12 January 2026
Spring 2026 Senior Instructor and Safety Boat Courses | Book Now
If you’re interested in taking the next step in your instructing journey, be sure to check out the dates below
Ready to take the next step in your instructing journey – or find out more about what being a Senior Instructor is like? Bookings are currently live for RYA Scotland’s Spring 2026 Senior Instructor and Safety Boat training dates at Firbush Outdoor Centre, as well as a series of RYA January Webinars.
Ideal for instructors looking to progress their qualifications and enhance their leadership skills on the water, a full list of course pre-requisites can be found via each booking link below.
Financial Support for Courses
Additionally, RYA Scotland is thrilled to be facilitating a coach subsidy to support a number of aspiring coaches and instructors gain their qualifications thanks to funding from sportscotland.
This subsidy must be used by April 2026 and is focused on supporting young people under 26, those from rural areas, and women and girls. Don’t wait – get your applications to find out whether we can offer support.
Aspiring Senior Instructor Academy – New for 2026
Thinking about becoming a Senior Instructor? The Aspiring Senior Instructor Academy is designed to support and guide you. Through two interactive online sessions led by experienced RYA Trainers, you’ll gain clarity on the role, build confidence, and understand what it takes to succeed.
Session 1:The Role of a Senior Instructor – 21 January, 7pm
Session 2:A Senior Instructor is a Role Model Instructor – 28 January, 7pm
Open to all current RYA Instructors aged 18+ with at least one season of experience.
Aspiring Senior Instructor Weekend | 28 February – 1 March at Firbush Outdoor Centre
This introductory weekend is perfect for instructors who want to learn more about the Senior Instructor (SI) pathway. It’s an opportunity to explore what the role involves and prepare for the next stage in your instructing journey.
RYA Safety Boat Course |4 – 5 April at Firbush Outdoor Centre
The Safety Boat course is an essential prerequisite for the Senior Instructor qualification. It provides the skills and confidence to deliver effective safety cover and manage rescue situations in a variety of conditions.
Senior Instructor Course | 6 – 9 April at Firbush Outdoor Centre
This course is designed for experienced instructors ready to take on a leadership role. It focuses on planning, organisation, and managing training sessions to deliver high-quality experiences for students.
Autumn Course Dates Announced
Looking ahead to later in the year? We’re pleased to confirm that our Autumn Senior Instructor Course will run at Port Edgar from 31 August to 3 September 2026.
Booking information for this course will be released in due course, so keep an eye on our website and social channels for updates.
Got a question about any of the above? RYA Scotland’s coach education team are always happy to help. Get in touch via coaching@ryascotland.org.uk
