Activity overview
The Youth Improver Sailing Week is the perfect opportunity for young sailors to build on their existing skills, boost confidence on the water, and gain new techniques through a fun and engaging week of practical sailing. Set in stunning locations with expert instruction, sailors will reinforce their RYA Stage 2 knowledge and progress toward achieving the RYA Stage 3 certificate.
Each day is packed with hands-on learning, from advanced rigging and sailing techniques to capsize recovery and essential sailing theory. Our experienced instructors create a supportive and encouraging environment, ensuring every participant feels safe, challenged, and inspired.
What to expect
- Advanced rigging, launching, and recovery
- Improving boat handling and sailing techniques
- Tackling capsize recovery with increased confidence
- Practicing sailing theory to enhance knowledge
- Building speed and sailing efficiency
- Navigating safely and confidently in varied conditions
- Engaging in fun, team-building activities on and off the water
- Working towards achieving the RYA Stage 3 certificate
Prerequisites & course minimum requirements
Sailors aged 8 to 15 must have completed their RYA Stage 2 qualification to participate. We highly recommend completing this course before joining the Improver Sailing Week to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Beginner Sailing Week
Learn the ropes with this fun-filled week of basic sailing for children aged 8 and above. No experience needed. We will aim to cover the RYA Stage 1 and 2 certificates over the course of the week.
Key information
Timings
9:30am - 4:30pm
with a break for lunch around midday
What's included
Wetsuit
Buoyancy Aid
Spray Top
Helmet
What you need to bring
- Swimwear
- Towel
- Drinks
- Suncream
- Weather appropriate clothing
- Spare pair of closed-toe shoes to wear in the water
- Lunch and snacks
- Water bottle
Emma Bannister
“We build our programmes around each individual’s requirements, with consideration to their needs, aspirations and strengths. Seeing the impact that a visit to ASC Reading can have on young people is incredibly rewarding, whether they’re here for a few hours to decompress, or for a week packed with adventure and new experiences.”
Timings
9:30am - 4:30pm
with a break for lunch around midday
What's included
Wetsuit
Buoyancy Aid
Spray Top
Helmet
What you need to bring
- Swimwear
- Towel
- Drinks
- Suncream
- Weather appropriate clothing
- Spare pair of closed-toe shoes to wear in the water
- Lunch and snacks
- Water bottle
Tayla Donovan
“Close to major transport links and the city centre, our centre at Bartley Reservoir is a safe, inland watersports venue. With a range of activities available, including sailing, Swim Safe, raft building, team games, and soft archery, our programmes encourage the development of key life skills such as communication, teamwork, problemsolving and resilience, in a classroom like no other.”
Timings
9:30am - 4:30pm
with a break for lunch around midday
What's included
Wetsuit
Buoyancy Aid
Spray Top and Trousers
Helmet
What you need to bring
- Swimwear
- Towel
- Drinks
- Suncream
- Weather appropriate clothing
- Spare pair of closed-toe shoes to wear in the water
- Lunch and snacks
- Water bottle
Nathan Bloss
“Portland offers consistent wind and a fantastic sailing venue all year round – for both beginners and elite sailors alike. Inspire your family and friends as they sail on the same waters as Olympians, excel at exciting new activities, make friends, and develop key life skills."
Timings
9:30am - 4:30pm
with a break for lunch around midday
What's included
Wetsuit
Buoyancy Aid
Spray Top and Trousers
Helmet
What you need to bring
- Swimwear
- Towel
- Drinks
- Suncream
- Weather appropriate clothing
- Spare pair of closed-toe shoes to wear in the water
- Lunch and snacks
- Water bottle
Ross Dixon
“At ASC Portsmouth, we pride ourselves on our state-of-the-art facilities that cater to all. Our range of activities, from sailing and kayaking to climbing and sustainability workshops, ensures an engaging experience for everyone. As a team, we are committed to creating inclusive programmes that adapt to different learning styles and abilities, ensuring every participant can challenge themselves and grow. Our experienced instructors are dedicated to helping each individual discover their potential in our unique outdoor classroom.”
Where can this take you?
After completing the Improver Sailing Week, the following activities could be your next step:
Intermediate Sailing Week
Take your sailing skills to the next level! This week-long course is perfect for young sailors aged 8 and above who have completed their RYA Stage 3. Gain confidence in…
Advanced Sailing Week
A week-long advanced sailing course for young sailors with RYA Stage 4, covering modules like Seamanship, Start Racing, and Sailing with Spinnakers.
Why book with Andrew Simpson Centres?
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Top-Quality Equipment
Our fleet is well-maintained and regularly updated, ensuring you train with the best sailing gear available. -
Expert Coaching & Development
Our professional instructors follow a structured development programme, helping you progress at every level. -
Not-for-Profit Impact
Every booking supports our charitable mission to make sailing accessible to all, reinvesting in the sport and future sailors. -
Unforgettable Experience
Whether you're learning the basics or refining race tactics, you'll gain confidence, skills, and a love for the water. -
High Safety Standards
Safety is our top priority, with expertly trained staff, well-maintained equipment, and strict safety protocols in place. -
Flexible, Customised Courses
We tailor our courses to each participant, ensuring you get the most out of your time on the water. -
Low Instructor-to-Sailor Ratios
Smaller group sizes mean more personalised coaching, helping you develop skills faster and with confidence. -
Accessible for All
We offer inclusive courses designed to support individuals with Special Educational Needs (SEN), making sailing accessible to everyone.
Check availability & book
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booked
touch for
availability
Please call our centres directly on 0300 124 0449 if you would like to book with childcare vouchers.