The Cadet Leader Award aims to encourage and introduce young people into leadership roles within Paddlesport, through a training programme based at their own Club, Centre or the organisation where they paddle. Many young people have much to offer their Club, bringing a variety of skills, willingness, enthusiasm and provide a valuable role model for younger paddlers. This scheme hopes to encourage their involvement, development of skills and recognise those already helping out.
The Cadet Log Book and Coach Guidance notes give specific detail of the areas to be covered in the training and assessment – the following gives an outline of the modules.
The award is aimed at youth aged 13 to 16 - youth are eligible for an award up to the age of 19 – but no award will be made until a youth is 14.
There is no entry skill level – it is anticipated the youth would be working to or have achieved 2 star, Paddlepower green award, or have equivalent experience.
Training is based at the Cadet’s own Club/Centre and should be supervised by a Level 3 coach. (Club/Centres without a Level 3 coach should contact your RCO or PDO for assistance and advice - see Cadet Leader Award Guidance Notes for Coaches.)
The Award is modular based – with the emphasis on flexibility and meeting individual needs. Each module (or part of) can be completed in any order when the Cadet is ready with informal assessment based on demonstration and questioning.
The Modules are based on practical experience and include Organisation, Safety, Skills Instruction, a Personal Skills and experience log, Role of the Cadet Leader and a two-part project of their choice.
The award is only valid for the Club/organisation where the Cadet completed the award. If the cadet moves to another Club there is an additional short module to complete to help them learn about the safety and ways of operating at their new club.
Other National Youth Awards can be linked to this Award such as Duke of Edinburgh (PDF doc 15k in size), JSLA and school qualifications as well as Paddlepower Two challenges or disciplines specific awards.
This award replaces the Junior Instructor qualification. When the Cadet Leader reaches 16 they can move onto the National Coaching Scheme - Level 2 training and assessment at 18.
Club/Centres who wish to participate in the award should apply for a Cadet Leader Award Registration Form? (PDF doc 15k in size)or email
We will need details of the Coach who will supervise the training and their qualifications.
The Cadet must be an individual member of the WCA or a nominated WCA affiliated Club member .
The cost for registration for each Cadet is £6.00 which includes their Log Book, Guidelines for Coaches Running the Award, Certificate, registration at the BCU with on-going support.