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.
WHO IS IT FOR AND HOW DOES IT WORK? 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 Discover, 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 – see Cadet Leader Award Syllabus. LIMITS, LINKS AND PROGRESSION 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, JSLA and school qualifications as well as Paddlepower or disciplines specific awards.  Details available with Guidance Notes for Coaches. This award replaces the Junior Instructor qualification.  When the Cadet Leader reaches 16 they can move onto the National Coaching Scheme Level, at 17 progress to Level 2 training and at 18 Level 2 assessment. HOW DO WE REGISTER FOR THE SCHEME –  WHAT IS REQUIRED? Club/Centres who wish to participate in the award should apply for a Cadet Leader Award Registration Form  - download here or email Youth We will need details of the Coach who will supervise the training and their qualifications. The Cadet must be an individual member of the BCU or a nominated BCU 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.