Flat water courses and coaching

For beginners, flat water is the best place to start. This is where you'll learn the basic kayak skills, so crucial for more advanced techniques. Time spent here will equip you with the skill and knowledge you need as you progress towards the more demanding environments of white-water, sea and surf.

We offer a wide range of the nationally recognised B.C.U. 'Star' awards for all abilities and experience. These have been specifically designed for safe and enjoyable instruction up to the highest levels.

For all full description of the BCU star awards syllabus click here

Our courses

1 star Beginners
An introduction to Kayaking for the complete beginner, this course will teach you the basics of Kayaking with a little bit of theory thrown in. Skills such as forward and backwards paddling, turning round and how to rescue yourself after a capsize, to name but a few. Not only can you expect safe and friendly instruction at the right pace, but also some serious fun!

Duration: 1 or 2 days

2 star Intermediate

A chance to develop basic skills and learn new ones; the course will introduce technique and performance into your paddling. Amongst other things you'll learn how to prevent a capsize, you'll learn methods of looking after others around you, and if you've never performed an 'Eskimo rescue' or tried a 'seal launch' then this is your chance!

Recommended duration: 2 days

3 star Advanced

Being the pre-requisite for an instructor-training course, we'll introduce you to advanced flat water techniques. The emphasis of this course is on progression as you develop new skills and knowledge, perfect rescues and towing, with the possibility of being taught the infamous 'Eskimo roll'. You'll also learn how your newfound skills relate to moving water as you put your skills to the test on some local weirs!

Recommended duration: 2 days

For a full list of prices for flat and moving water, visit the prices page.

Canoe Safety test
This is a 1 day course, the basic award for lifesaving, involving the use of a canoe or kayak and is a requirement for the BCU Coach Level One and Two. You must already hold the BCU Two Star Award and be physically fit as it does involve a fair degree of physical effort.

Duration: 1 day Price: £58/head (subject to 2 or more attending)

Private tuition and assessment
Although the cost is greater many people are finding individual tuition the most effective way to address their specific needs and requirements. We will provide you with a highly experienced Level 4 coach to ensure you receive the input you're looking for. If this interests you then contact us directly for a discussion on how we can best fulfil your needs. Price £110/day £20/hour. (Minimum of 3hrs)

Important information

• We work on instructor/student ratios of 1:8. Contact us directly for larger groups.
• If canoeing's where your interest lies then we offer a range of B.C.U. canoe courses. Contact us for details.
• We provide the highest quality instruction and will do our utmost to help you achieve your goals. However please be aware, attendance on a course is not a guarantee of certification.

For a full rundown of all tests and qualifications, visit the B.C.U. website

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