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Paddlers seen from behind on a water-based expedition
DofE · canoe & kayak expeditions

Confidence for parents.
Independence for them.

Practical information for parents and carers about GoSport DofE paddlesport training, personal kit, preparation and expedition communication.

Plan your DofE programmeView the kit guide
Expedition AAPGoSport’s licensed DofE section
Bronze · Silver · GoldCanoe and kayak programmes
Your group. Your programme.Training, preparation and support
For parents & carers

What to expect.

  • Training helps the team build paddling confidence and learn practical expedition skills.
  • Participants share the work: planning, navigating, packing, cooking and looking after camp.
  • The expedition is intended to build independence, with supervision and support arrangements explained in advance.
  • Joining information confirms the programme, meeting points, timings, kit and contact arrangements.
A meal cooking on an expedition camping stove

Help them prepare, one step at a time.

Read the kit list together and check what is already available before buying anything. Practise packing so the participant knows where everything goes and what needs to stay dry.

Encourage the team to plan food they can prepare with the shared equipment. The joining information confirms the final arrangements, including water, food and any dietary requirements.

Share relevant support or medical information through the process agreed with the organiser. If you are unsure about an item of kit or an aspect of the programme, contact GoSport before the expedition.

Read the kit guideCommon questions
Map and waterproof equipment secured to a kayak

Communication while they are away.

The organiser provides the agreed contact and emergency arrangements before departure. Follow those arrangements during the programme so the right people receive messages promptly.

Phone use and access to updates vary with the expedition plan. Confirm the arrangements with the organiser rather than assuming participants will be available throughout the day.

A useful final check

Before they set off.

Read together

Joining information, kit list, meeting points and collection arrangements.

Pack together

Label items, check clothing and footwear, and let the participant practise packing.

Confirm the essentials

Food arrangements, relevant support information and the organiser’s contact process.

Your next step

Let’s shape your expedition.

Tell us the award level, group numbers, paddling experience and preferred dates. We’ll discuss training, suitable locations, equipment and a tailored quotation.

Start your DofE enquiryEmail the team

Your enquiry starts a conversation. Dates, route, programme and final arrangements are agreed with GoSport and your DofE leader.