Rolling Improvements

Mastering the kayak roll is a key skill for safe and confident paddling. This hands-on session is designed to help club volunteers and paddlers develop the knowledge, technique, and confidence to roll their kayak reliably in a supportive environment.

Led by experienced instructors, you’ll learn to:

- Understand the mechanics and principles behind a successful roll

- Practice body positioning, paddle control, and timing

- Build confidence through progressive drills in calm water

- Apply rolling skills in different craft

- Explore self-rescue techniques and safety considerations

This session combines expert coaching, practical exercises, and peer support to help paddlers gain control, improve safety, and enjoy kayaking with greater confidence.

Strength & Conditioning 

Paddling demands more than technique - it relies on strength, endurance, and overall fitness. This practical session is designed to help club volunteers and paddlers develop their physical conditioning to improve performance, reduce injury risk, and enjoy paddling more.

Led by a qualified instructor, you’ll explore:

- Key exercises to build paddling-specific strength and endurance

- Core stability, balance, and mobility for better boat control

- Injury prevention techniques tailored to paddlers

- Simple routines that can be done at home or as a club group

- Integrating fitness into paddling preparation and trips

Through hands-on exercises and guidance, this session equips participants to boost fitness, enhance paddling performance, and maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.

Tidal Planning 

Tides can make or break a paddling trip. This session is designed to help club volunteers and paddlers develop the knowledge and skills to plan safe, enjoyable trips in tidal waters.

Led by experienced instructors, you’ll learn to:

- Understand tidal patterns, currents, and tidal ranges

- Interpret tidal charts, tables, and apps effectively

- Plan routes and timings to maximise safety and enjoyment

- Recognise tidal hazards and changing conditions

- Integrate tidal knowledge into trip planning and risk management

Through discussion, examples, and practical exercises, this session equips paddlers to make informed decisions and confidently navigate tidal waters.

Rope Work for Paddlers

Ropes and knots are essential tools for safe and effective paddling - this hands-on session is designed to give club volunteers and paddlers the knowledge and confidence to use them in a variety of on-water situations.

Led by experienced instructors, you’ll learn to:

- Tie and use essential paddling knots safely and efficiently

- Set up basic rope systems for rescues and river management

- Apply rope work skills in practical paddling scenarios

- Understand the principles behind knots, tension, and load-bearing

- Improve safety, efficiency, and teamwork in paddling trips

This session combines demonstration, hands-on practice, and discussion to help you build practical rope skills and confidence you can use on club trips or personal paddling adventures.

Understanding Access & Environment 

Paddlers share a responsibility to protect the waterways we love. This session is designed to help club volunteers develop knowledge and understanding of access issues and environmental best practice in Scotland.

Led by experienced instructors, you’ll explore:

- Legal and practical aspects of access to rivers, lochs, and coasts

- Understanding environmental sensitivities and conservation priorities

- Minimising impact while paddling and running club activities

- Working with landowners, authorities, and other user groups

- Promoting sustainable practices within your club and community

Through discussion, case studies, and practical examples, this session equips volunteers to make informed decisions, promote responsible paddling, and help safeguard Scotland’s waterways for everyone.

Planning Trips Abroad

Dreaming of paddling beyond Scotland’s shores? This session is designed to give club volunteers and paddlers the knowledge, tools and confidence to plan safe and enjoyable kayak trips abroad.

Led by experienced international paddlers, you’ll explore:

- Researching destinations, waterways, and conditions

- Understanding local regulations, permits, and access considerations

- Trip planning, risk assessment, and contingency strategies

- Logistics including travel, equipment transport, and accommodation

- Cultural awareness, environmental responsibility, and group management

With practical tips, case studies, and plenty of discussion, this session helps you turn international kayaking dreams into well-prepared, memorable adventures.

What Works Best in Your Club? 

Every club has its own successes, tips, and tricks - now’s your chance to share them! This interactive session is all about connecting volunteers, exchanging ideas, and learning from each other’s experiences.

Join fellow club members in a supportive, open environment to:

- Share what’s worked well in your club, from sessions and events to volunteer engagement

- Discover innovative ideas and approaches from other clubs

- Discuss challenges and brainstorm solutions together

- Build connections and strengthen the Paddle Scotland volunteer community

Whether you’re looking for inspiration, practical tips, or just a chance to celebrate what your club does well, this session is a great opportunity to collaborate, learn, and bring fresh ideas back to your paddling community.

