Find Your Flow
The Core Team
MEET THE PTP TEAM
We're a team of outdoor enthusiasts, experienced instructors and friendly faces who love what we do.
From getting beginners confidently onto the water to helping others develop their skills, we bring years of experience, plenty of enthusiasm and a shared passion for making watersports accessible to everyone.
You'll find us across South East London, Kent and Sussex, creating safe, welcoming spaces where people can learn, have fun and feel part of something.
We're more than a watersports company. We're a community, and we'd love you to be part of it.
Tank
With over 30 years in watersports and more than
20 years working in the industry, Thomas “Tank” Philbey brings a wealth of experience to
PTP.
Starting out as a trainee instructor and working his way through to centre management, Tank
knows the industry inside out. From open water swimming and paddlesports to powerboating, coaching and safety, he's as comfortable out on the water as he is making things happen behind the scenes.
In 2017, he co-founded PTP with a clear ambition: to make watersports more accessible, welcoming and professionally delivered for everyone.
Tank has also been instrumental in developing the wider PTP Collective, building the structure, systems and long-term strategy that allow the organisation to grow while staying true to its community values.
For Tank, it's about more than getting people on the water. It's about creating opportunities, building confidence and making sure everyone has the chance to get involved.
Pia
As Co-Founder of PTP, Pia is the person who keeps everything running smoothly, bringing together the people, planning and organisation that make it all happen.
Working closely with Tank, she oversees day-to-day operations, supports the team and makes sure everything runs to the high standards PTP is known for.
Pia has also played a key role in developing the wider PTP Collective, helping shape its structure, systems and future direction while keeping its community values at the heart of the business.
With a hands-on approach and a real understanding of what makes PTP tick, Pia brings a balance of organisation, leadership and genuine care for the people involved.
For Pia, it's about making sure PTP doesn't just run well, but feels welcoming, supportive and accessible to everyone who comes through its doors.
Adam
Adam has been part of PTP at Beckenham Place Park Lake since day one and is now the Site Manager, keeping everything running smoothly both on and off the water.
With a background in woodcraft and tree surgery, Adam brings plenty of practical experience, a love of the outdoors and a hands-on approach to everything he does.
From managing the team and keeping sessions safe to making sure visitors have a great experience, Adam is a familiar and trusted face around the lake.
He's particularly popular with younger visitors attending the Activity Clubs, where his calm, friendly approach helps children build confidence, learn new skills and enjoy their time on the water.
For Adam, it's about creating a safe, welcoming place where people of all ages can get outdoors, get involved and have fun.
Danielle
Danielle plays a crucial role at PTP as the Chief Admin person. With a no-nonsense approach, she ensures that everything gets done, especially when the rest of the team is too busy to sit down and focus on the administrative side of things. Operating in the background, Danielle keeps things running smoothly, making sure that all tasks are completed efficiently. You may often see her around the sites, making sure everything is on track and organised.
Wills
For the 2026 season at Bewl Water, Will steps into the role of Second in Charge with PTP.
Will’s background comes from the structured leadership environment of the Sea Cadets, where discipline, seamanship and water safety form the foundation of training.
This early grounding has shaped his calm operational approach and strong emphasis on standards, teamwork and responsibility on the water.
Over recent years, Will has expanded his professional pathway within paddlesports and sailing. He has developed his coaching practice across stand up paddleboarding, kayak and canoe disciplines, and holds recognition as a Senior Sailing Instructor. His experience spans youth development, instructional delivery and operational safety management within busy water-based environments.
At Bewl Water, Will will support site leadership, oversee session delivery standards, mentor seasonal staff and contribute to maintaining safe, efficient daily operations. His combined background in cadet leadership and instructor development brings both structure and progression to the 2026 team.
Will
For the 2026 season at Bewl Water, Will steps into the role of Second in Charge with PTP.
Will’s background comes from the structured leadership environment of the Sea Cadets, where discipline, seamanship and water safety form the foundation of training. This early grounding has shaped his calm operational approach and strong emphasis on standards, teamwork and responsibility on the water.
Over recent years, Will has expanded his professional pathway within paddlesports and sailing. He has developed his coaching practice across stand up paddleboarding, kayak and canoe disciplines, and holds recognition as a Senior Sailing Instructor. His experience spans youth development, instructional delivery and operational safety management within busy water-based environments.
At Bewl Water, Will will support site leadership, oversee session delivery standards, mentor seasonal staff and contribute to maintaining safe, efficient daily operations. His combined background in cadet leadership and instructor development brings both structure and progression to the 2026 team.
Ian
Known around PTP as “The Man”, Ian is our go-to expert for all things paddleboarding.
From choosing the right board to mastering your technique, Ian knows his stuff. With years of experience and a genuine passion for the sport, he brings plenty of knowledge, energy and enthusiasm to every session.
Whether you're stepping onto a paddleboard for the first time or looking to improve your skills, Ian has a knack for making things simple, building confidence and helping you get the most out of your time on the water.
His friendly, practical approach means you'll leave with new skills, useful tips and probably a few things you never knew about paddleboarding!
If you want to improve your paddleboarding, Ian's your man
