Paddle UK leadership training
Sea Kayak Leader Training
Develop the judgement, group management and practical skills needed to lead paddlers safely in moderate tidal coastal environments.
Leadership changes the question
From managing yourself to looking after others
This is for capable paddlers who want to make sound plans, manage a group and respond effectively when conditions or people change.
A good fit if you…
Already paddle independently
- Are confident in a sea kayak in moderate coastal conditions
- Have experience supporting or informally leading others
- Can manage common rescues, towing and incidents
- Are willing to take responsibility for group decisions
- Want structured preparation for future assessment
Important to understand
Training and assessment are separate
This course develops leadership performance; it does not include formal assessment. Paddle UK assessment is a separate process and should follow suitable consolidation and experience. We do not promise assessment readiness simply because training has been completed.
Choose the right route
Two-day refresher or five-day development?
The right option depends on what you already do—not simply how soon you hope to assess.
What you will develop
Leadership that works on the water
The emphasis adapts to the group and conditions while remaining within the Paddle UK course remit.
Planning for others
Use weather, tides, coastal effects and group capability to create realistic options.
Group management
Position, communicate and adapt so paddlers remain supported and involved.
Leadership judgement
Recognise changing risk and make proportionate decisions before margins disappear.
Journey leadership
Lead purposeful journeys in moderate tidal coastal conditions within remit.
Incident management
Coordinate rescues, towing and the group response when plans change.
Reflection & feedback
Brief, debrief and identify the experience needed before considering assessment.
How it is delivered
Real coast, responsive coaching
Each day begins at the Academy with conditions, route options and leadership priorities. The coastal venue is selected to create useful learning while remaining appropriate to the group, conditions and qualification remit.
Training is delivered by appropriately qualified Academy providers, working within the current Paddle UK course remit.
What is included
Training, facilities and kit
- Small-group coaching and individual feedback
- Sea kayak, paddle and essential safety equipment if required
- Classroom planning and review at the Academy
- Coastal Navigation & Tidal Planning on the five-day route
- Your own suitable equipment is welcome
Dates & booking
Choose the five-day training week
The public course is the fuller development route. If you are considering the two-day refresher, contact us first so we can check whether it genuinely fits your experience.
Assessment is not included.
20–24 September 2027
Five-day Paddle UK Sea Kayak Leader Training, including Coastal Navigation & Tidal Planning.
Book online — instant confirmationPrefer to pay by bank transfer?
Email the Academy to request your place. We’ll confirm availability and send payment details.
Plan your visit
Everything you need before you arrive
Explore the Academy base, travel options and places to stay. Exact joining details and the chosen coastal venue are confirmed with booked paddlers.