Claire Knifton

Background

My degree is in engineering, but I started kayaking whilst at Uni, with Southampton University Canoe Club, and that led instead into a career in the Outdoors.

Paddlesports guiding and coaching work has taken me to Canada, America, Norway and Iceland as well as around the UK. My outdoor career also led me into management positions within the Adventure Education sector, and an insight into the business aspects behind Adventure Tourism. I never did get around to being an engineer.

I am originally from Devon, in the West Country. Time spent in and exploring, the outdoors is important to me, and the reason for moving to the West Highlands twenty or so years ago. This is the area that I now call home.

Teaching Responsibilities

I run practical sessions across all years and courses; and I teach modules on the Adventure Performance and Coaching degree.

I also help out as and when required on a range of modules across the degrees

Academic Awards

B.Sc (Hons) Eng 2:1 in Aeronautics and Astronautics

Post Graduate Certificate in Education (Physics)

Chartered Management Institute,  Diploma in Management

NGB Awards

British Canoeing L5 Coach for Sea Kayak, and also Open Canoe

Coaching awards for White Water kayak; Open Water SUP and  White Water SUP

A provider for a range of British Canoeing leadership, safety, and coaching awards

I also have a few land-based NGBS  including Mountain Leader, Trail Cycle Leader,  Single Pitch Supervisor, and Orienteering Instrcutor

What is your main outdoor interest?

For me, it is spending time in the Highlands, exploring the varied land and sea-scapes by whatever means. There are always new challenges to set yourself, or new areas to explore. I invariably have a rescue collie or two with me, enjoying the journey.