* Learn to Kayak - Weekends and Holidays

Things have changed! British Canoeing, the governing body for kayaking and paddlesports, have improved the pathways for young people and adults for learning how to kayak. The NEW "Discover Award" and "Explore Award" aim to simplify the journey from first stepping foot in a kayak, to becoming a knowledgeable, safe and independent kayaker.

What is the Explore Award?

If young people want to become independent on the water, go on self-guided adventures and know how to control their craft and stay safe on the water, this is the award for you. With this award, young people will take ownership of their own decisions and learn to make confidence choices, based on the places they paddle. The Explore Award is the progressive award of the Discover Award. If you've never been paddling before, it might be worth starting with the Discover Award.

Who is it for?

This course is for young people aged between 8 and 12 looking to progress and develop their kayaking skill set. Older enthusiasts looking to learn to improve their skills , may wish to take a look at our Explore Award for young people and adults.

How long is the course?

2 days. For specific timings of a particular course, please select the highlighted dates on the calendar.
*Due to the challenging circumstances over the past two years, it seems that not many young people have completed the first level (Discover) course needed to progress to the Explore. Therefore we have not planned any dates in yet as there hasn't seen to be the demand, but if you have completed the first level and would like an Explore course, please get in touch as we would love to add some in - reception@longridge.org.uk*
Please note, each highlighted date on the calendar is the start date of each course.

Are there any prerequisites?

Yes, participants must have completed the Discover Award. Completion of the old "PaddlePower Passport Course" is also acceptable certification to enrol on the Explore Award.

What will they learn?

There's a strong emphasis on independence with this award, and the Explore award will fill in the gaps of knowledge that may exist so you can get out paddling safely on an adventure! The award covers areas like:

On the water etiquette and how to share the space with other water users
Different environments you can paddle (lakes, rivers, canals, estuaries)
Controlling your kayak, canoe or SUP safely
Clothing and equipment needs for different environments and weather
Safe exploration

Do they get a certificate?

Yes. The course includes an assessment which will take place during the last week of the course. Upon successful completion of the course, you will receive an "e-certificate". Make sure to register your email address correctly upon booking to ensure you receive the certificate!

What should they bring?

We will provide all the equipment including all personal safety equipment. We recommend appropriately gripped water shoes or trainers, light sportswear, trousers/shorts or swimming shorts, a waterproof/windproof jacket, additional top layers and of course, spares of everything! Wetsuits can be appropriate but only for planned wet sessions.

How much does it cost? Please select a highlighted date for the cost of the course. This includes the cost of assessment and certification.

What's next?

Completed your Explore Award? Great! Check out our Advanced Kayak Club

* Learn to Kayak - Weekends and Holidays - Explore Award *

* Learn to Kayak - Weekends and Holidays - Explore Award *