Before long you feel the glide, the quiet, the confidence. And suddenly you’re wondering what’s next.

If you’ve ever looked at paddlesport instructors or club leaders and thought, “I could see myself doing that one day”, the good news is that there’s a clear, friendly pathway from your very first paddle to your very first paddlesport qualification.

Starting out: Your first on‑the‑water experience

Whether it’s a beginner taster session, a club open day or a relaxed paddle with friends, your early experiences help you understand the basics.

You learn how to stand comfortably. You learn what stable feels like. You start paying attention to weather, water and other people on the water. You learn your first safety habits, often without even realising. At this stage the most important thing is enjoyment. You’re getting a feel for paddling and building confidence.

Developing skills: Paddle Awards and progression

Once you’ve had a few sessions, the Paddle Awards give you a structured way to grow. They are designed to boost your skills in easy, confidence‑building steps. These awards help you learn how to make good decisions on the water, understand simple safety principles, and paddle with more control. They fit naturally into club sessions, guided trips or courses at your local centre.

It’s at this point many paddlers realise that qualifications aren’t just for “experts”. They’re for anyone who wants more knowledge, more independence and more comfort on the water.

Exploring more: Different crafts, new environments

You might fall in love with stand‑up paddleboarding. Or kayaking. Or open canoeing. Or all three.

As you try different craft and environments, you learn new techniques, gain better judgement and build experience that becomes the foundation for leadership in the future.

This is also where a lot of paddlers begin to think about how rewarding it is to help beginners or younger paddlers find their water‑confidence too.

Becoming a role model: Your first leadership qualification

If you enjoy supporting others, the Coach and Leadership pathways are an incredible next step.

Qualifications like the Paddlesport Leader, SUP Instructor, Kayak/Canoe Coach, or Sheltered Water Leader give you the skills to:

• Plan safe, enjoyable journeys
• Look after a small group on the water
• Spot hazards and manage risk
• Support nervous newcomers
• Build a positive, encouraging learning environment

These qualifications aren’t about being the fastest, strongest or most extreme paddler. They are about being safe, supportive and well‑prepared. If you’ve ever held someone’s board while they climbed back on, or given a tip that helped someone feel steadier on the water, you’re already halfway there.

Why qualifications matter

Qualifications open doors, build confidence, and help you support friends, family, clubs or community groups. Most of all, qualifications help create a safer, more welcoming paddlesport culture. When more people know what to look for and how to help, everyone benefits.

How to get started

• Join a local club or centre offering Paddle Awards or leadership training
• Ask a coach which pathway suits your craft and experience
• Try a short introductory course to see if leadership feels like the right direction
• Keep paddling, exploring and learning, everything counts

If you’d like help finding your next step, Paddle Cymru can point you in the right direction. Check out our Welsh Clubs map

You don’t need to be an expert… just enthusiastic

Every leader started where new paddlers are now: curious, inspired and keen. If you love the water and enjoy helping others, your first qualification may be closer than you think.

Useful Links to Help You Take Your Next Step

For beginners
• Paddle Awards (Start, Discover, Explore):https://britishcanoeingawarding.org.uk/paddle-awards/ 
• Paddle Award Resources (crib cards & downloads):https://britishcanoeingawarding.org.uk/paddle-award-resources/

Finding your route
• Which qualification is right for me?https://britishcanoeingawarding.org.uk/which-qualification-is-right-for-me/

Becoming an instructor or coach
• Paddlesport Instructor:https://britishcanoeingawarding.org.uk/ 
• Coach Award:https://britishcanoeingawarding.org.uk/

Becoming a leader
• Sea Kayak Leader (Paddle Cymru):https://www.paddlecymru.org.uk/sea-kayak-leader-tidal-and-non-tidal-award 
• Leadership Awards (all disciplines):https://www.paddleinternational.com/leadership-awards 
• Sea Kayak Leader (BCAB official):https://britishcanoeingawarding.org.uk/sea-kayak-leader-moderate-water/

General qualification hubs
• British Canoeing Awarding Body:https://britishcanoeingawarding.org.uk/ 
• Paddle UK (Awards & Qualifications):https://paddleuk.org.uk/awards-and-qualifications/