Get Your IKO Certification to Teach Kiteboarding Around the World: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you're a passionate kiter looking to explore beautiful kite spots around the world without spending loads of money, then becoming an IKO certified kiteboard instructor might be for you! The International Kiteboarding Organization (IKO) offers a structured series of courses designed to cater to individuals at various skill levels in the realm of kitesurfing. These courses are meticulously crafted to provide comprehensive training and certification.

After three years of riding, I decided to take the next step and become a certified kitesurfing instructor myself. Here's a guide based on my experience to help you navigate the process of obtaining your IKO certification.

Once you get your certification, make sure to check out our article for tips on how to find an instructor job and things to consider before you book that flight!

Here's a video from IKO that gives you a more in-depth look of what it's like to be an instructor!

Master Your Kitesurfing Skills

Before pursuing IKO certification, ensure you have a strong foundation in kitesurfing. Spend time perfecting your techniques, understanding safety protocols, and gaining experience in various weather conditions. Ensure you are proficient in all aspects of the sport, from advanced kite control to executing maneuvers with finesse. A solid foundation is crucial for imparting knowledge effectively to your future students.

Find an IKO-Affiliated Training Center

Look for an IKO-affiliated training center offering Instructor Training Courses (ITC). Search for schools in your area or at popular kitesurfing destinations. There is an age minimum, so anyone under 16 can't unfortunately be certified. I opted to take my course in Belgium since I wanted to do the course in French, so I researched reputable centers there. Ensure the center follows IKO's curriculum, standards, and is recognized by the organization.

Enroll in an IKO Instructor Training Course (ITC)

Enrolling in an ITC was the pivotal step in my journey. There are different levels of courses available, which covered teach methodologies, safety standards, rescue techniques, and instructional skills. The training was intensive, both theoretically and practically, providing insights into effective teaching methods.

I personally combined the assistant instructor course and the IKO Instructor Level 1 courses and did them back to back. In total, it took about 10 days and included some practical teaching experience.

Having the Instructor Level 1 certification allows me to teach in most places, as they are recognized internationally, providing a standardized and reputable qualification for kitesurfers and instructors alike.

Here are the different courses available:

Assistant Instructor Course

Aspiring instructors start with the Assistant Instructor Course, where they learn teaching methodologies, safety protocols, and gain practical experience under the guidance of certified instructors. With this certification, you can assist an instructor, but you can't teach independent courses.

IKO Instructor Level 1 Course

Building on the Assistant Instructor certification, this course focuses on honing teaching skills, lesson planning, and effective communication. Instructors at this level are qualified to lead kitesurfing lessons independently with one kite in the air at a time.

IKO Instructor Level 2 and Level 3 Courses

These advanced courses cater to experienced instructors seeking higher-level certifications. Instructors at Level 2 and Level 3 possess the expertise to teach more specialized skills and advanced techniques. I haven't taken my level 2 or 3, but with this level of certification, you can have more than one kite flying in the air while teaching.

Complete Certification Requirements for IKO Instructor Level 1:

Here's what to expect during your IKO instructor level 1 certification course. While it may look like a long list, you should be able complete everything during the duration of your level 1 certification course:

Teaching Experience

IKO requires a certain number of teaching hours under the supervision of a certified instructor or within an IKO-affiliated center. This hands-on experience allows aspiring instructors to apply their knowledge in real teaching scenarios, improving their instructional skills and ensuring familiarity with safety protocols.

Practical Assessments

Candidates are evaluated on their practical skills in kitesurfing instruction. This includes demonstrating proficiency in teaching techniques, safety procedures, proper use of equipment, and effective communication with students. Assessors often observe candidates during lessons or conduct simulated teaching scenarios to gauge their abilities.

Theoretical Knowledge

A comprehensive understanding of theoretical aspects is essential. Candidates may need to pass written exams or assessments covering topics such as kiteboarding techniques, meteorology (weather patterns and wind conditions), safety guidelines, rescue procedures, equipment knowledge, and teaching methodologies.

First Aid and Safety Certifications

Instructors are typically required to hold valid first aid and CPR certifications, ensuring they can handle emergency situations effectively. Additionally, a deep understanding and practice of safety protocols in kitesurfing are crucial, including self-rescue techniques, managing risks, and ensuring student safety at all times.

IKO Standards and Code of Conduct

Candidates must adhere to IKO standards and a code of conduct, which emphasizes professionalism, ethical behavior, and responsibility toward students' safety and well-being. Familiarity and compliance with these standards are integral to obtaining certification.

Documentation and Fees

Candidates are required to submit necessary documentation verifying their teaching experience, certifications, completed courses, and other relevant qualifications. Additionally, payment of certification fees to IKO is usually part of the process. Please note that you will need to pay your IKO fee every year in order to keep your certification. If you miss a year, you'll have to take your courses all over again, so it's probably best to pay the $70 (basic plan) even if you're not planning to teach for the year.

Evaluation and Approval

Upon fulfilling all requirements and submitting the necessary documentation, IKO evaluates the candidate's qualifications. Once the candidate's skills, knowledge, and experience align with IKO's standards, approval for certification as a kitesurfing instructor is granted.

Obtain IKO Certification

After meeting all criteria and receiving approval from IKO, I proudly earned my official certification as an IKO Kiteboarding Instructor. This recognition validated my dedication and commitment to safe and effective kitesurfing instruction.

Becoming an IKO certified kitesurfing instructor has been a rewarding journey. From mastering the waves at my home spot in Brittany to pursuing certification in Belgium, and teaching in beautiful places such as Thailand and Greece, the process has enriched my passion for kitesurfing while allowing me to share this incredible sport with others. If teaching kitesurfing is your dream, follow these steps and embrace the thrill of becoming a certified instructor