Becoming a paddlesport touring leader equips you with the skills needed to lead safe, enjoyable trips and manage mixed craft journeys on moderate inland waters. It also allows you to work independently or as part of a club or organisation. While assessments can be challenging, our assessors create a calm environment that helps you perform at your best and make the most of the day.
The assessment begins with an introduction, where the days objectives and expectations will be clearly outlined. You will then participate in a series of practical activities and scenarios designed to assess your leadership, paddling, and safety skills. The focus will be on demonstrating competence in leading groups, managing mixed craft journeys, and responding effectively to rescue situations. Assessors will be present to offer feedback and support throughout the day.
You will also be tested on your personal paddling abilities and leadership techniques, with a series of real-world scenarios. These will help assess your knowledge of water safety, your ability to manage risks, and your skill in navigating inland waters. The day concludes with feedback and a debriefing, helping you understand your strengths and areas for improvement.
Situated on the River Dart in Devon, the location offers an ideal environment for paddlesport activities.
The varied water conditions make it perfect for testing leadership and paddling skills. With ample space and a well-established history in paddlesport, it provides the perfect backdrop for the assessment.
Candidates must have prior paddlesport experience and be comfortable paddling in moderate conditions. Previous training or relevant experience leading paddlesport groups is required.
It’s also important to be familiar with rescue techniques and water safety. Participants are required to provide their own kit, but kit hire is available if needed.
Our assessors are dedicated to creating a relaxed, supportive atmosphere during the assessment. With extensive experience in paddlesport leadership, they focus on giving you the opportunity to showcase your skills without added pressure.
This approach helps ensure that you leave the assessment feeling confident in your abilities, ready to take on leadership roles in paddlesport.
The assessment fee covers the cost of the day, including the assessment itself, access to experienced assessors, and a feedback session after the assessment.
Optional kit hire is available at an additional cost (£25 for a boat, £10 for a paddle), but personal equipment is required.
Yes, kit hire is available for an additional charge. You can hire a boat for £25 per day and a paddle for £10 per day.
However, if you have your own equipment, you are encouraged to bring it along to avoid extra costs.
The assessment takes place on the River Dart, located in Devon.
This location offers ideal water conditions for the assessment and is well known for paddlesport activities.
The assessment lasts for a full day. It typically begins in the morning with an introduction and briefing, followed by practical activities and scenarios throughout the day, concluding with feedback in the afternoon.
Yes, candidates must have prior experience in paddling. You should be comfortable paddling in moderate conditions and have previous experience leading groups or participating in paddlesport activities.
It’s essential to have a solid understanding of water safety and rescue techniques.
If you don’t pass, our assessors will provide constructive feedback to help you improve. They will outline areas where you can focus your development before attempting the assessment again.
The goal is to help you succeed, whether it’s on your first attempt or after further preparation.
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About the centre
Buckfastleigh, Devon
Operated by ABC Kayaking, a partner of adventuro.
