Level 1 ACA IDW/ICE

Basic Coastal Certification is for the candidate that will be teaching students basic strokes and rescues and leading groups up to a half mile off shore in mild conditions. Candidates usually have experience paddling in mild to moderate conditions. The first phase of the certification program is the Instructor Development Workshop (IDW). Here you will actually learn the techniques for teaching kayaking and develop the skills you will need to pass the Instructor Certification Exam. Emphasis will be placed on effective modeling of skills, presentation techniques, and safety. After the IDW, candidates will move onto the second phase of the program: the Instructor Certification Exam (ICE). Here candidates will be tested on their ability to teach and model basic strokes and rescue techniques; their knowledge of more advanced rescues; their ability to perform a reliable roll, paddle comfortably, and perform efficient rescues; as well as their ability to teach other safety topics. Finally, all candidates must demonstrate leadership, group management skills and sound judgment in order to certify as instructors. Certification is a decision made by the instructor trainer and is not guaranteed.