This course is designed to build on your existing paddling skills and prepare you for the responsibilities of leading groups on the water. You’ll learn new leadership techniques, improve your ability to manage risks, and gain the confidence needed to guide others safely down the river. The course combines practical experience with expert guidance, ensuring you’re fully equipped to lead on white-water rivers.
During the course, you will have the opportunity to build upon your existing white-water kayaking knowledge and practice leadership techniques in a supportive and structured environment. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, you will learn how to lead a group down the river, assess risks, and manage various challenges that may arise on the water. Practical exercises will help you improve your communication and group management skills, ensuring you feel prepared to handle any situation that may occur during a real river trip.
The course will also focus on safety, ensuring you understand the best practices for keeping your group safe. You’ll practice leading in different river environments, testing your leadership abilities and refining your skills as you go. By the end of the course, you will have developed the confidence and knowledge needed to take on the responsibilities of a white-water leader.
The course is based on the River Dart in Devon, an ideal location for white-water training. The river provides a range of challenging features that will allow you to practice your leadership skills in a variety of conditions.
With its mixture of fast-moving rapids and calmer sections, the River Dart offers the perfect setting to develop both your technical paddling and leadership abilities. The surrounding area adds to the experience, providing a picturesque backdrop for your time on the water.
To take part in the course, you must hold the Paddle UK White Water Award or demonstrate equivalent experience. This ensures that you have a basic level of white-water paddling skills and are ready to take the next step towards becoming a leader.
No additional paperwork is required for the training, although your registration with Paddle UK will be processed upon completion of the course.
The course is taught by instructors with years of experience in both paddling and leadership. They understand the challenges that come with leading groups on white-water rivers and provide expert guidance tailored to your skill level. The focus is on practical, hands-on learning, with an emphasis on ensuring that you feel confident and capable when it comes time to lead your own groups.
The course is structured to give you real-world experience while offering a supportive and friendly environment. By the end of the course, you will not only have gained valuable leadership skills but also the confidence to safely guide others through a variety of river conditions.
To join the training, you must hold the Paddle UK White Water Award or have equivalent experience in white-water kayaking.
This ensures you have a basic understanding of paddling and can safely navigate on white-water rivers.
The course fee covers your instruction, all necessary equipment (including helmets, paddles, and buoyancy aids), and Paddle UK registration fees.
The course is designed to provide you with the skills and experience needed to safely lead groups on the water.
The River Dart in Devon offers a variety of features, from fast-moving rapids to calmer sections, providing the perfect environment for learning.
You’ll have the opportunity to practice your leadership techniques in different conditions, which will prepare you for a wide range of river scenarios.
Accommodation is not included in the course fee. However, there are various options nearby, such as local hotels and campsites.
You can contact us for recommendations if you need help finding somewhere to stay.
The course is designed to run in various weather conditions, as long as it’s safe to do so.
If the weather becomes extreme and safety is a concern, the course may be rescheduled or adjusted. You’ll be notified well in advance if any changes are needed.
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About the centre
Buckfastleigh, Devon
Operated by ABC Kayaking, a partner of adventuro.
