Paddle UK Paddle Safer Award in Pembroke

This course is designed to teach essential safety knowledge and practical skills for paddlers of all levels. It focuses on helping you understand how to stay safe on the water, including recognising weather and tide conditions, selecting appropriate clothing and equipment, and performing basic self and assisted rescues.

The course aims to increase your confidence when paddling solo or with others. By the end, you will have a good foundation in water safety and receive a Paddle UK e-certificate confirming your understanding of the key safety principles.

No previous experience is required to attend this course. It is suitable for complete beginners as well as those who want to refresh or improve their safety skills. The session is practical and supportive, allowing everyone to learn at their own pace.

If you already paddle, the course will enhance your knowledge of how to handle common safety situations on the water. Coaches tailor guidance to the group’s overall experience level to make sure all participants benefit.

You should bring a full change of clothes including shoes that can get wet; flip flops and sandals are not suitable as they do not provide proper grip or protection. A towel and suncream are also recommended, along with any personal medication you may require during the session.

If you own your own paddle craft or equipment, you’re welcome to bring it for the training. However, the course also provides access to boats and kit if you prefer to borrow on the day, so no specialist equipment is essential.

The session is based at South Quay Car Park in Pembroke, close to a slipway giving direct access to sheltered water. This location is ideal for practising safety skills in controlled conditions and offers good access for vehicles and pedestrians alike.

Changing facilities are available nearby, and the coach will help with storing any borrowed equipment during the session. The location’s sheltered waters make it a safe environment for practical exercises even for those new to paddling.

The course typically lasts 2 to 3 hours, beginning with a brief introduction and safety talk onshore. After selecting equipment and getting changed, you will move onto the water for practical exercises focusing on self-rescue, assisted rescue, and recognising weather and tide changes.

The session is interactive and hands-on, allowing plenty of time to practise skills under coach supervision. At the end, there is a short wrap-up where you provide details to receive your Paddle UK e-certificate confirming course completion.

Yes, successful participants receive an e-certificate issued by Paddle UK, the awarding body for this course. This certificate confirms your understanding of core paddle safety principles and practical rescue skills, which may be useful if you plan to take further paddling courses.

The certification is delivered electronically shortly after the course. It serves as proof that you have completed a recognised safety training session and can support confidence and safety awareness on the water.