Canoe Leader Training and Assessment

More Info

• What to bring with you?

  All your personal and 'leader' gear. We can often help you with equipment but at this level you should have your own kit.

• Where is it?

  Usually in North Wales but we sometimes split the course and run a day or two in Dorset. Poole Harbour is great.

• Pre-requisites

  To get the most from your course, you will need to feel comfortable in a canoe and be able to paddle in open water environments. We would recommend holding the Progressive Canoe Award before booking on to your training.

  - Safeguarding Training (dated within last 3years).

  - First Aid (dated within last 3 years and appropriate to this award)

  - Full National Association Membership

• Canoe Leader Training Content

  Typically run over two days, the British Canoeing Canoe Open Water Leader training course will support the development of your personal skill level and leadership ability to lead a group of paddlers in large areas of open water. The training emphasises the application of a variety of techniques appropriate for exposed open water, requiring the paddler to perform appropriate and effective manoeuvres in real situations.

  The training covers four key areas:

  - Personal paddling skills

  - Rescue skills

  -Safety, leadership and group skills

  -Theory
• Canoe Leader Assessment

  Your assessor will guide you through the stages of arranging your assessment, discussing with you the best times and dates for the assessment, helping you ensure you have a group to lead and the appropriate assessment conditions on the day.

  By the end of the assessment, you will have to demonstrate knowledge and skills in four areas:

  - Personal paddling skills

  - Rescue skills

  - Safety, leadership and group skills

  - Theory
  
  In an open water environment, Canoe Open Water Leaders are expected to demonstrate appropriate paddling ability to fulfil their leadership role. The assessment takes place over a typical paddling day, depending on the logistics relating to access to suitable environments, you and your assessor may agree a longer assessment.