Paddlesport Instructor

British Canoeing’s Paddlesport Instructor is the entry level qualification for those that are looking to deliver safe and enjoyable Starter/Taster sessions. You will paddle the craft of your choice but work in a multi-craft environment.

The Award

The Paddlesport Instructor qualification is designed for those delivering Starter / Taster sessions within the safety management systems of clubs, centres and organisations in:

• Very Sheltered Water
• Craft deemed suitable for a first-time experience

The process of completing the qualification aims to help prepare candidates for their first paddlesport instructing role; ‘primed and ready’.

The Course

This course is run over two days and is a combined training and assessment course.The qualification will support the instructor with practical skills such as kitting up a group and getting afloat. Using initial familiarisation activities, games and activities to support learning and how to use mini journeys to inspire adventure and exploration. This will be enhanced with support on how these sessions can be delivered in a way that is enjoyable, safe and rewarding.

Assessment

There are three specific assessment tasks that are completed during the course:

1. Professional Standards
2. Rescue Skills
3. Personal Skills

All of the assessment tasks are explained in the course paperwork; don’t panic as you are supported throughout the course.

Prerequisites

You have to be 14 years or older and a Full National Association member. You must also hold the Paddlesport Safety Rescue or Foundation Safety & Rescue Training certificates.

Ideally, you should also be paddling at the Explore Award level or old 2 Star standard.