General Aims

The Level 4 Kayak Instructor Qualification aims to enable candidates to:

  1. Become qualified to instruct advanced kayaking skills and lead safe kayaking trips on Grade III/ IV water with groups of up to 4 students.
  2. Train and Assess for the Canoeing Ireland Levels 1, 2, 3 and 4 Kayak Skills Awards.
  3. Teach advanced River Safety and Rescue and run RSR 1, RSR 2 and RSR 3 Training Courses.
  4. Promote safe kayaking standards, foster further participation and improvement in kayaking standards.

Attendance Requirements

Before applying to attend a Level 4 Kayak Instructor Training Course a candidate must:

  1. Hold the Level 3 Kayak Instructor Qualification.
  2. Hold the Level 4 Kayak Skills Award.
  3. Completed Level 5 Kayak Skills Training.
  4. Possess a current and Canoeing Ireland approved First Aid Certificate (REC 3, WFA 3 or equivalent
  5. Have unrestricted access to a suitable kayak, personal equipment and additional equipment as listed for the Level 5 Kayak Skills award.
  6. Be at least 18 years of age at the time of application.
  7. Be registered as a member of Canoeing Ireland.
  8. Complete a course application and return to Canoeing Ireland office.
  9. Garda vetted.

Course Outline

The Level 4 Kayak Instructor Qualification requires that a candidate attend a registered two-day Level 4 Kayak Instructor training course (with optional 3rd day) and a one-day assessment.

The training course is a mixed of indoor and outdoor practical and theory session, exploring various aspects of paddle sports instruction at the intermediate level. While all courses are tailored to the participant group there are a number of knowledges that are cover on the course. These are as follows:

  • Personal skills and technical knowledge
  • Logistics and planning
  • Safety
  • Coaching and teaching
  • Leadership and guiding
  • Mentorship and professional practice

Course Documents

Please consult the following documents prior to applying for an assessment to ensure you have complete the relevant training and certification, and for details on the format of the assessment –