GDPR & PRIVACY POLICY

London Kayak School Ltd
London Kayak School Access to Adventure CIC

Introduction

London Kayak School (LKS) Ltd and London Kayak School Access to Adventure CIC (LKS ATA) are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring your personal information is handled securely and in compliance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.

This privacy notice explains how we collect, use and protect personal information before, during and after your engagement with our courses, activities, programmes, or membership.

This notice applies to participants, staff, volunteers, club members, parents/guardians, partner organisations and anyone who registers or interacts with our services.

Joint Controllers

London Kayak School Ltd and London Kayak School Access to Adventure CIC act as Joint Data Controllers. This means both organisations jointly determine how and why your personal data is processed and information may be shared where necessary for the safe and effective delivery of our services.

Joint Controller Responsibilities (Article 26 UK GDPR)

We have agreed the following responsibilities between us:

  • London Kayak School Ltd manages personal data relating to commercial bookings, paid courses, qualifications, and general customer enquiries.

  • London Kayak School Access to Adventure CIC manages personal data for funded community programmes, referrals, partner programmes and grant reporting.

  • Any request relating to your data (including Subject Access Requests) may be made to either organisation and will be handled jointly and consistently.

References to “we”, “us”, or “our” in this notice refer to both organisations.

Personal Data We May Collect

Depending on the services or activities you register for, we may collect:

Personal Contact Details

  • Name, title, address, email address, telephone number.

Demographic Information

  • Date of birth and age (for accurate registration, supervision, safeguarding, and programme eligibility).

Records of Interactions

  • Correspondence, emails, calls, booking details, instructions and feedback.

Activity & Participation Records

  • Attendance at sessions, courses, qualifications, competitions, camps and events.

Emergency Contact Information

  • Next of kin or emergency contact details.

Photographs and Media

  • Photos or videos, only used for promotional purposes if you have given explicit consent.

Membership Information

  • Paddle UK / British Canoeing membership details where relevant for qualifications.

Special Categories of Personal Data

We may process more sensitive data, including:

Health Information

  • Medical conditions, allergies, injuries, dietary needs, disabilities and Special Educational Needs (SEN), for safety and risk management.

Criminal Records Information

  • Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks for staff, volunteers and coaches where legally required.

Legal Basis for Special Category Data

We process special category data using:

  • Substantial Public Interest (e.g., safeguarding, supporting vulnerable individuals).

  • Health & Social Care Purposes (to ensure safe participation in activities).

  • Vital Interests (emergencies where health information must be shared).

  • Explicit Consent (e.g., photos or optional research data).

How We Collect Personal Information

We typically collect personal information when:

  • You register for a course, trip, club membership or qualification.

  • You book services or make an inquiry.

  • You correspond with us by email, phone, online forms or in person.

  • You participate in community or partner programmes.

  • Your information is provided by a parent/guardian for children.

  • A partner organisation refers you to a funded or supported programme.

Emergency Contact Details

If you give us someone else’s details, you confirm you have informed them that we will hold their information for emergency purposes and direct them to this privacy notice.

Lawful Bases for Processing Your Personal Data

Under UK GDPR, we process your data using the following lawful bases:

1. Contract – Article 6(1)(b)

To deliver the services you have booked, including:

  • Courses, trips and activities

  • Club membership

  • Qualifications and assessments

  • Essential communications

2. Legal Obligation – Article 6(1)(c)

To comply with:

  • HMRC financial record requirements

  • Safeguarding legislation

  • DBS checking requirements

  • AALA regulations

  • Accident reporting laws

  • Health & Safety requirements

3. Legitimate Interests – Article 6(1)(f)

For operational purposes, including:

  • Internal administration

  • Ensuring safety and risk management

  • Programme development

  • Essential service-related communication
    We conduct Legitimate Interest Assessments where required.

4. Consent – Article 6(1)(a)

For optional processing, including:

  • Promotional photography

  • Marketing communications

  • Optional surveys or research

    You may withdraw consent at any time.

5. Vital Interests – Article 6(1)(d)

To protect your life or wellbeing in an emergency.

How We Use Your Information

We may use your personal information to:

  • Deliver courses, trips, programmes and qualifications.

  • Ensure safety, risk management and safeguarding.

  • Register and verify qualifications with the British Canoeing Awarding Body (BCAB) or Paddle UK.

  • Provide appropriate support or reasonable adjustments.

  • Manage bookings, payments and customer enquiries.

  • Communicate important operational updates relating to your booking.

  • Where consent is given, notify you of future opportunities or similar activities.

  • Meet regulatory, insurance or legal requirements.

  • Evaluate and improve our services.

Who We Share Your Information With

We may share your data with:

  • British Canoeing / Paddle UK – for qualification registration and verification.

