Level 3, Sit-On-Top Coastal Kayak (SOTCK), is part of the intermediate level of the coastal kayak discipline. Coastal kayakers build upon foundational skills, increase their knowledge, and transition from sheltered water to more exposed paddling environments. The Level 3 SOTCK Instructor certification program equips sit-on-top coastal kayakers with teaching, assessing, and leadership skills to help students improve and provide safe and effective learning experiences in moderate water. Level 3 is an entry point in the Coastal Kayak instructor scheme. Still, it is more appropriate for paddlers with a higher skill set and some experience as an outdoor leader or educator, having the goal of teaching on the Great Lakes or coastal areas.
Passing a Level 3 SOTCK Skills Assessment is required before the start of instructor development. By the time of evaluation, candidates are expected to exceed the Level 3 skills and technical knowledge, including the “developing skills,” as identified in the Level 3 SOTCK Skills Assessment.
Instructor Candidates will focus on the instructing aspect of developing entry and intermediate-level kayaking skills for those who wish to learn sit-on-top kayaking in conditions up to and including Level 3 In general, Level 3 instructors can plan courses, deliver structured learning sessions, and incorporate activity-based learning. They use observation and analysis of component skills to provide feedback on students’ performance. Successful candidates will lead and teach in coastal environments where they may have to manage learning distractions, for example, wind, waves, or boat traffic. Level 3 workshops focus on planning, designing, and delivering of skills courses and assessments, as well as the roles and responsibilities of an ACA instructor.
Combined Instructor Development Workshop (IDW) and Instructor Certification Exam (ICE) or Instructor Certification Workshop (ICW)- minimum 5 days (40 hours).
Lakes or coastal waters with some exposure to mild wind and wave conditions, with regular access to landing areas and within 1.5 nautical miles from shore:
Students must demonstrate proficiency in at least 3 of the above conditions at some time during the workshop to receive certification.
5 Instructor Candidates : 1 Instructor Trainer; with an additional qualified assistant, the ratio can be 10 : 2. The maximum number of instructor candidates permitted is 10.
For additional details, see SEIC Policy Manual Chapter 6.