Paddle Squad is 'oarsome!' You've possibly done some paddling, either with us or away from us. You might've never been paddling at all and want to see what it is all about! Whether you have loads of experience or no experience, it's time for you to join the Beginner Paddle Squad. Beginner Squad is all about playing games, learning a bit of paddlesport amongst a few other bits, building friendships, but most importantly having fun and enjoying what you're doing!

Within the Beginner Squad, you'll participate in the awesome sessions led by our great Instructors and Coaches. The sessions are based around you and what you, as a team, would like to get out of them. You'll learn how to control and move your boat in a range of craft, from SUPs to kayaks to canoes. You'll become a master at different techniques on nice, calm water and attend an awesome weekend trip to Wales, where you will get to put those techniques into practice, as we give you the introduction to Whitewater. You'll also develop water confidence, learn about water safety and identify the right kit needed for the session.

In the Summer, we tend to go more outdoors, however, we're not afraid to go out on the water during the winter either - we just change the activity and how much you fall in! During the winter, we also tend to book in a couple of pool sessions, where we play some other games.

Once you're then ready, we'll move you up to the Advanced Squad, where you'll get more Coaching and the chance to take part in more trips, qualifications and expeditions.

The planned dates for next year are:

1. 1st September 2024 (10am to 1pm)
2. 12th October 2024 (10am to 1pm)
3. 10th November 2024 (10am to 1pm)
4. December 2024 - TBC (Pool session)
5. January 2024 - TBC (Pool session)
6. 15th February 2025 (10am to 1pm)
7. 8th March 2025 (10am to 1pm)
8. 13th April 2025 (10am to 1pm)
9. 17th May 2025 (10am to 1pm)
10. 30th May to 1st June (Wales Trip - Llandysul)
11. 21st June (10am to 1pm)
12. 19th July (10am to 1pm)

Whilst most sessions will take place at Paxton, to ensure variety, some sessions may take place in other locations like Bedford to help get the most out of the sessions for the participants.

To split the cost out for parents, we currently operate a direct debit scheme. The current cost is £20 per month for 12 months (£240 for the year). Included in this is the kit required for safety, along with all of the boats and the residential trip. Please be aware that this could go up or down based on the number of participants that we have, to ensure the best price for everyone.

We are an accredited Paddle UK Delivery Partner for Paddlesport and also hold an AALA license as well as Ofsted registered, so payment can be made through childcare vouchers.