Paddle UK Paddlesport Instructor Training & Assessment in Churchill

The two-day course offers the skills and knowledge required to run fun and safe paddlesport sessions for beginners. Combining both training and assessment, it prepares you to guide groups in stable craft such as kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. Whether you aim to instruct at an outdoor centre or work with groups, this course covers everything from getting afloat to promoting exploration through mini journeys.

Key Details

Duration: 2 days (9am - 5pm)
Location: Near Churchill, such as Cheddar Reservoir or Clevedon Marine Lake
Group Size: 1-6 participants
Age: 16+
Assessment: Included within the course

Key Skills

Kitting up a group and ensuring safe entry onto the water
Leading enjoyable and educational games and activities
Using mini journeys to encourage exploration of the environment
Promoting safety and managing risks throughout sessions

What to Expect

The course focuses on equipping you with the essential skills to lead paddlesport sessions for beginners. You will start by learning the basics of getting a group afloat, including how to properly kit up participants and ensure their safety. The course will introduce various fun activities and games designed to engage beginners, making learning fun. By the end of the two days, you will be confident in using mini journeys to help participants explore their environment while also maintaining safety at all times.

In addition to training, the course includes assessment, with a focus on both theory and practical skills. Upon successful completion, you will be qualified to deliver paddlesport sessions for beginners at outdoor activity centres. Detailed joining instructions will be sent upon booking, and participants are encouraged to prepare for the weather conditions. Equipment is provided, but you are welcome to bring your own.

Location

The course will take place at a venue in Churchill, with potential locations including Cheddar Reservoir or Clevedon Marine Lake. You will be notified of the exact venue once your booking is confirmed, and further details will be provided in your joining instructions.

Prerequisites

To take part, you must be 16 years or older and have completed the Paddlesport Safety and Rescue course. Although there are no specific skills prerequisites, those who have completed the Paddle Discover and Paddle Explore Awards may find them beneficial.

Full Membership of Paddle UK (formerly British Canoeing) is also required.

Why Choose Us

With over three decades of experience, this provider is known for delivering top-tier outdoor education and training. The professional team ensures each course is informative, safe, and engaging, with a focus on providing a high standard of paddlesport instruction.

The approach to teaching prioritises safety and enjoyment, ensuring participants leave the course with the confidence and skills to lead their own paddlesport sessions. This dedication to excellence has made them a trusted provider for individuals looking to expand their paddlesport qualifications.

Training and assessment within the two-day course

Kitting up equipment and support with getting afloat

Games and activities for beginner paddlers

Mini journey techniques for environmental exploration

Centre-specific equipment (own equipment can be brought)

Joining instructions upon booking

Transport to and from the venue

Meals or snacks

Accommodation

The course includes full training and assessment over two days. You’ll receive guidance on how to safely kit up a group and get afloat, lead activities and games for beginners, use mini journeys to encourage environmental exploration, and manage risks to keep participants safe.

The centre will provide all necessary equipment, but if you have your own gear, you’re welcome to bring it. You will also receive joining instructions upon booking with further course details.

You must have completed the Paddlesport Safety and Rescue course. The course is designed for beginners and aims to provide the essential skills to teach others. If you have limited experience, you will still be able to grasp the fundamentals and complete the training and assessment.

It is helpful, however, if you have a basic understanding of paddlesports.

The course includes all necessary paddlesport equipment, but you may bring your own gear if preferred. You’ll need to bring suitable clothing for the conditions, including swimwear, a towel, and warm, dry clothes for after the session.

Be sure to check the weather forecast before the course, as it’s important to dress appropriately for outdoor conditions.

The course will take place at a venue close to Churchill, with locations including Cheddar Reservoir or Clevedon Marine Lake.

The exact venue will be confirmed once your booking is complete. You’ll receive detailed information about the venue in your joining instructions.

Accommodation is not included in the course. You are responsible for booking your own accommodation, but there are various options near the course location.

We recommend booking early to secure a place.

This well-established outdoor centre in the Mendip Hills is known for delivering high-quality adventure activities and outdoor instructor training. Operating since 1987, it offers a wide range of land and water-based activities, including climbing, caving, paddleboarding, archery, bushcraft, disc golf, skiing, and tobogganing. Many of these take place at their flagship site, which also features a 165-metre dry ski slope, purpose-built target sports ranges, a private quarry for climbing and caving, and a dedicated watersports lake nearby. The centre works with individuals, schools, and groups, delivering outdoor education programmes that balance challenge, learning, and enjoyment. With a focus on safety, personal development, and progression, the team is made up of experienced, passionate instructors who lead everything from one-off taster sessions to full outdoor activity weeks. It’s also a leading provider of outdoor instructor training. Their Accelerated Outdoor Instructor Training (AOIT) course equips aspiring instructors with the practical skills, qualifications, and real-world experience needed to start a career in the outdoor industry. With over three decades of experience, a growing range of high-quality facilities, and a commitment to developing the next generation of outdoor leaders, this centre remains one of the South West’s most respected adventure and training providers.