Does getting out on the water fill you with excitement or dread? Some can’t wait to get their feet wet, while others need a gentler, more reassuring approach to reach their goals. Safe access to natural water for individuals, children and families offers a wealth of benefits, from confidence and team building to genuine proficiency in challenging sports. Starting by hosting outdoor watersports sessions, PTP Coaching has grown into something much farther-reaching. From a deep love of getting out on the water, Thomas, affectionately known as Tank, and his wife Pia have created a community-focused watersports ecosystem. From bases at Beckenham Place Park and Bewl Water, one of the South East’s largest and most scenic reservoirs, PTP Coaching provides equipment hire and guided on-water experiences as well as coaching and skill development. Offering lifeguard training, open water swimming, and paddleboard yoga sessions as well as paddleboard discovery and instructor courses, PTP welcomes individuals, schools and groups. As watersports grow in popularity, the company ensures participants are prepared and safe whether on or in the water. With over 30 years' experience in watersports, Tank’s practical experience is invaluable in developing operational frameworks, safety documentation and training pathways. Dedicated to building an organisation that balances commercial resilience with social values, he strives to ensure every element of the business supports access, education and progression in watersports. Co-founder Pia oversees day-to-day operations and coordinates teams, ensuring standards are maintained and aligned with PTP Coaching’s long-term vision. Tank tells us: “Pia is a visible and steady presence within the business, supporting staff, maintaining standards and ensuring that PTP’s familyled culture translates into a professional, welcoming and well-managed environment. She’s a guiding force of the company, keeping our community-driven values firmly at the centre of everything we deliver.” Through its Youth Development Scheme, a structured volunteering pathway for young people, the company creates genuine employment and progression routes offering skills training and qualifications. By offering real-world water safety education, PTP Coaching is sharing life-saving knowledge that extends into everyday life. By maintaining affordable pricing and continually developing its available facilities, the company is actively removing barriers to participation. Tank says: “Our goals have never changed and they never will. Keep water accessible, keep it safe and make sure everyone has the opportunity to benefit from it. We will continue to build on our success carefully, responsibly and with purpose.” Having officially transitioned to a not-for-profit organisation under PTP. org.uk, the company is now seeking funding to make its facilities more accessible. Contact: Thomas Philbey Company: PTP Coaching Ltd Web Address: https://www.ptp.org.uk/ Kent-based PTP Coaching Ltd is a family-run business with community at its heart. Offering a range of open water swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding sessions, the company has its outdoor base at Beckenham Place Park. Founded in 2017, PTP Coaching’s mission is to provide safe access to water in a structured, professional and inclusive way. We explore the company and its impact with director Thomas Philbey. Outdoor Sport Community Impact Organisation of the Year 2026
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