This course is training and assessment for the EXPLORE award. It recognises your ability to independently paddle your chosen craft in a sheltered water environment. Cost includes your British Canoeing certificate.
- Craft
- Equipment
- Buoyancy Aid
- Dry Bag (if needed)
- Certificate
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.
If you hare a group of Scouts, club members or friends and want to run your ownn dedicated course then drop us an email
Award Details
Now you’re ready to Explore! Your Explore Award gives you ownership; allowing you to choose where you move next in the world of paddlesport. Working with a coach you will be able to develop a programme that suits what you need. Learning to make confident choices with this individualised approach. This award recognises your ability to independently paddle your chosen craft in a sheltered water environment.
The awards take place on sheltered water on our local river, The River Great Ouse, 4th longest in Britain with structure coaching in bite-sized chunks. We also offer some awards as part of our expeditions and trips to other locations such as the Yukon River Canoe Expedition, Best of Scotland Canoe Trip, and trips to other locations. We have a range of paddlesport courses, If you need a bespoke course such as a group introduction to bigger moving water or expedition training then please contact us.
The awards take place on sheltered water on our local river, The River Great Ouse, 4th longest in Britain with structure coaching in bite-sized chunks. We also offer some awards as part of our expeditions and trips to other locations such as the Yukon River Canoe Expedition, Best of Scotland Canoe Trip, and trips to other locations. We have a range of paddlesport courses, If you need a bespoke course such as a group introduction to bigger moving water or expedition training then please contact us.
- The New Personal Performance Awards (Paddle Awards) are British Canoeing’s pathway to becoming a competent paddler from Novice to Intermediate and then onwards to more advanced water and techniques. The syllabus allows for a personalized journey to develop core skills to feel confident and safe on sheltered water in a kayak or canoe or stand-up paddleboard.
- If for any reason, dates may need to change at Canoe Trail's discretion. This will be notified in advance.
What does it involve?
There’s a strong emphasis on independence with this award, and the Explore award will fill in the gaps of knowledge you might have 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
What next?
Completed your Explore Award session? Great! You’re ready to get out and have some fun! As a starting point, why not think about:
- Head out on a Paddle Trail
- Plan a multi-day adventure
- Make use of your new-found planning skills and create your own adventure.
- Become an instructor, coach or leader – find that path that suits you and develop your skills further!
Reviews
Very satisfied with the coaching expertise on offer at Canoe Trail. Learned a lot in one session. Great location, too, well worth driving 40mins to get to for kit & competence.
--Andrea