British Canoeing Paddle UK Paddle Sports Instructor Course

The British Canoeing (Paddle UK) Paddle Sports Instructor (PSI) course is an entry-level qualification. Suitable for ages 14+. Next available dates: 12th-13th September 2026

Level: Entry level - Open to all abilities

£225

2 Day Course running on 12th-13th September 2026
Duration: 2 Days - start 08:45 am and finish at 16.45

Paddle Sport Instructor course enables you to lead and coach beginner sessions on very sheltered water.

Options: Can be completed on Canoe, Kayak or Paddleboard

What's Included

Craft
Buoyancy Aid
Bank Based Briefing
Dry Bag
Paddles
Helmet
Professional Coaches
Certification Fee
Activity Equipment

What else we can provide on request

Waterproofs
Hire of Wetsuits
Hire of Drysuits

Anyone under the age of 18 needs to be accompanied by an adult 21 years and over.

Pre Requisites and Requirements

Suitable for ages 14+ Anyone under the age of 18 needs to be accompanied by an adult 21 years and over. You need to have completed your PSRC at least 2 weeks before this course. Contact us if you need to do this.

What you will need to bring

Bring comfortable clothing such as gym wear, shorts, a t-shirt or wetsuit, along with a pair of water shoes, or old trainers. Bring a towel and a change of clothes. No special equipment or clothing is required.Location

If you are a group of Scouts, club members or friends and want to run your own dedicated course then drop us an email

Award Details

The qualification will support the instructor with practical skills such as kitting up a group and getting afloat, initial familiarisation activities, games and activities to support learning and how to use mini journeys to support learning, inspire adventure and exploration.

This will be enhanced with support on how these sessions can be delivered in a way that is enjoyable, safe and rewarding. The PSI qualification is designed for instructors running paddlesport taster/starter sessions within the safety management systems of clubs, centres or other organisations in:

Very Sheltered Water environments
Craft deemed suitable for a first-time experience

The process of completing the qualification aims to help prepare candidates for their first paddlesport instructing role; ‘primed and ready’. It is delivered in a paddler centric style with experience of all craft to provide the instructor with the confidence and skills to deliver sessions within the agreed remit. Canoe Trail are an approved provider of the qualification and have practical experience of rescues from years of experience. Our courses provide access to our professional coaching team and tutors, the very best kit on the market with SilverBirch canoes, Red Paddle Co boards, and a wide range of craft. More than that it is Canoe Trail’s award winning style making padding accessible with a friendly and welcoming approach keeping it safe, fun and sharing learning. The FSRT is a prerequisite for the Paddle Sports Instructor (PSI) course and must be completed at least 2 weeks before the PSI course. You can download and read the full course guide here: Paddlesport Instructor Course Guide

PSI Contents

Practical skills, including games and activities to aid learning
Engagement and relationship building skills
Professional standards of a Paddlesport Instructor
Personal and rescue skills ( these are the same skills that are completed in the FSRT but which now are assessed within a time limit of less than 3mins)

There are three specific assessment tasks that are completed during the course:

1. Professional Standards (working under the British Canoeing framework and as an guardian of the behaviours, standards and level expected)
2. Rescue Skills (The PSRC formerly the FSRT skills completed as an assessment within key timescales)
3. Personal Skills (personal paddling skills to the Explore level to be able to handle the craft, canoe, SUP or kayak to enable rescues and leadership to be completed.)

British Canoeing E learning Support
British Canoeing provide eLearning support module associated with this award online which can be found at Paddlesport Instructor eLearning package The e learning has been designed to cover a range of syllabus topics relevant to the Paddlesport Instructor.

Foundation Safety and Rescue Training Overview
Minimum age
14 years old although participants can not run their own independent sessions until over 18. They would also need first aid and safeguarding
Duration
Guided Learning Hours: 23 (including online and preparation)
Total Qualification Time (hours): 100 (anticipated paddling time on the water as a trainee)
Venue
Sheltered water, calm conditions.
Prerequisites
The British Canoeing Awarding Body Foundation Safety and Rescue Training course (which must be completed at least 2 weeks before the PSI course)
A First Aid certificate is not a prerequisite. However, holding a First Aid certificate is strongly recommended for all paddlers. A good knowledge of practical issues that paddlers may face.
Course Documents
For more information on the Paddlesport Instructor, view the Paddlesport Instructor Course Guide here

Equipment

Canoe Trail can provide access to all equipment required for the course including a
range of craft.
The following is a list of recommended equipment required for the participant in this
course to have:

Towline OR tow system;
Throwline;
Webbing (sewn or unsewn sling) and large karabiner;
Whistle;
Knife.

