Navigation for Leaders and Coach’s

Course Description

Navigating waters safely and effectively requires a combination of the right tools, information, and strategies.

Some of the British Canoeing Awarding Body leader courses require you to provide evidence that you have undertaken suitable and sufficient navigation training prior to assessment.

• Sea Kayak Leader (non-tidal and tidal)
• Advanced Sea Kayak Leader (non-tidal and tidal)
• SUP Tidal Leader
• SUP Coastal Leader

There are a number of ways you can evidence that you have completed the necessary training:

Have previously completed BCAB training:

• Coastal Navigation and Tidal Planning (available until 1st Feb 2025) – Meets the requirements for: Sea Kayak Leader (non-tidal and tidal), SUP Tidal Leader and SUP Coastal Leader.
• Open Water Navigation and Tidal Planning (available until 1st Feb 2025) – Meets the requirements for: Advanced Sea Kayak Leader (non-tidal and tidal), Sea Kayak Leader (non-tidal and tidal), SUP Tidal Leader and SUP Coastal Leader.

The BCAB CNTP and OWNTP will continue to be recognised after the 1st Feb 2025, holder will not be required to undertake any further training (unless they choose to).

Complete the new BCAB Modules relevant to your Leader Assessment course:

The new BCAB modules can be taken in any order and you can choose different delivery modules to support your learning needs, for example you could do Tides as eLearning, Surf and Swell blended and Navigation practically on the water – what ever you feel you need, in the order you need it!

Alternative Options

1. Hold a recognised Equivalent Award from Canoeing Ireland or the RYA (click to read more)
2. Complete a Accreditation of Prior Learning Application read more about APL Here:

Evidencing your Navigation Training

Before you register for your assessment ensure you have completed your free online Moderate Navigation or Advanced Navigation Check by adding the relevant credential to your membership record.

Successful APL Applications will have the check automatically applied, for RYA and Canoe Ireland Equivalency you are required to submit you certification to [email protected] – if approved the relevant check will be automatically applied.

Module Overview

Our specialised modules provide all the essential elements you need to help you prepare for your assessment, whether you’re a seasoned sailor, a passionate surfer, or just a paddler  who loves to explore the water. Here’s a quick overview of the five core modules we offer: all of which can be accessed as eLearning, online, blended or face to face.

1. Tides Module: Predicting the Power of the Sea

Tides play a big part in making your paddling adventures both safer and more enjoyable. From learning how to read tidal information to understanding how wind and water interact, this module has you covered. And the best part? No assessments – just fun, practical learning!

If you’ve ever wondered how to plan your trips better or how the tides might affect your journey, this course is for you. You’ll explore everything from the basics of spring and neap tides to the complexities of tidal flow and how to apply this knowledge on your paddling trips.

2. Navigation Module: Finding Your Way on the Water

The Navigation for Paddlers module is open to everyone! There are no prerequisites, and you don’t need to be a sea kayaker to participate. Whether you paddle a SUP, canoe, sit-on-top kayak, or any other craft, this module is for you. Our goal is to make navigation skills accessible to all paddlers, regardless of experience level or discipline.

This module introduces both pre-trip planning and on-the-water navigating, including when you may need to change your plan. Topics covered include handrailing, collection points, and aiming off and attack points. 

3. Weather Module: Staying Ahead of the Storm

Weather is a powerful force on the water, and understanding it can make your paddling safer and way more enjoyable. From checking forecasts to spotting storm clouds, this module gives you the tools to predict and adapt to the weather.

No assessments, just fun, interactive learning and real-world exercises! So if you’ve ever wondered how to stay safe on a windy day or how rain might affect your plans, this course is for you!

4. Surf and Swell Module: Catching the Perfect Wave

For surf enthusiasts, understanding the swell is key to finding the best waves. Are you ready to dive into the world of surf and swell? The Surf and Swell Module is here to teach you everything you need to understand the ocean’s rhythms and make informed decisions for your paddling adventures. From the science of swells to the art of surf forecasting, this interactive 3-hour course is your ticket to mastering the waves.

5. Open Water Crossing Module: Safely Navigating Long-Distance Journeys

Crossing open water requires thorough preparation. The Open Water Crossing Module is designed for those undertaking long-distance journeys across open bodies of water, from coastal expeditions to inter-island voyages. Are you ready to take your paddling skills to the next level? The Open Crossings Module is here to help you navigate the challenges of open water like a pro. Whether you’re an adventurous sea kayaker or exploring large lakes for the first time, this module is your gateway to safe and successful crossings.

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