RYA Scotland Trainer’s Gathering 2025 - A Breezy Weekend of Learning and Connection

It was a breezy but brilliant weekend at RYA Scotland’s 2025 Trainer’s Gathering, held at Port Edgar Boat Station from Friday 24th to Sunday 26th October. 34 individuals from across the Trainer community came together for a weekend of professional development, shared learning, and valuable networking.

With strong representation across dinghy, powerboat, and windsurfing disciplines, attendees explored coaching philosophies and discussed how to tailor approaches to best ‘coach the person in front of you.’ The gathering is an opportunity for those who have completed - or are aspiring to complete - their RYA Trainer Appointment. The gathering is an annual opportunity to share insight into their journeys and experiences during both the selection, and course process. This year was particularly special with representation from RYAS “Coaching Collective” as well as trainers from Northern Ireland and England.

On the water, strong winds provided a real test of practical skills, with attendees rising to the challenge, embracing the elements for some fun and skill building afloat.

Aspiring Dinghy Trainer Kaz said:

“We’re having a complete blast. We’ve been out in the breeze, testing ourselves, looking at coach development skills. It’s a great opportunity to look at things with likeminded people, challenge the way we do things and ask how we can do things better… and have some fun at the same time!”

A special thanks goes to Wormit Boating Club for showcasing their all-electric RIB ‘E-WOC’, giving powerboat attendees a hands-on look at the nuances of electric craft.

There was plenty on the go ashore as well, with an excellent talk from Olympic Windsurf Coach Sam Ross on the Saturday evening, where he shared his journey from ‘beach bum to world-class coach’ which proved an inspiring and entertaining highlight for many.

Also joining Sam for the trip up to Scotland were RYA North Regional Manager Adam McGovern, RYA Chief Instructor (Dinghy/Windsurf/Wing) Liz McMaster, and Chief Instructor (Power) Rachel Andrews. A huge thank you to the team for the added insight and teachings.

Reflecting on the week, RYA Scotland Coach Education Manager Robin Nicol said:

“This year’s Trainers Gathering has been another great reminder of the strength within Scotland’s Trainer network. It’s also been a nice opportunity to bring a number of the community together in one room to explore and create an environment with plenty of sharing, learning and catching up! Lots to look at from enhanced powerboat driving skills to advanced coaching across the RYA Schemes. A big thanks to all who contributed and came along, we’re already looking forward to supporting the network and meeting up again next year.”

The weekend also provided an opportunity to showcase RYA Scotland’s new Aspire Programme, including the new digital Aspire Hub.

A forward-thinking initiative, the Aspire Programme is designed to strengthen, support, and simplify the development journey for all RYA Instructors, Coaches, Trainers and Officials across Scotland, with the online hub providing up to date resources and guidance tailored to each development pathway.

The Aspire Program is set to become a pivotal tool in shaping the future of the qualified workforce here in Scotland - offering clarity, connection, and developing confidence in anyone with a desire to deliver training and tuition afloat.

Finally, a big thank you to the Sea Cadets and Port Edgar Boat Station for their top hospitality and continued support in making this event a success.