sylwia
Had great experience, Max was knowledgeable and very helpful. All went smoothly and loved every bit of it !
Progressing beyond Dinghy Instructor, this RYA Senior Instructor course focuses on leadership, organisation, and delivering high-quality sailing sessions within a busy training environment. Over four full days, you’ll build the skills needed to supervise instructors, manage courses, and take responsibility for safe, effective activity delivery on the water.
Early stages of the course focus on understanding the role of a Senior Instructor within a training centre. Sessions cover how courses are planned, how instructors are supported, and how standards are maintained across multiple groups on the water. Time is spent discussing best practice, communication, and how to manage varied abilities within a single programme.
As the course progresses, candidates take a more active role in running water-based sessions. You’ll be assessed continuously while organising activities, supervising instructors, and responding to real-time challenges. Powerboat handling is developed further, with emphasis on positioning, safety oversight, and supporting learning rather than simply driving skills.
Assessment is ongoing throughout the four days rather than concentrated into a single test. Feedback is given regularly, allowing you to adjust, improve, and demonstrate consistency in leadership, judgement, and delivery by the end of the course.
Training takes place in Poole Harbour, offering a practical setting for leadership-focused sailing courses. The sheltered water allows multiple groups to operate safely at once, making it ideal for developing supervision and management skills.
Onshore facilities support planning sessions, briefings, and debriefs, giving space to reflect on delivery and discuss centre-wide decision-making.
Candidates must be aged 18 or over and already hold the RYA Dinghy Instructor qualification and RYA Safety Boat. A valid First Aid certificate and RYA Safe and Fun Safeguarding are also required before attending.
This course is aimed at experienced instructors with significant background knowledge, typically gained through at least two years of part-time instructing or one year full-time. Confidence working within a busy centre environment is expected.
Instruction is delivered by highly experienced trainers who understand the realities of running active watersports centres. The course goes beyond theory, focusing on practical leadership skills that translate directly into real-world instructing roles.
Small groups ensure everyone has time to take responsibility, receive feedback, and develop at a steady pace. The supportive environment encourages open discussion, reflection, and steady progression into senior instructional roles.
The car parking area at Rockley Point is owned and administered by Rockley Park and not ourselves. Charges are made for car parking (half price if you are taking a course with us) and do not apply if you are simply picking up or dropping off others on courses with Rockley Watersports.
We guarantee to give you the training and do our very best to help you pass the training and assessments. The crtificate depends on you demonstrating your competence, so we can’t give you a firm guarantee that you will pass. However, if the worst comes to the worst, you’ll leave us with an action plan to complete.
Each day typically starts at 9.30 AM and finishes around 4.30 PM. These times may vary slightly based on weather conditions and specific training needs. Participants are encouraged to arrive early to prepare for the day’s activities.
Upon registration, you will receive a detailed kit list. Generally, you should bring comfortable, weather-appropriate sailing attire, sunscreen, a water bottle, and any personal sailing gear you prefer using, although standard equipment is provided.
The minimum age requirement is 18. There is no maximum age limit, but participants should be physically able to handle the demands of sailing and teaching on the water.
While accommodation is not included in the course fee, the centre located near a variety of lodging options ranging from budget-friendly hostels to more comfortable hotels. We can provide recommendations based on your preferences and budget. There is also on-site accommodation, subject to availability, at an additional fee.
As a Senior Instructor, you will be responsible for the oversight of sailing courses, managing other instructors, ensuring safety protocols are adhered to, and maintaining high standards of sailing instruction at your centre.
The course focuses on advanced skills such as managing multiple sailing sessions, enhancing your teaching techniques, leadership development, centre management, and effective use of powerboats in a teaching environment.
Aside from the RYA Dinghy Instructor qualification and experience, you must have passed the RYA Pre Entry Assessment standard for sailing ability, hold a valid First Aid certificate, RYA Safety Boat, and RYA Safe and Fun Safeguarding certificate.
No, you must be an RYA Dinghy Instructor as this course builds on the skills and knowledge acquired at that level. It’s tailored for those looking to step up to a management and leadership role within the sailing teaching environment.
Completing this course qualifies you to manage sailing instruction at larger centres, oversee instructor teams, and potentially lead regional training events. It opens doors to higher-level administrative and operational roles within the sailing and broader watersports industry.
Had great experience, Max was knowledgeable and very helpful. All went smoothly and loved every bit of it !
An excellent practical and well explained course - Fin is very knowledgeable and experienced and this was evidenced through both days.
Had a fantastic time. Our instructor Steve was brilliant. We learnt so much. Would absolutely recommend.
it was a very exciting experience in a nice group of people☺️ I recommend it to everyone!
Good trainer, learn more than I expected
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.
Operated by Rockley Watersports, a partner of adventuro.
