Junior Beginners: Junior Paddling at Richmond Canoe Club 2025

Paddling is a great way to meet new friends, keep fit and healthy, and have fun! At Richmond Canoe Club we have a range of courses and sessions available for everyone, from complete beginners to experienced racers. All our beginners have the opportunity to try canoeing and kayaking and join our beginner group (subject to availability).
Term Time Paddling
Join us for our after school sessions. These run every Monday and Friday in blocks of 3 weeks. After six sessions you will have the experience to continue your paddling journey and join the club as a junior member.
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Summer Paddle Camps
Every week over the summer holidays we run paddle camps. Join us for 5 days of fun from Monday to Friday. Timing vary depending on the tides.
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Group Bookings / Taster Sessions
We are also able to offer taster sessions to established groups as part of school PE or existing after school clubs (e.g. Scouts). If you are interested in arranging a dedicated taster session please reach out to paddlecamps@richmondcanoe.club

 

 

Adult Novices

Are you interested in learning to kayak (double-bladed paddle) or canoe (single-bladed paddle)? Curious about competitive paddle sports? Or perhaps you’re looking to join a vibrant and active sports club? Richmond Canoe Club is the perfect place to start!

Paddling at Richmond Canoe Club is a unique experience—it’s enjoyable, relaxing, fulfilling, and challenging all at once. We welcome individuals of all ages who are eager to take up kayaking or canoeing. Whether you’re aiming to compete or simply want to enjoy paddling as part of a supportive community, we’d love to hear from you.

Explore our 2025 novice courses here. 

What You’ll Need

Before you start, you must be able to swim at least 100 metres fully clothed.

Wearing the right clothing is essential. Your gear should not absorb water if you fall in. If you don’t have water sports-specific clothing yet, we recommend the following based on the weather:

  • Footwear: Old trainers or plimsolls (you’ll likely stand in the river—your feet will get wet).
  • Bottoms: Tracksuit bottoms, leggings, or shorts (Avoid jeans or similar materials.)
  • Tops: T-shirt, sweatshirt, or thermal top.
  • Outerwear: Cagoule or a lightweight waterproof and windproof jacket.
  • Extras: A towel and a change of clothes for after your session.

Please inform your coach of any medical conditions before paddling.

Membership

Once you’ve successfully completed the novice courses, you can apply for full club membership. New members must be signed off by their coach, and all applications are subject to formal approval by the Committee. If you have questions, speak with your coach or our membership secretary.

About Richmond Canoe Club

Please note: We do not rent out canoes or kayaks.

Richmond Canoe Club is a community of passionate paddlers run entirely by dedicated volunteers. We’re always looking for new members and offer coach-led sessions for beginners who have never paddled before. As a non-commercial club, we focus on fostering a supportive environment for everyone interested in paddle sports.

We provide the kit; you bring the enthusiasm!

  • The club supplies a limited number of boats, paddles, and buoyancy aids so you can try paddling before investing in your own gear.
  • If you’d like to use specific equipment regularly or need advanced gear, we encourage you to purchase your own. Many members are happy to offer advice or sell second-hand equipment.

A Racing Club at Heart:

  • While racing is our primary focus, participation is encouraged but not mandatory. We support members at all levels of competition—from beginners to seasoned racers.
  • The club specializes in placid water canoe sport: racing over distances from 200 metres to 125 miles. If you’re new to paddle sports, we’ll introduce you to this exciting discipline through our beginner-friendly programs.

Tippy Boats:

  • Our racing kayaks and canoes are known for their instability (“tippiness”). Beginners will start with more stable boats designed for learning while still offering a challenge compared to other disciplines’ boats.
  • If you have prior experience in other paddle sports, you may progress faster but will still begin in our Beginner’s or Reception group to assess your skills and find the right boat for you.

Coaching Structure

After starting in the Beginner’s Group, our structured coaching program will guide you through various levels. You’ll develop skills in technique, fitness, watermanship, strategy, and more as you progress toward becoming a confident paddler.