The Theory Behind Leadership in Dynamic Environments

Strong decisions on the water can make all the difference. This session is designed to help club volunteers and paddlers develop the theory and understanding behind effective decision making in changing and challenging environments.

Led by experienced instructors, you’ll explore:

- How to assess risk and make safe, informed choices in dynamic conditions

- Tools and frameworks for structured decision making

- Recognising and managing common biases and human factors

- Planning for contingencies and responding to unexpected situations

- Balancing safety, group needs, and adventure in trip planning

This session combines discussion, case studies, and practical scenarios to help you think critically, build confidence, and improve your decision-making skills both on and off the water.

Sea Kayak Safety & Rescue

This practical, on-water workshop is designed for club paddlers and volunteer leaders who want to build confidence and competence in sea kayak safety and rescue techniques. Whether you’re supporting club trips, introducing new paddlers to the sea environment, or looking to refresh your own skills, this session will help you develop the knowledge and practical ability to manage incidents effectively and keep everyone safe on the water. What you’ll learn:

- Key principles of sea kayak safety and group management in dynamic environments

- Effective communication and decision-making on the water

- Self-rescue and assisted rescue techniques in a range of conditions

- Towing systems and incident management strategies

- Preventing common issues through planning and paddler awareness

Sea Kayak on Water Navigation 

Join other sea kayakers for a relaxed, practical session exploring how to navigate confidently on the water. This workshop brings navigation skills to life - using charts, compasses, and natural features to plan and follow a journey while managing real conditions on the sea. Expect plenty of hands-on learning, teamwork, and discussion to help turn planning theory into practical paddling know-how. It’s a great chance to build confidence, share experiences, and strengthen the skills that help club trips run safely and smoothly. With guidance from experienced Sea Kayak Coaches, you’ll practise:

- Translating map/charts to water,

- Taking bearings,

- Estimating position,

- Making safe route choices based on tides, wind, and weather.

Intro to White Water SUP

Ready to add some splash and excitement to your paddling? Join us for an action-packed introduction to White Water SUP - the perfect way to take your stand-up paddleboarding skills to the next level!

In this fun, confidence-building session, you’ll learn how to read the river, pick your line, and use balance, body position, and paddle power to flow smoothly through moving water. Expect to practise key safety skills, enjoy a few tumbles, and come away buzzing with new techniques and confidence.

Led by experienced white water SUP coaches, this workshop is all about having fun, learning by doing, and sharing the thrill of the river with other paddlers.

Introduction to Coastal SUP

Ready to swap calm lochs for the open sea? Join us for a fun and practical Coastal SUP session that builds the skills and confidence you need to explore the coastline safely and enjoyably.

Under the guidance of experienced coastal SUP coaches, you’ll develop techniques for paddling efficiently in wind, swell, and choppy conditions, while learning how to make safe and smart decisions on the water. The session will cover:

- Reading and understanding coastal conditions - tides, wind, and swell

- Effective stance, balance, and footwork for dynamic water

- Planning short coastal journeys and identifying safe landing spots

- Self-rescue and supporting others in a group setting

- Communication and group management on the sea

This session blends hands-on practice with discussion and teamwork, helping you gain real confidence in a supportive and social environment. It’s a great chance to connect with other paddlers, share ideas, and take your SUP adventures beyond the flat water.

Skill Building on Grade 2/3 White Water Kayak 

Join us for an action-packed, confidence-building session designed to help you refine your white water paddling skills and feel more at home on Grade 2–3 rivers. This practical workshop focuses on developing control, precision, and flow — all in a supportive, fun environment alongside other passionate paddlers.

Led by experienced white water coaches, you’ll work on key techniques including:

- Reading and using river features effectively

- Improving edging, balance, and boat control in moving water

- Catching and leaving eddies with confidence

- Smoother ferry glides and river running strategies

- Building confidence for leading or supporting others on the river

Expect plenty of on-water time, tailored coaching, and a few challenges to stretch your skills while keeping things friendly and encouraging. Whether you’re aiming to lead club trips or just want to sharpen your own paddling, this session is a great way to take your white water kayaking to the next level.

Develop White Water Kayak On Grade 3/4

Take your white water kayaking to the next level in this hands-on, skills-focused session designed for paddlers tackling more challenging rivers. This workshop is all about building technique, confidence, and river sense on Grade 3–4 water, in a safe and supportive environment.

