When choosing youth sailing courses for your child, it can be difficult to decide whether weekend or holiday sessions are the better choice. At Oxford Sailing Training Trust, we offer both formats to suit different schedules and learning styles. Whether your child is new to sailing or looking to build existing skills, understanding the differences between weekend and holiday courses can help you choose the right path.
In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of each option and help you find the right course to support your young sailor’s journey.
Why Youth Sailing Courses Matter for Young People
Youth sailing courses offer far more than just time on the water. Young people gain teamwork, problem-solving, resilience, and communication skills, while enjoying active outdoor fun. Our courses follow the RYA Youth Sailing Scheme, providing a clear progression route from beginner to advanced stages.
At Oxford Sailing Training Trust, both weekend and holiday sessions are delivered in a safe, welcoming environment by experienced instructors.
What Are Weekend Youth Sailing Courses?
Our Junior Weekend Courses consist of half-day sessions over several weekends. These courses allow for gradual, steady skill development, ideal for local families who can attend regularly.
Why Choose Weekend Youth Sailing Sessions?
Weekend courses encourage steady progression. Young sailors build skills over time, with breaks between sessions to consolidate learning. Weekend courses also fit easily around school commitments and allow children to sail regularly as part of their weekly routine.
Who Benefits from Weekend Youth Sailing Courses?
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Young people who prefer a gradual learning pace
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Families based locally who can attend consistently
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Beginners who feel more confident in shorter sessions
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Children who enjoy steady social interaction over time
The Advantages of Holiday Youth Sailing Courses
Holiday youth sailing courses are week-long sessions held during school holidays. These intensive, full-day courses offer immersive learning, helping young people progress quickly.
Why Choose Holiday Youth Sailing Courses?
Holiday courses allow for rapid skill development through consecutive daily sessions. They’re ideal for children who thrive in focused environments and families seeking an active holiday experience. The immersive nature of holiday courses also helps young people build friendships within their group.
Who Should Choose Holiday Sailing Lessons?
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Children eager to progress quickly
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Families visiting Oxfordshire during school holidays
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Young people who enjoy full-day activities
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Students who benefit from constant practice and routine
Which Youth Sailing Course Format Suits Your Young Sailor?
Both weekend and holiday formats provide high-quality instruction and personal attention. Weekend sessions are perfect for gradual learning and consistent progression, while holiday courses suit those who prefer intensive, immersive experiences.
The best choice depends on your child’s learning style and your family’s schedule. Both formats lead to the same RYA Youth Sailing Scheme qualifications.
Qualifications Gained Through Youth Sailing Training
Regardless of whether your child attends weekend or holiday courses, they will follow the RYA Youth Sailing Scheme. Young sailors progress through recognised stages at their own pace. At OSTT, we ensure every child receives the guidance and support they need to succeed.
How Sailing Builds Confidence and Independence
Sailing isn’t just about learning a new skill. It helps young people gain confidence and independence in a way few activities can match. Managing a boat alone or with a small team teaches responsibility, planning, and decision-making. Young sailors must learn to assess situations, respond to challenges, and work together, all key life skills that build resilience and leadership.
Parents often notice improvements in their child’s self-confidence after attending youth sailing courses. From the first time they handle a boat solo to successfully mastering new techniques, each achievement on the water helps young people grow in independence and personal pride.
Why Choose OSTT for Youth Sailing Courses?
Oxford Sailing Training Trust is based in a beautiful, safe sailing environment in Oxfordshire. As an RYA-recognised training centre, we meet national standards for instruction, safety, and quality. Our instructors are experienced professionals who specialise in working with young people, providing a friendly and supportive learning environment.
Families choose OSTT for:
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Small group instruction
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Personalised coaching tailored to every student
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Emphasis on safety and enjoyment
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Clear progression routes for every young sailor
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A welcoming community for children and families
Whether your child starts with weekend sessions or holiday courses, OSTT provides the perfect setting to develop their skills and confidence.
Youth Sailing Courses: Building Skills for the Future
Completing a youth sailing course is just the beginning of the journey. Sailing can lead to long-term hobbies, competitive racing, and even future careers. At OSTT, we help young people build skills that last a lifetime, including:
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Leadership and teamwork
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Communication and problem-solving
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Resilience and independence
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A lifelong appreciation of watersports and outdoor activity
For those who wish to progress further, opportunities include:
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Joining our Young Leaders Programme to develop coaching skills
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Earning instructor qualifications in their teenage years
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Participating in local and regional regattas
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Volunteering to help support other young sailors
Each course offers the chance to build not just technical skills, but personal growth and lifelong memories.
Ready to Book Your Child’s Youth Sailing Course?
Whether your child is starting out or looking to build on existing skills, OSTT offers the ideal environment for learning and progression. Choose from our Junior Weekend Courses for steady term-time training or ask about our holiday courses for immersive, full-day experiences.
Not sure which option suits your child best? Contact our team – we’re here to help you choose the right youth sailing course to support their development on the water.
