Water Sports Courses at Rother Valley
Get out on the water and learn a new skill!
The Water Sports Centre is a recognised teaching establishment by both the Royal Yachting Association and the British Canoe Union and is authorised to run a full range of certificated courses.
Age Restrictions: Children under 16 are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.
Our courses cater for all levels and abilities, and the purpose-built centre offers changing facilities, toilets, showers and classrooms. The instructional staff are highly qualified, experienced and are sympathetic towards the needs of beginners and experienced alike. We maintain a close liaison with the national governing bodies for all the disciplines to ensure our teaching methods are constantly updated to provide the most enjoyable experience for all our students.
2026 Course Dates:
Intro to Paddleboarding
Our one-day paddleboarding course is the perfect introduction to stand-up paddleboarding and is suitable for beginners and those looking to improve their skills. You’ll learn how to paddle efficiently, maintain the correct stance and balance on the board, perform a range of turning manoeuvres, plan simple expeditions, fall safely and carry out self-rescue techniques.
Course Time: 10am to 4pm
Price: £80 per person
Available dates:
- Saturday 12 September
- Sunday 13 September
- Saturday 10 October
- Sunday 11 October
RYA Sailing Level 1
Perfect for beginners, this two-day course introduces the fundamentals of dinghy sailing and provides the knowledge needed to sail under supervision. This course covers rigging your own dinghy, launching and recovering safely, fundamental sailing techniques and manoeuvres, ropework, clothing and equipment requirements, capsize recovery, sailing theory and basic meteorology.
Course Time: 9am to 5pm (both days)
Price: £175 per person
Available dates:
- Saturday 12 September & Sunday 13 September
- Saturday 10 October & Sunday 11 October
- Saturday 7 November & Sunday 8 November
RYA Sailing Level 2
This two-day course builds on the skills learnt in Level 1 and helps you become a more confident and independent sailor. Building on the skills gained in Level 1, you’ll develop your sailing ability through more advanced manoeuvres, greater sailing knowledge and increased independence on the water. The course also covers sailing theory, emergency procedures and equipment, weather awareness, clothing and equipment selection, and optional coastal sailing elements.
Please note: RYA Sailing Level 1 must be completed before progressing to Level 2.
Course Time: 9am to 5pm (both days)
Price: £175 per person
Available dates:
- Saturday 19 September & Sunday 20 September
- Saturday 31 October & Sunday 1 November
Introduction to Kayak & Canoe
Our Introduction to Paddlesport course is an excellent way to learn the essentials of kayaking and canoeing in a fun and supportive environment. You’ll develop essential paddling skills, learn a range of manoeuvres, practise launching techniques and gain confidence in rescue and recovery procedures.
All equipment is provided.
Course Time: 10am to 4pm
Price: £80 per person
Available dates:
- Sunday 13 September
- Sunday 4 October
RYA Powerboat Level 2
Gain a nationally recognised qualification and build the skills and confidence needed to operate a powerboat safely and competently. This two-day course covers boat handling, launching and recovery, low and high-speed manoeuvres, safety procedures and collision regulations.
Course Time: 9am to 5pm (both days)
Price: £300 per person
Available dates:
- Saturday 17 October & Sunday 18 October
- Saturday 14 November & Sunday 15 November
- Saturday 12 December & Sunday 13 December
RYA Powerboat Instructor Course
Take the next step in your powerboating journey and become a qualified RYA Powerboat Instructor. This intensive four-day course is designed for experienced powerboaters who wish to teach RYA Powerboat courses and develop their coaching and instructional skills. To be eligible, candidates must hold an RYA Powerboat Level 2 qualification, have a minimum of five years’ boating experience (or one year of full-time experience), possess a valid First Aid qualification and be an RYA Member.
Price: £350 per person
Available dates:
- Pre-entry Assessment: Saturday 28 November
- Instructor Course: Friday 4 December to Monday 7 December
