Advanced Surf Safety & Rescue

Advanced Surf Safety and Rescue Training is aimed at surf paddlers operating in moderate to advanced water environments.

The aim is to equip candidates with the skills required to surf safely and be able to perform relevant rescue techniques in a moderate to advanced surf environment.

  • Learning Outcomes

    Advanced Surf Safety and Rescue Training has two purposes:


    • To provide the surf paddler with the necessary skills which will enable them to ensure the safety of themselves and others in a moderate to advanced surf environment.
    • To provide the paddler with the appropriate rescue skills which can be used to help themselves and other in difficulty in a moderate to advanced surf environment.

    For more information on the content covered please read the Syllabus.

  • Course Structure

    The Advanced Surf Safety and Rescue is a practical course, typically delivered in a moderate surf environment over the course of one day.

  • Prerequisites

    Candidates wishing to attend the Advanced Surf Safety and Rescue Training must be 16 years or over and meet the following requirements:


    • Have completed a British Canoeing Foundation Safety & Rescue Training course
    • Have the personal surfing ability of a 4 Star Surf paddler
    • Have a confident surf swimming ability. During the course candidates will be required to swim approximately 150m in surf.

    Candidates will also need to provide evidence of:


    • a minimum of 20 sessions in moderate to advanced surf conditions
    • experience of managing paddlers in a surf environment

    A first aid certificate is not a prerequisite, however holding a 16 hour first aid certificate is strongly recommended for paddlers operating in this environment.

  • Certification

    Attendance Certificates are issued to successful candidates by British Canoeing following a recommendation from the course provider. A fee is paid to SCA/British Canoeing by the Provider:

    • £5 for members
    • £10 for non-members