British Canoeing offers a huge array of Paddling awards, training and certification. Some are aimed at specific points of performance in specialist paddle craft, some are able to put you on the journey to becoming a coach, while others are there to help you discover Paddlesports and help guide you to becoming a confident paddler on the water.

From total beginners to becoming Works class Paddlesport athletes, there are awards to help you along your desired path. In the craft of your choice and the discipline you want to excel in.

The Award structure begins with Paddle Awards before the specialization's start with the Personal Performance Awards.

Paddle Surf Scotland is proud to offer the Paddle Start and Paddle Discover Awards.

Who are the Paddle Awards aimed at?

The Paddle Awards are for those getting into a boat for the first time, or fairly new to Paddling,  enabling them to feel confident in their chosen craft in a sheltered water environment. The awards help empower the paddler, enabling them to start their lifelong journey into Paddlesport.

You can take the Paddle Awards in any craft, Stand Up Paddleboard, Kayak, Canoe or Inflatable Kayak. 

The Paddle Start Award 

The Paddle Start Award can be undertaken by anyone and could be your first time paddling, or after a few short sessions. 

What is covered in the Start Award?

Clothing and Equipment Information, think if it like a crash course in everything you need to physically get yourself on the water, covering all types of equipment needed.

Tips for getting on the water including how to safely get in our out of your SUP, Canoe or Kayak from different places that you are likely to paddle.

Learn to paddle with practical skills such as forward paddling, turning and stopping.

Staying safe on and off the water, you'll learn about how to safe and make the most out of your paddle session.

What next?

Enjoy the Paddle Start session? You could progress on to the Paddle Discover Award, or start to paddle on your own in sheltered waters.

The Paddle Start Award is a 2 hour session costing £50pp.

Paddle Discover Award

If you've completed a Start Award and want to learn more, the Discover Award is perfect for you. It'll help you develop a better understanding of the fundamentals of paddling. It's also ideal for first time paddlers or those who have had a few lessons.

During this award, your instructor will work with you to evolve your decision making and practical skills, giving you confidence on the water.

What is the Discover Award?

The Discover Award allows you to develop your decision making and practical skills for a fun and safe time on the water, as you become a more skilled and independent paddler. Through this award you will learn how to choose and effectively use equipment, whilst developing an understanding of the factors which affect your paddling.

Who is it for?

Anyone of any age who want to develop their skills on the water. You don’t need any previous experience to take your Discover Award, just the desire for fun and learning! You can take the award from any craft, from kayaks, canoes or SUPs.

Why should I do the Discover Award?

If you want to develop your skills from your Start Award, or feel like you need to expand your basic paddling knowledge further, this is the award you need. The award covers topics such as:

Encouraging independent decision making on different bodies of water (moving river, canal, estuary, harbour), covering safety and weather aspects too

Preparing for self-guided adventures

Equipment you will need for a variety of paddle trips

Further developing your canoe, kayak or SUP paddling and rescue skills

Our Paddle Discover Award is a full day of about 6 hours, so bring food, drink and warm, comfortable clothing for when you are off the water.

The Paddle Discover Award is £90pp.