  • AALA (Adventure Activities Licensing Authority) – for regulatory purposes.

  • External assessors and qualified instructors – when specialist skills are required.

  • Partner organisations / charities – for co-delivered or jointly funded programmes.

  • Funding bodies – for reporting and evaluation (anonymised where possible).

  • Emergency services – when necessary to protect life or safety.

  • Police or safeguarding authorities – when required for investigations.

  • Regulatory bodies (e.g., HMRC, ICO) – where legally required.

We will never sell your data.

International Transfers

If an international trip or programme requires sharing limited personal data with organisations outside the UK (e.g., emergency services, accommodation providers), we ensure appropriate safeguards are in place, such as:

  • UK adequacy regulations

  • Standard Contractual Clauses

  • Contractual and organisational safeguards

How We Protect Your Data

We take appropriate technical and organisational measures to protect your information, including:

  • Encrypted cloud storage and secure systems

  • Password-protected and access-controlled data

  • Staff training in data protection and safeguarding

  • Secure disposal of paper and digital records

  • Regular data protection reviews and audits

  • Restricted access based on staff roles and need

Only individuals who need your information to perform their role will be granted access.

How Long We Keep Your Personal Data

We only keep your personal information for as long as necessary:

  • Financial and booking records: 6 years after the end of the relevant financial year.

  • Adult participation records: 6 years after your last interaction.

  • Children’s records: Date of Birth + 25 years (safeguarding and legal requirements).

  • Accident/incident reports: As required by law (typically 25 years).

  • Qualification records: Retained long-term to verify lifelong awards.

  • Marketing consent: Until you withdraw consent.

After these periods, data is securely deleted or destroyed.

Your Rights Under UK GDPR

You have the right to:

  • Be informed about how your data is used.

  • Access your personal data (Subject Access Request).

  • Rectify inaccurate or incomplete data.

  • Erase your data in certain circumstances.

  • Restrict processing of your data.

  • Object to processing based on legitimate interests.

  • Data portability, where applicable.

  • Object to automated decision-making, though we do not use it.

More information about your rights is available from the ICO: https://ico.org.uk/for-the-public/

Your Right to Complain to the ICO

If you are unhappy with how we have handled your personal information, you have the right to complain to:

Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO)
Wycliffe House, Water Lane, Wilmslow, Cheshire, SK9 5AF
Helpline: 0303 123 1113
Website: https://ico.org.uk

We encourage you to contact us first so we can attempt to resolve your concerns.

Contacting Us

Data Protection Lead
Email: mike@londonkayakschool.com

Postal Address:
London Kayak School
Flat 8 Providence Tower
Bermondsey Wall West
London
SE16 4US

 

Join Course Waitlist We will inform you if additional spaces are available on the course. Please leave your valid email address below.
Timmy Hill, Freestyle Kayaker & Aspiring Coach

Timmy Hill

Timmy grew up paddling alongside Mike and has quickly developed into a talented freestyle kayaker. A junior medalist in freestyle in 2023, he is now working towards his coaching qualifications, eager to share his passion and growing expertise with others.

Known for his friendly and welcoming nature, Timmy brings a positive energy to every session. His enthusiasm for the sport is contagious, making him a fantastic role model for aspiring paddlers. Whether supporting beginners or refining his own skills, he is always ready to encourage others and help them build confidence on the water.

As he continues his journey toward becoming a qualified coach, Timmy is already a valued member of the London Kayak School team, bringing both skill and an infectious love for the sport to every paddling session.

Sam Wilson, Freestyle, K1, C1 & Squirt Boating Coach

Sam Wilson

Sam is a highly skilled paddler with expertise across multiple disciplines, including freestyle, K1, C1, and squirt boating. His technical knowledge and versatility make him a valuable coach for paddlers looking to refine their skills across different styles of kayaking.

Known for his boundless enthusiasm and ever-present smile, Sam brings an infectious energy to every session. His passion for the sport is evident in his dynamic coaching style, ensuring that every paddler feels engaged, motivated, and excited to push their limits.

Whether helping students master freestyle tricks, develop precise control in K1 and C1, or explore the finesse of squirt boating, Sam’s ability to create a fun and supportive learning environment makes him a standout member of the London Kayak School coaching team. His combination of expertise and positivity ensures that every session is both rewarding and packed with excitement.

Alan Ward - Freestyle & White Water Kayak Coach

Alan Ward

Alan is a GB Freestyle Team member and a Junior World Champion, bringing elite-level experience to his coaching at London Kayak School. With a deep technical understanding of both freestyle and white water kayaking, he is dedicated to helping paddlers refine their skills and push their limits on the water.

