This is a how-to-instruct course for the person looking to offer basic how-to SUP beginner lessons or an entry-level SUP experience in a reasonably safe, non-challenging environment (ie lakes, harbours, inlets, sheltered coastal waters etc, as opposed to surf beaches or fast flowing rivers). The course covers everything you need to know in order to operate on a commercial basis and/or with school groups, youth groups, ‘Education Outside The Classroom’ programmes etc. Check out the reviews of this and the other Level 1 courses here.

This is a completely online-based course. Instead of a practical assessment, you will have to submit video assignments and complete a test. So the entire process can be completed from your own location, wherever you are in the world. To complete the assignments you will need access to paddleboard equipment, and the assistance of at least two other people; one to film you and the other (ideally two or three) to be your ‘students’ in your assignment videos. (At least one of these will need a paddleboard and paddle as well). You will also need to pass the SUP RESCUE course and have a valid 1st aid certificate in order to complete this course.

Note – if you intending to teach paddleboarding in New Zealand then you should complete the NZ-based course in one of its forms, which cover the specific legal requirements for teaching SUP in NZ. For more information on the various ways of completing the L1 NZ course click here.

You may be wondering whether an online-only course can be a valid way to complete an instructor course. Rest assured, it is no easy shortcut! Check out our FAQ pages for much more information on this.

The online learning lessons in this course cover the theory, safety understanding and background knowledge to operate safe and productive sessions, along with a step-by-step guide on exactly how to deliver that perfect beginner lesson. The equipment you will need is also discussed.

The course will take about 12 hours to complete, plus a few extra hours of practice and the time taken to complete your assignments. You should also allow 2-3 hours for completing the SUP RESCUE course.

You are welcome to repeat the online lessons as many times as you like, and you will continue to have access to the material after completion, so it remains a valuable information archive. 

To complete the course you must also demonstrate the required level of paddling ability, which will also be done by video. Advice on bringing your paddling technique up to the required level is included as part of the course, along with feedback and assistance in completing the assignments to a satisfactory level. See the FAQ pages for more information on the assessment process.

VALIDATION 

The course is based on best practice and is in line with other paddleboard instruction qualifications worldwide. As it is not a formal qualification regulated by any world governing body, there is not a specific validity period, but we recommend taking a refresher course every few years, which can be done online here.

The $300 fee for this course covers the online learning material (including continued access throughout your license period) plus the skills assessment and subsequent advice. Payment can be made via credit card or paypal by clicking on the registration button above, or by bank transfer.