The BCU kayaking scheme consists of 5 levels of personal performance tests. They gradually build up the range and level of performance of the strokes and techniques necessary for successful paddling in the canoeing discipline concerned. The first 3 are assessed on flat water, whilst the 4 and 5 star are assessed in the real situation to which they relate. Since gaining recognition as a BCU approved centre, Carsington Sports and Leisure have developed an impressive reputation for delivering these training courses.  If you are under 16, we offer the 1 star Youth Beginner course, detailed at the bottom of this page. All other kayaking courses are intended for adults only. 

Please note, the BCU will be launching a new coaching scheme in 2007 and a revised course programme will be implemented accordingly.

1 Star - Beginner £90.00 (1 day)
This introduction to kayaking is intended to give you some of the basic techniques to be able to paddle a kayak. At the end of the course you should be able to paddle the boat with a certain amount of confidence and be aware of the basic safety aspects of paddle sports, including a capsize drill!
Course pre-requisites - No previous experience necessary.

2 Star - Improver £150.00 (2 days)
Having grasped some of the basic strokes, the 2 star course gives more opportunity to practice these and gain a higher level of competence. In addition you will be taught some new paddle strokes and introduced to using a spray-deck to expand your paddling horizons. The course will include a fairly long paddle journey around the shores of Carsington Water.
Course pre-requisites - You must be competent at all 1 star skills.

3 Star Training £150.00 (2 days)
This training weekend will help people progress their paddling skills towards the 3 star award. The first day will be spent on the reservoir practising the paddle strokes required at this level and ensuring that people will be safe to progress further afield. The second day will be run on a local stretch of moving water, so that people will get the opportunity to put their skills into practice. For people with the relevant experience, an assessment can be made at the end of day 2.
Course pre-requisites - Must be competent at all 2 star skills, 1 season's paddling experience, working on rolling techniques.

1 Star - Youth Beginner £90 (1 day) - 20% discount for juniors
This introduction to kayaking is intended to give you some of the basic techniques. At the end of the course you should be able to paddle the kayak with a certain amount of confidence and be aware of the basic safety aspects of paddle sports, including a capsize drill!
Course pre-requistes - No previous experience necessary.

Open Boating
The BCU tests can also be completed in open boats, obviously with slight modifications to your paddling technique. If you would like to do any training in open boats please contact the centre so that we can discuss your level and arrange a course for you