As a coach on our freestyle and white water weekends, Alan shares his expertise with aspiring paddlers, breaking down advanced techniques in a way that is both accessible and inspiring. His competitive background gives him a unique insight into high-performance paddling, while his approachable and supportive teaching style ensures that students of all levels feel encouraged to progress.

With a passion for developing the next generation of freestyle and white water kayakers, Alan’s coaching combines world-class knowledge with a genuine enthusiasm for the sport, making him a valued and inspiring mentor at London Kayak School.

Gav Barker, White Water & Freestyle Kayak Coach

Gav Barker

Gav is a highly accomplished paddler who has represented Great Britain for many years, excelling in both white water and freestyle kayaking. With a wealth of experience on challenging rivers and in high-level competition, he brings a deep technical understanding of the sport to his coaching.

Renowned for his calm, attentive, and confident coaching style, Gav creates an environment where paddlers feel supported and encouraged to progress at their own pace. His top-tier guiding skills ensure that students not only develop their technique but also gain the confidence to navigate dynamic water safely and effectively.

Whether helping paddlers master freestyle moves or refine their white water skills, Gav’s experience and steady leadership make him an invaluable part of the London Kayak School coaching team. His ability to instil confidence and inspire improvement ensures that every student leaves the water with new skills and a greater passion for the sport.

Tom Diamond, Freestyle & White Water Kayak Coach

Tom Diamond

Tom discovered his passion for kayaking in London, where he developed a love for both freestyle and white water paddling. His enthusiasm for the sport is matched by his hands-on coaching style—he leads by example and is never afraid to get wet, ensuring his students feel supported and motivated to push their limits.

With a focus on progression and enjoyment, Tom creates an environment where paddlers can develop their skills with confidence while having fun on the water. His energetic approach and ability to break down techniques make him an inspiring coach for those looking to improve their freestyle tricks or tackle the challenges of white water.

Tom’s dedication to his students, combined with his technical expertise and infectious enthusiasm, makes him a valued member of the London Kayak School coaching team, helping paddlers of all levels grow their abilities and passion for the sport.

Hassla Plaistow, LKS Coach & Youth Mentor

Hassla Plaistow

Hassla began her kayaking journey on the tidal waters of the Thames in central London, developing a deep connection to the sport in an urban setting. Her passion for paddling quickly grew, and she now dedicates her time to giving back by volunteering with Downside Fisher Youth Club, one of London Kayak School’s key project partners.

Known for her ever-present smile and warm, encouraging nature, Hassla is deeply committed to supporting young paddlers as they develop their confidence and skills on the water. Her patience and enthusiasm make her a fantastic mentor, ensuring that every session is both fun and rewarding.

Through her dedication to coaching and community engagement, Hassla plays a vital role in inspiring the next generation of paddlers, helping them build a lifelong love for the sport.

Kadeem McFarlane, LKS Coach & Youth Mentor

Kadeem McFarlane

Kadeem discovered his love for kayaking on the Tidal Thames in central London, where he began his journey under the guidance of Mike. Over the years, he honed his skills through annual white water trips, developing a passion for the thrill of running rapids, surfing waves, and executing freestyle tricks—especially when the sun is shining!

Deeply committed to giving back to the sport that has shaped him, Kadeem volunteers his time with Downside Fisher Youth Club, a project partner of London Kayak School. Through his mentorship, he inspires the next generation of paddlers, fostering a love for the water and a sense of adventure among young people.

Kadeem is also a regular supporter of the Adult White Water Progression Camps, where his infectious enthusiasm, big grin, and laid-back attitude create a welcoming and motivating atmosphere for paddlers. His dedication to both coaching and community work makes him a valued member of the LKS team, helping others to thrive both on and off the water.

Isobel Ollard, LKS Kayak Coach & Environmental Specialist

Isobel Ollard

Isobel holds a PhD in ecology and is deeply passionate about both kayaking and environmental conservation. She brings a unique perspective to London Kayak School, blending her academic expertise with her love for the outdoors to inspire both students and fellow paddlers.

Her deep understanding of ecosystems and waterways enhances her coaching, offering paddlers a broader appreciation of the natural environments they explore. Whether she’s guiding students through technical skills on the water or sharing insights into river conservation, Isobel’s knowledge and enthusiasm make her an invaluable part of the LKS team.

With a keen interest in sustainability and outdoor education, she is dedicated to promoting responsible paddling practices and fostering a connection between sport and environmental stewardship. Isobel’s ability to combine science with adventure makes her a truly inspiring coach, helping others develop their skills while gaining a greater appreciation for the world around them.

Amelia Lam, LKS White Water & Freestyle Kayak Coach

Amelia Lam

Amelia is a highly skilled white water and freestyle kayaker with a deep passion for helping others develop their confidence and technique on the water. With a patient and encouraging coaching style, she ensures that every paddler progresses at their own pace, creating a supportive and enjoyable learning environment.

