Adult Courses

National Dinghy Certificate Scheme Level 1 (Start Sailing) - 4 Mornings

The syllabus covers both theory and practice with the emphasis on the practical sailing. No previous experience is required and courses are arranged on specific dates throughout the season. However for Level 1 we need two people who wish to participate. The aim is that by the end of the course for the sailor to be able to sail under close supervision in light wind conditions.

'Improving' and 'Practice' is organised on an 'as wanted' basis but is run in a similar manner as Start Sailing.

Course Times: Saturday mornings 0930 - 1330

National Dinghy Certificate Scheme Level 2 (Basic Skills) - 5 Days

This is offered as a five-day beginners course and follows the RYA Level 1 and 2 syllabus. The syllabus covers both theory and practice, with the emphasis on the practical sailing and by the end of the course the successful sailor will be able to rig the boat, launch and recover and sail without supervision in light wind conditions. We aim to cover the theory in three sessions of about twenty minutes each day. Teaching is carried out by RYA Instructors in 14-foot dinghies of the GP 14 class and there is one Instructor to two course members for the first two days, or longer if necessary; thereafter there is consolidation of skills by coaching, generally from outside the boat.

The minimum age is fourteen unless an exception is agreed with the Principal

Course Times: 0845-1630 except for the fourth day when it is 1800

Daily Programme - Level 2

This programme is for guidance only and may be varied as conditions dictate.

Day 1: Basic safety afloat and ashore, Personal buoyancy, Clothing for sailing, Rigging and reefing ashore, Launching and recovery, Sailing against the wind, Going about, Stopping and getting under way. The points of sailing and Basic hove-to.

Day 2: Revision and extension of Day 1. Practical and theory, Sailing with the wind behind, Gybing, Leaving and returning to shore, Awareness of other boats. Sailing a triangular course, The 'Five Essentials', Sailing without an Instructor in the boat if appropriate, Parts of the boat, sails and knots.

Day 3: Revision and consolidation. Man overboard (using a dummy), Paddling and rowing, Capsize recovery, First Aid / resuscitation and Distress signals.

Day 4: Revision and consolidation. Introduction to racing, Sea and inland sailing, Weather and forecasts, Coming alongside a moored boat, Care of boats ashore, Clubs and Classes. Written test (mainly multiple choice).

Day 5: Review of test results. Racing/sailing. Further assessment. Presentation of awards at 4.0 p.m. when visitors are welcome