Led by experienced white water coaches, you’ll work on advanced skills such as:

- Reading and anticipating complex river features

- Precise edging, balance, and boat control in faster water

- Efficient ferry glides and complex line choices

- Self-rescue under moving water conditions

- Decision-making and risk management for challenging river sections

The session combines guided on-water practice with expert feedback, helping you refine your technique, improve safety awareness, and gain the confidence to explore harder rivers or support other paddlers on challenging trips.

Skill Building on Grade 2/3 White Water Canoe 

Enhance your canoeing skills and confidence on moving water with this practical, hands-on session designed for paddlers on Grade 2–3 rivers. Whether you’re looking to improve your technique, handle more challenging features, or support club trips, this workshop will help you paddle with greater control and safety.

Under the guidance of experienced coaches, you’ll focus on skills including:

- Reading river features and choosing safe, efficient lines

- Edging, bracing, and boat control in moving water

- Maneuvering through rapids and performing smooth ferry glides

- Assisted rescues, self-rescue, and group safety techniques

- Building confidence and decision-making for river navigation

With plenty of on-water practice and expert feedback, this session is a supportive environment for sharing knowledge, improving technique, and preparing for more challenging white water experiences.

Develop White Water Canoe on Grade 3/4

Push your white water canoeing to the next level in this hands-on, skills-focused session for paddlers tackling more challenging rivers. Designed for those ready to move beyond Grade 3, this workshop emphasizes technique, control, and safe decision-making in Grade 3–4 water.

Led by experienced white water coaches, you’ll work on:

- Reading complex river features and selecting safe, efficient lines

- Advanced edging, bracing, and boat handling in faster, more technical water

- Efficient ferry glides, precise maneuvers, and river running strategies

- Self-rescue, assisted rescue, and group safety skills in dynamic conditions

- Building confidence to lead or support others on challenging river sections

This session combines expert guidance with plenty of on-water practice, helping you refine your technique, improve safety awareness, and gain the confidence to tackle harder rivers.

Packrafting into the Loch A’an

Experience the thrill of packrafting on a scenic trip to Loch A’an Aviemore! This practical, on-water session is designed for paddlers who want to explore lightweight, versatile boating while building confidence and skills in a stunning loch environment.

Led by experienced white water coaches, you’ll learn how to:

- Launch, paddle, and land a packraft efficiently

- Plan a safe route and navigate on open water

- Practice basic paddling techniques, balance, and control

- Understand safety considerations, self-rescue, and group management

- Enjoy exploring remote waterways with a lightweight, portable craft

This session blends skill development with adventure, giving volunteers the chance to try something new, connect with other paddlers, and experience the freedom and fun of packrafting.

Greenland Rolling (half pool/half Loch Morlich)

Discover the art and skill of Greenland rolling in this hands-on session combining pool practice with on-loch application at Loch Morlich. Perfect for paddlers looking to develop confidence, control, and style in their kayak, this session provides a supportive environment to learn and refine one of kayaking’s most versatile rescue techniques.

Under the guidance of experienced coaches, you’ll:

- Learn or refine Greenland rolling techniques in a calm pool setting

- Apply rolling skills in real loch conditions

- Understand body mechanics, paddle control, and kayak positioning

- Practice self-rescue and recovery techniques

- Build confidence to stay safe and enjoy paddling in varied conditions

This session is a great opportunity to improve your personal skills, share knowledge with other paddlers, and experience the satisfaction of mastering Greenland-style rolling both in the pool and on open water.

Freestyle Play the River

Take your white water kayaking to the next level with this hands-on session focused on freestyle kayaking skills. Designed for paddlers looking to improve control, creativity, and technique on river features, this workshop is both fun and skill-building.

Led by experienced Freestyle coaches, you’ll work on:

- Reading and using waves, holes, and eddies to your advantage

- Performing spins, surf moves, and basic tricks safely

- Improving balance, boat control, and body positioning

- Linking maneuvers smoothly for more advanced freestyle runs

- Practicing self-rescue and group safety while exploring features

This session combines guided coaching with plenty of on-water practice, giving you the chance to refine your freestyle moves, gain confidence, and share skills with fellow paddlers.

Surf Ski 

Take your paddling to new speeds and horizons with this practical Surf Ski Skills session! Designed for paddlers looking to improve efficiency, technique, and confidence on the open water, this workshop blends skill development with the thrill of gliding over waves.

