Junior Weekend Sailing

Introduction

Our Junior Weekend Sailing courses are designed for young people aged 8 and over who want to develop their sailing skills during term time. From beginners just starting out, to those progressing through the RYA Youth Sailing Scheme, we offer a safe, engaging and supportive path for learning. Courses take place at Farmoor Reservoir and are led by qualified instructors using modern equipment. Whether your child wants to start sailing or continue their progression from previous stages, our weekend format is flexible, fun and highly effective.

Casual Coaching (Junior Sailing)

A relaxed coaching session for junior sailors who want to practise skills or refresh knowledge between stages. Instructors tailor sessions to individual needs to help reinforce progression.

• Previous experience required: Recommended: Stage 2+
• Course duration: 1 day
• Course times: 09.30am–4.30pm
• Teaching ratio: 6:1
• Logbook: Bring your RYA Logbook

Sailing Stage 1 (Weekend)

This entry-level course introduces children to the basics of sailing. They’ll learn how to steer, balance and control a dinghy in light winds, while gaining water confidence and learning important safety techniques.

• Previous experience required: None required
• Course duration: 2 days
• Course times: 09.30am–4.30pm
• Teaching ratio: 6:1

Sailing Stage 2 (Weekend)

This course helps junior sailors become more independent on the water. They’ll improve basic manoeuvres such as tacking and gybing, and learn to sail a triangular course while making confident decisions afloat.

• Previous experience required: Stage 1 or equivalent
• Course duration: 2 days
• Course times: 09.30am–4.30pm
• Teaching ratio: 6:1
• Logbook: Bring your RYA Logbook

Sailing Stage 3 (Weekend)

Stage 3 introduces more advanced boat handling and greater independence. Sailors will learn how to helm in stronger winds, improve upwind technique and demonstrate confidence in launching and recovery.

• Previous experience required: Stage 2 or equivalent
• Course duration: 2 days
• Course times: 09.30am–4.30pm
• Teaching ratio: 6:1
• Logbook: Bring your RYA Logbook

Sailing Stage 4 (Weekend)

For sailors ready to move into double-handed dinghies. This course covers teamwork on the water, including using a jib, balancing the boat with a crew and improving boat speed and trim.

• Previous experience required: Stage 3 or equivalent
• Course duration: 2 days
• Course times: 09.30am–4.30pm
• Teaching ratio: 6:1
• Logbook: Bring your RYA Logbook

Jnr Advanced Catamarans (Weekend)

This advanced weekend course introduces the thrill of sailing twin-hull catamarans. Students will learn about speed control, trapezing, teamwork and multihull handling while boosting their confidence.

• Previous experience required: Catamaran Week.
• Course duration: 2 days
• Course times: 09.30am–4.30pm
• Teaching ratio: 6:1
• Logbook: Bring your RYA Logbook