This Course is for competent paddlers who can paddle as part of a group in flat in sheltered undemanding waters. In this course you will learn the skills and knowledge to guide others on flatwater trips in the recreation industry, organisations or Clubs.

This Course Summary is for GUIDES.  In addition, Instructors are required to demonstrate a high degree of leadership, instructor/training skills.

In a group, participants will work through structured practical scenarios to develop competence to:

• complete a flatwater skill-set to effectively paddle safely in a kayak, and/or Sit On Top (SOT) and/or canoe.
• conduct kayak and canoe activities including trips in winds to 16 knots in flat and sheltered waters for day and/or overnight trips considering hazard identification, risk management, local regulations, weather and AC’s requirements and safety guidelines.
• communicate, lead and manage a group in activities across a range of prevailing conditions.

Resources and Guidelines 

• Review the Paddle Australia Qualifications which outlines the assessment criteria and the minimum kayaking experience that you will require when assessed

In addition to the Guide summary,  participants who wish to become Instructors will work on scenarios to

• conduct a flat water training course.
• instruct others to effectively paddle the complete skill set to the standards outlined in the Award Handbook, in a range of boats and for varying conditions experienced in flatwater.
• Evidence-Guideline-Flatwater-Instructor

Prepare for Training

• Assess your own knowledge and skill using the Flatwater Guide Evidence Guide (above)
• Attending the Skills Review will enable you to brush up on your current techniques and identify any gaps in skills set.
• Start your Log book noting current experience and what is required in the PAQS handbook for Guide or Instructor.
• Review your skill and the resources from the website videos.
• Practice all onwater skills and study the theory resource and starting the assignment.
• Bring your own boat and equipment prepared to work as a Guide &/or Instructor.

  Competent paddlers who can paddle as part of a group in flat, sheltered undemanding waters will be assessed as a qualified paddle Australia Flatwater Guide and or Instructor who can work in the industry, organisation or Club

  If proceeding to the VET award, an overnight trip will be required.

  Assessment Summary  

  In an advertised training Course, an assessment applicant will be required to demonstrate competence for conducting a range of scenarios to:

  • model flatwater paddling efficiently and safely in a kayak and/or canoe.
  • conduct or describe kayak and canoe activities including trips in winds to 16 knots in flat and sheltered waters for day and/or overnight trips (for overnight endorsement) considering hazard identification, risk management, local regulations, weather and AC’s requirements and safety guidelines.
  • communicate, lead and manage a group in activities across a range of prevailing conditions.

  In addition, to verify knowledge and experience:

  • completed an assignment/s or equivalent evidence of the underpinning knowledge to guide trips and/or to conduct a Paddling Course if undergoing Instructors Assessment.
  • present a verified logbook of paddling experience over the previous two years and at least three activities of three or more hour’s duration as an observer under training and or an observer conducting Instruction
  • holding a current First Aid Certificate.

  Please review additional Paddle Australia Award requirements as specified the following website. 

  https://paddle.org.au/education-safety/education-paqs/

  • The Qualifications for various conditions
  •  Evidence Guidelines for each condition
  •  Flatwater Instructor Guidelines
  • The Safety Guidelines and Risk Management Guide
  • Links to basic skills videos
  • A Flatwater Learners Guide (will be provided after registration)
  • A Log book PADDLE LOG 
  • An Assignment Outline for Flatwater Guide