Paddle UK coaching pathway
Sea Kayak Coach Training
Develop the practical coaching skills needed to plan and deliver safe, enjoyable and progressive sessions in moderate coastal environments.
Coaching on the sea
Help paddlers learn—not simply follow
This training is for paddlers moving into sea-based coaching within a club, centre or professional setting. The focus is coaching practice and session delivery rather than leadership or guiding.
A good fit if you…
Want to coach paddlers effectively
- Support or coach paddlers within a club or organisation
- Want to move existing coaching into the sea environment
- Work with beginners or developing paddlers
- Can operate comfortably in moderate coastal conditions
- Want structured preparation for later assessment
Important to understand
Training and assessment are separate
This course develops your coaching practice; it does not include formal assessment. Paddle UK assessment is a separate process after appropriate consolidation and experience.
Completing training does not automatically mean you are assessment-ready.
What you will develop
Practical coaching for real coastal sessions
The exact emphasis adapts to the group and conditions while remaining within the current Paddle UK course remit.
Session planning
Set clear aims and choose tasks, environments and progressions that suit the paddlers.
Observation
See what is helping or limiting performance and identify useful priorities.
Coaching interventions
Use demonstrations, questioning, feedback and practice design with purpose.
Progressive sessions
Connect activities into learning that remains engaging and achievable.
Environment & safety
Use moderate coastal conditions productively while managing the session within remit.
Reflection
Review your delivery, respond to feedback and identify useful consolidation before assessment.
Course format
Two focused days
- Two days, normally 9am–5pm
- Small-group practical coaching
- Planning and review at the Academy
- Suitable coastal venue chosen for the conditions
- Minimum of two participants
What is included
Training, facilities and kit
- Individual feedback from an appropriately qualified Academy provider
- Sea kayak, paddle and essential safety equipment if required
- Use of the Academy classroom and facilities
- Your own suitable equipment is welcome
- On-site camping and local accommodation options
Training enquiries
Register your interest
This specialist course runs when there is suitable demand. We are not asking you to browse an empty calendar or guess whether the course fits.
Tell us where you are in the coaching pathway and when you may be available.
What to include in your email
- Your current coaching qualifications
- Your recent sea-kayaking experience
- Who and where you currently coach
- Your preferred or possible dates
- Whether you are working towards assessment
We will reply with the most appropriate route and any realistic training options. Once dates are agreed, you can reserve directly and pay by bank transfer without an online booking fee.
Plan your visit
Everything you need before you arrive
Training begins at the Academy before travelling to the coastal venue chosen for the conditions and course remit.