Summer Training Week
A full week of sailing, learning and confidence building
Each summer Newburgh Sailing Club runs its annual Training Week — a five-day programme designed to help sailors of all ages and abilities learn, improve and enjoy time on the water.
Some participants step into a boat for the very first time. Others use the week to develop independence, gain qualifications or begin their journey towards becoming instructors. The atmosphere is supportive, friendly and encouraging, with sailors grouped by ability so everyone can progress at a comfortable pace.
Training Week is one of the highlights of our season and a great way to experience the club.
More than just sailing
Training Week is also one of the most social weeks of the year at the club.
Whenever weather and tides allow, members are welcome to camp at the club grounds, turning the week into a relaxed outdoor experience rather than just a daytime course. Evenings often continue long after sailing finishes, with families, sailors and volunteers spending time together by the river.
We usually organise shared meals, a club barbecue and, if conditions permit, a traditional beach bonfire. It’s an opportunity for sailors of all ages to make friends, build confidence and feel part of the club community — not just participants in a course.
For many younger sailors this is the moment they stop “attending sailing” and start feeling they belong at the club.
Parents often comment that the friendships formed during Training Week are just as valuable as the sailing skills learned on the water.
Who is fit for?
Training Week is open to:
- children and young people
- adults trying sailing for the first time
- sailors wanting to improve confidence
- returning sailors who have not sailed for years
- members wishing to work towards instructor qualifications
You do not need your own boat or prior experience to take part.
What you will learn
During the week, sailors develop practical skills, water awareness and confidence at a level suited to their experience. Instruction is led by qualified RYA instructors and supported by experienced club volunteers.
Sessions range from core boat handling, rigging and turning (tacking and gybing) to understanding wind and tides, capsize recovery and sailing safely and independently in a variety of conditions.
Whether taking the first steps in a boat, progressing through an RYA stage or building towards instructor training, the aim is to help every sailor feel capable, confident and in control on the water.
RYA Courses and Stages
We run multiple RYA courses simultaneously throughout the week, allowing sailors to join the level that suits them.
This may include:
- RYA Youth Sailing Scheme Stages 1–4
- RYA Adult Levels 1–3
- improver and coached sailing
Sailors are grouped by ability rather than age wherever possible.
Assistant Instructor Development
Training Week also provides opportunities for older juniors and young adults to begin volunteering and developing leadership skills.
Participants can:
- assist instructors
- help younger sailors
- gain practical experience on the water
- work towards Assistant Instructor training
Many of our current instructors first took this step during
Safety and Supervision
Safety is central to everything we do.
- Qualified RYA instructors lead all sessions
- Safety boats are on the water at all times
- Buoyancy aids are provided
- Sailors are supervised both afloat and ashore
- Activities are adapted to weather and ability
Parents are welcome to stay and watch from the clubhouse or shore.
What to bring
You don’t need specialist sailing clothing.
Please bring:
- old trainers or wet shoes
- comfortable clothing you don’t mind getting wet
- a warm jumper or fleece
- waterproof jacket (if available)
- towel and dry change of clothes
- suncream and water bottle
All boats and buoyancy aids are provided.
A real club effort
Training Week is made possible by volunteers. In a typical year around 45 sailors take part, supported by a team of over 20 instructors, safety boat drivers and helpers.
Members help launch boats, prepare equipment, support beginners and create a welcoming environment for everyone involved. For many sailors this week becomes the moment they truly feel part of the club.
After the week
Many sailors continue coming down to regular club sessions after Training Week. Some go on to race, others sail socially, and some later become volunteers and instructors themselves.
There is no pressure to join immediately — you are welcome to come back and sail at your own pace.
Interested in taking part?
If you would like to register interest or ask whether Training Week is suitable for you or your child, please get in touch.
You are also welcome to visit the club beforehand to see how sessions run and meet members.
