Paddlesport Safety & Rescue Course in East Sussex

Confidence on the water comes from knowing how to respond when things don’t go to plan. This one-day Paddlesport Safety and Rescue Course focuses on practical rescues, calm decision-making, and managing real paddling scenarios. It’s designed for paddlers who want to feel more capable when supporting themselves and others on the water.

🗂️ Key Details

• Duration: 1 day
• Age: 14+
• Course type: Safety and rescue training
• Standard: PaddleUK PSRC
• Spaces: 3

🧠 Key Skills

• Dynamic risk assessment and on-water decision making
• Effective self-rescue techniques across paddlesport craft
• Assisting and rescuing other paddlers safely
• Managing capsizes and tired or distressed paddlers
• Using equipment and improvised methods during rescues
• Clear communication and leadership during incidents

🌊 What to Expect

Activity begins on land with discussion around safety frameworks, group management, and how to recognise hazards before they escalate. Scenarios are explored through conversation first, giving context to why certain responses are more effective than others.

Once on the water, practical rescue techniques are introduced progressively. You’ll practise self-rescue skills, support others back into their craft, and work through common paddlesport incidents in a controlled but realistic way. Coaching focuses on calm responses, positioning, and efficiency rather than speed alone.

As the day develops, scenarios become more involved, encouraging you to apply judgement, communication, and teamwork under pressure. By the end of the course, you’ll feel more assured in your ability to look after yourself and others while paddling.

📍 Location

Based on sheltered inland water near Forest Row in East Sussex, the venue offers an ideal setting for rescue training. Calm conditions allow techniques to be practised thoroughly without unnecessary distractions, while still reflecting real paddling environments.

Clear launch areas, defined zones, and accessible shorelines support repeated practice, making it easier to focus on skill development. The setting works particularly well for refining judgement and rescue techniques across multiple craft types.

✅ Prerequisites

You should be able to paddle your chosen craft independently on flat water and feel comfortable spending extended time on the water. The course is practical and active, with repeated immersion and rescue scenarios throughout the day.

Appropriate paddlesport clothing for immersion is required, along with your own craft and equipment. No formal PaddleUK or British Canoeing qualifications are needed to attend.

⭐ Why Choose Us

A strong emphasis on practical application sets this course apart, with time spent actively practising rather than observing from the bank. Small group sizes allow instructors to tailor scenarios and offer detailed feedback throughout the day.

Careful use of the reservoir, clear operating systems, and experienced coaching combine to create an environment where safety skills can be developed properly. It’s a setting that supports learning through doing, building confidence that carries into real paddling situations.