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Paddle UK Discover Kayaking Award
This course is structured around developing the fundamental paddling skills for flat-water kayaking, from first wobbles to confident technique.
During the course we'll look at equipment, a range of paddling strokes and skills, learn self-rescue techniques, gain confidence in paddling and undertake a river journey. The course is tailored to the needs of each paddler, with lots of time to practise and develop confidence in all the taught skills.
The goal of the day is to develop your decision making and practical skills as you become a more skilled and independent paddler.
If you would prefer to introduce yourself to kayaking through undertaking a journey paddle, then have a look into our River Trips.
Information
Season
All year round
Duration
7hrs
Group Size
2-6
Restrictions
Minimum age: 18 Max weight: 18 stone (115kg).
Aim
To teach the key kayaking techniques, control and theory and to be assessed for the Paddle UK (formerly British Canoeing) Award.
Who is it for?
The course is designed as an introduction for anyone who would like to learn the fundementals of paddling (Kayak, Sit-on-Top or SUP). This is a natural progression if you’ve attended one of our kayaking experiences.
Prerequisites
There are no prerequisites for this course; this course and assessment can be taken without any prior experience, however, if you are not sure you want to take the award but would like to try kayaking why not try our Kayak Experience.
Course Syllabus
Please follow this link to download the syllabus from the Paddle UK website.
Assessments
Attendance of this course will not necessarily get you up to the required standard to pass as everyone progresses at a different pace. If you are successful, certificate fees are included in the course cost. Those unsuccessful will be given an action plan to gain the required experience to pass the award.
SEA CONDITIONS
In the event of poor sea conditions the Discover Kayaking Award will take place on the shelter water within Brighton Marina.
Groups
Group bookings can be arranged:
£102pp (Group Size 4-6)
£97pp (Group Size 7-8)
Please note that all group bookings will be available for others to book, unless booking for a minimum of 6 people.
Itinerary
During the course we will cover
- Safety awareness
- Equipment selection
- Launching and recovering
- Steering and controlling
- Kayaking theory
- Capsize drills
- Using spray decks
Locations
Brighton Marina, Sussex
Equipment
Equipment supplied
All kayaking and safety equipment is supplied including:
- Kayak
- Paddle
- Buoyancy aid
Equipment needed
For all kayaking courses you must have extra warm clothes and waterproofs, we will provide you with a full kit list upon booking.
- Full change of clothes to go kayaking in, including footwear, and underwear.
- Clothing should be suitable for the time of year*
- Waterproof jacket and trousers (to wear on the water)
- Extra jumper
- Warm hat / sun hat
- Gloves
- Towel
- Snacks / water
- Medication / Tablets / Inhaler etc.
The above list is just a guide and appropriate clothing for the time of year should be worn. We highly recommend you have a dry bag for all your kit on the water and to put your wet clothing in at the end of the day.
*Clothing should comprise of several layers to trap the warmth. Please do not wear denim as it restricts movement, is cold when wet and is slow to dry. You must wear footwear whilst kayaking (old trainers, plimsolls) please don’t wear sandals. Wetsuits are not required as they only work when they are wet; if you wish to bring a wetsuit we still recommend you have a warm top.
Equipment shop
Take a look at our online shop for any equipment you might want for your outdoor adventures. We stock a variety of equipment and can give expert advice if you have any queries. Choose to collect your order on a course (free of charge) and your instructor will have it ready and waiting for you when you arrive.
