The Paddlesport Leader is a nationally recognised qualification for experienced paddlers who want to lead safe, enjoyable journeys for groups on sheltered water in a variety of paddlesport craft, including canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards. The award is designed for those who have a passion for helping others explore the outdoors by providing inspiring and supportive leadership on the water. It focuses on developing the skills needed to plan and lead trips, manage groups, and make appropriate decisions to ensure participants’ safety and enjoyment. The award is administered by Paddle UK (or its home nation associations: Paddle Wales, Paddle Scotland, or Paddle Northern Ireland), and awarded by the British Canoeing Awarding Body, the governing body for paddlesport in the UK. The Paddlesport Leader is a flexible, craft-inclusive qualification that reflects modern paddling practices and supports leaders in a wide range of paddlesport environments.
The Paddlesport Leader course content is designed to develop the skills, knowledge, and judgement required to lead safe and enjoyable group journeys on sheltered water in a range of paddlesport craft. The course focuses on trip planning and organisation, group management strategies, and leadership techniques tailored to the needs and abilities of participants. Candidates will enhance their ability to assess risks, make decisions, and adapt plans according to weather, water conditions, and group dynamics. The training also covers personal paddling skills, effective communication, environmental awareness, and practical rescue techniques to deal with common situations on sheltered water. Throughout the course, there is an emphasis on creating positive, inclusive experiences that inspire confidence and enjoyment in paddlesport.
Duration: 2-day training and 2-day assessment course
Location: CCAT Capel Curig, Snowdonia National Park
CCAT Halton near Lancaster, Lake District & Yorkshire Dales National Park
Course fee: £40
Eligibility: CFAVs
Prerequisites Prior to attended you need to meet the following prerequisites for attending the Paddlesport Leader course:
- Be a full member of Paddle UK (or Paddle Wales, Paddle Scotland, or Paddle Northern Ireland).
- Have appropriate personal paddling experience in the craft and environments relevant to the award (typically demonstrated through a log of recent journeys on sheltered water in canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, or other craft).
- Safeguarding training dated within the last three years.
- 1-day first aid certificate dated with the last three years
Course Certification: British Canoeing Awarding Body qualifications are widely recognised throughout the UK and show others that you have reached a nationally accredited standard recognised by:
- Health and Safety Executive (UK)
- Health and Safety Authority (Republic of Ireland)
- Adventurous Activities Licensing Authority (UK)
- Coaching Ireland
- Ofqual (England)
- SQA (Scotland)
Please speak to your detachment or contingent commander if you are interested in attending this course.