The British Stand Up Paddle Association (BSUPA) have been in touch about thier latest set of instructor courses. Last year they trained over 50 instructors from both the UK and Ireland. This is Europes first SUP instructor scheme.

Here are the details from BSUPA:

We have 2 dates with 12 places on each course-the course is for 2 days and costs £199 each.

15-16 March 2011X-Train West Wittering
10-11 May 2011 Easyriders Poole

BSUPA Level 1 – Ready to Ride
Intro to weather, water environment, board and paddle; Paddle technique, stance, board trim and turning; Safety, self rescue and distress signal;

Basic explanation of SUP in surf and SUP expeditions.

Level 1 all to be taught on flat water.

Teaching any sport you need to have a professional and structured approach, for the safety of your clients and you also need to be able to inspire and teach stand up paddle surfing to a high standard.

BSUPA's aim is to create a teaching platform that combines core technical skills to teach stand up paddle surfing and inspire a new generation stand up paddlers to take up the sport in a safe and fun manner. The courses will provide a recognised qualification to water sports instructors who wish to develop their careers by teaching stand up paddle surfing.

Instructor Candidate Pre requisites:

RYA Powerboat Level 2;
Minimum age 18;
Valid first aid qualification (for example RYA First Aid
or RNLI);
Riding ability, competent on a range of boards
and able to surf in medium waves;
Current member of BSUPA;
Students without any previous water sports
teaching experience or qualifications
will be required to ghost qualified BSUPA
instructors before certificates are issued.

To book for West Wittering contact Simon Bassett This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it 0774 775 8883
For Poole and group bookings else where in the UK -Andy Gratwick This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it 07980577893