Course assistant’s father taking initial step back (5)
I believe the answer is:
caddy
This clue could be a double definition.
'course assistant's father' is the first definition.
The answer and definition can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps you can see an association between them that I can't see?
'initial step back' is the second definition.
The definition and answer can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps there's an association between them I don't understand?
'taking' acts as a link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for caddy that I've seen before include "Tea box" , "In which Earl Grey may be" , "Give assistance to a professional" , "supplier of tea" , "Assistant for one wanting a good round" .)