Paddle Northern Ireland has recently completed its annual British Canoeing Awarding Body (BCAB) External Verification (EV), which ensures that the delivery of our training and assessment programmes continues to meet the required national standards.

As part of this visit, the External Verifier observed an audit of a Paddlesport Instructor sign-off delivered by one of our National Trainers. The course was also the final sign-off for a new Paddle NI tutor assessor. The feedback from the EV was very positive, particularly in relation to how the BCAB educational philosophy was brought to life and consistently applied throughout the course. The EV also highlighted the quality of the supported learning environment that had been created. Particular recognition was given to the balance between giving the tutor assessor the freedom and autonomy to maximise their learning and development, while ensuring appropriate support, guidance and direction were available when needed.

The structure and flow of the programme were also recognised, demonstrating how effective course design can ensure that all assessment criteria are met within an engaging, supportive and empowering learning environment. The end of course feedback provided by the National Trainer closely reflected the observations and feedback of the EV, reinforcing the consistency of the approach and the quality of the learning experience.

This positive outcome provides further assurance that Paddle NI continues to deliver high-quality training and assessment in line with BCAB’s endorsed standards.

We are grateful to our National Trainers and tutors for their commitment, professionalism and the high standards they bring to their work. Their efforts are central to Paddle NI’s ongoing commitment to developing paddlesport leaders and instructors, and we are proud to support them in that.