The course aims to allow the participants to experience a range of equipment, and to teach/coach the participant in ways to use the equipment as well as improvised systems.

What is a PSI Paddle Sports Instructor?

A PSI instructor is a certified Paddle Sports Instructor who is qualified to conduct introductory paddlesport sessions in a controlled and safe environment. They are authorised to operate in very sheltered water environments and use suitable watercraft for first-time experiences.

What are the reasons for doing a PSI course?

There are several reasons to do a PSI (Paddle Sports Instructor) course, including:

Professional Development: It is an excellent opportunity for those who want to develop their skills and knowledge in paddle sports.
Career Advancement: It is a requirement for those who want to become certified instructors or coaches and work in the paddle sports industry.
Safety: The course covers safety guidelines and techniques to help participants teach others how to enjoy paddle sports safely.
Personal Growth: The course provides an opportunity to challenge oneself, learn new skills, and gain confidence.
Teaching Skills: The course teaches participants how to teach effectively, communicate with students, and create lesson plans.
Networking: The course provides an opportunity to meet other paddling enthusiasts and professionals, building a network of like-minded individuals in the industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if it rains?

Unless you hear from us then your booking will run on the day agreed. Canoe Trail runs watersports, paddling, and adventurous activities throughout the year with people enjoying the river and our woodland campsite during the different seasons. On rare occasions (it only happens a few times a year) we may move or change your booking. This will be in freak weather conditions such as extremely high river flows in spate or during heavy storms with lightning. You can read our full FAQ here.

What should I wear?

We paddle all the year round and believe the old adage “There is no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothing”! Participants should wear light (gym style) clothing suitable for getting wet such as tracksuit bottoms or shorts and a top. Jeans are not the best things to wear as they wick water. In simple terms, dress for the weather and check the forecast beforehand. If cold then a thermal top or sweatshirt may also be needed. Hats and gloves are a great way to feel slightly warmer in winter and caps and wide-brimmed hats are also useful in summer to protect you from the sun. You should also bring a change of clothes in the event that you get wet. We do have waterproofs usually available, you can arrange for some courses and trips to hire wetsuits and drysuits.

How does the booking process work?

During the season our hire of canoes, kayaks, and SUPs, and paddle and camp trips are scheduled for customers to book via an automated schedule. Typically Kempston base is open throughout the season 7 days a week whereas Bedford is usually weekends or holidays. At the time of booking you will need to enter medical information, any special requirements and sizes into the booking forms. You will also need to provide contact details and emergency contact details as a contingency. Depending on what you are doing (e.g. camping, expeds, etc), you can book optional extras such as wood (you need to bring your own otherwise), water, grills, tipis and luggage service, or if you're on an exped you can hire hire drysuits. Once you have booked and your information is captured by the system, you will receive an automated email including a QR code and parking information to help you arrive in good time for your booking and get checked in. See our Terms & Conditions - www.canoetrail.co.uk/terms-and-conditions

Why can't I select a date to book?

Our schedules are automated and are linked to the calendar and available resources. We have over 260 craft available (canoes, kayaks and SUP’s) so you can drop us a line if you want a date that you cant see. Our Kempston base is throughout the season every day whereas Bedford is only weekends and holidays. There is a cut off time of 30 mins prior to each time slot, so if you are making a last minute booking then call us and we can help!

Do you offer private bookings for a group?

Yes we do offer group, club and private bookings for all watersports including kayaking, canoeing, and SUP. As well as whitewater courses, qualifications, and our expeditions. Please contact us to discuss a private tailored booking for your team, friends and family. We run taillored sessions for youth charities, schools, family and friend groups, corporate and other groups to learn outdoor activities.

Why can't I select a date to book?

What happens if we're late?

