AWA Instructor Course Information

AWA/NCCP Instructor Courses are offered through he AWA by AWA/NCCP Course Conductors. These courses are 15 hours in duration and follow a specific Course Curriculum which is STANDARD whether or not your interest is recreational or competitive. It includes time spent in classroom, swimming pool, and open water. Candidates receive a Course Manual and other information about the AWA.

Candidates are REQUIRED to be knowledgeable and skilled to a level at least one AWA Skill Level above that which they are attempting to achieve. Candidates must satisfactorily demonstrate skills, practice-teach assigned skills, and pass a written exam to achieve the certification. For example, an AWA Basic / NCCP Tech. I candidate must be comfortable and safe on Grade II whitewater. The instructor candidates should no come into these courses looking for instruction on how to paddle - you are expected to already be able to perform at the required level.

There are TWO COMPONENTS to becoming an active instructor in Alberta.

1. Certification Part: You must have satisfactorily completed an AWA/NCCP Instructor Course in Alberta or have an NCCP Technical Certification from another province.
   
2. License Part: You must purchase an Instructor License (valid for THREE years) which includes becoming a member of the Alberta Whitewater Association and being covered by the AWA Liability Insurance Program.

CURRENTLY LICENSED Instructors who remain active, teaching at least one course a year, may RECERTIFY by submitting their personal log to the AWA Office for review by the Education Vice President. Following this review, and upon payment of the renewal fee, they continue as active instructors.

Instructors whose license has EXPIRED or who have NOT been active for TWO years must RECERTIFY. Notification of this need at the AWA Office will place your name on a list to participate in the periodically scheduled RECERTIFICATION Sessions.

For more information please contact:

Director of Paddler Development
Simon Coward
simon.coward@adventuretrippin.com