BCAB is delighted to launch the NEW SUP Sheltered Water Leader and the NEW SUP Tidal Leader. The NEW awards complement our existing SUP Leader Awards, which include the SUP White Water Leader, SUP Coastal Leader and SUP Inland Open Water Leader.
All awards support leaders to run safe, quality, enjoyable trips, based on their group’s needs and aspirations.
The SUP Sheltered Water Leader is aimed at paddleboarders who wish to lead others on journeys in sheltered waters (both wind affected and slow moving water).
The SUP Tidal Leader is suitable for those leading trips in simple areas of coastline, which includes defined beaches and sheltered bays where the group could easily land and in winds not above Beaufort force 3, as well as in estuarine/tidal (flowing water) environments.
The journey to become a SUP Leader is personalised to suit your own development. You can choose optional BCAB Leadership Training or you may wish to opt for more bespoke training opportunities. For example, private tuition, in-house training through your workplace, working alongside/shadowing other Leaders, or conference/symposium workshops. Your individualised development journey is concluded by an assessment which is run over 1–2 days.
‘As the National Governing Body for Stand Up Paddleboarding, it is vital that we design programmes that the industry needs. We have worked with leading figures within the SUP and outdoor industry to develop our awards aimed at those wanting to lead stand up paddleboard journeys. Choosing the right programme is so important. At British Canoeing Awarding Body, we want paddlers to have choice, as well as have the assurance that as an organisation regulated by Ofqual/CCEA/Qualification Wales and CIMSPA, you will receive the highest quality, recognised qualification’.
Lee Pooley, Paddle UK Director of Recreation and Development
Please note, SUP Inland Open Water Leader assessments undertaken from 3rd January 2025 will have a change in remit. The SUP Inland Open Water Leader qualification will now specifically support you to lead others on journeys on inland open water. This includes large areas of open water that exceed the sheltered water definition, where the paddlers are no more than 500 metres offshore and in wind strengths that do not exceed Beaufort force 4.
Visit your Delivery Centre website to find out more and book your upcoming courses today.