Her expertise spans both white water and freestyle disciplines, allowing her to tailor her coaching to meet the needs of each individual, whether they are new to the sport or looking to refine advanced skills. Amelia’s calm, positive approach makes her an excellent mentor, helping paddlers push their limits while feeling secure and motivated.

Dedicated to fostering a love for kayaking in others, Amelia is a valued member of the London Kayak School coaching team, known for her ability to bring out the best in every paddler she works with.

John McShane, LKS Youth Coach & Outdoor Enthusiast

John McShane

John is a passionate outdoor enthusiast with a love for water sports and climbing. As a key coach for London Kayak School’s regular youth group, he plays a vital role in inspiring and developing the next generation of paddlers. His energetic and engaging teaching style helps young paddlers build confidence on the water while ensuring every session is fun, educational, and rewarding.

With a natural ability to connect with students, John creates an encouraging environment where young paddlers feel supported in developing their skills. His enthusiasm for adventure extends beyond kayaking, making him a fantastic role model both on and off the water.

John’s dedication to coaching and his ability to make learning enjoyable have made him a firm favourite among the youth paddling community, helping them grow in ability and passion for the sport.

Shahid, LKS Coach & British Canoeing National Trainer

Shahid Wahab

Shahid is a highly experienced and dedicated coach across multiple paddlesport disciplines, with a background as a qualified school teacher who has taught in diverse environments around the world. His passion for white water kayaking was refined on the challenging rivers of South America, where he developed his technical expertise and deep appreciation for the sport. In addition to kayaking, he is an enthusiastic stand-up paddleboarder (SUP) and enjoys escaping into nature for quiet weekends of wild camping.

As a British Canoeing Awarding Body (BCAB) national trainer, Shahid plays a key role in delivering a wide range of BCAB qualifications, setting the highest standards in coaching and instruction. His calm, measured teaching style ensures that every student feels supported, making him an outstanding mentor for those looking to advance their skills.

With a reputation for excellence, Shahid brings clarity, professionalism, and a passion for outdoor learning to every session. His ability to break down complex concepts with precision and ease makes him one of the best in the field, setting the A1 Gold standard for coaching and certification delivery.

Fiona Denvir

Fiona’s passion for the water began in her childhood, paddling along the canals of Edinburgh. With a strong foundation in kayaking and canoeing, she specialises in coaching beginner and intermediate paddlers, helping them build confidence and refine their skills in a supportive and encouraging environment. Her patient and approachable teaching style ensures that every student feels comfortable and empowered as they progress.

Beyond her expertise in paddlesports, Fiona brings a wealth of knowledge from her work at Kew Gardens, where her deep understanding of plant life adds another dimension to her love for the outdoors. She is also an accomplished sprint canoe paddler, an active Scout leader, and an avid climber, embodying a true spirit of adventure both on and off the water.

Fiona’s diverse skill set, combined with her enthusiasm for teaching and the natural world, makes her a valued and inspiring member of the London Kayak School coaching team.

Mike Shaw, founder and head coach of London Kayak School

Mike Shaw

Mike is the founder and head coach of London Kayak School, bringing over 25 years of experience in kayaking and a lifelong passion for the sport. His journey began in scouting, where he first discovered his love for paddling, which soon evolved into a deep commitment to white water and freestyle kayaking.

As the head coach of LKS and a coach for the GB Freestyle Team, Mike combines his extensive technical knowledge with a coaching style that is both inspiring and approachable. His ability to break down complex skills into clear, practical steps ensures that paddlers of all levels can progress confidently under his guidance.

Mike is dedicated to fostering a strong paddling community, helping students not only develop their abilities on the water but also build confidence and a love for adventure. His enthusiasm, expertise, and unwavering commitment to the sport make him an invaluable leader at London Kayak School.

Matt Stephenson

Matt is a highly accomplished canoeist, boasting multiple world medals in C1 freestyle and representing Great Britain at the highest level of competition. With a deep-rooted passion for canoeing and white water sports, he brings a wealth of experience and technical expertise to his coaching role.

As a lead coach on the Adult White Water Programme, Matt is dedicated to helping paddlers of all abilities refine their skills and build confidence on the water. His coaching approach combines expert knowledge with an engaging and supportive teaching style, ensuring every participant feels encouraged and challenged.

Beyond his technical abilities, Matt is known for his infectious enthusiasm, warm and approachable personality, and genuine love for the outdoors. His ability to create a fun and inclusive learning environment makes him a firm favourite among students, inspiring them to push their limits while enjoying every moment on the water.

Michael Shaw

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