Paddle UK Paddlesport Touring Leader Training in the South West

Gain the skills and knowledge needed to lead safe and exciting paddling trips on moderate inland waters. This two-day Paddle UK training course is designed for those looking to develop leadership techniques across a range of craft, including kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. With a mix of practical sessions and theory, it provides a solid foundation for those working towards assessment.

Key Details

Duration: 2 days (9am-5pm)
Location: South West England (venue confirmed upon booking)
Group Size: 1-6 people
Craft Covered: Kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards

Key Skills

Developing effective leadership techniques for touring environments
Enhancing personal paddling ability across different craft
Learning essential rescue and safety procedures
Managing groups and making dynamic decisions on the water
Understanding trip planning, navigation, and risk management

What to Expect

Across two full days, this training focuses on four key areas: personal paddling skills, rescue techniques, group leadership, and theoretical knowledge. Participants will refine their paddling abilities while learning how to manage a group effectively on the water.

The first day introduces leadership concepts and practical techniques, with time spent on the water developing core skills. Key rescues and safety drills will be covered, ensuring participants are prepared for a range of situations. The afternoon sessions focus on trip planning, navigation, and risk management, helping leaders make informed decisions.

On the second day, participants will apply their learning in a real-time setting, leading sections of a journey and managing various scenarios. Discussions on environmental considerations, weather conditions, and incident response will further enhance leadership skills. The course is designed to be interactive and practical, ensuring participants leave feeling confident in their ability to lead paddling trips.

Location

Training takes place at a suitable venue in South West England, such as the River Exe or River Avon. These locations offer a mix of moving water and technical sections, providing the perfect setting for developing leadership skills.

The exact venue will be confirmed upon booking. Participants should arrange their own transport, as this is not included.

Prerequisites

Open to those aged 16+ with previous paddling experience. There are no formal prerequisite awards, but this training is aimed at those working at a level above the Paddlesport Leader Award. Prior completion of courses such as Paddle Explore, Paddlesport Safety and Rescue, or Paddlesport Leader may be beneficial.

To progress to assessment, participants must hold Full Membership of Paddle UK (formerly British Canoeing), a two-day First Aid qualification, and Safeguarding Training (both completed within the last three years).

Why Choose Us

The southwest’s largest outdoor activity provider, delivering high-quality adventure and training for over 30 years. Their experienced instructors ensure participants gain the skills and confidence needed to lead safe and enjoyable paddling trips.

Their training approach is built on professionalism, passion, and a deep respect for the environment. With a focus on adventure, learning, and skill development, they provide a welcoming and supportive space for paddlers to grow.

Two full days of Paddle UK training (9am-5pm)

Expert instruction from qualified paddlesport coaches

Use of centre-specific equipment (participants can bring their own)

Training across multiple craft including kayaks, canoes, and SUPs

Leadership, safety, and rescue skill development

Assessment (this must be booked separately)

Transport to and from the venue

Personal paddling equipment (if preferred)

Accommodation and meals

Paddle UK membership, first aid, or safeguarding courses

There are no formal prerequisites, but this training is aimed at those working at a level above the Paddlesport Leader Award.

Prior experience paddling on moderate inland waters is beneficial. You may also find courses such as Paddle Explore, Paddlesport Safety and Rescue, or Paddlesport Leader useful before attending.

The course covers a range of craft, including kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. If you have a preferred craft, you are welcome to bring your own, or you can use the equipment provided by the centre.

The training is designed to develop leadership skills across multiple types of paddlesport.

This is a training course rather than an assessment. While it prepares you with the skills needed for the Paddlesport Touring Leader Award, you will need to book a separate assessment to gain the qualification.

If you are interested in assessment, the team can provide guidance on the next steps.

The course will take place at a suitable location in South West England, such as the River Exe or River Avon.

The exact venue will be confirmed upon booking to ensure the best conditions for training. Participants should arrange their own transport, as it is not provided.

Accommodation and meals are not included, so participants should arrange their own.

If you need recommendations for places to stay nearby, the team can provide suggestions. It's a good idea to bring a packed lunch and plenty of water each day.

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.