4th March 2024
BCAB launches the NEW Stand Up Paddleboard White Water Leader Course
The Stand Up Paddleboard White Water Leader Course is appropriate for people who want to lead others on journeys on grade 2(3) white water rivers. Throughout this course you will be assessed on your personal paddling skills, rescue skills, incident management and more.
The SUP White Water Leader Assessment can be run over 1-2 days.The SUP White Water Leader will be working from their suitable chosen white water SUP and will be assessed leading a group of 3 to 6 paddlers.
Over the past two years we have seen a growth in this specific area of Stand Up Paddleboarding, with guided trips within a white water environment and we are delighted to be able to offer this course in 2024. The content is aligned with our other awards within the leadership suite as well as covering specifics of briefings, equipment and safety and rescue. It was a privilege that I was able to work alongside the highly experienced and knowledgeable individuals on the SUP White Water Working Group, to create a high quality programme. In early 2024, National Trainers and Tutors have attended a specific training event to ensure the standardisation of delivery and assessment.
Lee Pooley, Director of Coaching and Qualifications
Find out more on the BCAB website here or visit your Delivery Centre website to book your course today.
- Canoe Association of Northern Ireland
- Canoe Wales
- Paddles Up Training (England and International)
- Scottish Canoe Association
9th February 2024
British Canoeing Awarding Body launches the NEW Swimmer Safety and Rescue Course
The NEW Swimmer Safety and Rescue course is now available and aims to provide paddlers with the key safety skills and knowledge to work as part of a water safety team where open water swimming is involved. This could include cover at an event, supervising swimmers at an aquapark or managed venues that offer open water swimming.
Throughout the interactive, practical sessions, candidates will explore a range of modules including the swimming environment, working as part of a team, as well as supporting swimmers.
The course is aimed at anyone over the age of 16, using any craft. Due to the paddling environment and craft control required to complete the course, candidates should hold a minimum of a BCAB Personal Performance Award or equivalent skill level.
Due to the increase in popularity of open water swimming, aqua parks, and events that take place across the UK, it was so important for the Awarding Body to review its offer of training to those that provide swim safety cover from a paddlecraft.
The course is mainly practical and focuses on providing safety to those taking part in organised open water swimming sessions/events. The assessment ensures that anyone that gains certification has reached the appropriate standard to cover safety as part of a team.
Many thanks to the RLSS, Swim England and British Triathlon, as well as the Paddle UK Lifeguards, and specialists on the working group for their support in the development of this training course.
Lee Pooley, Director of Coaching and Qualifications
Find out more on the BCAB website here or visit your Delivery Centre website to book your upcoming course today.
