School and College SUP Sessions

Activity Highlights:

Get ready for an enjoyable and active stand-up paddleboarding session that’s perfect for school and college groups. Whether you're looking to try something new, improve balance, or work as a team, this session offers the chance to learn a new sport in a relaxed and friendly environment.

Key Details

Duration: 2 hours
Minimum participants: 6
Meeting point: Choose your own
Age: Secondary school pupils
Group size: 1-6 people per instructor

Key Skills

Understanding the basics of stand-up paddleboarding
Learning how to safely navigate on water
Improving balance and coordination
Gaining knowledge of equipment and safety protocols
Developing communication skills while working in teams

What to Expect

The session starts with an on-land briefing where you'll be given your equipment, including a buoyancy aid and paddle. The instructor will lead you through a 10-minute introduction and safety briefing, covering the essentials of paddleboarding and the proper techniques. You’ll begin by kneeling on the board and practising basic skills before moving to a standing position.

After you’re comfortable on the board, you'll head out for a short paddle around the local area, giving you the opportunity to practice your new skills. Along the way, your instructor will be there to offer guidance and ensure you’re having fun while staying safe. Afterward, you’ll return to the meeting point to reflect on your experience and enjoy a relaxed end to the session.

Location

Participants can choose their own meeting point, making it easy to arrange a session at a location that suits your group.

Whether you're near a calm river, lake, or another suitable body of water, we’ll bring the equipment and instructors to you. If you need recommendations for suitable locations, we’re happy to help find the best spot based on your group’s needs.

Prerequisites

All participants must be able to swim at least 50 meters unaided. While no previous paddleboarding experience is necessary, participants should be comfortable with the idea of falling into the water.

It’s essential that all participants are dressed appropriately for the conditions. Any medical conditions or injuries should be disclosed before the session, and a waiver must be signed before participation.

About your guides

Nick, a BSUPA-qualified Level 2 coach, has been passionate about paddleboarding since he first tried it in 2014. His goal is to make the sport accessible to people of all abilities and ages.

Claire, also a BSUPA-qualified coach, quickly progressed from beginner to instructor in just two years. Her energy and love for paddleboarding make her lessons engaging and enjoyable for all.

Anna, a British Canoeing-qualified SUP coach and PT, brings a strong fitness background to her coaching, ensuring each participant gets the most out of their session while having fun on the water.

James, who joined the team in 2022, is an experienced dragon boater and a seasoned paddler, bringing his expertise to every lesson with a relaxed and approachable attitude.

FAQs:

What should I wear for stand-up paddleboarding?

When it's warm, wear whatever you feel comfortable in, like shorts and a t-shirt or other activewear. If you have neoprene or a wetsuit, that's ideal, but we can provide one if needed—just let us know ahead of time. We recommend wearing footwear that you don’t mind getting wet, such as wet shoes, flip-flops, or old trainers.

Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, insect repellent if you have it, a towel, and a change of clothes for your journey home (though hopefully, you won’t need them!).

Is stand-up paddleboarding safe?

Falling in can be part of the fun, but your safety is our top priority. Everyone will be given a flotation device, and all boards are equipped with a leash.

We’re trained in first aid to handle any situation. You can wear waterproof footwear or bring your own, such as flip-flops or old trainers, during the session. Please make sure any cuts on your feet or legs are covered with plasters before you get started.

Do I need to be able to swim to try stand-up paddleboarding?

Yes, we require you to be able to swim before taking part in a paddleboarding session. You don’t need to be an expert swimmer, but you should feel comfortable falling into water while wearing a buoyancy aid.

You'll also need a certain level of flexibility and the ability to transition from kneeling to standing on the board.

What happens if the weather is bad?

We monitor the weather closely and, if conditions are unsafe (e.g., strong winds or heavy rain), the session may be rescheduled or cancelled.

You will be notified in advance, and we’ll do our best to find an alternative date for you to take part in the session.

How fit do I need to be for paddleboarding?

While paddleboarding is a physically engaging activity, you don’t need to be particularly fit to take part. The key skills required are balance and coordination, and you’ll build strength and fitness over time.

As long as you're comfortable with some light physical activity and have the ability to get up from a kneeling position to standing, you’ll be able to enjoy the session.

What if I fall into the water?

Falling into the water is a normal part of the learning process and can be fun! You’ll be wearing a buoyancy aid, and all instructors are trained in rescue techniques if needed.

About the centre

About Nick's Centre

Wargrave Road, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 3JD

Nick and his team are dedicated to making stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) accessible, fun, and rewarding for everyone—regardless of age, size, or ability. Nick first discovered paddleboarding in 2014 and quickly became hooked, now competing in races and sharing his passion as a BSUPA Level 2 coach. His goal is simple: to get as many people on the water as possible. The team brings a diverse mix of skills and experience, united by a love for SUP. Claire, a competitive racer and BSUPA coach, brings enthusiasm and energy to every session. Anna, a British Canoeing-qualified coach and former gym owner, blends fitness expertise with paddleboarding instruction. James, an accomplished dragon boater and world championship medalist, adds technical paddle skills to the mix. Lesley, a physiotherapist and SUP Pilates instructor, helps paddlers develop strength, balance, and flexibility on the board. Together, they offer expert-led group and 1-2-1 lessons, race clinics, corporate team-building, river clean-ups, and more across Henley and Berkshire. Whether you're a complete beginner, looking to refine your skills, or eager to explore SUP racing, Nick and his team provide the support and encouragement to help you make the most of your time on the water.

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