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Ages 8 - 15

Youth RYA Windsurfing Stage 1

Take your first steps into windsurfing with this fun and friendly 2-day course for young beginners.

Activity overview

This course is designed for children aged 8–15 who have little or no windsurfing experience. Over two days, you’ll be introduced to the fundamentals of windsurfing, including balance, steering, and sail handling. All sessions are run in a safe, supportive environment to help you gain confidence on the water.

Through practical exercises and games, you’ll learn how to control your board and sail, understand basic wind directions, and develop the core skills needed to move independently on the water. By the end of the course, you’ll be able to sail short distances, turn the board, and enjoy the feeling of wind in your sail.

What to expect

  • Introduction to windsurfing equipment and safety
  • Learning to balance and steer on a windsurf board
  • Basic sail control and wind awareness
  • Practical exercises to build confidence and coordination
  • Fun on-water games to reinforce learning

Key information

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
Ross Dixon
Chief Instructor

“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 Youth RYA Windsurfing Stage 1, the following activities could be your next step:

Ages 8 - 12
Youth RYA Windsurfing Stage 2

Build on your windsurfing skills with this 2-day course designed for young sailors ready to become more confident and independent on the water.

Ages 8 - 15
Improver Windsurfing Week

Take your windsurfing to the next level with a week of coaching designed to refine your skills and boost your confidence on the water.

Why book with Andrew Simpson Centres?

  • 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.
2 day beginner course
from £195

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Youth RYA Windsurfing Stage 1
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To book with childcare vouchers call 0300 124 0449
Want to pay with childcare vouchers?

Please call our centres directly on 0300 124 0449 if you would like to book with childcare vouchers.