes with scenario-based training and reflections on learning.
We cover various locations in the UK for our courses.
Most of our kayaking courses take place on the River Dart in Dartmoor – meeting point TQ13 7NT.
We also run courses at:
We also travel to individuals and clubs to run training and assessments, covering most of England, up to Nottingham and Wales.
You can check the location on the booking form below. If you are unsure, feel free to contact the adventuro team who can help you book onto the right date for you, or organise a location for your session.
Participants should be confident paddling on grade 2 water and swimming in normal paddling clothing suitable for a moving water environment. While a First Aid certificate is not required, it is strongly recommended.
With over 32 years of combined experience, our instructors bring a wealth of knowledge and international competition experience. We focus on developing your skills to ensure you can safely enjoy paddling independently. As a 1% for the planet business, we contribute to environmental conservation with every booking.
You will need your craft and paddle suitable for a class 2/3 environment, personal paddling clothing, and any current safety kit you use.
Essential items include a towline, throwline, webbing or sling, large carabiners, a whistle, and a knife. If you do not have all the recommended items, we can provide them for you to try out during the course.
No worries if you don't have all the gear. We offer items you can try out during the course to find what works best for you.
The course requires a minimum water level to run. If conditions are not met, we will either postpone the course or relocate to an area with suitable water levels.
Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the start time. Bring your personal paddling gear, including clothing for a day on the water, and any safety kit you have.
Don't forget lunch, drinks, and snacks to keep you energised throughout the day.
Accommodation is not included in the price.
We can recommend local accommodation if needed. Please contact the adventuro team using the chat below to enquire. They'll be happy to help!
This course has replaced the White Water Safety and Rescue course (WWSR) as of 1st November 2023.
Both the White Water Safety (WWS) and the former WWSR are recognised as prerequisites for relevant qualifications, such as White Water Leader and Raft Guide Grade 2.
About the centre
Newbridge Car Park, Newbridge Hill, Newton Abbot TQ13 7NT
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.
Operated by Rock The Boat Training LTD, a partner of adventuro.
