How to become a SUP instructor

Becoming a Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) instructor could be the ideal career choice for you if you love paddleboarding and want to spread your enthusiasm for the sport to others. By combining your teaching abilities with your experience on the water, you can create a delightful experience for all levels of enthusiasts on this rewarding voyage. We’ll walk you through the process of becoming a certified SUP instructor in this tutorial, as well as discuss the reasons behind the decision, the regulations in the UK, and frequently asked questions.

Why Become a SUP instructor?

Acquiring the skillset necessary to become a SUP instructor goes beyond simply learning how to paddleboard; it also involves imparting your passion and expertise to others. Among the reasons many people pursue this professional route are the satisfaction of witnessing someone catch their first wave, mentoring others on correct technique, and creating a sense of community among paddleboard aficionados.

Imagine the joy of seeing someone successfully complete a difficult manoeuvre or get up on a paddleboard for the first time. As a SUP instructor, you are vital in influencing others’ paddleboarding experiences, making enduring memories, and boosting students’ self-esteem.

Requirements to become a SUP instructor UK

In order to acquire the requisite abilities and guarantee the security of both teachers and learners, being a licenced SUP instructor in the UK entails a number of stages. This is how the procedure is broken down:

Step 1: Improve Your Skill at Paddleboarding

Being an expert paddleboarder yourself is a must for instructing others. Take your time developing your abilities, testing out varied water conditions, and learning new paddleboarding tricks. The more comfortable and skilled you are in the water, the more capable you will be to mentor your future pupils.

Step 2: Enrol in an Accredited Paddleboard Instructor Course

Enrol in a reliable programme for the certification of SUP instructors. Seek out classes provided by reputable organisations like the British Stand Up Paddle Association (BSUPA) or others. Typically, these courses address paddleboard equipment knowledge, instructional strategies, rescue procedures, and water safety. A prerequisite to becoming a certified instructor is finishing the course successfully.

Step 3: Obtain a Certification in First Aid

In water sports, safety is of the utmost importance. As a responsible SUP instructor, you cannot compromise on obtaining first aid training. Acquire a current first aid certification from an accredited source. By doing this, you may be confident that you’ll have all you need in case of emergency when paddleboarding.

Step 4: Training in Water Rescue

Having received training in water rescue is crucial, in addition to first aid. You will get the information and abilities necessary to effectively manage rescue and emergency situations involving water after completing this class. Water rescue instruction is a common component of SUP teacher certification programmes.

Step 5: Get an Insurance

It’s imperative to get the right insurance coverage before you begin teaching paddleboarding in order to safeguard both you and your pupils. Seek for liability and equipment damage coverage in insurance packages designed specifically for instructors of water sports. When collaborating with paddleboard schools or rental companies, this step is frequently necessary.

Step 6: Join a Professional Paddleboard Instructor Association

Think about joining a professional association for paddleboarding. Access to priceless resources, chances for networking, and continuous training are all provided by membership. It also gives your credentials as a SUP instructor more legitimacy.

Becoming a Paddleboard Instructor FAQs

What Qualifications Do You Need to Teach Paddle Boarding?

In the UK, a recognised SUP teacher qualification is usually required to instruct paddleboarding. Courses providing the requisite information and abilities, such as water safety, rescue tactics, and teaching methods, are offered by organisations such as BSUPA. Furthermore, it’s frequently necessary to hold certifications in water rescue and first aid.

What Does SUP Instructor Stand For?

An SUP instructor is a person who has been trained to instruct and mentor people in the sport of stand-up paddleboarding. These instructors have the know-how and abilities required to guarantee their pupils have a fun and safe paddleboarding experience.

Are There Age Requirements to Become a Paddleboard Instructor?

Although there isn’t a set age requirement to become a paddleboard instructor, most certification courses demand that applicants be at least eighteen. This age restriction guarantees that paddleboarding instructors possess the maturity and accountability required to oversee lessons and manage possible situations.

What Safety Certifications Are Necessary for Paddleboard Instructors?

Obtaining safety certificates is essential to working as a paddleboard teacher. You must have completed water rescue training and hold a current first aid certification in addition to your recognised SUP instructor certification. These credentials show that you are capable of managing situations on the water and that you are dedicated to making sure your kids are safe.

How Long Does It Take to Get My Paddleboard Instructor Certification?

Depending on the programme you select, getting your paddleboard teacher certification might take a variety of timeframes. The majority of certification programmes combine classroom instruction with hands-on training in the water. The process usually takes a few days to a few weeks, during which time you can gain the abilities and information required to become a qualified and licenced SUP instructor.

UKSA’s Paddleboard Instructor Course

The United Kingdom Sailing Academy (UKSA) provides a significant course for individuals interested in a career as paddleboard instructors and wants to offer a full training programme. The UKSA paddleboard teacher course covers fundamental topics including teaching methods, water safety, and rescue techniques. It blends academic knowledge with real-world experience.

This course offers aspiring SUP instructors a comprehensive education and is recognised by many regulatory bodies. Participants go through a rigorous training programme that includes practice teaching in real time and realistic rescue events. Along with giving you the skills you need, the UKSA paddleboard teacher course boosts your confidence in your ability to handle a variety of scenarios on the water.

View all the different aspects we cover in our watersports instructor training  course.