Focusing on the participant experience

Taking place for the first time in person since 2019, and with a new venue and a new focus, it was all change for this year’s RYA South Regional Training Day.

Creating a great participant experience

The theme for this year’s event was ‘Creating a great participant experience’ which helped shape the whole day, and included a comprehensive programme of workshops, a full-group session, plus small group sessions and activities. These were all tailored to the needs of the South region and ran by the RYA South team. Whilst RYA Chief Instructor Dinghy and Windsurfing, Liz McMaster also gave a training update.

A number of Aspirant Trainers from the region also supported the delivery of the day. This is the first time that the group has been involved and proved to be a valuable experience, helping to develop crucial instructing skills.

In addition to classroom learnings and land drills, on the water sessions included the use of a wheelie boat for those involved with Sailability activity, whilst those in dinghies got the spinnakers out, and also had a go at trapezing and foiling.

Susie Moore, South Regional Development Officer said: “It was an action-packed day with ideal wind conditions. It was also great that some participants tried out winging for the first time. I believe wingsurfing is only going to increase in popularity, so as a region we need to be ready for this.”

There will be more to come this year to help support the region with this new sport of wingsurfing. In the meantime, here is a handy article about what winging is and the RYA Wing training Scheme.

A person-centred approach

The day, which took place at Thorney Island Sailing Club, was expanded to be relevant to everyone involved in the practical delivery of activities supported by the RYA small craft schemes. This new approach meant that there was a good mix of volunteers, race coaches and small boat instructors - all who brought bags of enthusiasm and a variety of experiences to call upon.

Commenting on the mix of participants, Susie adds: “I believe this combination led to well-rounded discussions and we were able to really get to grips with how to create a strong experience for participants.

“Thinking about how we can create sessions that people enjoy is so important – the day was all about remembering that they are at the centre and we need to adapt to their needs to make sure that they have a fantastic time on the water and want to return.”

2024 date

The 2024 South Regional Training Day will be returning back to Thorney Island Sailing Club on Saturday 16th March.

Overnight accommodation was included in the package. Next year participants are again welcome to stay overnight the night before - for free - perfect if you want to catch up with colleagues.

A huge thank you to all those involved at Thorney Island Sailing Club and for hosting, to everyone for coming along and giving up your time, to the RYA South team, and of course to all the Trainers and Instructors.

Please do keep checking the regional Instructor Courses & CPD hub to find out about other development days and courses.