RYA Training Conference uncovers new opportunities for centres

The 2022 RYA Raymarine Training Conference supported by Gallagher attracted more than 1,200 RYA instructors, appointment holders and training centre principals - with delegates joining the virtual event on Saturday 05 February from more than 40 different countries worldwide.

Each year, the training conferences are packed with all the latest information and updates from the RYA and the wider industry, as well as opportunities to connect with relevant exhibitors and other delegates.

The RYA’s new Chief Executive, Sara Sutcliffe opened the conference by thanking instructors and centres for the brilliant work they do, recognising the challenges faced over the past two years and reflecting that there is light ahead.

Keynote speakers, RYA Director of Racing Ian Walker and Aero Engineer Alan Smith, both spoke of innovation and change – themes that were continued throughout the day.

Richard Falk, RYA Director of Training and Qualifications delivered an update focusing on current trends and opportunities for training centres, as well as addressing challenges such as Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic.

As the RYA seeks to protect boating from the wide-ranging impacts of the pandemic, its work on diversity and inclusion, sustainability and digital transformation are all priorities for the year ahead.

These key topics were embedded throughout the conference with dedicated sessions on racism in sport and the importance of equality, diversity and inclusion. The value of reaching out to new audiences and engaging with different communities to ensure that all forms of boating are open and inclusive was also discussed.

Kate Fortnam, The Green Blue Campaign Manager shared some useful guidance on sustainable boating, how to embed environmental best practice into RYA courses and how instructors can play a key role in showing recreational boaters how to use our waters responsibly. Delegates also learnt about the latest developments in electric outboards and what the future might hold for RYA training centres.

“The agenda this year has been an incredibly diverse and interesting one. From Ian’s [Walker] inspiring insight into the British Sailing Team’s experience in Tokyo and look ahead to the 2024 Olympics, to some thought-provoking CPD from our expert presenters,” commented Richard Falk.

“There have been some important discussions around the current challenges faced by centres as well as how to take advantage of new trends and opportunities.

“Our thanks go to everyone that gave up their time today to attend the conference and of course to all of our speakers and exhibitors. These are people who are at the very top of their fields and we are fortunate to have access to them.

“We’d also like to thank our long-term sponsors Raymarine and Gallagher for their ongoing support and partnerships.”

Get involved

The conference platform will remain open for delegates to access recordings of all the live and on-demand content until Monday 07 March 2022.

A selection of key updates and workshops will be made available for anyone that was unable to attend on the RYA Training Support Site in March. 

For more information about the RYA Raymarine Training Conference supported by Gallagher and other events, please visit: www.rya.org.uk/go/conference.

Or to find out more about the RYA’s training schemes visit: www.rya.org.uk/training.