Whatever your level of ability and however far you want to pursue kayaking as a sport, you are always welcome at the Wey Kayak Club. Our four-session introductory courses are designed to teach you the main techniques and give you confidence in the boat. We have coaches dedicated specifically to beginner training who will guide and support you as you make your first strokes in kayaking. These courses take place on Saturdays and Sundays and run from April to September (see details below). The overall cost of the introductory course in 2012 is £85 for Adults and £55 for Juniors (under 18), which includes the use of the club facilities, boats, paddles and buoyancy aids. Facilities for those with disabilities are available.

If you are interested in booking a place on one of the courses, please click here (but check on the status below to ensure there are spaces on your chosen course). On receipt of the application form the Courses Secretary will reply indicating which course you have been provisionally allocated. You will be asked to confirm the allocation by submitting the appropriate payment.

The following is a typical quote following an introductory course "...it was great to see such an enthusiastic, friendly and lively club... we both came away very impressed.."

Following the introductory course many people apply to become full members. Your first year membership fee is a pro rata amount depending which month you join. A table showing the details is available here.

Participation Course

This year the club is also running two general participation courses starting 1st Feb and 14th March for 6 weeks each every Wednesday from 15.30 to 17.00. If you are interested in one of these then please use the booking form or e-mail courses@weykayak.co.uk for booking/further details.

FAQs: Are there any fitness pre-requisites? What should I wear? Are there any showers at the club? What should I wear? When are the introductory courses in 2012? What does the course cover? What is the minimum age? Can I do any BCU Star awards ? What happens after the introductory course?

Are there any fitness pre-requisites?
Yes, we would like you to be able to swim at least 50 metres in light clothing should you capsize (and most people do at some time). We provide buoyancy aids, which we require you to wear when on the water until you become confident and the coaches are satisfied with your ability. Additionally, all club boats have enough buoyancy to support you.

What should I wear?
For the majority of conditions, layers of light, fitted clothing that will dry quickly when wet are most suitable. Thermals are ideal. Clothing that gets heavy when wet, like jeans and woollens, are unsuitable. Wetsuits are not necessary. Beginners should bring:
    Shorts or leggings.
    T-shirts and thin long-sleeve tops.
    Cagoule or other short light wind-proof top.
    Plimsolls or similar soft soled shoes (not trainers or crocs).
    A change of clothes and footwear (you will get wet), a towel and shower kit.
    Any cuts/wounds should be covered with a waterproof plaster whenever possible.

Are there any showers at the club?
Yes. We advise you to shower after each session and before you take any food or drink. It also warms you up after a session in cold weather! Although generally clean, the river may have some sand and mud, especially after rain and the banks are often muddy. Although extremely rare there are waterborne bacteri (eg Leptospirosis) which again make showering after contact with the water or the muddy banks sensible.

When are the introductory courses in 2012?
Dates are shown in the table below. Courses run for four weeks on consecutive Saturdays or Sundays. Each session runs for about two and a half hours.

If you have any questions or doubts, please do not hesitate to ask any club coach who will be happy to help you. If you would like any more information before you start, call us, e-mail us or come to the club on Thursday evening or on Saturday and we can discuss any queries you may have.

What does the course cover?
Click here for an outline of what is covered during each week of the course. Note this is a guide - the actual content may vary.

What is the minimum age?
We take children from age 8.

Can I do any BCU Star awards ?
Yes. Following the Introductory Course you may do a BCU One-Star award. Dates for these are shown below. The One Star assessment requires Open Boat (Canoe) skills as well as kayak skills. These will be covered in a separate session (Click here for an outline of what is covered) which will take place in the morning prior to the One Star assessment in the afternoon. (Note there is an additional administration charge of £10 to take these awards.)

What happens after the introductory course?
You can apply to become a full member and join a Saturday morning or Saturday afternoon development group where you can improve your paddling skills. Options for going further are explained in a club leaflet which you can download here. For those aged under 14 years special groups to cater for their needs are in operation (details here).  Full details will be given at the end of each course.