Developing Your Paddling Skills

Developing Your Paddling Skills

When starting your paddlesport journey, no matter what craft you use, there are a range of courses on offer to support the development of your skills. The following courses are open to all ages and great for individuals, families and groups wanting to develop their paddling skills.

Paddle Start Award

The Start Award is exactly what it says on the tin, it’s a place to start your paddling journey. If you’re brand new to paddling and really want to learn the basics to get started, then this is the course for you! You’ll cover everything from getting in and out of the boat or on and off your board, what you need to wear and some useful paddling skills.

You don’t need any previous experience to take your Start Award, just the desire for fun! You can take the award in any craft, from kayaks, canoes and SUPs, as well as Bell Boats and Rafts.

two people in different crafts talking while on the water

Paddle Discover Award

The Discover Award allows you to develop your decision making and practical skills for a fun and safe time on the water, as you become a more skilled and independent paddler. Through this award, you will learn how to choose and effectively use equipment, whilst developing an understanding of the factors which affect your paddling.

Your instructor will work with you to evolve your decision making and practical skills, giving you confidence on the water. You don’t need any previous experience to take your Discover Award, just the desire for fun and learning! You can take the award from any craft, from kayaks, canoes or SUPs, as well as Bell Boats and Rafts.

two paddle boarders, one in the water being rescued

Paddle Explore Award

If you want to become independent on the water, go on self-guided adventures and know how to control your craft and stay safe on the water, this is the award for you! You will take ownership of your own decisions and learn to make confidence choices, based on the places you paddle, wind and weather.

Designed to help you gain confidence on the water, it is aimed at any craft, age and ability. There’s a strong emphasis on independence with this award, and the Explore award will fill in the gaps of knowledge you might have so you can get out paddling safely on an adventure!

Visit the course providers page to find a Delivery Partner, club or coach near you to run a course.