You will need to arrive 10 mins before your booking time to allow for registration etc. If you arrive late, please note that you may not be able to do the trip you booked and may have to do an alternative route. In some cases, you may not be able to paddle on that day. If you are running late then please let us know ASAP by calling our mobile number. Please contact us to let us know if you are going to be late. Our staff work on tight schedules to load kit and reset trailers for the day. On expeditions and trips we aim to share our beautiful surroundings, wildlife and vistas with the group and cover the distance. We will travel at the speed of the group so occasionally an injury, participant struggling or inclement weather may affect our finish time. On courses we aim to start on time for the entire group to cover the course syllabus. occasionally an injury, participant struggling or inclement weather may affect our finish time.

What happens if I need to postpone?

When you make a booking you are reserving the equipment and space for your booking , your seat and place (as you would with an airline) and although we have multiple craft (over 300 ) they are not all available at every location. Please do let us know if you are going to have to postpone and in some instances with notice we may be able to move your booking in our calendar with an admin fee. Closer to the booking we are not able to accept a postponement.

Do I need a licence for a canoe, kayak, or SUP?

A common question we get asked is whether you need a licence for paddling canoes, kayaks or SUP's. The answer on rivers and navigable waterways is yes. As Canoe Trail we buy licences through our National Governing Body Paddle UK to cover all of our watersports activities. We recommend buying Paddle UK membership with many benefits including river licence and also discounts with key brands. The Paddle UK licence also allows access to certain private watersways such as Cambridge Backs, Norfolk Broads and waters managed by the Environment Agency. Other options for licences include the Canal and River Trust where you can purchase a 30 day Explorer Licence (this is limited to water controlled by them). You can also purchase licences for specific waters controlled by the Environment Agency such as River Thames, River Medway and Anglian Waterways. So to summarise Paddle UK is the best membership for access to the majority of waterways. Hire companies such as Canoe Trail provide the licence when you rent the canoe, kayak or Stand up paddle board.

How fit do I need to be?

You don’t need to be super fit to paddle, but a bit of stamina helps, especially around locks. Our 1-hour and half-day hires don’t include any locks, so there’s very little lifting. Full-day hires usually involve at least one, where you’ll need to move your craft a short distance on land (they do make great picnic spots though!). All of our routes for hire are considered 'Grade 0' meaning they're a great choice for beginners and we’ll give you plenty of tips before you head out. If you’re unsure, just give us a call. For expeditions then we often use the analogy of walking in the hills for a day with a light rucksack, its not lung busting effort but it does require up to 6-7 hours paddling in the great outdoors. We can provide guidance for customers on building Paddlefit endurance ahead of bigger trips.

How to find us. Transport? Parking?

The more rural locations have lay-bys and small car parks available. Please allow time for parking so you are not running late. Parking in Bedford can be more of a challenge but the council does have their own designated parking locations, please have a look online for the closest one to your start point and prices.

Do I need to be able to swim?

Participants should be confident in and around water although they do not need to be swimmers. We will provide all safety briefings and equipment for the day, including a buoyancy aid for all paddlers.

What are the golden rules for learning to SUP?

The golden rules for learning to SUP are of course lengthy but simple top tips can really help. 1) ensure your board is inflated correctly and the right size for you 2) wear a buoyancy aid as personal floatation 3) understand leashes and in particular quick release leashes where there is a risk of snagging 4) learn board position and skills kneeling as well as standing to determine best position on the board 5) Stand up on the board with the paddle at 90 degrees across the board with feet in a strong and stable position, keep soft knees and legs to reduce wobble 6) where you look will improve your stance and balance so avoid looking down at your feet and board 7) the paddle is your stabiliser so use it to balance when engaged with the water 8) learning to SUP paddle if you need to adjust your stance then put the paddle vertical in the middle of the board to make a tripod with your feet and shuffle your feet about 9) Learning to use your weight to drive the paddle into the water by semi squatting and ensure rotation from your supper torso to paddle efficiently 10) express yourself, learn to do tail spins and step back turns. Wear a smile.

How long does it take to learn to kayak or canoe?

Learning to canoe or kayak is like many outdoor pastimes you can take to the water quickly and be paddling around within the space of a few minutes and learn the foundation taster skills in 2-3 hours. The Paddle UK Start Award reflects this simple 'taster' or 'have a go' option where you learn to paddle forwards, stop, turn and effect some basic steering strokes. Then like most sports it then takes a lifetime to master, perhaps changing the environment to sea or whitewater or paddling perfomance craft. This paddling learning curve can be broken into bite sized chunks and aided by professional coaching, experience of different locations and conditions and of course qualifications. The Paddle UK personal performance awards PPA, mvoe from the Start Award to then Discover (a full day of coaching to develop skills further) followed by Explore which can be a further 1-2 days of tuition. From there you can hone skills and keep learning.

