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.

Highflying Academy

Highflying Academy is designed for juniors of all abilities from RYA Stage 3 onwards who want to get the most out of sailing this season. By attending regular sessions, participants build momentum, develop confidence, and progress more quickly, whether they’re returning after a winter break or looking to sharpen their skills for the summer.

This year, our Highflyers are setting their sights on the OSTT Open Regatta in August, giving them the chance to put their new skills into action in a friendly, exciting competition. Highflying Academy is the perfect way to get into sailing, accelerate your learning, and enjoy every moment on the water.

Key Details:

• Open to juniors aged 8+ with RYA Stage 3
• Flexible, casual session bookings
• Designed for regular participation to boost progress
• Coaching aligned with RYA principles
• Focus on confidence, safety, and learning to race

Development Team (Youth Stage 1 req.)

The Youth Development Team is a fun, supportive way for young sailors to grow their skills and confidence.

We only require a Stage 1 qualification for this session so its pitched at learning better boat handling, teamwork, and problem-solving, all while having a brilliant time on the water!

With an emphasis on personal progress, new challenges, and positive encouragement, the squad helps young sailors move from “just sailing” to truly developing their potential.

Key Details:

• Open to juniors aged 8+ with RYA Stage 1
• Flexible, casual session bookings
• Designed for regular participation to boost progress
• Coaching aligned with RYA principles
• Focus on confidence, safety, and fun

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