The Paddle UK Paddlesport Touring Leader qualification is one of the most versatile awards available for aspiring leaders across multiple paddlecraft, including SUPs, sea kayaks, open canoes, and sit-on-tops. This development week is designed to help you hone your skills across a variety of environments, from sheltered inland rivers to coastal waters and lakes. Under the expert guidance of Andrew, you will learn how to confidently lead others in diverse conditions and gain valuable rescue skills. Whether you’re training for assessment or simply looking to improve your leadership in paddlesports, this course will provide the hands-on experience you need.
During the five-day course, you will:
Each day will end with a debriefing to evaluate progress and provide personalised guidance on improving your skills and confidence.
The course takes place in Devon, centred around the River Dart and the scenic South Hams coastline. This region offers an excellent range of environments, from calm rivers to more challenging open waters, making it an ideal setting for developing the varied skills required for the Paddlesport Touring Leader qualification.
To participate in this course, you will need:
If you plan to be assessed, you must be comfortable performing rescues from your craft, as the assessment includes rescuing other types of craft on the water.
We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, personalised coaching with a focus on long-term development. Andrew, our lead coach, brings over 25 years of paddling experience and a wealth of knowledge from working around the world. Whether on Grade 5 rivers or in coastal environments, Andrew’s expertise in white water, sea kayaking, and inland paddling makes him uniquely equipped to guide you through this course.
Here’s why you should choose us:
Join us in Devon for an enriching, skill-building experience that will leave you prepared to lead others in any paddlesport environment!
This course is designed for paddlers who are already confident in one or more types of paddlesport craft (SUP, sea kayak, open canoe, or sit-on-top kayak) and are looking to develop their leadership skills in a range of environments. It is ideal for those working towards the Paddle UK Paddlesport Touring Leader qualification, which allows you to lead groups in various craft. You should have some prior paddling experience and feel comfortable in open water and moving water up to Grade 1 rapids.
You can use the paddlesport craft that you are most comfortable with, such as a SUP, sea kayak, sit-on-top kayak, or open canoe. You will be leading groups in a mixed craft environment, so it's important to have a basic understanding of other craft types. You should also be prepared to perform rescues in any of the crafts used during the course.
Yes, participants are expected to bring their own paddlesport equipment, including their chosen craft, paddle, buoyancy aid, helmet, and any other safety gear. If you don’t have your own craft, we can provide hire options at £30 per day. Please let us know in advance if you need to hire equipment so we can ensure availability.
The assessment for the Paddlesport Touring Leader qualification is not included in the course price. However, you have the option to take the assessment during the final days of the development week at a discounted rate of £125 (half the usual price of £250). This assessment is optional, and if you're not ready to assess by the end of the week, you can always complete it at a later date.
The course will run from approximately 9am to 5pm each day, depending on weather and water conditions. Each day will involve a mix of practical paddling sessions, leadership exercises, rescue practice, and navigation training in a variety of environments (rivers, lakes, sheltered coastal areas). There will also be daily debriefs to reflect on your progress and provide feedback. Specific locations will be chosen based on current conditions to ensure a safe and productive learning experience.
To take part in this course, you should:
If you're unsure whether you meet the prerequisites, please get in touch with us to discuss your experience level.
The course takes place around the River Dart and the South Hams coastline in Devon. This region offers an ideal mix of environments, from inland rivers to sheltered coastal waters and lakes, providing a great opportunity to practice a wide range of paddlesport leadership skills.
No, accommodation is not included in the course fee. However, we can assist in organising shared accommodation with other participants, such as bunkhouses or group lodgings in the local area. This is a popular option for keeping costs down, and participants are encouraged to share transport as well. You are welcome to arrange your own accommodation if preferred.
We will plan the course days around the best possible weather and water conditions. In case of challenging weather, the schedule may be adjusted to ensure safety, and we may move to alternative locations with more suitable conditions. Our team will make sure you still gain valuable experience, regardless of any adjustments needed due to the weather.
Our goal is to support your development throughout the week, and we’ll provide ongoing feedback on your readiness for the assessment. If we think you're ready, we’ll let you know. However, there is no pressure to take the assessment immediately if you don't feel confident. You can always return for the assessment at a later date once you feel more prepared.
No, food is not provided. You will need to bring your own packed lunches, snacks, and water each day. There may be opportunities to purchase food locally, but we recommend packing enough food and water to stay energised for long days on the water.
The Paddlesport Touring Leader is a relatively new qualification designed to certify leaders who can safely lead groups of paddlers across different types of craft in a variety of environments, including inland rivers, lakes, sheltered coastal waters, and areas with light winds (up to 17mph). It’s a highly versatile qualification and ideal for those working in clubs, centres, or adventure companies who wish to lead mixed-ability and mixed-craft groups.
During the course, you’ll participate in a custom rescue training session tailored to the needs of the Paddlesport Touring Leader Award. This includes techniques from the Paddle UK White Water Safety & Rescue course and the Paddle UK Coastal Navigation course, as well as practical tips from our extensive surf and open water rescue experience. You'll learn how to safely rescue others in various craft, including SUPs, kayaks, and canoes, in different environments.
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About the centre
Buckfastleigh, Devon
Operated by ABC Kayaking, a partner of adventuro.
