This assessment is designed to evaluate your abilities as a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) leader. The process is focused on supporting you throughout the journey, ensuring it is engaging, safe, and enjoyable. You’ll work closely with the assessor to ensure the best conditions for the assessment, which will cover your paddling, rescue, leadership, and theoretical knowledge.
The assessment is typically arranged in collaboration with your assessor to ensure the best possible conditions. You will have the opportunity to discuss the ideal dates and times with your assessor, who will also guide you on gathering a group of participants to lead. On the day, the assessment will follow a standard paddling schedule, adjusting as necessary to match the conditions and environment. Your assessor will ensure that you are given plenty of opportunities to showcase your leadership and technical skills, with breaks for discussion and feedback.
Throughout the day, you will demonstrate your skills in the four key areas: personal paddling, rescue, group management and safety, and theoretical knowledge. The assessment will be adapted to reflect the needs of the group and the available environment. Depending on the logistics, the assessment may last longer than a typical paddling day to ensure all areas are adequately covered.
The assessment takes place in Buckfastleigh, Devon, an area known for its beauty and varied waterways, providing a perfect environment to test and showcase your skills.
The location offers a variety of conditions that will challenge your abilities, allowing you to demonstrate the full range of skills required for the assessment.
To take part in the assessment, you should have previous experience leading groups in SUP activities and have a good understanding of paddling techniques. You will also need to have access to a suitable group to lead on the day, along with the appropriate conditions for the assessment to take place.
It’s important that you are comfortable with the basic rescue techniques and have a solid grasp of the theory involved in leading SUP groups.
The approach is designed to make your assessment experience as smooth as possible. By focusing on the process and providing the support you need, the goal is to make sure you feel confident and relaxed. The assessor will work with you to create the best conditions for your assessment, while ensuring that you are involved in decision-making along the way.
The team prides itself on providing a safe, engaging, and enjoyable environment throughout your assessment. They aim to reduce any stress or pressure, ensuring that you are given the best chance to demonstrate your skills and knowledge.
The SUP Coastal Leader Assessment is a comprehensive evaluation for those looking to lead SUP groups safely and confidently in coastal environments.
It covers key areas such as personal paddling skills, rescue techniques, leadership, safety, and theoretical knowledge. Successful completion of the assessment demonstrates your ability to lead groups in a variety of conditions.
To take part in the assessment, you should have prior experience leading groups in SUP activities. You should be comfortable with basic paddling techniques and have a strong understanding of the necessary safety protocols and rescue procedures.
You’ll also need a suitable group to lead on the day, along with the right conditions for the assessment to take place.
The assessment takes place over a full day and will cover four key areas: personal paddling skills, rescue skills, safety, leadership and group management, and theory.
The assessor will guide you through the day, providing feedback and giving you the opportunity to demonstrate your skills. The assessment is flexible, so depending on conditions, it may be adjusted to ensure you get a fair opportunity to showcase your abilities.
Yes, you will need to bring your own SUP equipment, including board, paddle, and safety gear.
If you're unsure about what equipment is required, your assessor will provide guidance on what to bring beforehand. It’s essential that all your equipment is in good working condition for the assessment.
If you don’t meet the required standards, you will receive constructive feedback on areas for improvement.
You may be offered additional support or guidance to help you progress before attempting the assessment again. The assessor’s aim is to help you succeed and develop your leadership skills.
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About the centre
Buckfastleigh, Devon
Operated by ABC Kayaking, a partner of adventuro.
