Paddle UK Paddlesport Leader Training in the South West

Two-day Paddle UK training course aimed at developing the skills needed to run safe and enjoyable paddlesport sessions on sheltered water. Covering kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards, this qualification is ideal for those looking to instruct beginners in a variety of settings.

Key Details

Duration: 2 days (9am-5pm)
Group Size: 1-6 people
Location: South West England (venue confirmed upon booking)
Craft Covered: Kayak, Canoe, Stand Up Paddleboard
Assessment: Completed separately

Key Skills

Leading groups on sheltered water safely
Improving personal paddling across multiple craft
Rescue techniques for different situations
Adapting leadership approaches for mixed craft groups
Understanding assessment requirements

What to Expect

Over two days, this course provides hands-on experience in leading paddlesport sessions. Expect plenty of time on the water, developing practical skills in managing groups, handling different craft, and ensuring participants have a safe and enjoyable experience. Instruction covers best practices for guiding mixed-ability groups, adjusting coaching styles, and responding effectively to different conditions.

Rescue skills play a major role in the training, with a focus on safely managing capsizes, assisting participants, and dealing with environmental factors such as wind and current. The course also explores risk management, session planning, and methods for engaging paddlers of all abilities. Guidance on the assessment process is included, so participants know what to expect when they choose to complete their qualification.

Location

Held at a suitable sheltered water venue in South West England, with potential locations including the River Exe or River Avon. The chosen site will be confirmed closer to the course date, ensuring the best conditions for training.

Each venue offers a supportive environment for building confidence and refining techniques in real-world scenarios.

Prerequisites

Participants must be at least 16 years old. No prior qualifications are required, though experience with courses such as Paddle Discover, Paddle Explore, or Paddlesport Safety and Rescue may be useful.

A Full Membership of Paddle UK (formerly British Canoeing) is needed, along with a valid one-day First Aid certificate and Safeguarding Training completed within the last three years.

Why Choose Us

With decades of experience, they are a leading provider of outdoor training in the South West, known for delivering professional and engaging courses. Their team is passionate about helping people develop skills that open up opportunities in paddlesport instruction.

Each course is run by experienced instructors who create a welcoming and supportive learning environment. Whether looking to start a career in coaching or gain confidence in leading groups on the water, this training offers a strong foundation in safe and effective paddlesport instruction.

Two days of professional instruction

Training with kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards

Rescue techniques and incident management practice

Group leadership and coaching skills development

All necessary paddlesport equipment

Assessment (booked separately)

Transport to and from the venue

Accommodation and meals

Personal clothing and footwear

Paddle UK Full Membership (required)

First Aid and Safeguarding Training

You only need to bring personal items such as comfortable clothing, swimwear, and a towel. It’s also advisable to bring a waterproof jacket, sun protection, and any personal snacks or drinks you may need throughout the day.

We will provide all necessary paddlesport equipment, including kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards.

No previous paddling experience is required for this course. However, if you have some prior experience with paddleboarding, kayaking, or canoeing, you may find it beneficial.

The course is designed to cater to all levels, from beginners to those with more experience. If you’re new to paddling, this course will provide you with the essential skills to lead others.

Upon completion of the course, you will gain valuable training in paddlesport instruction, including the development of personal paddling skills, rescue techniques, and leadership skills for mixed craft groups.

The course is designed to prepare you for your assessment, which is booked separately.

The course itself does not include an assessment. The assessment will be arranged separately, and we will provide you with detailed information on what to expect in the assessment process.

The course covers everything you need to know to successfully complete your assessment and gain certification.

Accommodation is not included as part of the course. Participants are responsible for arranging their own accommodation. We recommend booking a nearby hotel, guesthouse, or Airbnb for your stay.

If you're traveling from afar, we can offer suggestions for local options. Detailed location information will be provided once your booking is confirmed. Please ensure you plan your accommodation in advance, especially if you require any specific amenities or have particular preferences.

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.