Read
the
river.
Advanced whitewater kayak coaching on grades 2, 3 and 4 — and open canoe on grade 2. Based in Chester, primarily in North Wales, with regular sessions in the Lakes, Dales, Brecon Beacons, and Highlands.
See what we offerCoaching
Grade 2 Kayak
The foundation of everything. Coaching at grade 2 is about becoming effective — making the right move at the right time, consistently. We build strokes and water-reading that hold up when it matters.
Grade 3 Kayak
At grade 3 the goal is efficiency — linking features smoothly, conserving energy, and reading the river far enough ahead to let the water do the work. We focus on transitions between moves, flow through rapids, and the timing that separates a competent paddler from a confident one.
Grade 4 Kayak
Grade 4 is about elegance — the precision and composure to make committing lines look unhurried. Coaching here refines decision-making, control of consequence, and finding stillness inside demanding water.
Grade 2 Open Canoe
Open canoe coaching on grade 2 moving water — solo or tandem. We focus on reading current, using eddies well, and developing the strokes to put the boat exactly where you intend it.
Trip & Group Assistance
Already have a trip planned with your group? I can join you and slot in wherever I’m most useful — safety cover, coaching on the move, or river knowledge. I open up options for the group without taking over the trip.
Bespoke Courses
Not sure which course fits, or after something built around your group’s specific goals? Get in touch and we’ll talk it through. Private coaching, mixed-ability groups, particular objectives — if you can describe it, we can usually make it work.
Expeditions
5 Days on
the Water
Five-day expeditions on some of the UK’s finest rivers — designed for paddlers who want to cover real mileage in remarkable landscapes and develop the river-reading and camp-craft skills that multi-day paddling demands.
Small groups, experienced leadership, and a proper adventure from first camp to final eddy.
Advanced coach.
I’m an advanced whitewater kayak coach based in Chester, with years of experience paddling and coaching across the UK and beyond. From introducing paddlers to their first moving water, to pushing experienced kayakers into grade 4 — I coach across the full range.
I work in small groups, come to where you want to paddle, and adapt to what your group actually needs on the day.
Additional Services
DofE Assessing
Qualified assessing for Duke of Edinburgh Award expeditions — both kayaking and walking. I understand what assessors need to see and work with participants and providers at all DofE levels.
Supervision & Course Leading
On-water supervision for schools, youth groups, and organisations. Competent, safety-conscious leadership so your group can focus on the experience.
Technical Adviser
As an advanced whitewater coach, I work with other providers to review risk assessments, operating procedures, and safety documentation — giving your paperwork a rigorous, experienced eye before it matters.
Let’s get
you on
the water.
Get in touch with a question, a booking enquiry, or just to find out what’s right for you. I’m Gareth Jones — drop me an email and I’ll come back to you within 24 hours.
booking@upstreampaddlesports.co.uk