Led by experienced coaches, you’ll focus on:

- Paddling technique for speed, power, and endurance

- Efficient stroke mechanics and body positioning

- Launching, landing, and handling surf ski in varying conditions

- Reading wind, waves, and currents to make smarter decisions

- Safety, self-rescue, and group awareness on open water

This session is perfect for those wanting to build confidence, refine technique, and enjoy the unique challenges and excitement of surf ski paddling in a supportive, social environment.

Surf Development

Catch some waves and sharpen your kayaking skills in this practical Surf Kayak session! Designed for paddlers looking to improve technique, control, and confidence in the surf, this workshop combines hands-on coaching with fun, dynamic paddling.

Led by experienced surf kayak coaches, you’ll focus on:

- Reading waves and choosing safe, rideable lines

- Paddling technique, edging, and body positioning for stability and control

- Launching, landing, and managing surf conditions safely

- Basic tricks, wave riding, and linking maneuvers smoothly

- Safety, self-rescue, and group awareness in surf environments

This session is perfect for building confidence, refining skills, and enjoying the excitement of surfing in a supportive, social environment.

Going Upriver in a Canoe

Paddling upstream might seem a bit at odds with common sense but it does happen and requires technique, strategy, and understanding of river dynamics. This hands-on session is designed to help club volunteers and paddlers develop the knowledge and skills to navigate rivers upstream efficiently and safely.

Led by experienced instructors, you’ll learn to:

- Read currents and river features to choose the best upstream line

- Use effective paddling techniques, edging, and bracing for upstream travel

- Employ ferrying, edging, and maneuvering strategies to tackle obstacles

- Work as a team to move boats upstream safely and efficiently

- Understand safety considerations and manage risks on moving water

Through practical exercises and expert guidance, this session helps paddlers gain confidence, improve technique, and enjoy the challenge of upstream canoeing.

Incident Prevention & Flat Water Rescue Managment 

Safety on the water starts with preparation and knowledge. This session is designed to help club volunteers and paddlers develop skills in preventing incidents and managing rescues on flat water.

Led by experienced instructors, you’ll learn to:

- Identify and mitigate common risks during flat water paddling

- Plan trips and group management strategies to prevent incidents

- Conduct safe and effective rescues, including towing, reaching, and recovering paddlers

- Use rescue equipment appropriately and confidently

- Integrate communication, teamwork, and situational awareness into safety management

Through practical exercises, discussion, and scenario-based learning, this session equips participants to keep themselves and their groups safe, respond effectively to incidents, and foster a culture of safe paddling.

Develop Rolling Skills

A strong roll is a cornerstone of safe and confident kayaking. This hands-on session is designed to help club volunteers and paddlers develop and refine their rolling skills in a supportive and structured environment.

Led by experienced instructors, you’ll learn to:

- Understand the mechanics and principles behind an effective roll

- Practice body positioning, paddle control, and timing

- Build confidence through progressive drills in calm water

- Apply rolling techniques in realistic paddling scenarios

- Integrate self-rescue and safety considerations into practice

Through expert coaching and practical exercises, this session helps paddlers gain control, boost confidence, and enjoy kayaking with greater safety and skill.

Creativity in Coaching

Great coaching isn’t just about technique - it’s about inspiring, engaging, and adapting to your paddlers. This session is designed to help club volunteers develop knowledge and skills to be creative, flexible, and effective coaches.

Led by experienced coaching mentors, you’ll explore:

- Innovative ways to plan and deliver engaging sessions

- Using games, challenges, and creative drills to develop skills

- Adapting coaching style to different abilities and group dynamics

- Encouraging problem-solving, independence, and confidence in paddlers

- Building a positive, motivating, and inclusive learning environment

Through discussion, practical exercises, and sharing ideas, this session equips volunteers to think creatively, energize sessions, and help paddlers reach their potential.

SUP Racing 

Take your paddleboarding to the next level! This session is designed to help club volunteers and paddlers develop the knowledge and skills needed for SUP racing, whether you’re aiming to compete or simply improve speed and efficiency on the water.

Led by experienced instructors, you’ll explore:

- Race-specific paddling techniques for power, speed, and endurance

- Efficient stroke mechanics and body positioning

- Start strategies, turns, and navigating race courses

- Pacing, tactics, and race strategy for different conditions

- Safety, awareness, and etiquette in a racing environment

Through practical coaching, drills, and on-water practice, this session equips paddlers to boost performance, build confidence, and enjoy the thrill of SUP racing.