British Canoeing Paddle Sports Instructor Course

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

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

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 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:

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