Junior Paddlesport

Junior Paddlesport is all about adventure, confidence, and fun on the water. Perfect for ages 8 and up, these sessions introduce young people to a range of paddle sports, from kayaking and canoeing to stand-up paddleboarding and rafting. Led by experienced instructors, every activity takes place in a safe, supportive environment where juniors can build skills, make friends, and enjoy being outdoors. Whether joining for a one-off taster or a full week of action, it’s the perfect way to go paddling and experience something new at Farmoor Reservoir.

Juniors paddling on the lake.

Junior Paddlesports Week (5-Day)

Dive into a week of fun on the water with OSTT’s Junior Paddlesports Week! Perfect for adventurous juniors, this week introduces a variety of paddlesports, including stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), kayaks, canoes, and rafting.

A youth paddling on the river.

Set in the beautiful surroundings of Farmoor Reservoir and run by our friendly team, this 1-hour session offers a safe, supportive, and fun experience. Children will learn basic paddling techniques, play water games, and build confidence, all under the guidance of qualified instructors and with top-quality equipment provided.

  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Age: 8+
  • All equipment provided
  • No previous experience required
  • Run by certified, DBS-checked instructors
  • Life jackets and safety briefing included
A youth standing on a board while in the river.

2 Hour Family Paddle Taster (8+)

Held at the Oxford Sail Training Trust’s calm and scenic base, this session is ideal for first-timers or families with younger paddlers. With stable kayaks, supportive instructors, and a focus on fun, you’ll paddle, play games, and maybe even spot some local wildlife, all while learning basic paddling skills along the way.

  • 2-hour guided kayak session
  • Designed for families and beginners
  • Fun games and gentle paddling
  • All equipment provided
  • Run by qualified, friendly instructors
  • Safety briefing and buoyancy aids included
Youths paddling on the river.

Starting from the Oxford Sail Training Trust base, we’ll take you across the water in one of our fast-powered RIBs, where you’ll find our access point to the river. You’ll glide along a quiet stretch of the Thames in stable, family-friendly kayaks, taking in beautiful scenery and spotting local wildlife along the way. Our experienced, friendly instructors will be with you throughout to offer tips, ensure safety, and keep the pace fun and relaxed.

  • 2-hour guided river paddle
  • Suitable for our more experienced paddlers
  • Family-friendly kayaks and all equipment provided
  • Led by qualified, DBS-checked instructors
  • Safety briefing and buoyancy aids included

FAQs for Junior Paddlesport


These sessions are designed for young people aged 8 and over. Activities are tailored to different experience levels, ensuring every participant feels comfortable and challenged in a positive way.

No experience is required. All Junior Paddlesport sessions are beginner-friendly, with full instruction and safety briefings provided before going on the water.

All essential equipment, including boats, paddles, and buoyancy aids, is supplied by OSTT. Participants should bring swimwear or quick-drying clothing and footwear suitable for water use.

Sailing boats in the sunset.

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