RYA Training Stages
We run the RYA courses from May until July on Saturday mornings. Please contact the office in order to discuss your needs and to book a place. Based on ages sailors sail either Optimist, Pico or Topper boats.
Beginners attend a two pre-course sessions, which allows us to cover the basics of helming, rigging boats and sailing.
What to Wear: We provide buoyancy aids for all young sailors as standard..It is important when sailing to wear warm wind-proof clothing. We have a limited selection of wet-suits, but it is better to obtain your own, or hire from next door. During summer months a hat should be worn and sun-cream should be used to avoid issues with the sun. Suitable footwear must be worn, avoid foot injuries.
Stage 1 is the first sailing step on the ladder for sailing. We instruct in a safe controlled environment and teach using a variety of techniques the children so that they can helm their boat in a safe manner, avoiding collisions. We normally use Optimist boats, but will also use other boats dependant upon an individuals needs, or weather. Completion of this stage ensures that a child will know how to rig a boat ( with help), can safely control and helm a boat and will have started learning simple ropework.
Stage 2: At the end of this stage a young sailor will be well on the way to being a competent, happy, safe sailor. As a result they will have good theoretical and practical sailing skills.
Stage 3: At this stage a sailor will have a good understanding of wind direction and how to utilise it. They will also be able to rig and lauch a boat without assistance, as they are in their own right a competent sailor.
Stage 4:This stage provides builds on a sailors skills and means that they can solve problems whilst afloat. They will also be able to helm double handed boats.