Which is easier to learn kayaking or canoeing?

The foundations and basic strokes of kayaking and canoeing are extremely transferable from one to the other. Many people find learning to kayak slightly easier with less to think about with a double ended blade. Solo canoeing requires participants to master paddling on one side with a goon or J stroke which combines forward paddling with some steering or course correction. Usually within a first session most people are able to paddle their canoe or kayak in a straight line and an manoeuvre it about.

How easy is it to learn to stand up paddle board?

Like all paddlesport it is realatively simple to get onto the water to have a go at stand up paddle boarding or SUPing within minutes and a few hours you can nail the basics, paddling forwards, stopping and turning. The majority of SUP's on the market are inflatable offering space and weight saving benefits and have a fin underneath to help them track or go in a straight line. People usually start on their knees for convenience and then learn to stand up. Once stood up then the paddle becomes part of the stabilising motion as you paddle forwards etc. To avoid wobble then soften your stance, knees, ankles and body to reduce shaky legs and the 'Elvis look'. Top tip use your paddle like a tripod in front of you to shuffle your feet around to balance your feet either side of the central handle. On our hre sessions then a simple briefing means people are out and about paddling within minutes. You can speed up your learning curve by joining one of our SUP Intro sessions with 90 minutes with a professional instructor. Mastering SUP Skills such as step back turns, walking the board, guide stance and cross deck manouevres can take a life time to master. Always wear a buoyancy aid and learn safety and rescue skills including self rescue is important.

What are the golden rules for learning to SUP?

How can I learn canoe, kayak and SUP safety and rescue skills?

There are various courses that include an introduction to safety and rescue courses including the Paddle UK Discover which offers and some self rescue techniques and also the PSRC (PaddleSports Safety and Rescue Course ) which is a great 1 day course with a mix of theory, practical skills and lots of rescue including deep water rescue, unconscious / entrapped, self rescue and others. There is also specifically the SUP safer course which is a SUP specific skills include prone paddling, self rescue and rescueing others. Kempston Outdoor Centre is a great venue to learn safety and rescue skills with over 300 craft and professional coaches.

What are the best qualifications for learning to kayak and canoe?

There are several different options for learning to Canoe and Kayak in Bedford which is only an hour North of London by train or car. You can opt for private lessons or group lessons or alternatively book onto a Paddle UK Qualifications course called PPA, Personal Paddling Awards which include the Start Award (couple of hours), Discover Award which is a day or the Explore Award which can be one or two days of coaching from a professional outdoor instructor .

What is the best qualification for learning to stand up paddle board?

Try tackling the our Intro to SUP course which is 90 minutes of stand up paddle boarding tution from a professional paddlesports coach. In that time you will learn to launch the SUP, stand up, self rescue, step back into the guide stance, paddle forwards, turn your board and steer. Its the perfect into to paddle boarding in Bedford based from Kempston Outdoor Centre. You can also book independent lessons or alternatively join our 3 x 3 week block course with three levels, level 1, 2 and 3 which include the Paddle UK, Start and Discover Awards and also the SUP Safer Award as the Level 3. If you want to progress further then Canoe Trail can also provide the Open Water SUP leader award, Paddlesports Leader or Touring Leader (both of which can be chosen on SUP's) or the Paddle Sports Instructor or SUP Instructor options.

Hire FAQ's

What's the difference between a kayak and a canoe?

If you're not sure of what each craft is, then read our guide here.

Are the trips guided?

There are no guides or instructors needed for hire. This is simply a hire where you paddle out and back to our launch point. We recommend our preferred route, however, you are free-range and able to explore the river.

What if it rains?

Unless you hear from us then your booking will run on the day agreed. Canoe Trail runs watersports, paddling, and adventurous activities throughout the year with people enjoying the river and our woodland campsite during the different seasons. On rare occasions (it only happens a couple of times a year) we may move or change your booking. This will be in freak weather conditions such as extremely high river flows in spate or during heavy storms with lightning. You can read our full FAQ here.