RYA Dinghy Instructor Training Guide
Information
Introduction
The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Dinghy Instructor course is one of the most sought-after qualifications for those wishing to teach dinghy sailing in the UK and internationally. This comprehensive training program equips aspiring instructors with the knowledge, skills, and teaching strategies needed to deliver safe and effective sailing lessons. The course is designed to build on a candidate's existing sailing abilities, while introducing them to the art of instruction, leadership, and safety management on the water.
This guide provides an overview of what the RYA Dinghy Instructor training entails, what you need to know to succeed, and how the qualification fits into the broader structure of RYA teaching and training programs.
Prerequisites for the RYA Dinghy Instructor Course
Before enrolling in the RYA Dinghy Instructor course, candidates must meet certain eligibility criteria to ensure they have the foundational skills needed to teach others. The key requirements are:
- Minimum Age: Candidates must be at least 16 years old on the first day of the course.
- Pre Entry: This is a sailing test to make sure the candidates are a the standard required to be a RYA Dinghy Instructor.
- First Aid Certification: A valid RYA-recognised first aid certificate (usually 1-day course) is required. This ensures the instructor can respond appropriately to any medical emergencies.
- RYA Powerboat Level 2: A Powerboat Level 2 qualification is required, as instructors may need to operate a safety boat during lessons.
- RYA Safe and Fun: This online safeguarding training set students up for understanding the guarding role
Structure of the RYA Dinghy Instructor Course
The RYA Dinghy Instructor course is a mix of theory and practical training, with a strong emphasis on teaching methods, safety, and effective communication. The course is typically delivered over five days and involves both on-water and classroom sessions.
- Practical Skills: Instructors need to be proficient in sailing dinghies, including the ability to teach various techniques such as tacking, gybing, controlling a boat in different wind conditions, and manoeuvring a dinghy with and without crew. Candidates will be assessed on their ability to sail and perform key tasks efficiently and safely as well as demoing manoeuvres during there sessions.
- Teaching Skills: The course will focus on developing candidates' ability to instruct others, from beginners to more advanced sailors. Trainees learn how to explain concepts clearly, demonstrate techniques, and give constructive feedback. They will also be trained in group management, lesson planning, and adapting to different learning styles and abilities.
- Safety Management: Safety is a core focus of the course. Candidates will be taught how to conduct dynamic risk assessments, manage group safety on the water, and handle emergencies effectively. Part of this training includes practical safety boat manoeuvres, rescues, and ensuring a safe teaching environment for students.
- Assessment: At the end of the training, candidates are assessed on both their sailing ability and their teaching methods. The assessment involves both a practical on-water session where candidates demonstrate their sailing and powerboat skills, as well as a teaching session where they lead a short lesson, which is observed by an RYA Dinghy Trainer, this day is know as moderation.
Tips for Success
- Preparation is Key: Review your dinghy sailing skills and theory before the course to ensure you're comfortable with the basics.
- Be rested: The course involves a lot of on-water time, as well as classroom and shore time. Be ready for an intense few days!
- Be Prepared to Learn: The instructor training course focuses heavily on teaching methods. Be ready to embrace new teaching techniques and approaches.
- Work on Communication: Clear, concise communication is essential when instructing others. Practice giving briefings, demonstrations, and feedback.
- Stay Positive and Patient: As an instructor, you will encounter students at various levels of ability. Patience and a positive attitude are essential for building confidence and providing a supportive learning environment.
- Read the RYA books! List of useful books that we recommend reviewing are below. if you only get one extra book we recommend the Advanced Handbook (G12) for your theory knowledge.
- Know your knots: You should also be able to tie the following knots with ease, as you will be expected to teach them: figure-of-eight, bowline, round turn and two half-hitches, clove hitch, reef knot, rolling hitch, fisherman’s bend, sheet bend.
It is recommended that you consider purchasing a number of other logbooks and handbooks as part of your instructor ‘toolkit’: RYA National Sailing Scheme Syllabus and Logbook (G4), Start Sailing Beginner’s Handbook (G3), Advanced Handbook inc. DVD (G12), and Youth Sailing Scheme Dinghy Sailing Logbook (G11). All are available from Keep Sailing or RYA.
You will also need to bring an Instructor Logbook (G14), available from Keep Sailing or RYA. If your G14 is not up to date, you will need to buy the latest version.
Conclusion
The RYA Dinghy Instructor course is a rewarding and challenging qualification for anyone looking to share their passion for sailing and become a professional sailing instructor. It provides the skills and knowledge needed to deliver high-quality sailing lessons, prioritise safety, and manage groups effectively. Whether you're teaching at a local club, running courses abroad, or looking to advance in the RYA system, becoming a Dinghy Instructor opens up a range of exciting career opportunities in the world of sailing.
At Keep Sailing we are always looking for new Dinghy instructors to join the team. If you need any help, support or have any questions please reach out and contact us!
