DORKING KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Groms River Skills: Two Days of Focused Whitewater Coaching for Under‑18 Paddlers
A two-day, progression-focused river skills course in Dorking that sharpens whitewater technique, decision‑making and young‑leader skills under expert coaching.
Groms River Skills: Two Days of Focused Whitewater Coaching for Under‑18 Paddlers.
This two‑day Progressive River Skills course in Dorking is designed for groms — paddlers under 18 — who want structured, coached time on whitewater. Small coaching groups work through technical drills, decision‑making scenarios and group‑management exercises to build confidence and craft in a deliberately safe environment, with sessions staged across a range of UK and European river settings as participants pursue individual progression goals.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Focused technique work and confidence building
Expert coaches lead progressive, on‑water instruction aimed at refining personal paddling technique and building confidence on whitewater.
Group management and decision‑making
The curriculum includes leadership and group‑management work so young paddlers learn to make sound decisions and keep peers safe on the river.
Sessions tailored to individual goals
Progression‑focused sessions are adapted to each participant, helping groms set and advance toward specific paddling objectives over the course.
What the day feels like
What the two days feel like
Across two concentrated days, coaches break the river down into teachable moments—technique drills, coached runs, and leadership exercises—so that skill gains compound quickly. The emphasis is on practical progression: small groups allow instructors to give hands‑on corrections, run decision‑making scenarios and stage exercises that build competence and confidence in a safe whitewater setting.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this course suits — and who it doesn’t.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Participants should bring their own paddling equipment and craft.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the course?
The programme runs over two days.
Who can attend this course?
The course is designed for groms — paddlers under 18.
What do the coaches focus on?
Coaches work in small groups to refine paddling technique, improve decision‑making, teach leadership and group management, and create a safe whitewater environment.
Do I need to bring equipment?
Yes — participants are expected to bring their own paddling equipment and craft.
Where are the sessions held?
Sessions take place across a variety of locations in the UK and Europe, with the programme offered from the Dorking location context.