PADDLESPORT INSTRUCTOR

The Paddlesport Instructor qualification is designed for individuals whose primary role is to deliver introductory or beginner paddlesport sessions within clubs, centres, or other organisations. It is not discipline-specific, making it suitable for instructors working with participants across all competitive and non-competitive paddlesport disciplines.

The main responsibility of a Paddlesport Instructor is to deliver safe, enjoyable introductory sessions tailored to the needs and aspirations of their group. The qualification equips instructors with practical skills, including preparing and kitting out a group, getting participants afloat, leading initial familiarisation activities, and using games and structured activities to support learning. It also covers how to incorporate short journeys to encourage progress, inspire a sense of adventure, and promote exploration. Throughout, there is a strong emphasis on delivering sessions that are safe, engaging, and rewarding.

This qualification is expected to be widely used by instructors working in clubs, centres, schools, Duke of Edinburgh programmes, youth groups, uniformed organisations, and similar settings. It is particularly suited to those delivering introductory sessions for:

Children and young people as part of a broader educational experience

Individuals taking part in leisure, activity, social, or holiday programmes

People who want to ‘have a go’ at paddlesport, potentially becoming regular participants

The qualification process is designed to prepare candidates for their first instructing role, ensuring they feel confident, capable, and ready to begin.

What to Expect
Day 1

Course Introduction

Bank-side: Getting Ready

Bank-side and On the Water: Launching the Group

On the Water: Fundamental Techniques

On the Water: Games and Introductory Rescues

Bank-side: Packing Up and Session Review

Classroom: End-of-Day Reflection

Day 2

Classroom: Day 1 Review and Q&A

On the Water: Supporting Learning

On the Water: Journeying Skills

On the Water: Rescue Skills Development

Classroom: Course Summary and Close

Our friendly and experienced instructors will guide participants every step of the way, providing clear instruction, encouragement, and a positive learning environment.We will also provide all necessary personal protective clothing including wetsuits, waterproofs, buoyancy aids and helmets.

What’s not included
Hot drinks and food throughout the course

Check-in details
Please arrive 15 minutes before the course start time

What to bring– Swimming togs & towel
– Footwear for on the water
– Sock that cover your ankles
– 50p for locker

Special requirements
– Prerequisites – Full National Association membership
Course length – 2 days
– Registration – Registration is a process for paddlers to attend a Padddlesport Instructor course to confirm you hold all of the pre requisites.You will need to access your membership portal and registar through the portal

Restrictions
On successful completion of your course you will be asked to sign a health declaration stating that you are not suffering from any physical or mental impairment which has an adverse effect on your ability to properly discharge your duty of care as an instructor. If you are unable to sign the standard declaration, you will be required to complete a medical questionnaire.

Extras
– Accommodation available as an add on
– £60 Per Room (£12 Surcharge for additional person per room)

Disclaimers
Price – Package price does not include membership or registration.