The Scottish Women's Paddle Symposium (SWPS) is a weekend designed for women paddlers to get together, improve their skills and have fun! The first SWPS event ran in 2009 run by a passionate group of volunteers. An event run BY women, FOR women. Roll the clock forwards and this mission and purpose remain the same.

The aim of the weekend is to provide mentoring and inspiration to women who want to progress; whether that's to gain a new qualification or purely for enjoyment; all in a social and supportive environment.

One of the core aims is to support female coaches and developing coaches with opportunities for high quality coaching and low ratio groups. Competitive wages for those whom it is their business and great benefits for all coaches, assistants, volunteers and paid coaches. 

It's an inclusive event open to everyone who identifies as a woman. Our equality and inclusion lead is lara.cooper@canoescotland.org - please get in touch if you have any questions.

Assistant Coaches Wanted

Glenmore Lodge are generously sponsoring 20 Assistant Coach spaces. Assistants are teamed up with a qualified coach for the weekend to support the delivery of the sessions. It is entirely up to you both to decide how you wish to work together. We expect that some assistant coaches might want to take on more of a lead role, others might want to take more of a back seat. Either of these options is fine, or anything in-between! The lead coach is obviously responsible for the session, as the more qualified of the two of you. These are not paid positions, but you will receive a free hoodie, and food and accommodation from Friday evening until Sunday afternoon. 

We are looking to select 20 aspiring (moderate or advanced) coaches for a range of sessions in Sea Kayak, White Water Kayak, Canoe, SUP, Rafting, and Rolling. You will need to be an SCA member, with valid First Aid, and Safeguarding training (or have the commitment to complete before the event). We will prioritise those who have made a start on their coaching journey (e.g. completed the Leadership prerequisite if there is one, and/or done the Core Coach Training etc.). But we welcome applications from anyone who is active and comfortable paddling in the moderate or advanced water environment. 

To get involved please APPLY HERE. 

Closing date is 14th November 2023. 

Lead Coaches Also Wanted

If you are a qualified and updated SCA Coach (in Sea, SUP, Surf, White Water Kayak, Canoe, or a qualified raft guide) and would like the opportunity to work at the event, please get in touch with Lara Cooper. We would love to welcome some news coaches at the next event. No need to get in touch if you worked the event last year, but please make sure the date is pencilled in your dairy! We are starting to staff the event now, so please do get in touch promptly if you’re keen.