Paddlesports Instructor Award – GoSport Activity Centre, Gosport

Take the next step in your paddlesport journey with the Paddlesports Instructor Award at GoSport Activity Centre in Gosport. This two-day practical course gives you the essential knowledge and hands-on experience needed to deliver safe, fun, and engaging taster sessions for beginners in very sheltered water environments.

Led by an experienced British Canoeing mentor, this training is perfect for paddlers looking to start instructing sessions within clubs, schools, or outdoor centres. The course blends theory and practice, helping you develop confidence, safety awareness, and leadership skills while guiding others on the water.

Course Overview

During your training, you’ll learn how to plan and run paddlesport taster and starter sessions tailored to your group’s needs. The focus is on creating enjoyable, safe, and rewarding experiences for first-time paddlers using canoes, kayaks, sit-on-tops, and stand-up paddleboards.
Through supported instruction and feedback, you’ll gain valuable teaching experience in a controlled environment, developing your coaching style and building essential water safety knowledge.

Skills You’ll Develop

Teaching and learning styles
Safety and group management
Leadership and communication
Practical instruction and activity delivery
Paddling and rescue techniques

Course Details

Duration: 2 Days
Location: GoSport Activity Centre, Gosport, Hampshire
Included in the price:
Paddling safety equipment and craft use
Two days of practical training
Course resources and guidance
British Canoeing certification

Prerequisites

Minimum age: 14 years
British Canoeing Foundation Safety and Rescue Training (FSRT)
Membership with your Home Nation Association
Registered attendance for this course
Competence in personal paddling and rescue skills

Assessment

You’ll be assessed in your chosen craft — kayak, canoe, sit-on-top, or paddleboard — throughout the course. Once qualified, you can instruct sessions safely in very sheltered water conditions, including canals, small lakes, and slow-moving rivers.